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		<title>Best Places to Visit for Halloween with Kids</title>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mari]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:46:55 +0000</pubDate>
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<p>There’s something extra fun about celebrating Halloween as a family. The costumes, the candy, and the festive decorations make it one of the most kid-friendly holidays of the year. If you’re looking to travel this fall, there are plenty of destinations across the country that offer family-friendly Halloween fun without being too spooky. In this guide, explore the best places to visit for Halloween in the US with kids. From theme park events designed just for families to towns that fully embrace the holiday spirit, these destinations will make your October getaway both memorable and easy to enjoy.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/best-places-to-visit-for-halloween-with-kids/">Best Places to Visit for Halloween with Kids</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a>.</p>
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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">There’s something extra fun about celebrating Halloween as a family. The costumes, the candy, and the festive decorations make it one of the most kid-friendly holidays of the year. If you’re looking to travel this fall, there are plenty of destinations across the country that offer family-friendly Halloween fun without being too spooky. In this guide, explore the best places to visit for Halloween in the US with kids. From theme park events designed just for families to towns that fully embrace the holiday spirit, these destinations will make your October getaway both memorable and easy to enjoy.</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Theme Parks for Family Halloween Fun</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Theme parks are often some of the best places to visit for Halloween because they already specialize in bringing stories to life. In October, many of them reimagine their rides and shows to fit the season, and the results are magical rather than frightening. For families, that means trick-or-treat stations, dance parties with favorite characters, and themed decorations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="legoland-florida-brick-or-treat">LEGOLAND Florida: Brick or Treat</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.legoland.com/florida/things-to-do/seasonal-events/brick-or-treat/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND Florida</a> runs on select weekends in October and is included with <a href="https://getyourguide.tpx.li/No3PtmBi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">park admission</a>. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-01-1024x682.jpg" alt="LEGOLAND Florida entrance decorated for Halloween with large LEGO characters dressed as a vampire, tiger, Frankenstein, zombie cheerleader, and plant monster. Best Places to Visit for Halloween" class="wp-image-4269" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-01-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-01-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-01-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-01.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of legoland.com</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">During Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND Florida, families can walk through trick-or-treat trails, stop at candy stations, and meet characters dressed in Halloween costumes. Oversized LEGO pumpkins, spiders, and skeletons are set up around the park, adding to the atmosphere without being scary.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Kids enjoy the dance parties and the chance to build Halloween-themed LEGO creations at activity tables. An evening parade with floats and music wraps up the day, and it has become a tradition for many families in central Florida. Most visitors spend the morning on rides, then shift to the Halloween activities in the afternoon. </p>



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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Seasonal treats are sold throughout the park, sometimes with limited-time options like pumpkin milkshakes or cupcakes. LEGOLAND is one of the best places to visit for Halloween because everything is designed for kids from the start.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="sesame-place-not-too-spooky-halloween">Sesame Place: The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://getyourguide.tpx.li/XcXKNckG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Sesame Place</a> in <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/ioBlkkfg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Langhorne</a>, Pennsylvania is a top pick for families with toddlers and preschoolers looking for a fun, festive, and not-so-scary Halloween experience. Each fall, the park transforms for <a href="https://sesameplace.com/philadelphia/events/halloween-spooktacular/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular</a>, running on select dates from September 13 through November 2, 2025. The family-friendly celebration fills the park with themed shows, a colorful Halloween parade, trick-or-treat stations, and plenty of opportunities to meet your favorite Sesame Street friends in costume.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-02-1024x683.jpg" alt="Children in costumes meet Bert from Sesame Street at Sesame Place while parents watch and smile during a family Halloween event." class="wp-image-4270" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-02-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-02-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-02-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-02.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of sesameplace.com</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Highlights include the brand-new <strong>Count-Along Castle Halloween Maze</strong>, where kids can count their way through twisting hallways, and the always-popular <strong>Sesame Street Halloween Parade</strong>, complete with decorated floats and music. Little ones can also join the <strong>scarecrow scavenger hunt</strong>, enjoy Halloween dance parties and shows, and stop for photos with Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster, and more—dressed in their Halloween best. Most rides stay open during the event, and food stands serve seasonal snacks, making it easy to balance playtime with a quick bite.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">While the Spooktacular is included with general admission, Sesame Place also offers extra-special events on select dates. On <strong>October 31</strong>, families can purchase tickets for the park’s <a href="https://sesameplace.com/philadelphia/events/not-too-spooky-halloween-party/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Party</a>, a three-hour evening celebration from 4–7 p.m. with trick-or-treating, a costume showcase, rides, and plenty of character meet-and-greets. Other special dates include the <a href="https://sesameplace.com/philadelphia/events/counts-hello-halloween-spectacular/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hello Halloween Spectacular</a> (September 13) and a <a href="https://sesameplace.com/philadelphia/events/halloween-spooktacular/halloween-costume-contest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Halloween Costume Contest</a> (October 26).</p>



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<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Between the parades, scavenger hunts, maze, and extra-special events, <a href="https://getyourguide.tpx.li/XcXKNckG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Sesame Place</a> makes it easy for little ones to enjoy the magic of Halloween without the scares—whether you visit on a weekend in September or on Halloween night itself.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="disney-parks-halloween-celebrations-for-families">Disney Parks: Halloween Celebrations for Families</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="disneyland-california">Disneyland California</h4>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">From late August through Halloween, <a href="https://getyourguide.tpx.li/bttY2zLq" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Disneyland</a> in <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/vmt8K9uz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Anaheim</a> turns into a seasonal celebration with carved pumpkins on Main Street, costumed characters, and themed attractions. Families can ride Haunted Mansion Holiday with its Nightmare Before Christmas overlay, or head to Cars Land where the rides are dressed up with Halloween details. At night, Halloween Screams fills the sky with fireworks and projections. There are also special snacks like pumpkin churros and caramel apples.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" data-id="4271" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-03-1024x682.jpg" alt="Oogie Boogie character from The Nightmare Before Christmas performing on stage in front of a crowd during Disneyland’s Halloween celebration." class="wp-image-4271" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-03-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-03-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-03-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-03.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of disneyland.disney.go.com</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" data-id="4272" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-04-1024x683.jpg" alt="Entrance to Disney California Adventure at night, decorated with glowing pumpkins, bats, and Halloween projections." class="wp-image-4272" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-04-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-04-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-04-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-04.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of disneyland.disney.go.com</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The <a href="https://disneyland.disney.go.com/es-us/events-tours/disney-california-adventure/oogie-boogie-bash-halloween-party/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure</a> is the park’s main Halloween event. This separately ticketed evening includes trick-or-treat trails, costumed character meet-and-greets, and the Frightfully Fun Parade. Families often attend in costume, making it part of the fun. Tickets sell out quickly, but if you can attend, it’s one of the best places to visit for Halloween in the US with kids.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading" id="walt-disney-world-orlando">Walt Disney World Orlando</h4>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://getyourguide.tpx.li/gcXfYCCv" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Magic Kingdom</a> hosts <a href="https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party</a> on select nights from mid-August through October. Families can enter as early as 4 pm and enjoy the park before the party begins. Once it starts, kids collect candy at trick-or-treat stations, watch Mickey’s Boo-To-You Parade, and see the castle light up with fireworks during Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular. Storybook Circus is transformed for younger children, and dance parties keep the energy going through the evening.