If you happen to be a knowledge junkie like me, then check out the Author series at the Free Library of Philadelphia. Featuring some of the finest in both fiction and non-fiction writing, the speaker series began in 1933 and has had several big names, including Michele Obama, Pete Buttigieg and Madeline Albright. Many of the events are free, but they do charge admission for some of the speakers. Check out their website for a listing of the events as well as admission costs. The discussions are held in the auditorium of this magnificent Horace Trumbauer designed building. Opened in 1927, Trumbauer designed the Library in the style of 18th-century classical French architecture. In fact, free tours are given at 10:00 and 14:00 Monday through Friday and 14:00 on Sundays.
The series runs from September through June and the author events are usually held in the weekday evenings at 7:00 pm. The Library is located just off the Parkway at 19th and Vine.
In addition, there are a few good inexpensive restaurants nearby, my favorite being Buena Onda. One of Philly’s top chefs, Jose Garces, opened this small, simple Mexican restaurant, and he clearly had a hand in creating the menu, as the tacos are some of the best in the city. No reservations are necessary. Just walk up to the counter, place your order and be ready for some outstanding inexpensive, creative fare.
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
“Philly Vintage Bazaar” is a vintage clothes shop that gets everything right!
by
"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
"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
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
"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
"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
"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
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
"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
"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
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
"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
156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 156 Insider Tips