Road Tripping: Philadelphia

Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Travelationship

Need some brotherly love? Head to Philadelphia. It is one of the most accessible road trips from Washington, DC. If you have the time, plan on spending an entire weekend exploring. We only had a day, and what a great day!

Heather’s Take on Philadelphia

I enjoyed my time walking around the historic city. We hit the usual spots, including Independence Park, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, the Love Block, Elfreth’s Alley, the Rocky Steps, Benjamin Franklin’s gravesite, and Benjamin Franklin’s memorial statue in the Franklin Institute. All were great but very busy. If you don’t want to wait in line to see the Liberty Bell, it is viewable from a back and side window.

Cheesesteak Time!

While in Philly, one has to look for the perfect Philadelphia Cheesesteak sandwich. Several people recommended we go to Pat’s and Geno’s for lunch. Both places are considered local icons made famous by several food shows showcasing their Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. I will get a lot of flack for my opinion, but I was disappointed in both places. Pat’s setup was a bit more fun and lively, but I didn’t think either sandwich was anything I would ever order again. Both were okay, but neither lived up to all the hype. I am still searching for the perfect Philadelphia Cheese Steak—sorry, Pat and Geno lovers.

The Gem: Eastern State Penitentiary

The highlight of the day was a visit to Eastern State Penitentiary. Matt had discovered this place and suggested we visit. Before we entered, I was not excited about this old prison and didn’t understand why we were wasting our time when there were so many other places to see. I was so wrong! Eastern State Penitentiary was awesome! If you like haunted places, if you want out-of-the-ordinary places, if you like abandoned places, if you like incredible photo opportunities, you have to go to ESP.

Pay the extra money for the audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi. The prisoner stories and history of the place were incredible. I suggest going later in the afternoon so you can get a bit of shadowed light for photos. I have heard they do evening tours, which I could only imagine are spooky. Check their website for hours and events.

Listen, I know what you are all thinking because I was skeptical, too, but this place is so interesting. Be warned; the infirmary area is incredibly creepy. I am convinced that section is crawling with spirits, and if all that isn’t enough, Al Capone’s cell is part of the main tour.

Matthew’s View on Philly

For all of you who have always wanted to visit an abandoned building but were deterred by the “No Trespassing” sign, Eastern State Penitentiary is the place for you. As for the rest of you interested in history or all-around spooky sights, this place has got you covered. The prison was closed in 1971 and then sat dormant until 1994, when it reopened as a museum. During the time it was closed, many proposals were made and dismissed. All the while letting nature slowly reclaim the plot of land. Today, it is an array of sights and hidden treasures, with limitless photo opportunities. I recommend a tripod for some of the more dark and creepy corners.

Logistics

Drive time to Philly from DC is roughly 2 hours and 30 min., and only about 2 hours from NYC; as with everything, traffic can play a role in your road trip. Regarding parking, I would recommend parking twice, once near the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall and a second time Near Eastern State Penitentiary and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Recommendable: Yes. If you have the time, spend more than one day discovering the city and surrounding areas.

Love Shadow, Philadelphia.

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