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9 Ways to Fall in Love with Philly + 1

from:/www.wheretraveler.com/philadelphia/9-ways-fall-love-philly#ixzz2sZtvFJnf 

One place to find the love? Robert Indiana's LOVE statue in Philadelphia (©Marco Rubino/Shutterstock)

9 Ways to Fall in Love with Philly

By Jessica Lopez | 02/03/14


From dramatic shows and majestic murals, to romantic dinners and seasonal brews, there’s something for everyone to love about Philadelphia.

1. Hop Aboard

Step up to the elevated train for the guided Mural Arts Program Love Letter Train Tour and explore the 50 love-themed murals in West Philadelphia by artist Stephen Powers. Tickets: $20.

Mural Arts Program Love Letter Train Tour
See the love letters found in West Philadelphia with the Mural Arts Program Love Letter Train Tour. (©Adam Wallacavage)

2. Raise a Pint
Philly’s own Yards Brewing Company recently released Rye, a seasonal IPA with intense notes of citrus and pine. Free tours are offered at the brewery weekends noon to 4 pm. 901 N. Delaware Ave., 215.634.2600

3. See a Show
The Idiopathic Ridiculopathy Consortium theatre company performs playwright Jean Giraudox’s “Ondine,” a play about a sea sprite who falls in love with a handsome knight-errant. Feb. 6-March 2. 825 Walnut St., 215.574.3550

4. Dinner on the Waterfront
Docked on the Delaware River, the grand Moshulu is a must-visit dining destination for sweeping views of the city. Make reservations early for the four-course Valentine’s Day dinner offered Feb. 14-15 ($95 per person, not including beverages, tax or gratuity). 401 S. Columbus Blvd., 215.923.2500

Moshulu ship restaurant in Philadelphia

The Moshulu is a must-visit dining destination in Philadelphia. (Courtesy Moshulu)









5. Discover Public Art
Learn the history and stories behind Philadelphia’s public art, including Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE statue, on the Museum Without Walls audio tour right from your smartphone. Android and iPhone users can download the app for free.

6. Meet Some Lovebirds
Make it a date or bring the whole family to the Philadelphia Zoo for the “Wild At Heart” weekend Feb. 15-16 from 10 am-4 pm. Take the self-guided “Love Tour” and meet some of the famous couples of the zoo including hyacinth macaws, titi monkeys and red pandas. Indulge at candy stations throughout the zoo and watch zookeepers offer Valentine treats to the animals. 3400 W. Girard Ave., 215.243.1100

Wild At Heart Philadelphia Zoo
Meet the famously cute couples of the Philadelphia Zoo during "Wild At Heart" weekend. (Courtesy Philadelphia Zoo)







7. Take A Sweet Tour
Take in local city sites and satisfy your sweet tooth with Philadelphia Chocolate Tours. Visit Philadelphia’s top chocolatiers including Marcie Blaine Artisanal Chocolates and John & Kira's Chocolates and Chocolate By Mueller. Sample a treat at each location and learn about the history and health benefits of cocoa. 215.833.0044

8. Relax and Renew
Let the mind and body soothing begin at these spas. Be sure to book a treatment for two. For a total-sensory, mood-altering experience, book a treatment at LUSH Spa (1525 Walnut St., 215.546.5874). The hot stone treatment is a standout service at Rescue Rittenhouse (1601 Walnut St., third floor, 215.772.2766). Any massage can be performed simultaneously as a couple massage at either location.

9. Take A Day Trip
Longwood Gardens, located about 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, has more than 1,000 acres of horticultural displays. Take a leisurely stroll through the Mediterranean Garden or immerse yourself in the beautiful blooms.

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Romance Philadelphia

Romance Philadelphia

There's plenty of romance in the air, whether you're in the mood to escape to a romantic restaurant, a gorgeous outdoor oasis or a private rendezvous -- Philadelphia  has them all.

Embassy Suites Philadelphia Airport has a menu of overnight packages that  compliment the Romantic Spots and Activities in Philadelphia

Click Here or call  215-365-4500 and begin Romance Philadelphia

from visit philly.com

Top Romantic Spots and 

Activities in Philadelphia

There’s lots to adore, including hotel packages, spa treatments & restaurants

Philadelphia, aptly dubbed the City of Brotherly Love, caters to lovers looking to re-energize their relationships at cultural sites, romantic eateries, outdoor attractions and other swoon-worthy spots. Set out and explore the city’s romantic side with our top date ideas and see what Philadelphia is like after dark.

