Rocky Mountain High To The Streets Of Philadelphia

Great things happened for our country here in Philadelphia. Think about taking time to see The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center, the nation’s first flags at the Betsy Ross House. Or head out to Valley Forge to see George Washington’s winter 1777 encampment, one of the nation’s best-known Revolutionary War landmarks.

When living in Valley Forge, I found a canon ball while digging in our garden. Cool, right? Penn’s Landing runs along Philly’s waterfront area and is the site of festivals, concerts, shows and other fun stuff. It’s definitely a favorite summer hot spot. From here you can catch a glimpse of the Battleship New Jersey, walk through the sculpture garden, visit the Seaport Museum, go roller-skating or catch the ferry to Camden and visit the New Jersey State Aquarium. Walk along the Schuylkill River and watch boaters out on the water, head past Boathouse Row or stroll to the Philadelphia Art Museum to see Van Gogh, Monet, Pissarro, Picasso and Dali.

Want creepy? Visit Eastern State Penitentiary, a haunting building that once held America’s most notorious gangster, Al Capone. My favorite Philly museum is the Mutter Museum, home to Einstein’s brain and other beautifully preserved anatomical specimens.

If the stage calls you, you’ll find Broadway shows at the Walnut Street Theatre, the Forrest Theatre, Merriam Theater, and more. For dancing the night away, you’ll find live music everywhere, whether it’s a little jazzy trio or a full-blown head banging concert.

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Bartram’s Garden, Tyler Arboretum, The Barnes Arboretum, Shofuso Japanese House & Garden, Longwood Gardens are absolutely breathtaking.

And let’s not forget the Philly food scene. We even have a “Taste of Philly” tour at the Reading Terminal Market. You’ve probably heard Philly is home to cheese steak, but save room for hoagies, water ice, soft pretzels and more.

Hop on the double-decker Big Bus (about $30) from the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel and then hop on and off as much as you like. There are 27 stops near 100 attractions. Or sit back and soak in the history, sights and sunshine, and the Big Bus will circle back to the Doubletree.

Join us for the 2018 T’ai Chi Chih Teacher Conference and visit our fabulous city.