travellyn

I'm going to a convention in Philadelphia in May and would like some information about the convention center area. How safe is it? Are there good hotels within a couple of blocks? ("Good" to me is comfortable, not necessarily luxurious, but safe and quiet.) Any "don't miss" places or activities nearby?

Thanks, travellyn

Amy

Welcome to Philadelphia (a bit early!)
The convention center is right in center city, the very "alive" downtown area of Philadelphia. There are numerous hotels in various price levels within walking distance, and Philly is a great town for walking, especially in the spring. You'll be six blocks from the most historic square mile in the USA (Independence Hall, Liberty Bell), quite close to the Gallery shopping, a couple of blocks from City Hall (wonderful architectural tour) and right beside the Reading Terminal Market and Chinatown.
Daytime safety is very good, nighttime is the same as almost any big city: be aware, not afraid.
There are some great restaurants nearby, as well, in Chinatown and down Market Street in the Old City section, plus a few blocks over on Walnut Street.
Have a great time!

Paul Rabe

Another "Don't Miss" is the Philadelphia Art Museum, one of the finest in the country. Take the #76 bus out towards the Zoo and you'll be dropped off right at the front door of the Museum.

While you're here, make certain to eat a REAL cheese steak, a hoagie or grinder, and (if you're daring) some scrapple for breakfast.

Frank

Travellyn: The Philadelphia Marriott is part of the Convention Center complex and one I'm sure you will enjoy. Built only a few years ago, everything is new and fresh. The hotel has a good restaurant particularly for breakfast and also has a Starbucks where you can pickup coffee and snacks most of the day and night. If you like a big convention style hotel, you will enjoy the Marriott. If you are looking for something a little less expensive, the Marriott Courtyard is about a block away and although I haven't stayed there, it is even newer than the Marriott. I've walked through the Convention Center Hilton lobby, and wasn't impressed. Also didn't care for the block it was located on.

xxx

If you get to the Art Museum, make sure you check out the azalea gardens behind the museum. They should be beautiful around the first to second week of May! Definitely try to walk around as much as you can. Spring is a beautiful time of year in Philly.

philly

if you are staying by the convention center, be sure to go to reading terminal market which is an indoor farmers market - all stalls are open monday through saturday except the amish, who are there tuesday (maybe wednesday)through saturday - they bring with them some delicious pastries/bread, etc - it is worth a visit - get some blueberry pnacakes from the amish - coffee from old world coffee roasted in philly - cheese from the cheese stall - fruit and veggies from anywhere - have fun - welcome!

lena

just returned from Philly, 4 time there. the museum is very nice althought I didn't get to go this year. I was at a 4 day conference at the airport Marriott, which is very nice, and didn't get out much but finally went to dinner on Sat. night. Dickens Inn? I think it was and I really liked it. It had the northern feel that I wanted: brick, home cooking style food, cozy, decent prices. I recommend for a no frills, good meal.

jhm

What weekend are you going to be there in May? I ask because UPenn's graduation (this year May 10-13) takes a tremendous toll on the city and you will definitely need reservations to get into any good restaurant for dinner that weekend (yes, even so far in advance as now!).

travellyn

Thanks for the informative posts! I'll be there from the 18th to the 23rd.