American Adventures: It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

This day began with weaving through the bustling crowds at Reading Terminal Market.

I enjoyed seeing what the market had to offer, which included fruit, vegetables, Amish pastries, Philly cheesesteaks, and ice-cream.

This ice-cream shop is the only original store in the market. I may or may not have been eavesdropping on a tour.

There was also a miniature train display.

I decided not to purchase anything, but couldn’t refuse my sister’s offer to sample the Amish pastry. I’m glad I tasted the cross between an apple pie and the best original glazed Kristen Kreme donut.

Next we trotted off to City Hall. It was a Saturday, so we couldn’t tour the building, but were able to go up to the observation deck.

We viewed Broad Street, which is surprisingly not the widest street in America, but the longest straight street.

We also viewed the William Penn statue. Well, we got a good look up his nostrils.

This was originally the highest point in Philadelphia until another building overtook Will. Philly started losing sports games until a six inch statue was placed on that building, then all was right with Philly’s sporting teams again. Phew!

Alicia, Carlos and I traipsed through the Christmas Markets of Dilworth Park and Love Park. Alicia bought an ornament. The only thing I took away with me was the Christmas spirit.

Next on the agenda was the Rodin Museum. Ok, so not the whole museum because that costs money, but the outside. I had a brief think about life.

We saw the Gates of Hell.

And we had a little boogie, Single Ladies style. I think there was only one single lady in that group.

We also experienced the free portion of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

As someone who has never seen Rocky, I was very keen to run on the famous steps.

After living out a week long dream, it was time for a change of pace. We did a free tour of the Library.

It was partly designed by the first African American architect.

The most interesting part of the tour was the rare books section. The library is home to the most first edition Beatrix Potter books.

We also viewed literature from a time before Britain knew Australia existed.

Charles Dickens’ taxidermied pet raven, which inspired Edgar Allan Poe, also resides in the library. I never thought I’d be so fascinated by a dead bird called Grip.

Another interesting section was the book week posters lining the walls on the way to the children’s section.

There was also this unique sculpture. Or a giant left one shoe behind.

Ok, yes, I’m a nerd who loves libraries.

By this point I had fallen deeply in love with Philadelphia. A city full of history, free activities and genuinely friendly people.

We checked out Old City Hall, which is the original location of the US Supreme Court.

On the way to dinner we walked past the Corn Exchange.

Dinner was a candlelit, colonial feast at City Tavern. Thankfully they accepted cash or card because I was all out of corn.

They serve food and beer inspired by recipes from famous 18th century American politicians.

Do not ask to see the dessert menu because they literally show off the dessert on a tray for you, so you’re basically forced to choose something.

Carlos selected the apple crumble, while Alicia asked for two extra spoons. It was sweet and crumbly and perfect. Following our meal we ventured over to the Franklin Square Holiday Electrical Spectacle.