Discover our locals' 156 hidden gems in Philadelphia
Let's explore Philadelphia beyond the Liberty Bell with Spotted by Locals! From hidden murals to local eateries, our Spotters show you the city's authentic side. Discover Philadelphia through the eyes of true locals.
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Things to do in Philadelphia
Vault & Vine
Cafe, greenhouse, handmade gifts
"Vault & Vine" in Philadelphia is a cafe inside a greenhouse. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius. I come here almost every weekend with my pug...
by
Holly
Miller
The Percy Street Project
An electric light mural
"The Percy Street Project" is a public art installation in Philadelphia planned to span the entire 1300 block. Come at night to see 'The Electric Street'.
by
Holly
Miller
Nunu
Creative Asian fusion food and cocktails
"Nunu" is an Asian fusion bar/restaurant in Philadelphia. I love it best on a cold day when I'm craving a cocktail and warm snacks. Perfect for dates!
by
Holly
Miller
Suraya
Exquisite Levant-inspired dining & market
"Suraya" just might be the best restaurant in Philadelphia right now. If you love the flavors of the Levant, that you're going to love it, too...
by
Holly
Miller
Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion
FUN
My favorite thing about the "Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion" by far is that it's very community-focused: I was toured by a local 4th grader!
by
Holly
Miller
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Pop-up summer park
"Spruce Street Harbor Park" is a true gift of the city of Philadelphia to its citizens, an ode to summer itself... I'll be there in a hammock!
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup
Food trucks
The "Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup" in Philadelphia appears every Tuesday & Thursday, come rain or shine! Great opportunity to try a few of them at once...
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Lloyd
Whiskey, cocktails, & fine fare
"Lloyd" Philadelphia is my bar of choice when I need a stiff scotch (80+ types) or a finely crafted cocktail. The style definitely makes me feel at home.
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Interstate Draft House
New American/Southern
"Interstate Draft House" is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar. I highly recommend ordering the Fishtown Tea cocktail there, similar to a Long Island Ice Tea.
by
Cara
Jo Castellino
Tuna Bar
Japanese raw bar in Old City
Tuna Bar near the Ben Franklin Bridge is my go-to raw bar in the Old City in Philadelphia for exciting sushi rolls and Japanese-style appetizers!
by
Holly
Miller
Abstract Mural Callowhill
Artist Tim McFarlane
Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Long in the Tooth Record Store
High fidelity
"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
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What to do in Philadelphia?
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156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
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We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.
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