Philadelphia travel guide

A legacy of freedom lives on in the city of brotherly love

Halfway between New York City and Washington lies Philadelphia, the first capital of the United States of America. "Old City," as Philadelphia's cobblestone-paved historical district is known, boasts many sites from the time of America's founding, such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the house where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. Philadelphia's legacy of freedom lies not just in its role in the American Revolution but also in its identity as a primary destination for African Americans to settle after escaping the slavery and racism of the South. (The city was founded by anti-slavery Quakers, who named it the Greek word for "city of brotherly love.") Accordingly, many innovations in African-American music have occurred in the city, such "the Philly Sound" soul style, adventurous forms of avant-garde jazz, and distinct hip-hop styles. These musical styles can be experienced today in places like Ortlieb's Jazzhaus, the Tritone, and the Painted Bride Art Center. In addition to the African-American community, many other ethnic groups have contributed to the culture of Philadelphia. Philadelphia's thriving Chinatown lies in the city's center, Ethiopian and Indian restaurants can be found throughout West Philadelphia, and the local specialty of a cheesesteak sandwich can best be enjoyed in the Italian neighborhoods of South Philadelphia. Those who want to walk in the footsteps of South Philly's toughest Italian American, Rocky Balboa, can jog up the steps of the world-class Philadelphia Museum of Art.

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