There’s no city in the world quite like Philadelphia. From our history to our cuisine, and even the unmistakable Philly attitude, you’ll certainly know you’ve made it to a unique city when you arrive in the City of Brotherly Love. Here are a few things about what makes Philadelphia special and unique, and why there’s no place like home.

1. Our history is incredible.
Flickr / The West End
The United States was founded in the streets of Philadelphia! The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights were all written and signed in our city. Information about the historic sites where you can learn more about these historic documents can be found at the city's Independence Visitor's Center.
2. And you can still see it everywhere!
Flickr / Jonathan
In Philly, you can drink in the same bar where the Federalist papers were argued, you can walk the cobblestone streets that our founding fathers drove carriages down, and you can even run into Ben Franklin in Old City! There is so much to see, do, and learn about what makes Philadelphia special!
3. You'll never meet anyone quite like a Philadelphian.
Flickr / Brantley
Philadelphia is full of characters. You can meet strangers who give you interesting unsolicited advice, die-hard Eagles fans, Philly Jesus, or some of the best chefs, restauranteurs, and bakers - all on the same day.
4. One word: Mummers.
Flickr / Pretty Kate Machine
Where else would you find a parade like the Mummers, where people dress up in elaborate costumes for the ultimate performance competition, in the freezing cold, on New Years' Day? It is definitely one of the most favorite holiday traditions in the entire state.
5. We love to invent amazing foods.
karmacamilleeon/Flickr
We invented the Root Beer Float, Water Ice, the Hoagie and the oh so iconic Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. What else could you want?
6. There's art everywhere you look.
Seth Werkheiser/Flickr
When you delve into what is Philadelphia historically known for, it is definitely for its public art. Murals like this one decorate thousands of buildings in Philadelphia and interesting mosaics—among a wealth of other artistic ventures—are easy to find because Philadelphia is home to more public art than any other city in the country.
7. We've got a ton of green space, despite being a very urban city.
Flickr / Tim O'Brien
Philadelphia's park system includes Fairmount Park and Wissahickon Gorge, which combine to make it one of the greenest cities in the country. These are just two of the most beautiful places to spend some time in and around the city.
8. We are extraordinarily creative when it comes to #savesies.
Flickr / Camera_Obscura
In Philadelphia, you've got to take a side in the #savesies vs #nosavesies debate - the city’s quirky, unofficial, reserved parking spot culture. The Philly police will be quick to ticket anyone using a vacuum, chairs, stroller, or anything else to hold their parking space, but in some neighborhoods, you'd better not take anyone's shoveled out spot. Anything to help you survive winter in Philadelphia!
9. And also when it comes to finding parking spots.
Flickr / Christopher
You can park pretty much anywhere in South Philly... including the median on Broad Street - which by the way, is one of the most walkable streets in the city. This is something that throws off out-of-towners for sure.

What’s your favorite place in Philadelphia? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences there. If you’re a resident, tell us what you think about this list! You can also learn more about the city on the official convention and visitor bureau Facebook page.

And if you think it’s just the city that makes us a little different, read up on these 9 Things Philadelphians Do That Seem Insane To Everyone Else.

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What Makes Philadelphia Special

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | October 09, 2022

Can you suggest some of the best restaurants in Philadelphia?

Boy can I! If you are a foodie, Philadelphia is definitely the place for you. The cross-cultural mix of people from all over the world has led to the establishment of so many amazing restaurants that you could eat yourself silly here! Everyone has their favorites, for a variety of reasons, so I'd hate to choose one over the other. But to get your epicurean adventures on the way I definitely recommend Tacconelli's Pizzeria, Dante & Luigi's, McGillan's Olde Ale House,  and El Vez But just keep in mind, this is not by far even close to the number of amazing eateries you'll find.

What are some other interesting facts about Philadelphia?

Well, there are so many! Did you know that the world's first all-purpose digital computer was invented here? Or that Philadelphia is the home of the very first zoo in the country? Or, not surprisingly given the city’s history, that the nation’s first 4th of July celebration took place here? These are just a few of the really cool and interesting facts about Philadelphia.

Can you suggest a fun Philadelphia tour?

Philadelphia has many tour companies that put on fantastic tours of the city, and many are themed as well (i.e. art tours, historic attractions, etc.). One of the most popular ones is the RiverLink Ferry. It’s a wonderful, 15-minute, leisurely, and very scenic water ride that connects the Philadelphia and Camden waterfronts.

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