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" data-id="4274" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-06-1024x682.jpg" alt="Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto dressed in Halloween costumes posing on Main Street during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World." class="wp-image-4274" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-06-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-06-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-06-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-06.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of disneyworld.disney.go.com</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" data-id="4275" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-07-1024x682.jpg" alt="The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus performing on stage with cauldrons, fire effects, and colorful lighting during Disney’s Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular show." class="wp-image-4275" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-07-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-07-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-07-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-07.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of disneyworld.disney.go.com</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Characters appear in Halloween costumes, and families are encouraged to dress up, too. Exclusive snacks, themed merchandise, and PhotoPass pictures make it easy to bring home memories from the event. Because it runs late into the evening, the party works best for school-age kids who can stay awake to enjoy it all. For families already planning a trip to <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/ErDN5694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Orlando</a>, this is one of the most popular and family-friendly Halloween events in the country.</p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="family-friendly-halloween-towns">Family-Friendly Halloween Towns</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Small towns across the country have built reputations for being some of the best places to visit for Halloween. Streets are lined with pumpkins, local shops decorate their windows, and weekend events give families a full calendar of things to do. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="st-helens-oregon-halloweentown-festival">St. Helens, Oregon: Halloweentown Festival</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/Nle9Duif" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">St. Helens</a> was the filming location for Disney Channel’s <em>Halloweentown</em> movie, and every October the town transforms to honor that history. Their <a href="https://www.spiritofhalloweentown.co/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Halloweentown Festival</a> includes a giant pumpkin lighting ceremony, parades, costume contests, and themed activities throughout the month. Families can walk through the historic downtown, which is decorated with props and displays inspired by the film.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-08-1024x682.jpg" alt="Entrance to the Spirit of Halloweentown festival in St. Helens, Oregon, with glowing pillars, pumpkins, hay bales, and colorful lights decorating the town square." class="wp-image-4276" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-08-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-08-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-08-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-08.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of spiritofhalloweentown.co</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Vendors set up booths with food, crafts, and souvenirs, while local businesses join in with decorated storefronts. The festival includes activities for children such as pumpkin painting, face painting, and games. Special events vary from year to year but often include movie screenings, guest appearances from cast members, and live performances.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Families visiting <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/Nle9Duif" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">St. Helens</a> can spend the day exploring the festival before returning in the evening for the pumpkin lighting ceremony. Parking is available around town, and many events are walkable once you are in the historic district.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="anoka-minnesota-halloween-capital-of-the-world">Anoka, Minnesota: Halloween Capital of the World</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/xCilMVEP" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Anoka</a> has been <a href="https://anokahalloween.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">celebrating Halloween</a> for more than a century and hosts one of the largest community-based events in the country. Each October, the town fills its calendar with parades, pumpkin carving contests, decorating competitions, and school programs that involve children directly. Families who visit can attend the main parade, where floats and marching bands move through the streets with crowds gathered on the sidewalks.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1024x683.jpg" alt="Close-up of carved pumpkins with funny faces sitting on hay bales at a fall festival under a cloudy sky." class="wp-image-4277" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of anokahalloween.com/halloween</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In addition to the parades, <a href="http://tripadvisor.tpx.li/xCilMVEP" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Anoka</a> hosts a house decorating contest that families can enjoy while driving through town, along with pumpkin carving events that are open to visitors.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Visitors often <a href="https://booking.tpx.li/1Fn6KC1b" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">stay in the Minneapolis area</a>, where there are plenty of hotels and restaurants, and make the short trip to Anoka for the Halloween events.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="sleepy-hollow-new-york-lantern-tours-and-storytelling">Sleepy Hollow, New York: Lantern Tours and Storytelling</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/T7wEXSB2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Sleepy Hollow</a> is best known for Washington Irving’s tale of the Headless Horseman, and the town builds on that connection with events that families can enjoy. <a href="https://visitsleepyhollow.com/plan/great-jack-olantern-blaze/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze</a> is the most popular, with paths lined by thousands of carved pumpkins arranged in glowing displays.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Glowing jack-o’-lantern display of the Headless Horseman riding a horse at the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Sleepy Hollow, New York." class="wp-image-4279" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-10-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of visitsleepyhollow.com</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Families can also join lantern tours of historic sites, watch <a href="https://visitsleepyhollow.com/event/spooky-but-not-too-scary-stories-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spooky (but not too) scary</a> storytelling sessions designed for children, and see parades with costumed performers. <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/sxVukI3M" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">The town</a> itself is decorated for the season.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Because many of the activities take place at night, families often plan to spend the day exploring the <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/Gw85BxEz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Hudson Valley</a>, and then head to Sleepy Hollow in the evening.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="new-orleans-louisiana-family-friendly-halloween-celebrations">New Orleans, Louisiana: Family-friendly Halloween Celebrations</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/mg33SgHG" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">New Orleans</a> is famous for Mardi Gras, but October brings a full calendar of <a href="https://www.neworleans.com/events/holidays-seasonal/halloween/?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=ppc&amp;utm_campaign=si+search+consideration+halloween&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=22995610704&amp;gbraid=0AAAAADDp2-BJmvoe3FCB1VsoPraS0lGye&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw0NPGBhCDARIsAGAzpp2cRL4Rs5J7r8UfTcdNuoiJ6UfoqFQnkZmM8quw7GZtifwqpwvv_ZAaAvEdEALw_wcB#_discover-familyfriendly-halloween-celebrations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Halloween fun events</a> that work well for families. Boo Carre in the French Quarter mixes live music with trick-or-treating and children’s activities, all in a spot that’s easy to reach on foot. In City Park, Ghosts in the Oaks adds carnival rides, crafts, and candy stations that are designed with younger kids in mind.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-11-1024x682.jpg" alt="Krewe of Boo Halloween parade float in New Orleans with performers tossing beads to a crowd, with St. Louis Cathedral in the background." class="wp-image-4280" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-11-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-11-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-11-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/halloween-11.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photo courtesy of neworleans.com</figcaption></figure>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Audubon Zoo hosts Boo at the Zoo, where children can wear costumes, collect treats, and see animals along the way. The city’s largest event is the Krewe of Boo parade, with floats that toss candy and small souvenirs into the crowd as they roll through downtown. Families often add a stop at the <a href="https://tripadvisor.tpx.li/guBYBcX0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Skeleton House</a> on St. Charles Avenue, a private home decorated each year with dozens of skeletons posed in funny scenes that change each year.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="797" height="1024" data-id="4289" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4754-797x1024.jpeg" alt="Boo at the Zoo | Mari on the Map" class="wp-image-4289" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4754-797x1024.jpeg 797w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4754-234x300.jpeg 234w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4754-768x986.jpeg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4754-1196x1536.jpeg 1196w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4754.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 797px) 100vw, 797px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="4288" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4755-768x1024.jpeg" alt="Boo at the Zoo | Mari on the Map" class="wp-image-4288" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4755-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4755-225x300.jpeg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4755-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_4755.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure>
</figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="local-trunk-or-treats-and-farms">Local Trunk or Treats and Farms</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">For families who want to stay closer to home, Trunk or Treat events and farm festivals are some of the easiest ways to celebrate Halloween. Schools, churches, and community centers often organize evenings where cars are decorated in a parking lot and kids go from trunk to trunk collecting candy. These events are simple and well-lit, often filled with neighbors and friends. They’re especially good for younger children.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Local farms add their own version of the holiday with pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes. Many set up small play areas, petting zoos, or seasonal food stands so families can spend a few hours outside without needing to plan a full day trip.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">These community events may not be as famous as a parade or theme park celebration, but they often become traditions that children look forward to every year. They also show that the best places to visit for Halloween can often be close to home spending time together. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="719" height="960" data-id="4290" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_0173-2.jpg" alt="A mom and two young boys enjoying a pumpkin patch near Atlanta, Georgia" class="wp-image-4290" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_0173-2.jpg 719w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_0173-2-225x300.jpg 225w" sizes="(max-width: 719px) 100vw, 719px" /></figure>
</figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What to Bring for Halloween Events</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As you plan your trip, a few small items make celebrating Halloween on the road a lot easier. <a href="https://amzn.to/46PYqZb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">Comfortable costumes</a> are important, especially for kids who will be walking through farms, neighborhoods, or parades. We like to bring <a href="https://amzn.to/4gOTPuz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">reusable trick-or-treat bags</a> that fold flat in a suitcase but hold plenty of candy once you’re there. A light jacket or hoodie with a Halloween print keeps kids warm when the evening turns cool, and glow sticks or flashlights help them stay visible after dark. Snacks and <a data-eafl-id="3601" data-eafl-text="refillable water bottles" href="https://amzn.to/3XiguGo" class="eafl-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">refillable water bottles</a> are always worth packing so you don’t have to rely only on event food stands.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If you’re looking for ideas, here are some of our favorite picks for family Halloween travel gear:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Simple <a href="https://amzn.to/4nV1wSl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">snacks</a> and reusable <a data-eafl-id="3602" data-eafl-text="water bottles" href="https://amzn.to/3Xg4bul" class="eafl-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">water bottles</a></li>



<li>Kid-friendly <a href="https://amzn.to/3KxFbvH" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">costumes</a> that are lightweight and easy to layer</li>



<li>Reusable trick-or-treat <a href="https://amzn.to/4gOTPuz" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">bags or totes</a></li>



<li>Halloween <a href="https://amzn.to/42kKvJ4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">pajamas</a> or <a href="https://amzn.to/484heWI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">hoodies</a> for cooler evenings</li>



<li>Glow <a href="https://amzn.to/4pMPFaT" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">sticks and light-up bracelets</a> for visibility</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-kadence-image kb-image4246_01c4c3-a3 size-large"><a href="http://eepurl.com/cWFIkf" class="kb-advanced-image-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" width="1024" height="360" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/6-1024x360.png" alt="Newsletter banner" class="kb-img wp-image-3002" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/6-1024x360.png 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/6-300x105.png 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/6-768x270.png 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/6.png 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="final-thoughts">Final Thoughts</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Halloween doesn’t just have to be about one night of trick-or-treating at home. From parades in New Orleans to pumpkin festivals in Oregon, there are plenty of places around the country where families can celebrate together. Each destination has its own way of making the season fun for kids.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If your family has a favorite Halloween spot, I’d love to hear about it. Share it with me on <a data-eafl-id="3629" data-eafl-text="Instagram" href="https://www.instagram.com/marionthemap/" class="eafl-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>, so I can pass along even more ideas to other families looking for fun places to go. If you’re planning more fall adventures, don’t miss my guide to the <a href="https://marionthemap.com/us-fall-foliage-destinations-with-kids/">best US fall foliage destinations with kids</a>.</p>


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				<img decoding="async" width="768" height="512" src="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chattanooga-34-768x512.jpg" class="attachment-medium_large size-medium_large wp-post-image" alt="Family riding Rydables along the riverfront with a Chattanooga bridge in the background" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chattanooga-34-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chattanooga-34-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chattanooga-34-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chattanooga-34.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" />			</div>
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	<h2 class="entry-title"><a href="https://marionthemap.com/chattanooga-with-kids/" rel="bookmark">Chattanooga With Kids: The Best Family Travel Guide</a></h2>	<div class="entry-meta entry-meta-divider-dot">
	<span class="posted-by"><span class="meta-label">By</span><span class="author vcard"><span class="fn n">Mari</span></span></span>			<span class="posted-on">
				<time class="entry-date published" datetime="2026-06-11T15:12:28-04:00">June 11, 2026</time><time class="updated" datetime="2026-06-11T15:12:29-04:00">June 11, 2026</time>			</span>
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		<p>Chattanooga with kids turned out to be one of those trips where I kept thinking, why did we wait so long to come here? I had heard good things, but I did not expect a city this walkable, this packed with things for families to do, and this easy to navigate with two boys in&#8230;</p>
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				<a aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1" role="presentation" class="post-thumbnail kadence-thumbnail-ratio-2-3" href="https://marionthemap.com/ruby-falls-cave-walk/" aria-label="Ruby Falls Cave Walk: The Most Unique Family Experience in Chattanooga, TN">
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	<h2 class="entry-title"><a href="https://marionthemap.com/ruby-falls-cave-walk/" rel="bookmark">Ruby Falls Cave Walk: The Most Unique Family Experience in Chattanooga, TN</a></h2>	<div class="entry-meta entry-meta-divider-dot">
	<span class="posted-by"><span class="meta-label">By</span><span class="author vcard"><span class="fn n">Mari</span></span></span>			<span class="posted-on">
				<time class="entry-date published" datetime="2025-11-28T13:42:58-05:00">November 28, 2025</time><time class="updated" datetime="2025-12-05T09:34:47-05:00">December 5, 2025</time>			</span>
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		<p>If you’re planning a family road trip between Nashville and Atlanta or find yourself near Chattanooga, there’s one activity that should absolutely make your list: Ruby Falls. It’s not just another tourist attraction, but rather a breathtaking underground waterfall housed in a cave system that&#8217;s only been known to people for less than 100 years. A fun outing for the whole family and great stop to break up time in the car or other activities, Ruby Falls is kid-friendly and weather-proof. Let’s dig in.</p>
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</ul><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/best-places-to-visit-for-halloween-with-kids/">Best Places to Visit for Halloween with Kids</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a>.</p>
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		<title>Awakening the 5 Senses &#038; Beating the Winter Blues in Montgomery County, PA, USA</title>
		<link>https://marionthemap.com/montgomery-county-pa/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mari]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Feb 2018 07:19:05 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Pennsylvania]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[USA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montgomery County]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[road trip]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://marionthemap.com/?p=1363</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a><br />
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<a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/montgomery-county-pa/">Awakening the 5 Senses &#038; Beating the Winter Blues in Montgomery County, PA, USA</a></p>
<p>You know that feeling you get when you come back from a warm-weather vacation to cold gray winter at home? I anticipated that feeling would happen when I returned to Philadelphia in the middle of January after being away in the glorious warmth for a month-long destination wedding and honeymoon. But you know me—the perpetual...</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/montgomery-county-pa/">Awakening the 5 Senses &#038; Beating the Winter Blues in Montgomery County, PA, USA</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a>.</p>
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<a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/montgomery-county-pa/">Awakening the 5 Senses &#038; Beating the Winter Blues in Montgomery County, PA, USA</a></p>
<p>You know that feeling you get when you come back from a warm-weather vacation to cold gray winter at home? I anticipated that feeling would happen when I returned to <a href="http://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia</a> in the middle of January after being away in the glorious warmth for a month-long destination wedding and honeymoon. But you know me—the perpetual planner—and I had a plan. Since I used a ton of PTO for my wedding and honeymoon, I had to get crafty. I devised a series of weekend road trip adventures to satiate my travel bug until my next big trip. For my first road trip, I partnered with <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board</a> for a weekend road trip in Montgomery County, PA—and it really kicked winter to the curbed and awakened all of my senses!</p>
<p>Montgomery County, PA—aka Montco—is just northwest of Philadelphia. It&#8217;s home to some of the United States&#8217; most important historical sites, including <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/things-to-do/national-park/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Valley Forge Park</a>. These sites are usually the area&#8217;s claim to fame. What most visitors don&#8217;t realize is there&#8217;s much more than just American history. We&#8217;re talking world-class dining, a vibrant arts scene, authentic medieval architecture, and SO. MUCH. SHOPPING. Need some thrills to break up that winter chill? Let&#8217;s go!</p>
<h4><strong>Planning Guide for your Montgomery County, PA, USA Road Trip</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>Where to stay: <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/listing/courtyard-by-marriott-philadelphia-lansdale/16364/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Courtyard Marriott Philadelphia Lansdale</a>. It&#8217;s not a winter escape if you don&#8217;t stay over! So make sure to book one of the hotels included in <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/chill/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board&#8217;s Winter Hotel Package</a>. Your overnight stay entitles you to some incredible deals on the best restaurants, entertainment, attractions, breweries, wineries, and distilleries (details below!).</li>
<li>Flight details: Fly into <a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-8310515-12577046" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Philadelphia International Airpot (PHL)</a></li>
<li>Time of year visited: Winter</li>
<li>Time in Montco: 2 days</li>
<li>Montco itinerary: You can do this itinerary in 2 days, as a fantastic weekend trip or combined it with your trip to <a href="http://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Philadelphia</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/4/embed?mid=1RcPCEmG_gOGAFRSg7UZMWsnT58WV9oXx" width="640" height="480"></iframe></p>
<h4><strong>Save this map to use on your Montgomery County, PA road trip:</strong></h4>
<ol>
<li>Click the star to the right of the map title</li>
<li>Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone</li>
<li>Click on the three lines in the upper left corner and select “Your Places”</li>
<li>Select “Maps” and the map will be saved there for you to use on your trip. Have fun!</li>
</ol>
<h3></h3>
<h2>Taste</h2>
<p><figure id="attachment_1410" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1410" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1410" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4620-1024x769.jpg" alt="Boardroom Spirits in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4620-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4620-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4620-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4620-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4620.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1410" class="wp-caption-text">The Periodic Table of Spirits at Boardroom Spirits</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>In the cold winter weather, it&#8217;s all about being indoors, so why not make eating and drinking an experience? There are so many amazing dining choices in the Montgomery County, PA area. I&#8217;m all about going for that unique, local flavor when I travel, and this weekend getaway was no different.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/coupon/boardroom-spirits/611/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Boardroom Spirits</a> blew me away with their inventive and delicious spirits. The owners are Armenian and Hungarian, and they bring a sense of purity and craftsmanship to the whole operation. After taking a tour of the facility, which includes some impressive Hungarian equipment, it was time for a tasting. Boardroom only uses whole ingredients, like actual fruits and vegetables, to make their <a href="https://www.boardroomspirits.com/boardroom-products.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spirits</a>, and you can taste the difference. The <a href="https://www.boardroomspirits.com/vodka-ginger.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fresh Ginger vodka</a> tastes like actual fresh ginger with that bite and tang. The highlight for me was the Periodic Table of Spirits, specifically, the <a href="https://www.boardroomspirits.com/beet.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Beet Brandy</a>. It tasted exactly like a beet! You can get all kinds of cocktails featuring their spirits in the on-site bar—don&#8217;t leave without trying the <a href="https://www.boardroomspirits.com/cocktail-recipes.html#!recipes/recipe-3.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Beetle Gin &amp; Juice</a>. Boardroom Spirits is offering free tours and buy-one-get-one 50% off cocktails as part of the Winter Hotel Package—<a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/coupon/boardroom-spirits/611/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here for details</a>.</p>
<p>With all of this talk about fruits and veggies, I&#8217;m sure you&#8217;re getting hungry. There are some fantastic options in the area if you&#8217;re looking for a top culinary experience featuring local ingredients. <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/listing/mistral-king-of-prussia/17726/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mistral KOP</a>&#8216;s <a href="http://www.mistralkop.com/brunch-menu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">menu</a> is full of ingredients from Montgomery County’s local farms, aquaculturists, and butchers. Their chopped kale salad and friend chicken and waffles made a perfect brunch. I also had a fabulous dinner at <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/listing/farmers-daughter-restaurant/16023/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Farmer&#8217;s Daughter</a>. Not only is the location at The Normandy Farm Hotel so charming and romantic; the food here is like a work of art. Dinner was delish, but just look at the dessert (below)! Their award-winning executive pastry chef, <a href="http://www.normandyfarm.com/bakeshop" target="_blank" rel="noopener undefined" data-content="http://www.normandyfarm.com/#!Executive-Pastry-Chef-Sam-Nahhas-Wins-2015-Pastry-Chef-of-the-Year/czd1u/5714f7f10cf2b05e61f40e80" data-type="external">Sam Nahhas</a>, creates these edible mini works of art—a must-try!</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1411" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1411" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1411" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_5659-1024x769.jpg" alt="Boardroom Spirits in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_5659-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_5659-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_5659-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_5659-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_5659.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1411" class="wp-caption-text">The bar at Boardroom Spirits</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1402" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1402" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1402" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4716-1024x769.jpg" alt="Mistral KOP in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4716-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4716-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4716-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4716-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4716.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1402" class="wp-caption-text">Diving into brunch at Mistral KOP</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1388" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1388" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1388" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_4690-769x1024.jpg" alt="Mistral KOP in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="852" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_4690-769x1024.jpg 769w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_4690-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_4690-768x1023.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_4690.jpg 1538w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1388" class="wp-caption-text">Bloodies and brunch at Mistral KOP</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1409" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1409" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1409" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4638-1024x769.jpg" alt="The Farmer's Daughter in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4638-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4638-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4638-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4638-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4638.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1409" class="wp-caption-text">Dessert or work of art? I think The Farmer&#8217;s Daughter would say both!</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1408" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1408" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1408" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4641-1024x769.jpg" alt="The Farmer's Daughter in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4641-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4641-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4641-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4641-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4641.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1408" class="wp-caption-text">Normandy Farm Hotel, backdrop for The Farmer&#8217;s Daughter restaurant</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Sound</h2>
