We will be in Phili for only 1 night. My mom has been there numerous times (my uncle was the commissioner of zoning and planning in the 60's for your great city and was actually one of the men responsible for the revitalization of Society Hill) Anyways...we are staying at the Thomas Bond House and were interested in doing one of the ghost walks which I thought would be kind of fun (did one in London which was a blast) the only thing is that it is at 7:30 for 1.5 hours. I am thinking of an early dinner (ugh!) at Ralph's or Gnocci or Porcini then do the walk and then go to a fun pub for some muchies and beer. Anyone suggest a good place to go that may have some irish music or something similar that is near or not far from our B&B? Anyone taken one of those walks and not recommend it? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

Hi Dawn,
I think you would like 'the Plough and the Stars' Irish Restaurant and Bar. It is located in the vicinity of 2nd and Chestnut Streets ((215) 733-0300). It is open seven days 11:30 a.m to 2:30 a.m.. Live Irish music on Sunday, and a good brunch on both Saturdays' and Sundays'. Have a nice visit.

Whatever you do, make sure your plans for the one night in Phili includes carrying a gun, leave your wallet at home and it is not the 1960's anymore. Brotherly Love has packed up and moved out. Stay in the house with a good cheese steak hoagie and a soft pretzel with mustard and a pizza. That is my advice.

Debbie -
Get a life.

Dawn,

You are in for a treat, as the Thomas Bond House is wonderful.
Joanne's suggestion regarding "Plough and Stars" is excellent...close to your b&b and has great Irish music.
Since I am from the area, I cannot comment on the ghost tour.
Have a wonderful time in Philadelphia...it is still the city of Brotherly Love.

Having moved to the Philly area from Ames, Iowa; I can say Debbie is totally wrong in saying Philly is not safe after dark. Some areas aren't so great; some areas, like the restaurant area near Penn's Landing, are as safe as my former city. Use the same caution you would wherever you go out and about, and you'll do just fine.

Another vote for the Plough and the Stars if you want to be near your hotel. For Irish bars, I also like the Bards (near Rittenhouse Square) and Fergies (Sansom near 12th) but they are not nearly as close. I wouldn't be petrified to go out either. I have been out late in Philly many times and have never had a problem. The Old City area of the Plough and the Stars is busy even late at night. Have fun.

Thank you all for your responses. I will definetly go to the Plough and the Stars. Thanks again!!