Couples can make it a weekend—or longer—with one of several romantic hotel packages, including our popular Philly Overnight® Hotel Package which includes two nights and free parking.

Here are a few suggestions for embracing the region’s romantic side:

Blue Cross Riverrink

In the winter, starry-eyed skaters glide hand-in-hand outside at the Blue Cross RiverRink on the Delaware River waterfront at Penn’s Landing. When couples need a break from the cold, they can huddle around a cup of cocoa together in the warming pavilion.

Details: Columbus Boulevard at Market Street | (215) 925-RINK

Cozy Cuisine

Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Tucked in a corner brownstone a few blocks off Rittenhouse Square, Friday Saturday Sunday has long been a local favorite of amorous couples craving traditional American cuisine and great reasonably priced wines.

Details: 261 S. 21st Street | (215) 546-4232

Birchrunville Store Café

After a day in the Chester County countryside, foodies favor the Birchrunville Store Café, a bring-your-own-bottle (BYOB) spot known for its contemporary French-Italian cuisine, located inside a former general store with a lovely front porch. The drive to this tucked-away spot will put anyone in the mood, and the candlelit dining room encourages whispery tête-à-têtes.

Details: 1403 Hollow Road, Birchrunville | (610) 827-9002

Frank Borda’s High Note Cafe

Pianists and opera singers serenade sweethearts every Saturday and Sunday night at “Singing Chef” Frank Borda’s High Note Cafe, where sumptuous sounds and passed-down Italian recipes make this South Philly mainstay so special.

Details: 1549 S. 13th Street | (215) 755-8903

Bistro Romano

What was once an 18th-century granary is now a cozy Italian restaurant, with a sought-after secluded dining spot nestled within its wine cellar. With seating for two, dinner by candlelight and an after-dinner limoncello libation, the private table at Society Hill’s Bistro Romano is as intimate as it gets.

Details: 120 Lombard Street | (215) 925-8880

Dilworthtown Inn

Built as a private home in 1754, the elegant Dilworthtown Inn in Chester County was nearly destroyed by the British in the 1777 Battle of Brandywine. The residence became an inn in 1780, and proprietors Jim Barnes and Bob Rafetto restored it in 1972. Today, romantics adore it for its well-crafted New American cuisine, 900-bottle wine cellar and Old World setting.

Details: 1390 Old Wilmington Pike, West Chester | (610) 399-1390

Romantic Restaurant Views

Water Works Restaurant and Lounge

In the shadow of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Water Works Restaurant and Lounge is perfect for a riverside cocktail on the patio overlooking Boathouse Row or an intimate contemporary American meal inside. It opened in 2006 following a remodeling of the city’s historic fresh water delivery facility, and Saveur magazine named it one of the “Top 100 Experiences in the World,” and AOL CityGuide named it the “Best Romantic Restaurant” and “Best Restaurant with a View.”

Details: 640 Water Works Drive | (215) 236-9000

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Romance

La Cucina at the Market

Anna Maria Florio shares her Italian heritage during weekend and weeknight cooking classes that range from topics like handmade pasta and desserts to knife skills and seasonal wines. Held at her La Cucina at the Market inside the historic Reading Terminal Market, the classes combine the culinary know-how of Anna—or one of the many other talented instructors—with colorful discussions and lessons in cooking traditions.

Details: 11th & Arch Streets | (215) 922-1170

Date Night at The Clay Studio

For some hands-on action, the monthly Date Night at The Clay Studio is just the place to bring or meet a special someone. To make the clay creations, the staff fires up the kilns and couples share a wheel.

Details: 139 N. 2nd Street | (215) 925-3453

Tria Fermentation School

At Tria Fermentation School, cheese, wine and beer make up the syllabus for one-night classes with names like “Fortified Wine: Only the Strong Survive.” Brewers, vintners, cheese makers, importers and authors share their knowledge with gastronomy- and oenology-loving students in a low-pressure environment.

Details: 1601 Walnut Street, Suite 620 | (215) 972-7076

The Wine School

People looking to put a little spring in their step can find it at the Society Hill Dance Academy, where $20 buys entry into a lively, drop-in dance class at the Manayunk or Center City locations. No experience or reservation is necessary to join a 45-minute group introduction to dances like the salsa, cha-cha, foxtrot and rumba. Classes are offered nightly Monday through Friday, and an open house dance party takes place every Friday night, 8:30-10:00 p.m.