<p><figure id="attachment_1406" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1406" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1406" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_fullsizerender_474-1024x768.jpg" alt="Keswick Theatre in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_fullsizerender_474-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_fullsizerender_474-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_fullsizerender_474-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_fullsizerender_474-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_fullsizerender_474.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1406" class="wp-caption-text">Historic backdrop with modern shows at the Keswick Theatre</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>After all of that indulging, you really need something a little more active. The shows at the <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/coupon/keswick-theatre/604/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Keswick Theatre</a> will have you on your feet! Nestled in a quaint little downtown street, the Keswick Theatre has been open since 1928. I love the juxtaposition between the throughly modern shows/lineup offered here against the historic architecture; the building was designed by the same architect as the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Keswick is currently offering $10 off per ticket as part of the Winter Hotel Package, so make sure you get to a show ASAP—<a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/coupon/keswick-theatre/604/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">details here</a>.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1403" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1403" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1403" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4655-1024x769.jpg" alt="Keswick Theatre in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4655-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4655-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4655-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4655-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4655.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1403" class="wp-caption-text">Beautiful historic details around the stage at the Keswick Theatre</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Touch</h2>
<p><figure id="attachment_1373" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1373" style="width: 621px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-1373" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-472.jpg" alt="King of Prussia Mall in Montgomery County, PA" width="621" height="466" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-472.jpg 621w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-472-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 621px) 100vw, 621px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1373" class="wp-caption-text">Can&#8217;t get enough of that stained glass ceiling at the King of Prussia Mall</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Imagine a shopping experience with over 450 stores and restaurants—that&#8217;s a lot to get your hands on! The luxury shopping at <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/coupon/king-of-prussia-mall/596/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">King of Prussia Mall</a> is so tactile from the fine leather and suede to the soft and fuzzy home goods. <span style="font-weight: 400;">King of Prussia is the largest mall on the east coast and second largest mall in America. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After undergoing a recent expansion, there have been some amazing new additions, including the Concierge Guest Service Center. This spot is all about making sure shoppers have what they need. You can get</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> complimentary water, coffee, or a cookie, charge your phone, or just kick up their feet and rest in one of the lounge areas. The Concierge is also where you pick up your savings passport, which offers amazing deals at stores across the mall complex. They&#8217;re also offering free swag bags right now as part of the Winter Hotel Package—<a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/coupon/king-of-prussia-mall/596/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">get all the details here</a>. </span></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1374" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1374" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1374" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-471-1024x768.jpg" alt="King of Prussia Mall in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-471-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-471-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-471-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-471-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FullSizeRender-471.jpg 1537w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1374" class="wp-caption-text">This way to the Concierge Guest Service Center at the King of Prussia Mall!</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Smells</h2>
<p><figure id="attachment_1401" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1401" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1401" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4599-1024x769.jpg" alt="Scent &amp; Sip in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4599-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4599-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4599-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4599-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4599.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1401" class="wp-caption-text">Making a sugar scrub at Scent &amp; Sip</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>No vacation experience is complete without some souvenirs, and I got to take home some of the most fun treats. First up <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/listing/scent-%26-sip/17685/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Scent &amp; Sip</a>, where you can create your own signature home and body fragrances. This place is so unique, and I can&#8217;t wait to go back! It&#8217;s like the modern version of those painting and wine classes. First, you choose what you like from over <a href="https://www.scentandsip.com/pages/fragrance-list" target="_blank" rel="noopener">130 fragrances</a> and decide what &#8220;<a href="https://www.scentandsip.com/pages/scentable-products" target="_blank" rel="noopener">scentables</a>&#8221; you want to make, from candles to soaps to lotions. Each of the fragrances you choose is set up at your work station in bottles, where you can sniff them and create flavor combinations.</p>
<p>The staff is so hands-on in helping you figure out what goes best together. In the end, I can home with two candles, a hand soap, and a sugar scrub. So far my favorite is the hand soap, which is a mix of honey crisp apple, key lime, and summer dew. For those of you flying home/worried about making the liquid requirement, there are tons of non-liquid/small bottle options here, too!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/listing/the-village-teahouse/17700/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Village Teahouse</a>, which is a deliciously indulgent dining experience in itself (those pastries!) is truly a feast for your nose as well. From the minute you walk in the door, you&#8217;re enveloped in the amazing scent of all of the teas this place has to offer. You can buy any of the teas served there to bring home with you. My favorite was the peach ginger, and I took home a bag. It&#8217;s such a relaxing spot for lunch or afternoon tea, so make sure you stop in, and let yourself unwind with the delicious herbal and floral aromas that abound.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1412" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1412" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1412" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4582-1024x769.jpg" alt="Scent &amp; Sip in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4582-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4582-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4582-768x577.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4582-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4582.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1412" class="wp-caption-text">So many scents at Scent &amp; Sip</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1413" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1413" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1413" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4578-1024x769.jpg" alt="The Village Teahouse in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="481" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4578-1024x769.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4578-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4578-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4578-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_img_4578.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1413" class="wp-caption-text">Tea time at The Village Teahouse</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1399" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1399" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1399" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5506-768x1024.jpg" alt="The Village Teahouse in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5506-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5506-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5506.jpg 1535w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1399" class="wp-caption-text">A tour of deliciousness at The Village Teahouse</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Sights</h2>
<p><figure id="attachment_1396" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1396" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1396" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_9311-768x1024.jpg" alt="Glencairn Museum in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_9311-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_9311-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_9311.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1396" class="wp-caption-text">Checking out my new house! JK but someone did live here—now it&#8217;s the Glencairn Museum</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Okay, so everything on this itinerary is technically a &#8220;sight&#8221;, but I saved this distinction for two truly impressive pieces of artistic architecture in the <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/listing/bryn-athyn-historic-district/16164/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bryn Athyn Historic District</a><span style="font-weight: 400;">—<a href="https://glencairnmuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Glencairn Museum</a> and <a href="https://brynathynchurch.org/cathedral/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bryn Athyn Cathedral</a></span>. The area was founded as a religious community in the late 19th century. The members of the most prominent family were dedicated to building both the community&#8217;s cathedral and the family home in authentic medieval style, straight out of 13th century Europe. These guys went so far as to buy pieces of authentic medieval stained glass and mix thousands of potential colors together, so that they could create perfect matches to the colors used in medieval churches.</p>
