People are quick to point out that Philly is home to the country’s most iconic historical hotspots like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the cemetery where Ben Franklin is buried. Yeah, the background is trendy, yet what regarding the living, breathing, modern culture we’ve started on in Philly now? There’s lots of it. Miss the horse-drawn carriage scenic tours and obtain a dose of the actual Philadelphia, from a scarcity of local breweries to destinations along the waterside. West Kensington has many to offer you!

Enjoy at Les and Doreen’s Happy Tap

With bingo on Wednesdays, karaoke on Saturdays, and a constantly charming roster of regulars, Les and Doreen’s is bound to provide some authentically Philly moments. On a quiet corner in Fishtown, this bar makes the perfect night-out destination or a friendly place to land after dollar taco night at Loco Pez. But make sure you bring cash.

Get a table at the new Pizzeria Beddia

The famous, line-inducing Fishtown pizzeria has finally reopened its doors after nearly a year-long hiatus. The newer, bigger space features the same pizza that’s been declared the best in the country, only the digs have traded standing-room-only for a seated dining room, an expanded menu, and even the ability to make reservations.

Check out Philly’s bookstore renaissance

Even as online retailers continue to rule the world, shoppers are thirsty for a return to brick-and-mortar shopping, as evidenced by the growing number of cute, boutique-style bookstores opening around Philadelphia. Head to Shakespeare & Co., the first non-NYC location of the Manhattan institution, which opened on Walnut Street in 2018 and features its very own print-by-request book printer.

Mural Arts tour

We don’t mean to brag, but buildings and facades in all of Philly’s neighborhoods are decorated with thousands of murals. Mural Arts Philadelphia is dedicated to preserving existing murals, historic sites, commissioning new ones, and engaging the public to marvel at them. Luckily, you can feast your eyes on our city-specific art via a Mural Arts tour, led by one of Mural Arts’ experts. You’ll be guided either by foot, by train, or by trolley.