Bartram's Garden is the oldest botanical garden in North America, and it's truly a hidden gem in Philadelphia. Pennsylvania Hospital Garden sounds unusual with its name but is a treasure you should surely dig. Highlights include the headdress and jewelry of Puabi (a Mesopotamian queen) and Sumerian cuneiform tablets with some of the worlds oldest examples of writing. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration. Join the locals for a jog, walk, or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail, which follows the river for about 10 miles through Philadelphia, passing by the Museum of Art and the University of Pennsylvania along the way. 6'1" | ATH | 2025 South Philadelphia. Drexel's own Harris Steinberg, executive director of the Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation and distinguished professor of architecture and interiors in the Westphal College of All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. The dishes are innovative delicious and." more Outdoor seating Delivery Takeout 3. If youre really in the mood to feel historic, order the Kite & Key cocktail (get it? Solomonov's first stop is Down North . Located at the eastern edge of Old City, the store has been serving up chocolates and other sugary confections since 1863. The Headhouse Farmers Market is one of the best places around for produce, flowers, and artisanal food and is the best farmers market in the city. The definitive list of hidden gems you need to try. 3. The beautiful mansion sits on over 100 acres of well-maintained landscaped grounds. Picture birdwatching on the shore of a quiet marsh at the John Heinz Wildlife Refuge. Today, visitors can tour the historic grounds and Revolution-era buildings, watch reenactments, picnic or investigate paranormal activity. Their breakfast game is strong and it won't break the bank. Be the first to discover secret destinations, travel hacks, and more. All of these three and including several others, dates back to the founding year of the hospital. Below are a few of my favorite Philadelphia hidden gems. Philly's Hidden Gems: 21 Places You (Probably) Didn't Know About Visit Philadelphia Uwishunu Article published on February 24, 2023 Philly's Hidden Gems: 21 Places You (Probably) Didn't Know About Adventurers wanted. The Renaissance-style three-story buildings bright second floor invites guests to meander among the 100,000-item collection, featuring rocks, minerals, fossils, preserved insects, taxidermy displays and mounted skeletons of a buffalo, an English draft horse and the first saber-tooth tiger bone discovered in America. The Hallmark Channel's newest original movie, "Hidden Gems," premieres on Saturday, June 4, at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central. Thats why we hit up the Navigators on-site experts at Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel and asked them to give us their best-kept secrets about where to eat, drink, shop, and play in the City of Brotherly Love, from historic Philadelphia to the hippest neighborhoods. The Rodin Museum is the smallest museum on the parkway, and it is so underrated. New York 212.682.7300; . The best way to dig deeper, though, is on a walking tour with the organization. Beyond the books, there are other special items to see. Where: Fort Mifflin, 6400 Hog Island Road. You can explore all of that and the mansion. The free, pet-friendly space has native plants and trees, walking paths, and even swings above Center City. Now simply turn towards the stone and start murmuring. Check them out - they're located off of Avenue of the Republic. A Concealed Gem. Dig a little deeper, though, and youll find a handful of lush gardens scattered throughout that are blissfully free of tourists (even most locals dont know theyre there). Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com, These 6 Breathtaking Waterfalls Are Hiding Around Philadelphia, These 7 Unique Restaurants In Philadelphia Will Give You An Unforgettable Dining Experience, 9 Things No One Tells You About Surviving A Philadelphia Winter, The Christmas Lights Road Trip Around Philadelphia Thats Nothing Short Of Magical, 10 Fascinating Spots In Philadelphia That Are Straight Out Of A Fairy Tale, The Castle Near Philadelphia That Is Hiding In Plain Sight, Escape To These 9 Hidden Oases Around Philadelphia To Find Peace And Quiet, 7 Cemeteries Around Philadelphia That Will Give You Goosebumps, The 7 Wackiest Restaurants In Philadelphia Where Dining Is A Blast. hands out samples. To adore and adorn all of them, here is our ultimate list of the Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia. The two-floor Insectarium side features mounted displays, live specimens, insect sculptures and an exhibit about extermination poisons. 848 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 luckyslastchance.com. RATED. Created in 2015 by mosaic artist Beth Clevenstine and muralist Paul Santoleri, Water Under the Bridge (better known as the Fountain Street Steps) is an ornate urban staircase in Manayunk featuring 70 brightly colored glass steps creating the illusion of a mosaic waterfall. Stroll the acres of plants, trees, and gardens, and check out the historic home. