PhiladelPhia: Destination Resource Guide for Media

Welcome to PhiladelPhia!Dear Media Friend,

Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love for the World Meeting of Families!

During the week ahead, we know you have many stories to file, and we hope this primarily Center City-focused guide will assist you in covering and enjoying the destination itself. We also hope you will take some time to explore our beloved region on your own. In this small but information-packed guide, we give you the scoop on:

• Our city’s founding and layout• Must-do suggestions for families and first-timers• Sensational backdrops for your live shots• Ideas for where to take that morning run

Perhaps most importantly, we provide you with a list of people to contact if you need more information about any of the topics covered inside—and many others that are not. Of course, our online resources are available to you 24//7. Check out a complete list on the back panel.

Enjoy your time in Philadelphia, and come back again soon and often.

Best,Meryl Levitz Jack FergusonPresident & CEO President & CEOVISIT PHILADELPHIA® Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

the Philly Basics Philadelphia: Where the Nation BeganWilliam Penn founded Philadelphia in 1682 based on his Quaker ideals of racial harmony and religious tolerance. Nearly 100 years later, during the American Revolution, the fight for freedom took hold in Philadelphia, and on July 4, 1776, the rewards were great as independence rang out with the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

How to Get AroundPhiladelphia is a walkable city thanks to William Penn’s user-friendly grid system, highlighted by five public squares—Washington, Penn (City Hall), Rittenhouse, Logan and Franklin—within the city’s core.

Center City, the main area of downtown Philadelphia, is bordered by the Schuylkill River on the west and the Delaware River on the east. Most streets run either north/south (these are numbered, except 14th Street, which is called Broad Street) or east/west (many of these are named after trees—Chestnut, Walnut, Locust, Spruce, etc.).

The easiest way to get around Philadelphia is on foot, as so much is within easy walking distance of the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Other options for getting around include SEPTA, Philadelphia’s public transit system; Indego, the city’s bike-share program; PHLASH, a visitor-friendly bus with stops at top attractions; and taxis.

Note: Many transportation options will be impacted by the papal visit. Check worldmeeting2015.org for information.

indego Bike share

Philly FactsBy the Numbers

• 2nd largest city population on the East Coast

• 2nd most populous downtown in the country

• 4th largest media market in the nation

• 5th largest city in the country

• 45 million residents within 200 miles

A City of Firsts • First zoo (Philadelphia Zoo, opened in 1874)

• First art school and art museum (Pennsylvania academy of the Fine arts, 1805)

• First and oldest hospital (Pennsylvania hospital, 1751) and first children’s hospital (children’s hospital of Philadelphia, 1855)

• First library, 1731

• First computer, 1946

• First hot air balloon flight in the Americas, 1793

Did You Know?• Philadelphia is known as the City of Murals, with 3,800 Mural Arts Program

creations throughout the city.

• Philadelphia served as the nation’s capital from 1790 until 1800.

• Mother’s Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia in 1908.

• Elfreth’s Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the U.S.

• Philadelphia has more public art than any other city in the country.

• Philadelphia’s city hall was the tallest occupied building in the world until 1909. It is still one of the tallest and largest all-masonry buildings in the world.

Photos by D. Cruz, M. Edlow, M. Fischetti, J. Fusco, J. Holder, B. Krist, R. Kennedy and G. Widman for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®

must-do PhillyWe know you’re hard at work during your stay in Philly, but here are three things you will want to make time to do:

Explore Our History: Philadelphia is the birthplace of the United States, after all. Pick up free, timed tickets for Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at the Independence Visitor Center, then head a block south to tour the building where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the U.S. Constitution was debated, drafted and signed. Across the street at the Liberty Bell Center, admire the mighty cracked bell that served as a symbol of freedom for abolitionists. Between 5th & 6th Streets and Market & Chestnut Streets, nps.gov/inde

Eat Our Food: Cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, water ice, Amish goodies and loads of other yummy delights await at the always-buzzing Reading Terminal Market. It’s a one-stop shop for ethnic eats and Philly classics. 12th & Arch Streets, readingterminalmarket.org

Run Our Steps (early in the week): You know you want to. Those 72 steps are the same ones that Sylvester Stallone ran up in several Rocky movies, the same ones that lead to the masterful collection of works housed inside the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the same steps where Pope Francis will hold Mass. 26th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, philamuseum.org

independence hall

sPecial PaPal ProgrammingPhiladelphia attractions are rolling out the white carpet with special events, exhibits and tours to celebrate the pope’s visit.

