Philadelphia Biblical University Parent & Family Guide

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Have an Extra Hour or Two in Philly?

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History 101

While historians debate Betsy Ross’ role in making the first American flag, the Betsy Ross House offers an excellent portrayal of a working-class woman’s life in Colonial America.

  • 239 Arch Street
  • (215) 686-1252
  • Web site

Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continually inhabited street in America, features quaint brick homes that offer a postcard-perfect peek into the residential life of Colonial Philadelphia.

Independence Hall, the birthplace of the United States of America, is one of only 20 World Heritage sites in the country. It is here that the Declaration of Independence was signed and the U.S. Constitution was adopted. Admission is free, but tickets are required. Free day-of reservations and advance tickets ($1.50) are available at the Independence Visitor Center.

  • 5th & Chestnut Streets
  • (215) 965-7676
  • Web site

The Liberty Bell Center showcases the famous cracked Bell against the backdrop of Independence Hall and puts it in its historical context. Throughout the center, larger-than life historic documents and graphics explore the facts and the myths surrounding the Bell.

  • Market Street between 5th & 6th Streets
  • (215) 965-7676
  • Web site

It’s only four pages long, but the U.S. Constitution is among the most influential documents in the history of the world. The 160,000-square-foot National Constitution Center explores the Constitution through high-tech exhibitions, artifacts and displays.

  • 525 Arch Street
  • (215) 409-6700
  • Web site

Shopping, Shopping and More Shopping:

With a wonderful mix of urban shopping districts, some of the nation’s largest retail centers and tax-free shopping on clothing and shoes, Philadelphia’s a good place to take a break from business and put your credit card to work.

Some suggestions for indulging:

A former industrial district, Northern Liberties has been revived and reimagined as an artists’ quarter, and a host of inventive shops make it one of the city’s trendiest spot to indulge in the latest finds.

  • Spring Garden Street to Girard Avenue between 2nd & 6th Streets
  • Web site

Its former factories are now airy condominiums, and Old City is the province of the weekend party people and art collectors who gather in the neighborhood’s many upscale restaurants, bars and galleries. You won’t find chain stores here, but you will find plenty of owner-operated shops.

  • Front Street to 5th Street between Chestnut & Race Streets
  • Web site

Pine Street’s Antique Row is famous among shoppers for its unique stores offering antique furniture, books, crafts, collectibles and bits of local history. Many new stores have opened on the street over the past couple of years, joining contemporary wares with the row’s traditional merchandise.

  • Pine Street between 9th & 12th Streets
  • Web site

Rittenhouse Row, the heart of Philadelphia’s premier business, residential, shopping and cultural district, covers 24 blocks. The site of many couture boutiques, Rittenhouse Row is also home to Philadelphia-grown clothing and shoe boutiques.

  • Between the Avenue of the Arts & 22nd Street from Market to Pine Streets
  • Web site

South Street District has long been Philly’s funkiest place to shop and stroll. Abundant with hip clothing and shoe boutiques and indie record shops, the street offers a wide range of shopping options.
South Street between Front & 11th Streets

The University City shopping and dining area features a vibrant mix of retailers.
34th to 38th Streets and Chestnut to Walnut Streets

Main Street in Manayunk is a National Historic District located between a quiet neighborhood and an old canal. Seven miles from Center City Philadelphia, the quaint outdoor strip is home to more than 70 chic boutiques and galleries.

  • Main Street between Ridge Avenue & Green Street
  • (215) 482-9565
  • Web site
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