<p>You all know I&#8217;m not a fan of modern art, but give me some serious beauty of yesteryear, and I eat it up. Glencairn Museum is <em>so</em> amazing. When I learned this was the former home of the family that donated my favorite exhibit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, I was all over it. Definitely take the <a href="https://glencairnmuseum.org/highlights-tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">highlights tour</a>. It gives your tour guide a chance to show and tell you about what excites him/her about the home. This really gives it an insider feel.</p>
<p>The pièce de résistance of this home is the enormous living room downstairs where the family used to entertain. This room includes three surrounding walls of stained huge stained glass windows. Oh, don&#8217;t worry about the other wall—it&#8217;s covered floor to ceiling in a mosaic including gold leaf tiles. Upstair you get to see more of the family&#8217;s personal collection, including an actual mummy—mike drop.</p>
<p>Just down the road is the gorgeous <a href="https://brynathynchurch.org/cathedral/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bryn Athyn Cathedral</a>, which is still a working house of worship for the community today. A tour here is an absolute must as well. I&#8217;ve never learned so much about medieval architecture, even though I&#8217;ve traveled quite a bit throughout <a href="http://marionthemap.com/category/europe/">Europe</a>. Did you know that medieval architecture is all about subtle inconsistencies because its softer and more pleasing to the eye? It takes significantly longer to design and build this way since molds can&#8217;t be used. But it&#8217;s all for the look. And once you&#8217;re in this cathedral, you&#8217;ll agree that it was all worth it.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1375" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1375" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1375" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5580-768x1024.jpg" alt="Glencairn Museum in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5580-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5580-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5580.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1375" class="wp-caption-text">Living room goals at the Glencairn Museum</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1376" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1376" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1376" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5595-1024x768.jpg" alt="Bryn Athyn Cathedral in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5595-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5595-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5595-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5595-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/IMG_5595.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1376" class="wp-caption-text">Impressive exterior of the Bryn Athyn Cathedral</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1407" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1407" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1407" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_snapseed_12-769x1024.jpg" alt="Bryn Athyn Cathedral in Montgomery County, PA" width="640" height="852" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_snapseed_12-769x1024.jpg 769w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_snapseed_12-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_snapseed_12-768x1023.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/rsz_snapseed_12.jpg 1538w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1407" class="wp-caption-text">Authentic medieval architecture at Bryn Athyn Cathedral</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><em>This post was created in partnership with <a href="https://www.valleyforge.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board</a>.</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/montgomery-county-pa/">Awakening the 5 Senses &#038; Beating the Winter Blues in Montgomery County, PA, USA</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a>.</p>
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		<title>Philadelphia, PA, USA</title>
		<link>https://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/</link>
					<comments>https://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mari]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jul 2017 13:48:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Pennsylvania]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[USA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philadelphia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://marionthemap.com/?p=1001</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a><br />
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<a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/">Philadelphia, PA, USA</a></p>
<p>The true underdog of the northeast, Philadelphia is often overshadowed by NYC, DC, and Boston when it comes to travel and tourism. Full disclosure, I had no idea that Philadelphia was much more that the Liberty Bell and South Street (two huge tourist traps). That was until I moved there and got a taste of...</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/">Philadelphia, PA, USA</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com">Mari on the Map</a><br />
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<a rel="nofollow" href="https://marionthemap.com/philadelphia-pa/">Philadelphia, PA, USA</a></p>
<p>The true underdog of the northeast, Philadelphia is often overshadowed by NYC, DC, and Boston when it comes to travel and tourism. Full disclosure, I had no idea that Philadelphia was much more that the Liberty Bell and South Street (two huge tourist traps). That was until I moved there and got a taste of all of the real gems the city has to offer. Consider this your insider&#8217;s guide to the most noteworthy in culture, food, and history in the City of Brotherly Love.</p>
<h4><strong>Philadelphia Planning Guide</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>Where to stay: <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/us/palomar-philadelphia-a-kimpton.html?aid=1266330&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hotel Palomar</a></li>
<li>Flight details: Fly into Philadelphia<a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-8310515-12577046" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> International Airport (PHL)</a></li>
<li>Time of year visited: Summer</li>
<li>Time in Philadelphia: I live here! But this itinerary can be done in about 3 days.</li>
</ul>
<p><iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1H_Uw2u8irCFxp4l6XoHocPax-mo" width="640" height="480"></iframe></p>
<h4><strong>Save this map to use on your Philadelphia trip:</strong></h4>
<ol>
<li>Click the star to the right of the map title</li>
<li>Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone</li>
<li>Click on the three lines in the upper left corner and select “Your Places”</li>
<li>Select “Maps” and the map will be saved there for you to use on your trip. Have fun!</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Favorite Moments in Philadelphia</strong></h2>
<h3><em>The Great Outdoors</em></h3>
<p><figure id="attachment_1011" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1011" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1011" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-290-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-290-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-290-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-290.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1011" class="wp-caption-text">Exploring Elfreth&#8217;s Alley</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Philadelphia is already well-known for its historical significance in America&#8217;s revolution. But one of my favorite things about the city is so many of its most charming historical places are outdoors. Conveniently, they are all readily available for you to <a href="http://www.theconstitutional.com/tours/self-guided-tours" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wander through at your leisure</a>!</p>
<h4><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Don&#8217;t Miss:</span></h4>
<h4>Philadelphia Outdoor History</h4>
<p><a href="http://www.elfrethsalley.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Elfreth&#8217;s Alley</a> is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the country (since the early 1700s), and one of my favorites. The façades of the homes here (still inhabited today!) all retain their historical significance. Not to mention, they make for some gorgeous photos!</p>
<p>There are additional hidden pieces of history within these walls if you have a keen eye. Look towards the upper floors on some of the homes, and you&#8217;ll see plaques featuring hands or a tree. These plaques represent some of the first fire insurance companies in the nation. According to rumor, if you weren&#8217;t a friend of the fire company (in the financial sense), then the volunteers let your home burn to the ground (ouch!).</p>
<p>Next, move to the back left side of the alley. A shaded walkway called Bladen&#8217;s Court is tucked away here. With its circular courtyard and old water pump, the court transports you even further back in time. Notably, two homes here were originally inhabited by brothers who chose opposite sides during the Revolutionary War. In fact, one of them was hanged for his collaboration with the British. Talk about family drama!</p>
<p>In the same manner, continue your amble around Old City and Society Hill, the two primarily historical neighborhoods in the city. This area includes the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/inde/index.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Independence National Historical Park</a>. Well-known historical attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are found here. While walking, make sure to look up, down, and all around. Thus, you&#8217;ll find one of my favorite discoveries on this walk—the markers on the sidewalk on Market Street between 5th and 6th. These markers denote the residents of the homes that were there. All of these men of diverse backgrounds, incomes, and occupations lived here side by side. As you can imagine, this was uniquely American back in 1787.</p>
<p>Finally, make sure to check out these great spots along your walk: First, <a href="https://visitpa.com/pa-museums/b-free-franklin-post-office-museum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">B. Free Franklin Post Office &amp; Museum</a> is the only Colonial-themed post office in the country operated by the United States Postal Service. <a href="http://www.christchurchphila.org/history/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christ Church</a> once hosted a star-studded cast of worshipers including Ben Franklin, Betsy Ross, and GW himself. The lovely gardens here are the burial grounds for seven signers of the Declaration of Independence. Next, <a href="http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/what-to-see/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Betsy Ross House</a> is where you can see the original American flag. Don&#8217;t miss the curious cat fountain in the courtyard. Finally, check out <a href="http://www.archstreetfriends.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arch Street Friends Meeting House</a>. This Quaker meeting house is still in operation today. Their ideals of the absolute right of conscience, the equality of man, and nonviolence, and the people are SO kind!</p>