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. I lived in Philly all these years and never heard of these places. It consists of upscale pub fare, in a cozy atmosphere, served by friendly staff. Unlike other crowdy spaces, it is quieter and comforting. Featuring nearly a dozen themed treehouses, three ziplines and a bevy of outdoor activities, West Chesters Treehouse World offers both relaxing play in the sun, as well as some (light) thrills. The Speakeasy at Quintana's. 2200 S. Taylor Road in Cleveland Heights. A land of enchantment for kids 5-12 awaits just south of Doylestown within the 108-acre Central Park. The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) in Market East exhibits modern art created from, on and with fabric and other related media. Located on the Delaware River, Cherry Street Pier is a public space that offers events, concessions, flea markets, and classes. Did you know that the first permanent Jewish settlers in America came not from Europe but from Brazil, all the way back in 1654? It is home to the most extensive collection of pizza memorabilia and collectibles in the world. Its free to visit and many people dont know that its open to the public. It specializes in work that engages the imagination, often inspired by comic books and fairy tales, and occasionally hostslocals only shows,which means this is a great place to spot up-and-coming artists (and maybe pick yourself up a nice investment piece). Cherry St. & Race St. Pier. Stevens' Prophecy at W Philadelphia Photo courtesy W Philadelphia Sort by: Near Me document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Receive the latest articles, features, news, discounts, and more straight to your inbox. Even though this museum had a blockbuster opening in 2017, its still underrated. This is truly a unique experience - from the rowdy crowd in the front of the restaurant to the quiet, reservation-only sushi bar hidden in the back. Theres also a small water feature tucked somewhere in the corner. Hence the name of the lovely pond at the parks centerthe BioPond. While walking down the lane, look for Ranstead room behind a nondescript door, dedicatedly a black metal door. The house-cured charcuterie (boucherie means butcher shop) is the must-order. On a random street corner, gracing a storefront, on a wall beside a schoolyou never quite know where one of his distinctive pieces will turn up. The quiet space, which has been here in various forms since 1897, is surrounded by research labs and buildings of the Biology Department. It is notedly one of the largest cities in America and so teams with the top-rated attraction. In addition to tours, PMG also offers special events including family programs, happy hours, and meditation workshops. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot 300-plus varieties of resident and migratory birds and numerous land animals, including several endangered and threatened species such as eastern redbelly turtles and coastal leopard frogs. Where: Wagner Free Institute of Science, 1700 West Montgomery Avenue, The largest ceramic arts organization in the nation, The Clay Studio offers striking clay and ceramic gallery exhibitions showcasing the work of both international artisans and local masters, as well as ceramics workshops and art courses. This hotel was once the largest hotel in NYC made up of 8 buildings constructed between 1885 and 1929. While blooming season peaks during June and July, the farm is open 12 months a year. Cafe Diem. The Park is one of the best places to visit in the locality, but one might simply walk away due to its hidden setting. Wanderers who have gone in-depth with their Philadelphia exploring journey claim the city is grander than preached. Fountain Street Steps, though, are just steps, but the most gorgeous of all. Advertisement. What stands out here is the delicious high-quality meat they use. Going back, you can also shop for memorabilia and souvenirs, pizza-related toys, books, dcor, and several unimagined items. Visitors can explore the collection on their own during library hours or take the daily 11 a.m. guided tour. Bartenders at Randstad are one of the best in Philly, and there is no match to their cocktail talent. The oldest botanical garden in North America, Bartrams Garden was founded by John Bartram in 1728. Youve snapped a selfie with the Liberty Bell, toured the hallowed halls where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and climbed Rockys steps up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. I typically avoid the area under the presumption it's expensive and/or full of students (i.e. Its traditional Japanese garden, complete with a pond, stone lanterns, and a small waterfall, is one of the citys most serene spots. It consists of upscale pub fare, in a cozy atmosphere, served by friendly staff." Taproom on 19th is located at 2400 South 19th Street in South Philadelphia. Required fields are marked *. Even though it is free to visit, not many people actually know about it. The trek to this bridge is a 10-mile hike round trip and uses several river fords along the way. The museum is a fascinating place for travelers interested in history and culture, telling the stories of Jewish people in the U.S. from the American Revolution to the Holocaust and beyond. James G. Kaskey Memorial Park. An Underrated Gem. Indulge your sweet tooth at Shane Confectionery, which claims to be Americas oldest candy store. The 38 Essential Restaurants in Philadelphia. . No one ever said Philadelphia didnt have enough Italian restaurants, so it would be easy to pass on Cry Baby but that would be a mistake. The super-friendly servers dont mind if you linger over your fair-trade coffee. Philly offers an array of things to do - from museums to pop-up gardens, to festivals, to ice skating - one can always find hidden gems. Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute. Address: 5400 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 12. A confectionery has occupied the space at Letitia and Market for over 150 years, making it Americas oldest candy shop. Is it a club for people who really, really care about cocktails? This giant hotel also was a popular spot for long-term residents and famous guests like President Roosevelt, President Truman . The travelers often choose Philadelphia if they are interested in U.S. history or if National sentiments hold them. It's a chance to explore hidden gems that you won't find anywhere else, from iconic parks to historic buildings, and artsy streets, and discover street art in unexpected places. Located in the Italian Market, Isgro's offers some of the best pastries in Philly. Most menu items cost under $10. You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. You might find the sight a bit spooky from the first look, but after stepping down, the picture will change completely. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor. 15. The Japanese house, heavenly garden, and koi pond are the definition of a Philadelphia hidden gem. Its the sort of place every neighborhood needs but not many have: They focus on doing a few things well rather than adding unusual ingredients to everything in an attempt to reinvent the wheel. Where: Kids Castle Central Park, 425 Wells Road, Doylestown. Definitely don't pass up on their baked goods . The people who work there are the stores best resource: Full of great suggestions, theyre able to figure out the book youre looking for from even the vaguest of descriptions. We The Youth Mural 22nd and Ellsworth Streets, South Philadelphia Philadelphia is a city full of intricate murals, all with their own story to tell; and the We The Youth mural is no exception. Visit Philadelphia: Black Greek Edition Golf Outing, Greater Philadelphias Hidden Bars & Restaurants, Worlds Most Beloved Independent Bookstores, Baldwin's Book Barn, 865 Lenape Road, West Chester, The Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection, Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection, Free Library of Philadelphia Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, 8046 Frankford Avenue, The Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, 148 N. 8th Street, Wagner Free Institute of Science, 1700 West Montgomery Avenue, The Fabric Workshop and Museum, 1214 Arch Street, Museum for Art in Wood, 141 N. 3rd Street, Wharton Esherick Museum, 1520 Horse Shoe Trail, Malvern, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, Kids Castle Central Park, 425 Wells Road, Doylestown, Ringing Rocks County Park, Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy, Treehouse World, 1442 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Fountain Street Steps (Water Under The Bridge), Fountain Street Steps, 4800 Umbria Street, Peace Valley Lavender Farm, 802 New Galena Road, Doylestown, Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College, 500 College Avenue, Swarthmore, Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, Lansdowne Drive & Horticultural Drive. In a city full of famous museums, there's one that is still hidden from the tourist trail - and it's the city's tastiest. Many of the native plants on the grounds owe their cultivation to Bartrams efforts. The gardens here are incredible, and the events that the Shofuso House hosts are truly unique. jason wolfe. Whereas there are lots of well-known points of interest to take a look at just like the Liberty Bell, Independence Corridor, and the LOVE statue, there are additionally many lesser-known hidden [] Stroll the acres of plants, trees, and gardens, and check out the historic home. Fairmount Park's Pavilion in the Trees is one of the most beautiful places in Philadelphia. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen firesno humans or animals were harmed). I love it . Traveling over an hour to Amish country is not necessary when the best hidden gem is located in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. The cascading waterfall and singing birds almost make you forget about the busy city barely a block away. The Shofuso House serves as a way to honor Japan and Japanese culture in Philadelphia. This pocket park just off 17th Street occupies a narrow space between Chestnut and Ranstead. A Beaux Arts building just behind the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, the Bourse used to have a mall-style food court with supremely uninspired offerings (think fast food and generic hoagies). The castle is the centerpiece of the 30,000-square-foot Kids Castle Central Park playground, a year-round playscape spread out across four kingdoms with treehouses, swings, interactive games, plastic rock walls, a pirate ship and more. Reviews on Hidden Gems in Philadelphia, PA - Hop Sing Laundromat, Creme Brulee Bistro & Cafe, Isot Mediterranean Cuisine, Heung Fa Chun Sweet House, Treble & Bass Bar, Xun Yu Si Kao, Siu Kee Duck House, Bartram's Garden, Perla, La Nonna It is a little hole-in-the-wall breakfast place that serves the most delicious breakfast in the region. There are few better places to appreciate the skyline than from Bok Bar. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Oh, and dont miss High Falls, the countys largest waterfall. It's hidden in an alley, so you've probably walked by it without even noticing. Besides the building, there is a beautiful garden featuring towering colorful trees, azaleas, wisteria, etc. Mount Moriah Cemetery An abandoned cemetery lies in ruins as the surrounding forest swallows it. Sign up for our free newsletter. Tweet LinkedIn Like Share. The Delaware River runs along the eastern border of our city. This 19th-century townhouse in Rittenhouse Square features a remarkable collection of rare manuscripts and books. Native trees shade the space, and a cascading fountain of concrete pillars is at its center. Bartram's Garden is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic.