You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. Often called simply the Penn Museum, this institution on the University of Pennsylvania campus is the spot to marvel over Egyptian mummies, Middle Eastern funerary relics, Greek pottery, Roman statues, and other treasures of the ancient world. Because there are absolutely no signages, one has to look for the red lantern to actually reach Royal Izakaya. 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). Hidden Gems Beverage Company is an innovate beverage company that uses science and creativity to create beautiful and exciting drinks from upcycled ingredients. Where: Treehouse World, 1442 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester. Added in 2022: two inclusive play areas for children with a variety of abilities. You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. Art lovers and anyone in search of a fun time should keep in mind that the first Friday of every month means a lively neighborhood-wide party, with art galleries and shops throughout Old City staying open late so locals can stroll around drinking wine and checking out the latest creations. Where: Ringing Rocks County Park, Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy. Travel Smarter! The menu of breakfast and lunch (it opens at 7 a.m. for those getting an early start on the day) is made up of well-priced sandwiches (BLT, chicken salad, egg salad), wraps, and breakfast dishes, and there are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, including tempeh bacon. This vast seven-acre field of hulking round stones in the middle of Bucks Countys Ringing Rocks County Park holds quite the secret. Be the first to discover secret destinations, travel hacks, and more. Share your thoughts (and photos) in the comments below! Stars of "Hidden Gems," Hunter King and Beau Mirchoff answer questions about their new movie. A wide variety of performers keep things . Meet the Stars. Even though this museum had a blockbuster opening in 2017, its still underrated. About 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. Around since 2005, this cozy shop in the eclectic Head House District takes a curated approach to the books it stocks, relying more on staff picks than bestseller lists and hosting a packed calendar of readings that are always worth checking out. "Our favorite Philadelphia hidden gem is the Schuylkill Banks trail and greenway from Fairmount Dam to South Street Bridge. Copyrights @ 2023 TheTopTours All rights reserved, 10 Best Weekend Getaways From Prescott, AZ (2023), 11 Top-Rated Museums and Galleries In Philadelphia That One Must Explore (2023), Denmark Tourism : Day Wise Tour Itinerary of Denmark (2023), 10 Amazing Weekend Getaways From Philadelphia (2023), The Top 7 Waterfalls To Explore In Philadelphia (2023), 12 Most Popular Beaches To Explore From Philadelphia (2023), 7 Places For An Ideal Romantic Weekend Getaway In Montana (2023), 5 Best Camping Spots in Connecticut (2023), 10 Best Shopping Destinations in Darjeeling to Self-Indulge (2023), Visit Virginia City in Montana: 13 Popular Places to Visit and the Best Things to do in Virginia City (2023), 10 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from San Diego (2023), 9 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina (2023), 10 Amazing Things That Tourists Can Buy In Vietnam (2023), 8 Best Luxury and Budget Hotels in Chail (2023), 5 Must-Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries in Chhattisgarh (2023), 9 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah (2023), Keibul Lamjao National Park Features, Location, Places of Interest (2023), Visit Ujjayanta Palace (Tripura State Museum): Remarkable White Palace in Agartala & FAQs Around It (2023), 6 Popular Museums to Visit in Durham, North Carolina (2023), 6 Best Beaches Near Bhubaneswar That are the Pride of Odisha (2023), Top 5 Spots In Mccluskieganj That Every Traveller Must Explore (2023), 6 Enchanting Places in Netarhat For All The Wanderlust Travelers (2023), 7 Ideas For A Quick Day Trip To Fort Benton, Montana (2023), 18 Amazing Islands To Visit In India For A Fantastic Vacation! Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration. Royal Izakaya is a Japanese pub and a must-visit hidden gem to visit when in Philadelphia. Mount Moriah Cemetery An abandoned cemetery lies in ruins as the surrounding forest swallows it. Your email address will not be published. The dishes are innovative delicious and." more Outdoor seating Delivery Takeout 3. The grounds, gardens, farm, and wildlife habitats are open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. This seasonal bar occupies a space in the former Bok Vocational High School, which opened in 1938. The stars at Chinatowns Shoe Museum at the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine came off the feet of celebrities, like a boot worn by Neil Armstrong on the moon, game-used Mike Schmidt (Philadelphia Phillies) cleats, platforms from Sally Struthers All in the Family wardrobe and Ronald Reagans dress shoes. Below are 21 of Greater Philadelphias best-kept secret places to visit and explore that will make you a legit Philly insider. I have been a Philadelphia resident for over 12 years now and grew up just an hour outside of . And as not to distract from the striking visuals, no plants are labeled. Several rooms are set up as they might have been when the Rosenbach brothers lived here. Shops and sidewalk stalls offer up everything from fresh produce and meats to infused olive oils and specialty cheeses. Gifted to the American people by Japan after World War II, the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center is an oasis from the city in the heart of West Fairmount Park. Deep in the Chester County woods and atop a mountain near Valley Forge National Historical Park lived wood sculptor Wharton Esherick, the Dean of American Craftsmen. Upon his death in 1970, his hand-built, 12-acre rural modernist home, farmhouse and studio a National Historic Landmark for Architecture turned into the Wharton Esherick Museum, an immersive, interactive destination featuring more than 200 of his works on display. Some of the prettiest houses in the city are in the Spruce Hill and Cedar Park neighborhoods at the edge of University City. Cherry Street Pier Located on the Delaware River, Cherry Street Pier is a public space that offers events, concessions, flea markets, and classes. Lively bar serving gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and a substantial craft beer menu! Its traditional Japanese garden, complete with a pond, stone lanterns, and a small waterfall, is one of the citys most serene spots. The Speakeasy at Quintana's. 2200 S. Taylor Road in Cleveland Heights. "It's a typical Philadelphia-styled corner bar that's not typical. The Old City neighborhood is jam-packed with galleries, ranging from tiny, feisty upstarts to long-established landmarks. The place is operating from Wednesday through Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm. 4 HIDDEN GEMS TO EXPLORE IN PHILADELPHIA. While you are here, sit at one end of the bench and let your companion sit at the other end. I should know, I lived there for seven years and am very much a foodie myself. The oldest botanical garden in North America, Bartrams Garden was founded by John Bartram in 1728. But that doesnt mean youve seen everything the City of Brotherly Love has to offer. Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. You may have visited several bars in Philadelphia, but if you have still not been to Bok Bar, you are missing something. The kid has a ton of room to grow underneath his pads, a crucial step forward needs to be made in that area, he's young. The Penn Museum is home to a 15-ton Egyptian sphinx that's one of the coolest attractions in the city. At ground level, non-arboreal activities include rock climbing, ax throwing, bungee jumping and zip lining (across three skill levels). The Museum of Ice Cream - also known as 'heaven' for . A variety of events are frequently held at the house. If you are in the city with your partner, it is an ideal space for a date night experience. Visitors can wander the River Trail and enjoy wildflowers, plants, and trees whose history stretches back centuries. The museum is located just a few blocks from Independence Hall and is one of the areas hidden gems. If you are an art lover or interested in the quirky stuff, Fountain Street Steps is something you must dig out. The gardens here are incredible, and the events that the Shofuso House hosts are truly unique. The Pavilion is here since 1993, and since then, several wanders have made their way searching for this space. The showstopper here: the attractions ornate architecture, from Renaissance neoclassical corridors and staircases to Moorish, Egyptian and Knights Templar-inspired grand halls. Today the 70 stained glass mosaic steps were once littered and trashed. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. Located at 1403 Chester Pike in Folcroft, PA, Leo's Steak Shop is another hidden gem located outside of the city. Rodin Museum 1,469 Art Museums By 245randallc A beautiful building and garden that houses a nice collection of Rodin's sculptures. Opened in 1992, the Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion is one of the largest insect museums in the nation. Pennsylvania Hospital was the first hospital in the United States, built in 1755 decades before the country even existed. Though if you are a traveler in Philly, you might not have even heard or seen the Dutch. This DTLA photo studio has got to be one of the best hidden gems in LA for all of your steampunk, dystopian, and apocalyptic photoshoot ideas. Hidden Gems Budget-friendly Good for a Rainy Day Good for Couples 35 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 2022 1. Once youre done creating your stone song, explore the rest of the sprawling 123-acre park, a dense forest for hikers, walkers, bikers and picnickers. Visit this fantastic hidden gem in Philadelphia and munch on the best Pizza of your life or you can explore their museum display and learn some unimaginable facts about Pizza. . 52 Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia. Shane is known for its creations like the Pennsylvania Dutch Christmas gift called Clear Toy Candy, its buttercreams based on a 100-year-old recipe, and the creations they make with the honey from the beehives they keep on their store roof. Heres where youll find the Italian Market, one of Americas oldest open-air markets. Besides the building, there is a beautiful garden featuring towering colorful trees, azaleas, wisteria, etc. Traveling over an hour to Amish country is not necessary when the best hidden gem is located in the Northeast section of Philadelphia. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Get to know the real New York with our handy guide to finding ten of the city's hidden gems - recommended by locals in the know. Considered "The Metropolis of Brotherly Love," Philadelphia, PA is greatest identified for its wealthy historical past, world-famous cheesesteaks, and vibrant artwork and music tradition. The concept of an all-day caf is ingenious, but there arent a whole lot of places where you can feel as comfortable with a cappuccino and sourdough waffles at 7:30 a.m. as you can with a glass of natural wine at 4 oclock or a romantic dinner of handmade pappardelle with spiced crab at 8 p.m. High Street on Market is that place, though: perfect for dates, lazy lunches, and days when you just want an (exquisitely made) sticky bun. Philly has scores of hidden gems for those in the know and you, friend, are about to be one of them. This is the best kind of neighborhood restaurant: welcoming and friendly with an approachable menu. You'll never get bored with the many stores to explore, delicious food options, and stunning waterfront views. Giving exact addresses would help. Once threatened with demolition to make way for a cross-town highway, South Street has since become one of Philadelphias hippest districts, thanks in large part to visionaries like Isaiah Zagarthe artist behind Philadelphias Magic Gardens. Once you make it here, you'll be enjoying the best sushi and sake in the city. 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. It's the go-to place when you want to explore something you haven't before. It also has a garden patio that has a vibe that's hard to find elsewhere in Philly. But the massive temple is, in fact, not a church, but the 150-year-old Grand Lodge headquarters of the Freemasons of Pennsylvania. Locals of Pennsport often choose it as their go-to brunch spot, especially for the cheesesteak hash. Surrounded by lavish murals and artistic plants like wild snapdragon, purple iris and lavender Polonia, the Mural Arts-funded installation rises at the intersection of Fountain and Umbria streets and continues across the Manayunk Canal Towpath and Schuylkill River Trail on to Venice Island. 6'1" | ATH | 2025 South Philadelphia. If you are a local Philly, you would have crossed by the John F. Collins Park once in your lifetime. Bartram's Garden is the perfect place for an afternoon picnic. Note that tickets are timed and must be purchased in advance. I've been digging a few places recently: Fette Sau for their happy hour BBQ offerings, I agree with the suggestion for Cosmi's sandwiches (seeded rolls are bomb), La Rosa on South Broad has some excellent pizza, Rib Rack at Bustleton/Tyson has my all-time favorite ribs, Royal Tavern IS dope, Fountain Porter's burger is a bit disappointing (IMHO) but the beer selection is high-level, I like . Though if you are new to the city, this lesser-known gem might not have introduced itself to you. 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. Come hungry and ready to shop. 7 Hidden Gems in Philadelphia Where You Can Grab The Best Burgers . Many of these were created as a part of Mural Arts Philadelphia, which works with artists and local communities to produce up to 100 public art projects each year. (2023). Cherry St. & Race St. Pier. Where would I find some of these places. Hidden gem locations to check out in Philadelphia 1. Where: Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, 148 N. 8th Street. Wagner Free Institute The Wagner Free Institute of Science offers a unique experience modern museums cannot the museum was built in the 1800s and hasn't changed much since. The Rodin Museum is the smallest museum on the parkway, and it is so underrated. 