These fascinating, one-of-a-kind experiences aim to invite travellers to discover some of Philadelphia’s most unique and unexpected gems
Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement
The United States of America is rich with history all over the country. While the popular destinations are known to people, there are others that are lesser-known to people, and may often go unnoticed.
Among the many is Philadelphia is widely known for its rich contributions to American history and culture. But beyond the well-known historic paths lies a city with unique attractions and experiences that can only be found here.
These fascinating, one-of-a-kind experiences aim to invite travellers to discover some of Philadelphia’s most unique and unexpected gems.
Indulge in unique art at Magic Gardens
Immerse yourself in a glittering garden of mosaics at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens on South Street that celebrate creativity and storytelling through a unique perspective on art. This three-block museum/installation is a mesmerising maze covered with mosaics. Half indoor and half outdoor, this unique space is not your typical garden. The space is filled with unexpected items, including mirrors, bottles, and bicycle wheels, all held together by colourful grout. Fully out of the ordinary, this folk-art labyrinth is the largest work to date by mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar. Explore the surrounding streets as well, to see where Zagar’s unique mosaics have “spilled out” into the surrounding neighbourhood.
Step inside the world of 19th-century medicine at Mütter Museum
The College of Physicians of Philadelphia’s Mutter Museum is one of the most unique and interesting museums in the country, featuring collections of medical oddities, wax models, antique medical equipment, anatomical and pathological specimens, and more. Visitors to the Mütter Museum can marvel at the conjoined liver of Siamese twins Chang and Eng Bunker, slides of Albert Einstein’s brain, and the mystery surrounding the famous Soap Lady. The Mutter Museum also invites the public to attend many lectures, workshops, and conferences that the College offers, in order to help the public understand the mysteries and beauty of the human body while appreciating the history of diagnosis and treatment of disease. The Mütter Museum, named one of Lonely Planet’s “unique museums around the world you can’t miss”, also offers unique exhibits and specimens telling the story of medicine through scientific history.
Discover Philadelphia’s haunted secrets on a ghost tour
Discover the secrets hidden in the shadows of America’s most historic and most haunted city. Join the original Ghost Tour of Philadelphia for a candlelight walking tour along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence Park, Society Hill, and Old City, where ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards lurk in the night. Experience history brought back to life with a costumed tour guide spinning tales of mystery and intrigue. Hear seldom-told tales about the city’s historic sites, such as Independence Hall, Washington Square, Powel House, City Tavern, and more. For over 20 years, the Ghost Tour of Philadelphia has been Philly’s most unusual and most popular evening activity, and it was named one of the top 15 must-see attractions in the US by Budget Travel Magazine.
Explore the USA’s most historic prison at Eastern State Penitentiary historic site
Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells held nearly 85,000 people over its long history, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone. Eastern State was an active prison from 1829 to 1971. Today, the penitentiary is a historic site and museum that interprets the legacy of American criminal justice reform from the nation’s founding to the present day. Admission includes an audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi, award-winning exhibits, a series of critically acclaimed artist installations, and more. At night every fall, Eastern State’s sprawling grounds transform into a Halloween festival of epic proportions. Halloween Nights does not affect daytime operations, and all proceeds benefit the preservation and interpretation of Eastern State, which is a National Historic Landmark.
Savour the flavours at Reading Terminal Market
Dating back to 1893 and housed in a National Historic Landmark building, Reading Terminal Market is one of the largest and oldest public markets in the U.S. The market is consistently voted one of the best public markets in the nation by USA Today 10Best. With more than 80 merchants, including dozens of restaurants, the market is a must-see for visitors looking to sample a taste of Philadelphia. Reading Terminal Market offers a mouthwatering variety of foods, from sandwiches and cheesesteaks to global street foods, sweet treats and local fare, all under one historic roof.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
