Philadelphia Is Hot For a Vacation Spot

Do you and your family love vacations that are also great opportunities for educating yourself about history and the pioneers that built this great country? What better way than a fun vacation that is filled with learning! And whether you are prone to the city rhythm or if the country atmostphere warms your heart, you will love Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Long known for being rich in history, this city is proud to present its museums and culture to its visitors. >From the delightful Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, whereby you will find yourself in the 80 period rooms ranging from a collection from an Indian temple to medieval cloisters. Built in 1876 to showcase decorative arts, its large collection makes it the third largest museum in the United States. There are many other buildings to tour in the general area including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, and the National Constitution Center. Don't forget a trip to the Reading Terminal Market. It was established in 1893 and is the country's oldest continuously operating farmers market. You will be able to indulge in practically every type of cuisine, from Asian to soul food, from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare to Middle Eastern dishes all available from primarily family-run stands. Afterwards you might be ready to walk off your dining experience with a stroll along the quaint cobblestone streets. Breathing in the architectural wonders that are plentiful from the last couple hundred years is a real delight if you are the least bit interested in style and history. Tired of walking? What about a carriage ride? Whether you are with your mate and look to incorporate some romance mixed in with your vacation or you have the whole family, including kiddies, it is magical to be pulled by the ever popular horses expertly chauffeured by a city guide. Afterwards, you may be drawn to take in the sites where parts of the movie "National Treasure" were filmed. See if you can follow the trail of clues outlined by the movie in this city's most famous landmarks. After a glimpse of the city spectacles, save time for a drive to Valley Forge for more learning about the history of this historical area. Valley Forge is notorious for Washington's encampment with his troops in the winter of 1777. Washington's headquarters and his troops log cabins are available for viewing. The National Historical Park's 3,600-acres of rolling hills provides beauty in any season and is especially inviting for the outdoor lover with miles of trails to hike, bicycle and rock climb. If you enjoy the water, you can partake in fly fishing and kayaking. Landlovers have an abundance of activities including horseback riding, bird watching and nature centers to visit. Other activities include cross country skiing, ice skating, maple sugaring and apple festivals. Rich in culture, Philadelphia has something for all. Don't be surprised if you determine multiple visits are required to get a taste of this bountiful area!