<h4>Philadelphia Outdoor Walks/Hikes</h4>
<p>Conversely, if history isn&#8217;t your thing, no worries! Philadelphia is flanked by two rivers, and each has its own lovely walking path. Philadelphia is also home to one of the largest urban green spaces in the country, Fairmount Park. The park has more than 9,200 acres of rolling hills, gentle trails, relaxing waterfront, and shaded woodlands. The <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/wissahickon-valley-park-(forbidden-drive)/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Forbidden Drive Trail</a> in the Wissahickon section of the park is my favorite. The trail boasts both hilly and flat areas, a river, bridges, and a marble statue of Native American chief Tedyuscung. This statue pays homage to the original inhabitants of the Philadelphia region, <a href="http://nanticoke-lenapetribalnation.org/about/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Lenape tribe</a>. On top of that, the amazing <a href="http://www.japanesehouse.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shofuso Japanese House and Garden</a> is also in the park. Here, you can explore a beautiful 17th century Japanese tea house that was built in Japan.</p>
<h4><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Logistics:</span></h4>
<p>While you can see all of the historical sites from the outside any time of the day or night, make sure to check the hours to get inside, especially the Christ Church gardens. Things tend to close earlier in Philadelphia than in other nearby big cities. Additionally, the historical sites and trails are extremely crowded on summer weekends. So make sure to visit on weekdays off season to have them to yourself.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1024" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1024" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1024" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-306-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-306-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-306-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-306.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1024" class="wp-caption-text">Taking in the history at Elfreth&#8217;s Alley</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1030" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1030" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1030" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-305-1024x683.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="427" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-305-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-305-300x200.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-305-768x512.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-305.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1030" class="wp-caption-text">One of the original inhabitants of Market Street (then known as High Street)</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1012" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1012" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1012" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-291-683x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="960" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-291-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-291-200x300.jpg 200w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-291-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-291.jpg 1365w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1012" class="wp-caption-text">B. Free Franklin Post Office &amp; Museum</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1015" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1015" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1015" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-294-683x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="960" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-294-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-294-200x300.jpg 200w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-294-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-294.jpg 1365w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1015" class="wp-caption-text">Christ Church</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1029" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1029" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1029" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-307-683x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="960" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-307-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-307-200x300.jpg 200w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-307-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-307.jpg 1365w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1029" class="wp-caption-text">Christ Church gardens</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1017" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1017" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1017" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-296-683x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="960" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-296-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-296-200x300.jpg 200w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-296-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-296.jpg 1365w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1017" class="wp-caption-text">Betsy Ross House flying our first flag</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1041" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1041" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1041" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-304-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-304-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-304-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-304-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-304-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-304.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1041" class="wp-caption-text">Delaware River Trail</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1032" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1032" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1032" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-298-e1499056462698-1024x681.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="426" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-298-e1499056462698-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-298-e1499056462698-300x199.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-298-e1499056462698-768x510.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-298-e1499056462698.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1032" class="wp-caption-text">The Delaware River Waterfront</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1033" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1033" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1033" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-301-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-301-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-301-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-301-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-301-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-301.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1033" class="wp-caption-text">Schuylkill River Waterfront</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1035" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1035" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1035" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-316-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-316-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-316-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-316-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-316-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-316.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1035" class="wp-caption-text">Kelly Drive along the Schuylkill River Trail in autumn</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1020" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1020" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1020" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-315-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-315-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-315-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-315.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1020" class="wp-caption-text">Hiking near the Forbidden Drive Trail</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1021" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1021" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1021" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-297-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-297-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-297-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-297.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1021" class="wp-caption-text">Gorgeous views in Fairmount Park</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1022" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1022" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1022" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-312-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-312-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-312-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-312.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1022" class="wp-caption-text">Chief Tedyuscung looking out over the land</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1023" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1023" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1023" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-308-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-308-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-308-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-308-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-308-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-308.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1023" class="wp-caption-text">Shofuso Japanese House and Garden</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1014" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1014" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1014" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-293-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-293-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-293-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-293-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-293-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-293.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1014" class="wp-caption-text">Japanese Garden in spring</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>A Foodie&#8217;s Paradise</em></h3>
