If you can’t do a weekend in Paris this spring, try Philadelphia. Those cities could not be more different, but they have many parallels. Culture and food lovers are equally at home in both. Some even subscribe to W.C. Fields’ admonition: “All things considered, I’d rather be in Philadelphia.”
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is no Louvre, but it is one of the finest museums in the U.S., with an impressive set of collections. Currently on exhibit is “Van Gogh Up Close,” a stunning visual treat with 40 pieces of the brilliant artist’s masterpieces borrowed from museums and collectors around the world. Enter a time warp and see Paris and the south of France from the eyes of Van Gogh, where he created his greatest works of art when he lived there from 1886 until his death in 1890. “Van Gogh Up Close” runs through May 6, 2012.
Just like the Champs-Elysees, which terminates at the Arc de Triomphe, French urban planner and architect Jacques Greber designed the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to end at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Perched atop 72 steps, the museum has a commanding view of the Parkway, City Hall, and the beautiful Philadelphia skyline. The museum steps were made famous by Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone, who played Rocky, the heavyweight boxer in the movie of the same name. You will find a statue of the triumphant Rocky at the foot of the steps.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
26th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19130
215-763-8100
Rodin Museum
Also on the Parisian-style Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the Rodin Museum, which has the largest collection of the sculptor’s work outside of Paris. Its nearly 130 sculptures include the artist’s famous masterpiece “The Thinker.” Since 2008, the Rodin Museum has undergone some major renovation and conservation of the collection. As of this writing, it is still closed, but the gardens are open. Before visiting, check the museum’s website for more details and updates on the re-opening.
Rodin Museum
22nd Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Food
Like Paris, Philadelphia is renowned for some of its culinary creations – the Philly cheesesteak, Italian hoagie and, soft pretzels, to name a few. Unlike Paris, these mouthwatering foods are messy and eaten with the fingers, but they are to die for. As you stroll through center city, from Rittenhouse Square to the Italian section of South Philly to Old City, you will find tons of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from. Explore the historic farmers market at Reading Terminal Market to see where locals mingle, eat, and shop. If you’re a serious chocolate fan and there’s time on your schedule, consider making the drive to the Hershey chocolate factory at Hershey, about two hours northwest of Philadelphia.
Reading Terminal Market
51 N. 12th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hershey’s Chocolate World
251 Park Blvd.
Hershey, PA 17033
History
As the first capital of a new United States, Philadelphia has a wealth of history, albeit less than 400 years of it. Visit Independence Hall to see where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Admission is free; however, between March 1 and December 31, 2012, tickets are required, and you can pick up the free tickets at the Independence Visitor Center on the day of your visit. Literally steps away from Independence Hall is the iconic Liberty Bell, which was rung to summon people together for important events going on at the time. The Liberty Bell does not require a ticket to enter. These are just two historic must-see attractions. There are many more. Check the various Philadelphia websites for more information.
Independence Visitor Center
Sixth and Market streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
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