• religious liberty and the Founding of america – Exploring the role religion played in Colonial America and how freedom of religion became a constitutional right. August 21-January 3. National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, constitutioncenter.org

• Philadelphia trolley Works religious tours – Four options: Faith, Family and Freedom Tour, September 13-15 and 28; Compline Lantern Light Tour, September 13-25 and 28; Catholic Shrine Tour, September 8 and 19-24; and From the Quaker Blessing Tour, September 17-26. phillytour.com

• Vatican splendors – Brings to light the historical and cultural significance of the Vatican in 11 themed galleries. September 19-February 15. The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, fi.edu

• Verbum domini ii: god’s Word goes out to the nations — Free Museum of the Bible exhibition, showcasing more than 80 artifacts from the museum’s Green Collection. September 21-26. Pennsylvania Convention Center, Hall G, accessible via the Broad Street Atrium, worldmeeting2015.org

• World meeting of Families Film Festival – Family-friendly films, including The Wizard of Oz, Rudy and The Mighty Macs. September 22-25. Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, 300 S. Broad Street, kimmelcenter.org

• christian art tours – Guided tours highlighted by van der Weyden’s Crucifixion, van Eyck’s Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata and Tanner’s Annunciation. September 22-27. Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, philamuseum.org

• Festival of Families – Featuring performances by Andrea Bocelli, Juanes and The Philadelphia Orchestra and an appearance by Pope Francis himself. Benjamin Franklin Parkway, worldmeeting2015.orgo

For information on these happenings and many others, download the free go Philadelphia! app, featuring information about regional attractions and the family-friendly events, activities and exhibitions taking place between September 18 and 29. The app is available for download on Apple and Android devices. Also check out: visitphilly.com/pope, uwishunu.com and discoverPHL.com/WMOF.

city’s signature Photo oPsLooking for the perfect backdrop for your live shot or a great photo to accompany your article? Here are some must-shoot photo spots:

• south street Bridge – Skyline view from west, over the Schuylkill River and Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk. South Street near 26th Street

• swann memorial Fountain at logan circle – Featuring three main figures sculpted by Alexander Stirling Calder; City Hall view in one direction, Philadelphia Museum of Art in the other. Benjamin Franklin Parkway between Race & Vine Streets

• Broad street, also known as avenue of the arts – Standing on the median strip in the center of the street, both north and south of City Hall, with City Hall as the backdrop. Broad Street from Vine to Arch Streets and from Chestnut to Spruce Streets

• national constitution center – Outdoor balcony with Independence Mall in the background. 525 Arch Street, constitutioncenter.org

• race street Pier – View of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River. Columbus Boulevard at Race Street

• adventure aquarium – Philadelphia skyline view from east, including Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Ferry transportation available. 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ

race street Pier

sPare time: near the conVention centerThe Pennsylvania Convention Center—site of the WMOF conference and media center—is right in the middle of Philadelphia’s Center City, with plenty to see and do nearby in your free time.

• Pennsylvania academy of the Fine arts – America’s first art museum and school of fine arts; home to a renowned collection of American art. 118 N. Broad Street, pafa.org

• mural arts Program tour – Themed trolley and walking tours of some of the city’s 3,800 murals. Departs from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts’ Hamilton Building. 128 N. Broad Street, muralarts.org

• reading terminal market – Ethnic eats, fun souvenirs, Pennsylvania Dutch specialties and local favorites, including Tommy DiNic’s roast pork sandwich. 12th & Arch Streets, readingterminalmarket.org

• chinatown – A colorful Friendship Arch, along with restaurants and shops that represent Hong Kong, Cantonese, Fujianese, Northern Sichuan, Taiwanese and other regions. Vine to Arch Streets between 9th & 12th Streets

• top shopping – macy’s and century 21 on Market Street, plus indie boutiques on 13th Street. BONUS: All clothing and shoe purchases are tax-free in Philadelphia. Between 8th & 13th Streets along Market Street, visitmacysusa.com

mural arts trolley tour

sPare time: near the Benjamin Franklin ParkWayModeled after Paris’ Champs Élysées, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is also known as “Museum Mile” for the many cultural institutions that call it home.

• art museum trio – One ticket, two days, three museums: Philadelphia Museum of Art, exemplifying human creativity from across the globe and through the ages; Rodin Museum, gardens and galleries featuring the greatest collection of the sculptor’s work outside of Paris; and the Perelman Building, showcasing photography and design. Between 22nd & 26th Streets along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, philamuseum.org

• the Barnes Foundation – Stunning collection of post-impressionist and early modern art. 20th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, barnesfoundation.org

• it’s a science thing – Parkway neighbors devoted to all things science: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and The Franklin Institute. Between 19th & 20th Streets along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, ansp.org, fi.edu

• eastern state Penitentiary – A prison-turned-museum that was once the most famous prison in the world. 21st Street & Fairmount Avenue, easternstate.org