<p><figure id="attachment_1008" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1008" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1008" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-300-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-300-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-300-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-300.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1008" class="wp-caption-text">Afternoon pick-me-up aka gelato and cappuccino at Gran Caffé L&#8217;Aquila</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>My favorite thing about the Philadelphia food scene? You can always get a table at the best/newest restaurants. Unlike some other big cities where you have to wait months to get into the most popular spots, there&#8217;s something refreshingly unpretentious about Philly restaurants. Plus, the food here is ridiculously delicious and diverse!</p>
<h4><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Don&#8217;t Miss:</span></h4>
<p>The Philadelphia dining scene makes me feel like I&#8217;m in Europe, with its authentic dishes and dreamy outdoor cafés. My absolute, hands-down favorite is <a href="https://grancaffelaquila.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gran Caffé L&#8217;Aquila</a>, which will transport you straight to Italy. The downstairs has an adorable sidewalk gelato shop and bar with coffee, cocktails, and their full menu. The gelato and coffee makers are both from Italy, so their product is top notch. Upstairs, the specials menu changes weekly to highlight foods from different Italian regions—including imported cheeses. My favorite dishes are the spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and the gelato flight—a sample five of their top flavors. Most noteworthy, pieces of the building were even brought over from Italy.</p>
<p>Second, <a href="http://www.parc-restaurant.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Parc</a>, aka the next best thing to Paris, is amazing. This beautiful Parisian-chic bistro is a top spot for people-watching on the enchanting sidewalk seating facing Rittenhouse Park. If the weather isn&#8217;t nice, the bar offers an equal opportunity to be whisked away to the ambiance of France. The chicken paillard salade is a personal favorite of mine. And don&#8217;t miss the beer floats made with Lindemans Framboise and house-made ice cream.</p>
<h4><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Logistics:</span></h4>
<p>As mentioned, it&#8217;s usually pretty simple to get a table at either of these places. But make a reservation to be safe, especially if you want to sit outside.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1009" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1009" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1009" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-288-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-288-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-288-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-288-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-288-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-288.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1009" class="wp-caption-text">Gelato flight</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1036" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1036" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1036" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-309-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-309-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-309-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-309-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-309-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-309.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1036" class="wp-caption-text">Burrata at Gran Caffé L&#8217;Aquila</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1026" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1026" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1026" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-299-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-299-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-299-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-299-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-299-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-299.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1026" class="wp-caption-text">A bistro in Paris? Nope! It&#8217;s Parc</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1027" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1027" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1027" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-314-683x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="960" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-314-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-314-200x300.jpg 200w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-314-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-314.jpg 1365w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1027" class="wp-caption-text">Amazing views of Rittenhouse Park from the tables at Parc</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><em>Artist&#8217;s Playground</em></h3>
<p><figure id="attachment_1018" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1018" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1018" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-319-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-319-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-319-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-319.jpg 1535w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1018" class="wp-caption-text">Taking in the texture of this entirely tiled mural at the Mural Arts Tour</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Continuing with the alfresco theme, Philadelphia has the most amazing outdoor <a href="https://www.muralarts.org/about/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mural arts program</a>. The program started to help channel the graffiti culture into something valuable and appreciated by the whole city. The works of art completed over the last 30 years are not only beautiful, but they also often hold some kind of symbolism for the artist. Take the <a href="https://www.muralarts.org/tours/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mural Mile walking tour</a>, which goes through Philadelphia&#8217;s downtown.</p>
<p>Additionally, there&#8217;s a fascinating immersive outdoor art installation called the <a href="https://www.phillymagicgardens.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Magic Gardens</a>. Here you&#8217;ll see nontraditional materials such as folk art statues, found objects, bicycle wheels, colorful glass bottles, hand-made tiles, and thousands of glittering mirrors. They are all fashioned into a maze that&#8217;s something out of Alice in Wonderland.</p>
<p>For indoor art experiences, you can&#8217;t beat the iconic Philadelphia <a href="http://www.philamuseum.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Museum of Art</a>. I absolutely love the <a href="http://www.philamuseum.org/collections/permanent/42060.html#" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cloister with Elements from the Abbey of Saint-Genis-des-Fontaines</a>, which is from medieval France. The <a href="https://www.barnesfoundation.org/visit/philadelphia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Barnes Foundation</a> is right down the street and a must-see for art lovers. The once private collection includes some of the most amazing examples of impressionist paintings. Coincidentally, this is my personal favorite art genre and one of the few I actually enjoy (in case you haven&#8217;t seen my <a href="http://marionthemap.com/amsterdam-netherlands/">rants about modern art</a> <span class="emoji">😉). </span></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1031" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1031" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1031" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-303-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-303-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-303-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-303.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1031" class="wp-caption-text">The Philadelphia Muses &#8211; Mural Arts Tour</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1034" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1034" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1034" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-313-1024x768.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="480" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-313-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-313-300x225.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-313-768x576.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-313-800x600.jpg 800w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-313.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1034" class="wp-caption-text">Murals everywhere!</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1010" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1010" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1010" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-289-768x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="853" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-289-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-289-225x300.jpg 225w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-289.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1010" class="wp-caption-text">Getting lost in the Magic Gardens</figcaption></figure></p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1039" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1039" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1039" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-317-2-1024x777.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="486" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-317-2-1024x777.jpg 1024w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-317-2-300x228.jpg 300w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-317-2-768x583.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-317-2.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1039" class="wp-caption-text">Philadelphia Museum of Art</figcaption></figure></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_1042" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-1042" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><img decoding="async" class="size-large wp-image-1042" src="http://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-320-683x1024.jpg" alt="Philadelphia, PA, USA Mari on the Map" width="640" height="960" srcset="https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-320-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-320-200x300.jpg 200w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-320-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://marionthemap.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FullSizeRender-320.jpg 1365w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-1042" class="wp-caption-text">Philadelphia, PA, USA</figcaption></figure></p>
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