Details: 409 S. 2nd Street | (215) 574-3574; 4401 Cresson Street | (215) 482-1611

Loving The Outdoors

Longwood Gardens

Couples can walk hand-in-hand through 1,077 acres of beauty at Longwood Gardens. If the weather’s uncooperative, more than four acres of glass-enclosed conservatories, with tropical gardens and 16 waterfalls, make the perfect indoor paradise.

Details: 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square | (610) 388-1000

Morris Arboretum

A lavish Victorian garden, Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania occupies 92 acres in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia. Visitors stroll the garden and enjoy quiet moments in romantic settings such as the Springhouse and the Mercury Loggia Grotto.

Details: 100 E. Northwestern Avenue | (215) 247-5777

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

Perfect for a hike and a picnic lunch, Bucks County’s 134-acre Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve comprises nearly 1,000 species of native plants, a meadow, pond and creek.

Details: 1635 River Road (Route 32), New Hope | (215) 862-2924

Chanticleer

Duos leave the stress of daily life behind when they visit Delaware County’s Chanticleer. Filled with innovation and whimsical touches, it’s one of the most exquisite horticultural showplaces on the East Coast.

Details: 786 Church Road, Wayne | (610) 687-4163

Schuylkill River

Partners can bike, blade or walk along the city’s Schuylkill River on Kelly Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Fairmount Park, taking in the views of Boathouse Row (illuminated at night) or waving at the early-morning scullers. From the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a complete loop via the Falls Bridge is about eight-and-a-half miles.

Wissahickon Valley Park

For some peace and quiet, the outdoorsy types can take a hike—literally—on one of the many trails of the Wissahickon Valley Park, where rugged paths offer some seriously secluded space with picturesque views.

Details: 300 Northwestern Avenue | (215) 247-0417

Brandywine Valley Wine Trail

Twosomes take in the beauty and the beverages of the wineries along the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail and the Bucks County Wine Trail. With tastings, concerts, fairs, wine dinners and many other activities, there are plenty of excuses to spend an afternoon or evening sipping in the sunlight or under the stars.

Belmont Plateau

Belmont Plateau in Fairmount Park attracts runners, bikers, frisbee enthusiasts and softball players, but it’s the dramatic view of the Center City skyline and the breathtaking sunsets that make this a romantic hotspot.

Details: Montgomery Drive & Belmont Avenue

Night Skies at The Franklin Institute

It’s not exactly outside, but stargazing is a traditional lovers’ pastime. On the second Thursday of each month, Chief Astronomer Derrick Pitts guides visitors through Night Skies in the Observatory at The Franklin Institute, using one of the world’s only examples of a cutting-edge Zeiss refractor.

Details: 222 N. 20th Street | (215) 448-1200

Fall For The Arts

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Since 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) has counted Impressionist Mary Cassatt, luminous painter/illustrator Maxfield Parrish and romantic realist Daniel Garber, among others, as students. PAFA’s historic Victorian Gothic building, designed by Frank Furness, is ornamental and elegant, yet perfectly sized for a casual, hand-held stroll. Outside, art lovers can grab a seat at Lenfest Plaza, complete with Claes Oldenburg’s 51-foot Paint Torch.

Details: 118 N. Broad Street | (215) 972-7600

James A. Michener Art Museum

The James A. Michener Art Museum in Bucks County houses one of the finest public collections of Pennsylvania Impressionist works, showcases regional artists and hosts nationally touring exhibitions. The outdoor Pfundt Sculpture Garden is a must-see for amorous couples in warm weather, with its welcoming reflecting pools, fountains and paths.

Details: 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown | (215) 340-9800

Art After 5 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Visitors can start the weekend with style and sophistication at Art After 5 every Friday at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This weekly evening series showcases an eclectic mix of world and jazz music, plus extra hours to explore the galleries.

Details: 26th Street & Ben Franklin Parkway | (215) 763-8100

Whispering Benches

Couples can proclaim their love at Fairmount Park’s Whispering Benches. One sweetheart takes a seat on the stone bench in the curve of the Smith Memorial Arch, while the other sits on the bench across the street. When they whisper into the monument, love carries their tender words.

