Philadelphia International Visitors Guide 2008 - UK - (Page 6)

GET TO KNOW PHILADELPHIA Fall in Love with Philadelphia Welcome to Philadelphia, the birthplace of the U.S.A. and a hub of history, culture, and entertainment. Philadelphia is famous for its role during the nation’s founding and for being home to the Liberty Bell, an international symbol of freedom. But the city is also a thriving contemporary destination. There are grand hotels, tax-free shopping, attractions and entertainment, plus delicious cuisine. The region is exciting throughout the year with special events and festivals, so whatever your interests, any trip to Philadelphia will be memorable. Geography A convenient gateway to America, Philadelphia is the second-largest city on the East Coast and sixth-largest in the U.S.A. It lies midway between New York City and Washington, D.C. Philadelphia is home to two spectacular rivers: the Delaware River on its eastern edge and the Schuylkill River on its western edge. City Layout Philadelphia’s downtown, called Center City, is a compact grid based on founder William Penn’s original engineered city plan with wide streets and green spaces. The anchors of this design still exist: Washington, Franklin, Rittenhouse, and Logan squares, along with City Hall, which stands on the original site of Centre Square at Broad and Market streets. Made up of several distinct districts, Center City is a vibrant area with diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own character and charm. Major Events in 2008 Winter Mummers Parade and Fancy Brigade Finale. The Mummers Parade is the U.S.A.’s oldest folk parade, featuring more than 10,000 spectacularly costumed marchers. The Fancy Brigade Finale, a cross between Mardi Gras and Broadway, brings the most elaborate division of the parade indoors to the Pennsylvania Convention Center for two shows (one for groups only). 800-225-5745, ext. 2, www.mummers.org Equality Forum. This national and international Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) civil rights organization hosts the nation’s largest annual GLBT forum in Philadelphia with more than 70 programs, parties, and special events. 215-732-3378, www.equalityforum.com Philadelphia Open House Tours. These annual, guided bus tours and comprehensive walking tours offer a look into selected private homes, gardens, and historic buildings throughout Philadelphia and its suburbs. 215928-1188, www.friendsofindependence.org Spring Philadelphia Flower Show. The largest indoor flower show in the world showcases 33 acres of lush gardens, lavish floral settings, and inspirational displays at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. 215-988-8899, www.philadelphiaflowershow.com 6 www.PhiladelphiaUSA.travel http://www.equalityforum.com http://www.mummers.org http://www.friendsofindependence.org http://www.philadelphiaflowershow.com http://www.philadelphiausa.travel

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Philadelphia International Visitors Guide 2008 - UK

Philadelphia International Visitors Guide 2008 - UK Contents Get to Know Philadelphia Fall in Love with Philadelphia Major Events Timelines: History of the City and Modern Philadelphia Independence National Historical Park Philadelphia's Visitor Centers Philadelphia Neighbourhoods and The Countryside Itinerary Ideas Attractions and Activities Museums, Arts & Culture, and Other Major Attractions Sports & Recreation Experiential Tours for Groups Dining & Nightlife Shopping Visitor Information & Transportation International Offices of the PCVB Currency Exchange International Language Translation Consulates Climate Data Approximate Flight Times from World Cities Approximate Travel Times to Other U.S. Cities Maps

Philadelphia International Visitors Guide 2008 - UK

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