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. More places to explore this summer. Located at the eastern edge of Old City, the store has been serving up chocolates and other sugary confections since 1863. But thanks to a major overhaul in 2018, the food court has become a food hall. Once youve visited all the top sites, whats next? Email Sarah at sschlichter@smartertravel.com. Bartenders at Randstad are one of the best in Philly, and there is no match to their cocktail talent. There are gardens, an arboretum, feed-friendly goats, native wildlife habitats, and a nature center. With so much to see and do in Philadelphia, it's among the most rewarding spots for a weekend getaway! For outdoor enthusiasts, there's the scenic Penn's Landing and the massive Fairmont Park. You could live here your whole life and still miss out on plenty of hidden gems in Philadelphia, so weve created a list to help you get started discovering Philadelphias best kept secrets. Menu is similar to Basile's other restaurant (Old City's Radicchio Cafe), offering inexpensive . You can browse the pizza-related toys, books, ads, and other unusual items while munching on pizza topped with brisket, buffalo sauce, or just any other topping your heart desires. The Shofuso House is part of Philadelphia's Fairmount Park. The refuge also hosts year-round plant and bird walks. The site features a traditional-style Japanese house that visitors can walk through to see the rooms as well as a collection of murals on display that were inspired by the waterfall on the grounds. Read on as we take a deep dive into what awaits you on your weekend visit to Philadelphia. 10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia To adore and adorn all of them, here is our ultimate list of the Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Philadelphia. Any day near the Smith Memorial Arch in Fairmount Park, consider checking out the Whispering bench. The Pavilion in the Trees Tucked away in Philadelphias massive Fairmount Park is Shofuso, a 17th-century-style Japanese house that was built in Nagoya in 1953, exhibited at New York Citys Museum of Modern Art, and then moved to Philadelphia in 1957. If youre really in the mood to feel historic, order the Kite & Key cocktail (get it? Advertisement. Any hidden gem bars in university city? 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. The fort saw its heaviest action in 1777 during the Revolutionary War, both in the Battle of Red Bank, beating back a Hessian invasion and destroying two British warships, and the Battle of Mud Island, with 400 American soldiers holding off 2,000 Redcoats until Washingtons army could withdraw to White Marsh and Valley Forge. February 8, 2022. Thats just one of many new things I learned at the National Museum of American Jewish History, which isnt hidden so much as hidden in plain sight. Independence Visitor Center offers lots of information about things to do in the city. Philadelphia is definitely filled with treasures, but not all treasures are easily spotted. Bella Vista, Philadelphia. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. Few and Far Between. The house-cured charcuterie (boucherie means butcher shop) is the must-order. Engaging exhibits throughout the 1,000-piece collection spotlight shoes from various times and cultures. Where: Philadelphia Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion, 8046 Frankford Avenue. Where: Fort Mifflin, 6400 Hog Island Road. Today, visitors can tour the historic grounds and Revolution-era buildings, watch reenactments, picnic or investigate paranormal activity. Kevin McElroy of Philly Rock Radio said his favorite hidden gem is Taproom on 19th because "It's a typical Philadelphia-styled corner bar that's not typical. Arch Enemy is one of the best, a large contemporary space where brightly colored, eye-catching images practically jump off the walls. Located in the Italian Market, Isgro's offers some of the best pastries in Philly. 2023 Smarter Travel Media LLC. Written by Carlyle Property Management on 2.03.23 . To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy. Below are my favorite hidden gems in every neighborhood that are worth checking out. . This 1950s house was built in Japan, put on display at MoMA in New York City, then moved to Philadelphia to be a permanent tribute to Japanese culture. The 18th-Century Garden is a faithful recreation of what a typical Philadelphia garden looked like a few hundred years ago, with well-kept paths, pergola, and the same kinds of flowers the founding fathers enjoyed, while the Magnolia Garden is peaceful at any time of year but is in full, colorful bloom in spring.