Details: Avenue of the Republic, near Memorial Hall

Love Park

Those in search of lovely public art can steal a kiss in front of Philly’s swoon-worthy structures. Robert Indiana’s 1976 Love sculpture has become such an icon that its location, JFK Plaza, is now better known as Love Park. And while the 45-foot-tall steel Clothespin across from City Hall resembles a giant—well, clothespin—artist Claes Oldenburg compared the form to Constantin Brancusi’s The Kiss, which shows two separate bodies joined in an embrace.

Details: Love, 15th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard | Clothespin, 15th & Market Streets

Tantalizing Tours

Mural Arts Love Letter Tour

Nothing says love like a ride on the El train—at least since the Mural Arts Program and renowned artist Stephen Powers teamed up to create Love Letter, a series of 50 rooftop murals that read like love notes from a boy to a girl. Passengers on the El—the elevated train that runs along Market Street, called the Market-Frankford Line or the Blue Line—can follow the messages from 45th to 63rd Streets. Each Saturday at 10:00 a.m., a Mural Arts Program guide leads participants on a tour of Love Letter. Reservations required. Tours meet at the welcome center at Love Park. 16th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard, (215) 685-0754, muralarts.org

City Food Tour

Adoring foodies savor the moment during City Food Tours’ three-hour Decadent Gourmet Tour. The weekend gourmet tasting adventure features sweet and savory morsels from five of the city’s favorites, including Flying Monkey Bakery and Di Bruno Brothers.

Details: Starts at Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Arch Streets | (800) 979-3370

Philadelphia Chocolate Tour

Six days a week, chocolate lovers satisfy their craving for sweets by joining the Philadelphia Chocolate Tour, during which tour-goers indulge in some of the most mouthwatering sweets in the city while learning the history and health benefits of the treat. Stops include Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland, Capogiro Gelato Artisans and Famous 4th Street Cookie Company. Calorie counters need not worry—it’s a walking tour. Private tours are available.

Details: Starts at Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Arch Streets | (215) 833-0044

76 Carriage Company

For romance that steps back in time, couples can relax to the sounds of the clip-clop echoing through the cobblestone streets of Society Hill during a 76 Carriage Company horse-drawn carriage ride.

Details: 5th & Chestnut Streets | (215) 923-8516

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CALL 215-365-4500 

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Holiday Lights of Philadelphia - City of Brotherly "Bright"

from visitphilly.com

Top Places To View Holiday Lights in Philadelphia

The region glows bright during the holiday season

Winter nights turn glittery and bright with holiday lights that shimmer and shine all across Philadelphia and The Countryside. New displays at Franklin Square and the Blue Cross RiverRink join traditional favorites like the Christmas Light Show at Macy’s in Center City and The Comcast Holiday Spectacular.

Below, find our favorite local attractions and neighborhoods lighting up the skies with sparkling colors and elaborate light displays this holiday season.

City Lights

Christmas Light Show at Macy’s Center City

Dates: November 29-December 31

A Philadelphia tradition since 1956, the Christmas Light Show at Macy’s in Center City illuminates a large wall inside the Wanamaker building, a National Historic Landmark, with almost 100,000 LED lights and finishes with sounds from the Wanamaker Organ. Performances take place at the top of the hours.

Comcast Holiday Spectacular

Dates: November 28, 2013-January 1, 2014

It’s year six for Philadelphia’s high-tech holiday show, The Comcast Holiday Spectacular, shown on The Comcast Experience video wall, one of the world’s highest-resolution LED (light-emitting diode) displays, in the lobby of the 58-story Comcast Center. Set to the music of a 64-piece orchestra, this year’s show includes new scenes featuring Olympic-caliber ice skaters and performers from the Walnut Street Theatre. The free 15-minute show occurs at the top of the hour, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (except 5:00 p.m. on weekdays).

Franklin Square’s Electrical Spectacle

Dates: November 14-December 31

The holiday magic at Ben Franklin’s namesake park begins with the new Franklin Square’s Electrical Spectacle – A Holiday Light Show, featuring a 10-foot-tall kite made of lights that sparkle and spread the glow to lights throughout the square. The show runs every 30 minutes between 4:30 and 8:00 p.m., weather permitting.

