There’s tons to love about Philadelphia!

Our city of Philadelphia has long been known as the epicenter of history, culture, sports, and of course, world-class eats. As longtime Philly residents ourselves, we adore our city and everything it encompasses.

Whether you’ve just moved here or you’ve lived here your whole life, there’s a sort of magic in the air you can feel as you travel the streets. Today, we wanted to pay homage to this place we call home. Read on to discover 7 of the most special things about Philadelphia and learn what makes it so unique!

1. Living Among History

There’s no denying the historical significance that Philly holds. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both signed in Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell stands as one of the nation’s most prevalent symbols of freedom and justice. You can also learn about one of our most famous residents, Ben Franklin, at the Benjamin Franklin Museum in Old City.

However, our city’s rich history isn’t isolated to buildings and statues. Rather, it’s ingrained in everything we do and everywhere we go. Where else can you drink in a bar where the Federalist papers were argued, walk the same streets as our Founding Fathers, or run the famous Rocky steps? In Philadelphia, the past is part of our story, and it’s one we’re proud to tell.

2. Philadelphia and The Mummers Parade

For centuries, groups of costumed performers have paraded in the streets to ring in the new year. Known as “mummers,” they first appeared in ancient Egypt, Rome, and Greece. By the late 17th century, mummers arrived in Philadelphia, and neighborhood celebrations occurred every January throughout the city.

In 1901, the city of Philly officially began sponsoring and organizing the first official Mummers Parade. In the years since, it’s turned into one of our city’s most storied and beloved traditions. On the first day of every year, you can find more than 10,000 marchers wearing elaborate costumes that span five different categories, including Comic, Fancy, Fancy Brigade, Wench Brigade, and String Band.

This parade is a lively and entertaining event that preserves tradition while offering residents and visitors alike the chance to celebrate what’s on the horizon.

3. Incredible Eats

A visit to Philly isn’t complete without a taste of our city’s most iconic meal: the cheesesteak! We’ll let you decide who wins in the friendly competition between local restaurants, but all are delicious in their own right.

While you’re savoring sandwiches, don’t forget that Philadelphia is also home of the hoagie! This guide can help you find some of the best in town! From traditional Italian-inspired ones to breakfast hoagies, it’s easy to find your new favorite. Even if you’ve lived here forever, there’s never a shortage of new eateries to check out.

In addition to a growing pizza scene, you’ll also find gourmet barbecue, fresh seafood, and a bevy of star breweries. Eating your way around the city is an excellent way to get to know the local hotspots!

4. Philadelphia is a Sports Lovers Paradise

Some cities just have sports in their DNA, and Philly is one of them. From the Eagles and the Sixers to the Phillies and the Flyers, the city is home to some of the most prolific players in modern history.

In fact, Philadelphia is one of only 12 cities that hosts teams in the US’ “Big Four” sports leagues, which include the MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL. It’s also one of only three national cities where every game is played within city limits. Grab a hot dog and a soda, and we’ll meet you in the stands!

5. Excellent Art Galleries and Museums

The arts community in Philly is booming — and for good reason. In addition to towering institutions, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum, you’ll also find many contemporary art galleries that showcase the immense talent living nearby.

Around almost every corner, you’ll find a cultural destination that encourages you to think a little deeper and explore the world around you, both past and present. You can spend the day at the Barnes Foundation or the Museum of the American Revolution, then close out the evening at the Institute of Contemporary Art and still have plenty of pieces to check out later.

6. Philadelphia has Strange and Unique Liquor Laws

A list of our city’s most unique features wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the decidedly different liquor laws that bind it.

Until recently, you’d have to contact a distributor if you wanted to buy a case of beer. Buying a six-pack was a little easier, but it still meant visiting a specialty bottle shop or corner bar. Then, fine spirits, such as champagne, were only available at the state-run Fine Wine and Spirits stores.

This approach might seem uncommon, but it’s steeped in history. Mere days before the 21st Amendment ended Prohibition in 1933, teetotaler and Pennsylvania governor Gifford Pinchot called a special meeting of the state’s General Assembly. There, he created the strict Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, which remained in place for decades.

In 2016, Act 39 helped loosen some of the former restraints, allowing for some new freedoms, among them case requirements for beer distributors. Still, learning the lay of the land here might take a little time!

7. America’s First Zoo

One little known fact about Philly is that it’s home to America’s first true zoo! The Philadelphia Zoo opened in 1874 with 1,000 animals and an admission price set at only 25 cents. Today, it’s a bustling, family-friendly place that hosts a variety of revolving exhibits on its 42-acre campus. From Big Cat Falls to Penguin Point, the habitats and wildlife are incredible.

Our City of Brotherly Love

There’s a lot to love about Philadelphia. Whether you’re a sports fanatic, art enthusiast, or history buff, you’ll easily find your place here.

As you continue to explore our diverse and exciting city, we’d love to be the team you turn to for your family’s dental health needs. Feel free to get in touch with our office today to schedule an appointment or learn more about the services we provide.

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