• Boathouse row – A stretch of the Schuylkill River that’s home to 19th-century boat houses—especially beautiful when lit at night. Kelly Drive

• sister cities Park – Park and popular gathering place for families, located across the street from the Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul. 18th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, sistercitiespark.org

Boathouse row

Where to eat late-nightYou’re working late nights and long hours, but you still need to eat well. Check out this list of places to grab a bite well into the early-morning hours:

• tria – Serving a signature menu of wine, cheese and beer until at least 12:30 a.m. 12th & Spruce Streets, (215) 629-9200; 18th & Sansom Streets, (215) 972-TRIA; 2005 Walnut Street, (215) 557-8277; 2227 Pine Street, (215) 309-2245, triaphilly.com

• misconduct tavern – Mixing a nautical theme and upscale bar food. Until 1:30 a.m. 1511 Locust Street, misconduct-tavern.com

• 500 degrees – Superior burgers and fries in several varieties. Until 3:00 a.m. on weekends. 1504 Sansom Street, 500degrees.com

• insomnia cookies – Fresh-baked cookies delivered until 3:00 a.m. Various locations. insomniacookies.com

• little Pete’s – Cash-only diner serving the classics 24 hours a day. 219 S. 17th Street

• Pat’s king of steaks and geno’s steaks – Across-the-street rivals slinging Philly’s signature sandwich 24/7. 9th Street & E. Passyunk Avenue, patssteaks.com, genosteaks.com

• chinatown – Food from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Malaysia and Vietnam available into the early morning—especially during the weekends. Between Vine & Arch Streets and 9th & 12th Streets

geno’s steaks

Where to graB a BeerThe Founding Fathers enjoyed many a drink over energetic conversations and debates about the future of the colonies. Follow in their footsteps by imbibing at one or more of these fine spots:

• Pen & Pencil club – The nation’s oldest press club (opened 1892)—with the bathrooms to prove it; just show media credentials for entry. 1522 Latimer Street, penandpencil.org

• mcgillin’s olde ale house – The city’s oldest continuously operating pub for a reason. 1310 Drury Street, mcgillins.com

• 2nd street Brew house – Dozens of beers served up in three glorious forms: bottles, cans and on tap. 1700 S. 2nd Street, 2ndstreetbrewhouse.com

• Beer gardens – Alfresco ales: independence Beer garden, spruce street harbor Park, Phs Pop up gardens, Frankford hall and many more.

• the holiest Bars in town – Blessed drinking in many Philly ’hoods: South Philly’s Pub on Passyunk east, affectionately known as the P.O.P.E.; Fairmount’s the Bishop’s collar; Rittenhouse Square’s monk’s café; Northern Liberties’ abbaye; and Old City’s tin angel.

Frankford hall

Where to get actiVePhiladelphia has endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, and September is the perfect time of year to take advantage of them.

• schuylkill river trail – Paved walking, running, biking and blading trail that will take you past picturesque Boathouse Row on the Schuylkill River. schuylkillbanks.org

• delaware river Waterfront – Thoroughfare along Center City’s east border, offering great views of the Delaware River and access to the race street Pier and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge pedestrian path. Columbus Boulevard, delawareriverwaterfront.org

• indego Bike share – Seventy-one bike share stations with more than 600 bikes and 240 miles of bicycle lanes to traverse. rideindego.com

Or just walk, walk, walk from river to shining river!

schuylkill river trail

Family FaVoritesKids of all ages enjoy exploring Philadelphia’s family-friendly attractions.

• the academy of natural sciences of drexel university – The oldest natural history museum in the Americas, featuring Dinosaur Hall, live butterflies and a hands-on nature center. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, ansp.org

• the Franklin institute – Interactive science museum and home to a full city block of kid-friendly exhibitions, including the walk-through Giant Heart and Your Brain. 222 N. 20th Street, fi.edu

• Fireman’s hall museum – A restored 1902 firehouse that houses some of the nation’s earliest firefighting equipment, including hand, steam and motor fire engines. 147 N. 2nd Street, firemanshallmuseum.org

• Franklin square – Modern and fun family park—Philly Mini Golf!—in one of William Penn’s original five squares. 6th & Race Streets, historicphiladelphia.org

• Philadelphia Zoo – America’s first zoo and home to nearly 1,300 rare and endangered animals and a first-of-its-kind elevated animal trail system. 3400 W. Girard Avenue, philadelphiazoo.org

• Please touch museum® – Two floors of engaging exhibits encouraging learning and play for children under seven. 4231 Avenue of the Republic, pleasetouchmuseum.org

• the african american museum in Philadelphia – Exploring the lives and contributions of people of the African Diaspora. 701 Arch Street, aampmuseum.org

Franklin square

Free in PhillyPhiladelphia has plenty you can do without breaking the family’s budget. Here are just a few of the free options.

