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
When you see it for the first time you are struck by its size.
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"Contrafuerte" in Philadelphia is Miguel Antonio Horn's latest sculpture which comprises of eight entangled nude bodies holding a small concrete bridge...
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Beer lovers have lots to celebrate in Philadelphia! Enter "ARS Brewery", a South Philly Garage Brewery (complete in an old garage and visible distillery).
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These old farm ruins outside Northern Philadelphia are covered in graffiti and belong to a now-abandoned prison...
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"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
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My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
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"Sally" in Philadelphia is a casual and friendly restaurant that's also been named the Best New Restaurant of 2021...
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"Chris Jazz Cafe" in Philadelphia has been keeping the jazz flames alive in Center City for over 30 years. A night here is an absolute event...
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"Herman’s Coffee" is in a former auto repair and car wash garage in Philadelphia. It's much more than just a coffee shop with espresso & yummy pastries...
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The "Rosenbach Museum" in Philadelphia will almost make you expect the residents to saunter out in Victorian garb! A must for literature lovers...
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"St. Marks Episcopal Church" in Philadelphia is just beautiful. Even though I'm not religious, I have enjoyed many free classical music concerts here...
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When I tasted one of "Function Coffee Labs" buttery flaky sourdough-based croissants in Philadelphia, I knew I'd found pastry bliss...
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156 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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