A Sonesta Celebrity Sighting!

Looking for the top things to see and do in Philly? Visitors and Locals should look no further than our very own PACA President, Fran Nachman, who was just honored as the Sonesta Celebrity!! Check out her amazing insider tips for the best attractions, guided tours and nightlife to make the most of your Philly experience. Sonesta Celebrity*Content provided from the Sonesta Blog. Located in downtown Philly, guests of the Sonesta Philadelphia have a myriad of things to do – places to see and restaurants to dine in.  Weary travelers can rest assured that our very own gold key award winning Concierge, Fran Nachman – as seen on philly.com knows the best places to recommend and whether you are returning to Philadelphia for the 100th time, or brand to new to the city, she will be able to recommend an itinerary that is sure to please. Fran’s Top 6 Things to See in Philly: Philadelphia Museum of Art The Oval (Wednesday-Sunday)Food trucksBeer GardenDaily Theme (fitness/art & culture/movies/game day) Art After 5 (Fridays- museum is open until 8:45pm)Music/food The Barnes FoundationLargest private collection of post-impressionist and early modern artAdvance reservations strongly suggested Mural Arts ToursOver 2500 murals located throughout the citySelf-walking tours as well as guided trolley tours Reading Terminal MarketOver 100 year-old farmer’s market. Open 7 days (No Amish stands Sunday-Tuesday)DiNic’s Roast Pork –Winner of Travel Channel’s Best Sandwich in the Country Historic DistrictLiberty Bell (No tickets needed)Independence Hall (Tickets required from Independence Visitor Center) No tickets needed seasonally 5pm-7pmElfreth’s AlleyNational Museum of American Jewish HistoryAfrican-American MuseumFranklin CourtBetsy Ross HouseChrist ChurchU.S. MintNational Constitution Center City Hall ToursSelf-guided tours to tower & observation deck 9:30am-4:15pm Monday-Friday (fee)Guided tour (2 hours) including interior and building history 12:30pm Monday-Friday (fee) Now after hopping around Philadelphia visiting all of Fran’s favorite spots, we are sure you have worked up an appetite. No matter what you are craving or who you are traveling with, Fran has just the place in mind for you! If it’s a beautiful day in Philadelphia and you want to dine with a view, Fran recommends trying out one of these restaurants: Butcher & Singer, D’Angelo’s, Davio’s, Devon Seafood Grill, Gran Caffee L’Aquilla, Oyster House or R2L.  Another one of her favorite spots on a sunny day is Talula’s Garden, particularly in late spring, summer or early fall to take advantage of their garden seating! If you are traveling with family and need a restaurant where there will be something on the menu for everyone, Fran recommends Capofitto and Jones which are convenient for lunch or dinner. Just going out for cocktails and want a fun spot? Fran recommends checking out 1 Tippling Place or Bar Volver on Jazz Nights. If you are looking for amazing service, she says you will never be disappointed at The Industry. Other recommended bars include Independence Beer Garden, Charlie was a Sinner and The Franklin Bar. Tired after a long day of working in Philadelphia or touring the City of Brotherly Love and need a snack. Fran recommends Devon & Blakely, Di Bruno’s, Good Stuff Eatery, Hai Street Kitchen, HipCityVeg, and the Reading Terminal Market as perfect spots to grab a quick bite.

“The Beer Garden”

The PACA recently asked our members: “What is your favorite Philly Summer Attraction?” Our Board Secretary, Dan Bove of the Warwick Residences, shares his love on a Philadelphia Summer Tradition: The Beer Garden. My favorite summer attraction in Philadelphia is the onset of outdoor beer gardens. Philadelphia is fortunate to experiencet all 4 seasons and we are sure taking advantage of spending summer outdoors. I have spent many a great night and day at the Spruce Street Harbor Park. It’s right on the water and the river brings a cool breeze through. There are several spots to relax and unwind in a hammock or on an Adirondack chair.The Independence Beer Garden is a great place to enjoy  great food and lively spirits while taking in the historic sights of Philadelphia. The Beer Garden at The Oval takes advantage of another great view of our fair city. Sip, or gulp, your way through the night in front of the art museum and enjoy the views on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Sadly, The Uptown Beer Garden and the Point Breeze Beer Garden unfortunately fell victim to gentrification and the strict PA Liquor laws. As summer winds down, take of advantage of Philadelphia outdoors. A summer day (and night) in Philadelphia is best spent with a  beer and the breeze. Check out the below link for details about these locations and all of the restaurants that offer outdoor options. http://www.uwishunu.com/2014/05/roundup-the-best-beer-gardens-in-philadelphia-where-to-go-for-alfresco-brews-in-philadelphia-this-summer/