• the country’s most historic square mile – All free, all the time: Independence National Historical Park, including Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Liberty Bell Center; and The President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation, site of the nation’s first White House. Between 5th & 6th Streets and Market & Chestnut Streets, nps.gov/inde

• national museum of american jewish history – Free ground-floor gallery, celebrating the achievements of 18 American Jews who found opportunity and success in America. 101 S. Independence Mall East, nmajh.org

• u.s. mint – The largest coin factory in the world, where coins have been continuously produced since 1792. 151 N. Independence Mall East, usmint.gov

• macy’s Wanamaker organ – Recitals six days a week (not on Sundays) on the store’s massive pipe organ, the largest playable instrument in the world. 13th & Market Streets, wanamakerorgan.com

• comcast experience Video Wall – The largest four-millimeter LED screen in the world. 17th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard, themarketandshopsatcomcastcenter.com

national museum of american jewish history

sacred sitesA long list of sacred places, thanks to their history, architecture or emotional resonance, makes Greater Philadelphia an awe-inspiring place to explore.

• cathedral Basilica of sts. Peter and Paul – The Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia since 1864 and where Pope Francis will preside over a private Mass. 18th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, cathedralphila.org

• national shrine of st. john neumann – Part of St. Peter the Apostle Church and home to the remains of the bishop who started the U.S. diocesan Catholic school system. 1019 N. 5th Street, stjohnneumann.org

• christ church & Burial ground – Where Benjamin Franklin is buried and where George Washington and many Founding Fathers worshipped. Church, 2nd Street between Market & Arch Streets; Burial Ground, Arch Street between 4th & 5th Streets, christchurchphila.org

• old st. joseph’s roman catholic church – Philadelphia’s oldest Catholic community, founded and staffed by Jesuits, Pope Francis’ order. 321 Willings Alley, oldstjoseph.org

• mother Bethel african methodist episcopal (a.m.e.) church – The Mother Church of the nation’s first black denomination and site of a memorial for its founding pastor, Richard Allen. 419 S. 6th Street, motherbethel.org

• mikveh israel – The oldest Jewish congregation in Philadelphia. 44 N. 4th Street, mikvehisrael.org

st. john neumann shrine

media resourcesFor Media:worldmeeting2015.org/mediaFor all official World Meeting of Families coverage and information

visitphilly.com/pressroom24/7 media resource featuring press releases about Philadelphia happenings, visitor stats, story ideas, high-resolution photos, vantage points, media contacts and more

visitphilly.isebox.netHD B-roll library organized by topic

twitter.com/visitphillyPrJust-for-media account focused on Philadelphia tourism news and happenings

discoverPhl.com/WmoFmediaHigh-res photos and press materials in multiple languages

Phlhdvideo.comHD B-roll of key points of interest in Philadelphia

For Your Viewers, Readers & Listeners:visitphilly.com Visitor-focused site covering special exhibits and events, must-see Philadelphia attractions, tours and transportation

uwishunu.comInsider blog focusing on what to do today, tomorrow and this weekend

discoverPhl.com/oVg Downloadable guide to the city; also available in the Apple iTunes store (search PHL Visitors Guide)

discoverPhl.com/internationalguide Downloadable guide to the city available in Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish

go Philadelphia! app App featuring information about regional attractions and the family-friendly events, activities and exhibitions taking place between September 18 and 29. Available for Apple and Android devices.

For All:Follow Visit Philly and DiscoverPHL on social media:

media contactsQuestions about Philadelphia?

north american media inquiries:• Cara Schneider, VISIT PHILADELPHIA (215) 206-2034, cara@visitphilly.com

• Lynda Knaggs, VISIT PHILADELPHIA (215) 717-7472, lynda@visitphilly.com

international media inquiries:• Ann Tok, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (215) 285-1650, ann@discoverPHL.com

• Christina Cassidy, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (215) 527-7863, christina@discoverPHL.com

other media resources:• Desiree Peterkin-Bell, City of Philadelphia (267) 438-7126, desiree.peterkin-bell@phila.gov

• Deirdre Childress Hopkins, Pennsylvania Convention Center (215) 680-1526, dchildress@paconvention.com

• Jennifer Nagle, Independence Visitor Center (215) 850-1514, jnagle@PHLvisitorcenter.com

Questions about WMOF?• Meg Kane, Brian Communications (215) 704-4745, mkane@briancom.com

• Lizanne Pando, World Meeting of Families (215) WMF-2015, lpando@worldmeeting2015.org

• Ken Gavin, Archdiocese of Philadelphia (215) 587-3747, kgavin@archphila.org