Destination Guide
Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city ready to be discovered.
Destination Guide Philadelphia
How We See Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s underdog spirit will make you believe anything is possible. Pride and grit drive Philly’s destination-worthy dining scene, uninhibited creativity makes the art community thrive, and a legendary love for local sound pulses through the city’s great music venues. If you’re looking for a moment of calm, riverfront trails and an abundance of parks offer greenspace and fresh air within the city limits.
When In Philadelphia, You Must
EAT
Irwin's
800 Mifflin St.
DRINK
R&D
1206 Frankford Ave.
SEE
Philadelphia Museum of Art
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
DO
Cherry Street Pier
121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd.
Know Before You Go
Guests should review government guidance to confirm eligibility to travel & stay at hotel. Face coverings are required in all indoor public areas.
Talk Like A Local
Know the slang of the city.
Jawn
Jaan (rhymes with fawn) noun
A catch-all word for a person, place, thing or event that one need not or cannot give a specific name to.
Did you see that show? That jawn was awesome.
Philadelphia
Whether you’re craving a cheesesteak or a top rated restaurant, anything goes.
1. Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is where you can find Philadelphia’s high-end fashion retailers like Joan Shepp and Boyd’s, sidewalks lined with alfresco dining, wine and cocktail bars, and theaters and cultural centers along the Avenue of the Arts. Grab a corner bar seat at the revamped Friday Saturday Sunday or reserve a table at Vernick Food & Drink before an evening stroll through Rittenhouse Square Park. Don’t forget to look up or you’ll miss Philadelphia’s impressive historic architecture.
2. Fishtown
Named for its commercial shad-fishing history, Fishtown is where Philly’s young, creative class thrives. Visit Fishtown for some of Philadelphia’s most exciting culinary concepts, electric music venues and independent retail. Plan ahead and score yourself sought-after reservations at culinary gems, Suraya or Laser Wolf. But first work up an appetite with an afternoon of shopping at local favorites like Harriet’s Bookshop and Vestige. Top off an evening in Fishtown at International Bar or Johnny Brenda’s - a Fishtown landmark - featuring a beautifully restored, 250-person live music venue on its second level.
3. Old City
Old City is the historic heart of Philadelphia, home to Independence Hall where the country’s founders declared liberty, and where local boutiques and art galleries hold up the city’s dedication to originality. Explore the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and go back in time at the immersive Museum of the American Revolution. Enjoy dinner at Fork or, for something more casual, grab a hammock and take in the scene at Spruce Street Harbor Park.
4. East Passyunk
Pronounced East “Pashyunk” by locals, one of the few diagonal streets in Philadelphia’s grid design, is lined with traditional Italian red gravy restaurants and craft cocktail bars. Explore the charming neighborhood off “the avenue” - another local reference for the walkable thoroughfare - and look for the red neon glow of the Palizzi Social Club, the re-opened members-only restaurant with a history that spans generations.
Ultimate Access To Philadelphia
Explore The City of Brotherly Love.
Pizzeria Beddia
1313 N Lee St.
What started as a two-man operation where you might stand in line for hours for a fresh pie, is now Pizzeria Beddia just a few blocks away from the original location. Go for Joe Beddia’s pizza but stay for the small plates and inspired wine list.
W Hotels / Insider
Dining with a group of friends? Book the Hoagie Room or enjoy Beddia’s Pizza Party with a set menu.
Graffiti Pier
Port Richmond
One of the most Instagrammed sites in Philadelphia, Graffiti Pier is an abandoned Conrail pier turned "urban gallery" whose concrete walls are constantly updated with street art in styles unique to Philly. Graffiti Pier is on track for a renovation by The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, giving way to greater accessibility, new art surfaces, guardrails and the same artwork-filled urban park.
W Hotels / Insider
While there are currently "No Trespassing" signs posted - many folks enter at their own risk!
Yowie
716 S 4th St.
YOWIE, founded by Shannon Maldonado, is a home and lifestyle shop focused on curating small collections from friends, independent artists and designers. Shop YOWIE for what’s new and next.
W Hotels / Insider
It’s easy to spot Philadelphia’s fashion and design-forward crowd: just look for a YOWIE tote.
Live Music Various Locations
Downtown Philadelphia
No doubt the live music scene inspired many. Catch a killer local band or national touring artist at one of Philly's great music venues like The Met, Johnny Brenda's, Chris' Jazz Cafe, Union Transfer, or The Mann Center for Performing Arts.
W Hotels / Insider
Legendary artists like The Roots, Jill Scott, Teddy Pendergrass, The War on Drugs, Boyz II Men and Meek Mill all got their start in Philadelphia.
Either/Or
DETOX
Schuylkill Banks
2501 Walnut St.
Lace up your running shoes and go for a jog along Schuylkill Banks, a riverside pathway with skyline views and pathways that allow pedestrians, runners and cyclists to literally walk or ride.
Packing List
What to pack for Philly.
1. Dope sneakers
You’ll want comfortable – but stylish – shoes to explore walkable Philadelphia.
2. Vintage sports gear
The passion Philadelphians have for their sports team is unmistakable. Show love for the home team by rocking retro Phillies, 76ers, Eagles or Flyers gear.
3. Picnic blanket
Pick up picnic snacks and a bottle of wine from DiBruno’s and then spread out on the grass at Rittenhouse Square Park.
4. Your favorite jeans
Show up and show off, whether you’re visiting a gritty dive bar, stepping in to a member’s only restaurant or dining in one of Philly’s legendary venues. In Philadelphia, come as you are.
W Philadelphia
Own The Moment In Downtown Philadelphia