Philadelphia and the Countryside - Press Room

The following itinerary is available on gophila.com.

LOCATION: Historic Philadelphia, Centennial District, Bucks County, Kennett Square and Camden, New Jersey

TRANSPORTATION: Foot, taxi, bus or car

DURATION: Four days and four nights

This summer, forgo the same old family vacation in favor of a fun and—dare we say—educational trip to Historic Philadelphia. Everyone knows the birthplace of America is chock full of historic attractions, but it’s also home to a one-of-a kind amusement park, a spectacular aquarium, the country’s oldest zoo, breathtaking gardens, only-in-Philly shops, delicious eats and so much more. Best of all, many of the city’s attractions

When foodies hit the road, they take their passion for farmers markets, culinary tours and tasting experiences with them. Whether it’s called culinary tourism or just plain fun, the chance to see, smell and taste the best of local gastronomy is a big attraction, and it’s getting bigger. The 2009 Travel & Tourism Market Research Handbook reports that 27 million Americans—or 17% of leisure travelers—made culinary and/or wine activities part of their trips within the last three years. These activities include everything from taking cooking classes and dining out in a unique setting to visiting farmers markets and attending food

As daylight turns to twilight, Historic Philadelphia turns hip and happening with after-hours fun for the under-21 and over-21 sets. From early evening until the wee, small hours, the area situated between Front and 7^th Streets and Race and Spruce Streets buzzes with family-friendly evening fun and sizzles with decidedly grown-up theaters, nightclubs and dance spots. Find more on the latest happenings, musical performances and theatrical offerings at gophila.com. And, for half-price tickets to arts and cultural events, visit phillyfunguide.com.

Family-friendly Activities:

• 1776: Interactive Movie Musical – The whole family can star in this hysterical, historical classic

Historical Sites And Attractions:

• Wannabe sailors can spend the night in the nation’s most decorated battleship, the Battleship New Jersey, and take tours of the officers’ and crew’s mess halls, communications center and high-tech command center. 62 Battleship Place, Camden, (856) 877-6262, battleshipnewjersey.org
• The nation’s most famous seamstress, credited with the creation of the first American flag, stitched her way into history in the small workroom on display at the Betsy Ross House. Throughout the summer, Betsy strolls the courtyard to meet and greet visitors. 239 Arch Street, (215) 686-1252, betsyrosshouse.org
• Penny-pinchers and spendthrifts alike cash in on the

Eat And Drink Your Way Through Philadelphia:

1. It’s hard to say whether kids or adults have more fun at the fudge-and-candy parties at Betty’s Speakeasy. Large or intimate groups can schedule time to cut fudge, make candy, decorate cookies and gobble them up at the end of the party. Bakery owner Liz Begosh uses only organic, local and fair-trade ingredients in her sweet confections. For a slightly less messy culinary adventure, Liz also schedules private, instructional, prix-fixe dinners that explore the landscape of artisanal eating for $40 per person. 2241 Grays Ferry Avenue, (215) 735-9060, bettysfudge.com
2. Bring Belgium to

In Historic Philadelphia, some of the country’s most significant historic sites—many of which are free or low-cost, perfect for families and educational for all—share the neighborhood with trendy shops, modern restaurants and buzzing nightclubs. Affordable hotel packages with free parking and transportation options, including 50% off Amtrak, make a good deal even better. Here is a sampling of some don’t-miss things to do in Historic Philadelphia this summer that won’t break the budget:

Affordable History Lessons:

• The Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, the New Hall Military Museum, Franklin Court, Bishop White House and the Graff House are