Bright Lights, Big Santa at the Blue Cross RiverRink

Dates: November 29, 2013-January 5, 2014

All new for the Blue Cross RiverRink’s 20th-anniversary season at Penn’s Landing, Bright Lights, Big Santa introduces a festive mash-up of color, lights, hip-hop beats and dancing elves that all come together in 3-D light show accompanied by holiday music. Part of the Waterfront Winterfest—complete with pine trees, fire pits, a heated pop-up restaurant, craft market and other activities—the light show runs every hour between 5:00-11:00 p.m.

Holiday Garden Railway at Morris Arboretum

Dates: November 22, 2013-January 5, 2014

A miniature winter wonderland amid the evergreens awaits visitors to Morris Arboretum. The Holiday Garden Railway display is a quarter mile of model train track featuring seven loops and tunnels with 15 different rail lines, two cable cars, nine bridges and trains that cruise past scaled replicas of historic monuments and Philadelphia-area landmarks made from all-natural materials.

Holiday Lights at Boathouse Row

One of Philadelphia’s most memorable nighttime vistas is that of Boathouse Row, made up of a dozen sculling clubs that line the Schuylkill River behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art. In 2009, new full-color, energy-efficient LED light nodes were hung to showcase the intricate architectural details of the clubs. Now a drive or stroll along the river results in an eye-popping lighting marvel that normally glows white but can change to celebrate a holiday or civic celebration, a charity appeal or a significant professional sporting win.

Seaport Parade of Lights

Date: December 14, 2013

The Independence Seaport Museum will be parading boats doused in illuminated color just outside its doors on the Delaware River on Saturday, December 14. For the price of museum admission, guests will get a look at the magical holiday display and even get to hear some carolers sing, meet and greet with Santa and enjoy some light refreshments at this all-inclusive seaport spectacle.

Smedley Street Christmas Light Spectacular

Venture into South Philly, specifically the 2700 Block of Smedley Street between 16th and 17th Streets and Moyamensing and Oregon Avenues, for a peak at a hidden holiday gem. You’ll see trees covered from head to toe in glowing color-shifting lights, gigantic blow-up Santas and all of the neighborly holiday cheer one could ask for this time of year.

Christmas in the Countryside

A Longwood Gardens Christmas

Dates: November 28, 2013-January 12, 2014

No holiday is complete without a visit to Longwood Gardens, where more than 500,000 twinkling lights and spectacular fountain shows compose a brilliant wonderland your family is sure to love. Starting at 3:30 p.m. every day through January 12, gaze upon the large, starry snowflakes and icicles that sparkle throughout the gardens before warming up in heated conservatory with twenty “rooms” featuring festive displays of floral garlands, sparkling trees and more. Timed advance tickets are required and sell out quickly, so get yours here

Christmas in Peddler’s Village

Peddler’s Village will light up your holiday season with a fantastic display of nearly one million holiday lights. While you’re in a festive mood, explore more than 70 specialty shops — perfect for your holiday shopping — and eight restaurants. While you’re there, check out the spectacular Gingerbread House Competition and Display.

Christmas Around the Farm at Linvilla Orchards

Dates: November 23-December 23, 2013

For the holidays, Linvilla Orchards transforms into the North Pole — farm style. Get into the holiday spirit by cutting your own Christmas tree and doing a little shopping at the market that’s stocked with tasty holiday treats like hot mulled cider. Santa makes a guest appearance every Saturday and Sunday in December, and on select afternoons, visitors can sing along during Caroling Hayrides, complete with live music and apple cider.

Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm

Dates: November 22, 2013-January 5, 2014

Millions of lights sparkle at Shady Brook Farm during the incredible Holiday Light Show. Experience the magical drive in your own car or hop on a moonlit hayride or horse and buggy. Monday through Thursday is when the real tractor hayrides will happen, but then Thursdays through Sundays, you’ll ride around the display in a horse-drawn carriage. Also, don’t forget to stop and get your picture taken with Santa at Santa’s Village. Reservations are recommended.

Bonus: Herr’s Snack Factory Tour 12 Days of Christmas

Dates: December 9-21, 2013

Responsible for one of the region’s most celebrated snack foods, the Herr’s Factory is fully decked out for the holidays. Each year, Herr’s hosts all manner of Christmas-themed events centered around their fantastic light display. The annual light display features more than 400,000 lights arranged throughout the complex. Also, be sure you don’t miss “Big Red,” a 60-foot-tall Norway Spruce decorated with more than 1,500 red lights.