Philadelphia: City of Brotherly Love

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Economy Alert! Skip rising gas prices in this public transportation-friendly city.

Many people know that Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States, but not too many know it was also the site of the first American hospital, the first African-American church, the first bank and the first paper mill. It also boasts our country’s first zoo, its first sugar refinery and the very first U.S. Mint.

Additionally, Philadelphia earned a prominent place in American history as the city where the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, and where the Constitution of the United States was written in 1787.

Often called the cradle of American history, it is a city that has always attracted ambitious, independent and progressive thinkers.

Philadelphia was founded by an English Quaker, William Penn, in 1682. Penn envisioned a friendly city populated by open-minded people from all backgrounds and religions who would enjoy interacting with one another in a ‘green countrie towne’ designed around five public squares.

These wonderful open spaces remain today, even though Philadelphia has grown to become the fifth largest city in the country with a population of approximately 1.6 million people. It now has more than 150 different neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and attractions. From the cobble-stoned streets in the historic district around Liberty Square to the popular Italian Market area in South Philadelphia to the shops and restaurants of the picturesque Delaware River waterfront, Philadelphia is a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic architecture offering exciting things to see and do around the clock.

Diverse individuals, corporations and educational institutions call Philadelphia home. The region has more than 80 colleges and universities and is considered one of the largest health care centers in the nation. It has often been called one of the country’s safest large cities as well as one of its friendliest.

Whether it’s to play, work, learn or walk in the footsteps of our country’s founding fathers, Philadelphia has something for everyone.

City Resources

• All About Philadelphia
• Newspaper
• Historic Attractions
• Theater, Shopping and Recreation

Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce Access detailed information about Philadelphia’s economy, government, regional resources, housing, climate and yearly events.

Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau Find comprehensive information about Philadelphia as a convention, meeting and tourist destination and why so many visitors decided to make it their home.

Philadelphia City Guide This site is filled with local news and information about attractions, hotels, jobs, history and real estate.

The Philadelphia Inquirer This daily newspaper features local, national and international news, classifieds, entertainment, sports, business and employment pages.

Independence National Historical Park Tour Independence Hall where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were created or gaze at the Liberty Bell, the international symbol of freedom.

Pennsbury Manor Visit William Penn’s 1690s-era country estate, which was reconstructed with a manor house, outbuildings, gardens and livestock, for a close-up look at colonial living.

National Constitution Center This interactive museum honors the ideas embodied in the U.S. Constitution.

Avenue of the Arts Check out Philadelphia’s 4.5 miles of internationally acclaimed theaters, museums and concert halls.

Chestnut Hill/Germantown Cobblestone streets and 19th-century stone buildings grace Chestnut Hill, a popular community of shops, cafes, and parks. In Germantown, historic attractions, churches and parks mix with an eclectic array of locally owned businesses.

Rittenhouse Square One of William Penn’s original public squares, this is an area of beautiful boutiques, salons and outdoor restaurants that look out onto the greenery of the park.

Festival Pier Considered the center of the city’s maritime and commercial activity, Festival Pier is the scene of special events throughout the year. Enjoy concerts in the summer and outdoor ice-skating in the winter.

Camden Waterfront amden Waterfront, on the picturesque Delaware River, hosts concerts, minor league baseball and a popular aquarium.

Old City Explore one of America’s first commercial districts, a lively area that combines historic charm and urban chic with galleries, theaters, shops and restaurants. The First Friday evening of every month is a gallery “happening.”

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