Philadelphia is a vivid and unique city, with a lifeline like no other. Being one of the oldest cities in the United States allows it to have the best of both worlds, a rich and intriguing history and a modern vibrant style which makes it like no other place on earth.

Looking for the odd or unique? Look no further than these stops on your trip.

Mütter Museum: If you are a lover of oddity then look no further than the Mütter Museum. This museum is home to some of the most magnificently odd and wonderful medical exhibits in the United States.  Since its creation, the museum’s collection has grown and advanced adding hundreds of additional pieces to its collection. The Mütter Museum has multiple collections of anatomical specimens, models, and medical instruments dating back to the 1800s. Some of my favorites are the drawers of items extracted from people throats, the wall of human skulls, and the casting of conjoined twins. The main purpose of this museum is to educate the public on the history of diagnosis and disease and also to show the body in its many forms. In addition to their permanent exhibits, they also have rotating special exhibits with various themes that range from pathology, abnormal developments, and magic and medicine. So as you can imagine, every visit to the Mütter Museum is its own unique experience. 

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden: Have you ever wanted to visit a traditional Japanese garden? Look no further than the Schuylkill River, located right outside of Philadelphia. This unique Japanese House was originally created by the MOMA in New York City as an exhibit in 1953, later finding its home in Philadelphia (the mirror image gardens were created once it was settled) where it has been open to the public since 1958.

Philadelphia Magic Garden: The Philadelphia Magic Garden is the unique tribute of a man to a city that he loved. This art project began in 1994 by a man named Isaiah Zagar, by using material that he found in his neighborhood and an empty lot which he transformed with both architecture and art. He created a one of a kind art exhibit which is about half a city block, covered with murals, tiles, glass, and eye catching designs has now become a public institution which is available for the public to enjoy.

Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site: This once home to the beloved Gothic author is an essential stop while in Philadelphia. Although he only lived at this location for a year, while here he wrote both the “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Gold Bug.” There are also rumors that the basement of this home with the inspiration for “The Black Cat”. Guided tours are available for visitors to enjoy both permanent and rotating exhibits.

Eastern State Penitentiary: In the middle of Philadelphia, you may find an odd sight, a giant castle like building nestled upon modern homes. Welcome to Eastern State Penitentiary, this was the first penitentiary at the time, an oddity during its original conception claiming that it was unlike every other flawed prison in the world. The only issue? It seemed to drive men insane. Though it had what was deemed at the time to be the highest technology at the time, it did lack one thing, human interaction. This prison utilized the “separate system” which kept all inmates in solitary confinement at all time. Eventually, due to over crowding and the set up being deemed inhumane the prison converted to a standard prison setting. During its active years as a penitentiary (1829-1972) it had many infamous inmates such as Al Capone. Now open to the public, visitors are able to tour this infamous facility, which has definitely been marked by the testaments of time, with peeling walls and rusty doors this prison is an eerie reminder of what once was. If you are into the supernatural, check out one of the many haunted tours they offer in the fall.

Want to learn more about the history of the United States? or get some culture?

Liberty Bell: Noting is quite as iconic in America as the Liberty Bell. This historical landmark is housed at the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia. Known throughout American history as a symbol of freedom it is not surprising that this icon has deep roots not only during the beginnings of what would become America but also other important landmarks in American history such as its use by abolitionist and during the women’s suffrage movement. Learn more about the history and heritage of this influential piece of American history.

Independence Hall: Independence Hall is one of the most influential buildings in American history. This is where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated by our founding fathers and ultimately were agreed upon to become the cornerstone of our countries laws and government. Take some time while in Philadelphia to walk these sacred halls and learn more about the founding of our country.

Philadelphia Museum of Art: An interesting fact about he Philadelphia Museum of Art is that it’s most well know piece is actually not art but instead the “Rocky Steps”, yes, those steps from the Rocky films. Once instead visitors are engulfed in a world of colors and dimensions as you can explore the various art on display from Renaissance to Asian art, impressionist to contemporary art this museum has something for everyone.

John F. Kennedy Plaza: Also known as LOVE park gets it’s name from the iconic LOVE statue located in the park since 1976. With multiple walking paths, places to socialize with friends, and it usage of popular venue for many annual events year round it’s a great place to get a feeling of the local vibe and enjoy the beautiful seasons year round.

Want to eat some great local food?

Reading Terminal Market: Do you love food? When I first stepped foot in the Reading Terminal Market I was pretty sure that I found heaven. Reading Terminal Market is the ultimate food mecca you have been looking for. With dozens of local vendors selling local produce, home made baked good, sandwiches, meats and cheeses there is never a lack of new things to try or old favorites that are just waiting to be enjoyed once more.

Pat’s King of Steaks/Geno’s Steaks: In Philadelphia there is no greater food battle than who is the King of Cheese steaks. Pat’s King of Steaks is the original cheese steak in Philadelphia and Geno’s has long been it’s main contender for the crown. What makes this situation so unique is that these two locations are literally across the street from each other and are both open 24 hours a day. Personally, I have visited both restaurants and truthfully i can tell you that and there is no wrong choice here.