After spending a night in AC, we ventured over to PA in the morning to spend the day exploring the city. Our Philadelphia digs were spot on. We could see the Liberty Bell from our hotel window and hear the "new" bell toll on the hour. Gong! One of the strange effects of COVID was that they had removed the ability to use the refrigerator or microwave in our room. We had some food and drinks so we had to use the trash cans to make additional ice coolers.
We booked the Kimpton Hotel Monaco at the last minute using only 25K IHG points which was a steal for this stunning boutique hotel. The location couldn’t be beat as we were able to walk everywhere. Unfortunately after an annoying dog barking and a loud ice machine, we had to relocate rooms late in the night. The hotel was very accommodating though and we were able to communicate via text to make the move.
We walked to the Reading Terminal Market and I can't say enough good things about this experience. It's a foodie’s paradise. Pretzel dog was the best I’ve ever had. Fried chicken and Mac and cheese (Kevin Parker's Soul Food Cafe). Pork sandwich (Dinic's. Wouldn't get again). Donuts and freshly baked cookies (Donuts were better than the cookies). #foodporn for days. The mission, should you choose to accept it: try everything! We were glad we only had mimosas for breakfast and we still couldn't eat as much as we wanted. Miller's Twist with the pretzels was our favorite. Because of COVID, there was only one indoor dining area toward the back and center of the terminal. You had to wait in line to be shown to a booth where you could sit for a maximum time of 30 minutes. Some of the individual restaurants also had seating if you ordered from them. Here's a map should you need it.
The line to go into the building for the Liberty Bell was long all day so we opted for no line by seeing it through the outdoor glass viewing window.
Where there's a Ross Dress for Less, there's a Greenleaf near by. It's a silly tradition to visit any Ross in any city and get a photo op. We then have to give that Ross a name. This one is the Philly Ross.
We took an Uber to the Rocky Steps so Kelly could conquer the steps and earn his right of passage. We continued on foot after for more exploring.
We stumbled upon this cool beer garden. Perfect stop for a beer and glass of wine. We ordered directly from our phones and drinks were delivered right to our outdoor table.
Generally, the #1 restaurant on TripAdvisor is reliable (except when you're in NOLA). We made reservations as this was the first day Philadelphia was reopening at 25% indoor dining. Philly is known for Italian food so date night round 2 included dinner at a hole in the wall family ristorante. The food was incredible! The owner come brining dish after dish. We barely made a dent in most of it. The ambience left a lot to be desired. One guest across the restaurant was so loud we could hear every conversation and every cuss word. Another couple of guests said some expletives on their way out to another couple dining. Still recommended!
My trip was not going to be complete without some souvenirs and a Philly cheesesteak of course! On the way to the airport, we stopped by Philadelphia Old City Souvenirs and I snagged a sweatshirt, t-shirt, stuffed animal and a couple of ornaments for just over $50. Score! After, we headed to Geno's because they say they're the best! They're not the best. It was good but Steak Stuffers is better IMO.
Until next time!
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