Philadelphia provides the ideal mix for the ultimate girls-only vacation, offering a blend of culture, history, and endless fun. From exploring exceptional art and iconic landmarks to indulging in tax-free shopping sprees and culinary adventures, you will be spoilt for choice.
When in Philadelphia, discovering the vibrant cultural drapery of the city’s art scene together with the girls is a must. Take a stroll down South Broad Street and immerse yourselves in the dynamic energy of Philadelphia’s renowned Avenue of the Arts. The arts and culture hub is home to some of the city’s most notable performing arts institutions, including Ensemble Arts Philly, Miller Theater, and Philadelphia Theater Company. Also, visit the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), the country’s oldest art museum and school showcasing a vast collection of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings and sculptures in a grand New-Gothic building designed by Frank Furness. Located in West Fairmount Park, Shofuso was built in Japan in 1953 using traditional techniques and materials and then moved to Philadelphia. The traditional-style house can be toured, along with the gardens, koi pond, and island.
At the legendary Barnes Foundation, explore one of the finest collections of impressionist, post-impressionist, and early modernist paintings in the world, with more than 3,000 masterpieces including 181 Renoirs, 69 Cézannes, 59 Matisses, 46 Picassos, 16 Modiglianis, and 7 Van Goghs, plus textiles, metalwork, decorative objects, African sculpture, Native American ceramics and jewellery, Pennsylvania German furniture, and more. Definitely one for the bucket list!
Make sure to experience the rich performing arts scene in Philly, indulging in captivating shows and vibrant performances. Attend a performance by Philadelphia’s renowned ballet company, Philadelphia Ballet. Considered one of America’s leading ballet companies, this ensemble performs at the Academy of Music, the oldest opera house in the United States. Enjoy a performance at the Walnut Street Theatre. Founded in 1809, America’s oldest theatre produces an exciting season of Broadway-quality musicals and plays.
Ultimately, explore the world’s largest outdoor art gallery and take a Mural Arts Tour. Public and private tours featuring some of the city’s 4000 murals are available.
Philadelphia’s fine dining scene is equal parts luxurious and delicious. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure at Double Knot, where you will experience Japanese-inspired cuisine in a chic, intimate atmosphere. North of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Cicala at the Divine Lorraine is where diners indulge in rich Italian flavours in an elegant ambience. Across the street, the critically acclaimed Osteria combines fine dining and family style for unforgettable house-made Italian dishes. Located in W Philadelphia, Dolce Italian serves house-made pasta, Neapolitan-style pizzas, and other signature Italian dishes.
A truly impressive display of Philadelphia’s food culture, Reading Terminal Market includes 80-plus diverse food vendors. From Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods to Middle Eastern specialities, the market’s eateries and shops represent the city’s unique cultures. Visitors can quickly grab essential Philadelphia foods for lunch —like a cheesesteak or roast pork sandwich —or sit down for a hardy entrée and a beer at one of the iconic bars and restaurants.
Go on board on a shopping extravaganza within Philadelphia, where vibrant neighbourhoods offer an array of unique boutiques and diverse and tax-free shopping experiences. Explore independent shops, perfect for picking up souvenirs or distinctive gifts, scattered throughout the city’s eclectic districts.
Spanning three city blocks, Fashion District Philadelphia is home to a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Just down the street from the Fashion District is Reading Terminal Market which is also home to dozens of vendors selling art, crafts, and gifts from local vendors.
Venture into Philadelphia’s Gayborhood and Washington Square West for chic boutique finds, such as Open House’s stylish home décor or Duross & Langel’s luxurious skincare products. Rittenhouse Row has upscale boutiques like Joan Shepp and Boyds, while Old City’s cobblestone streets house gems like Philadelphia Independents, offering handmade products and much more.
Discover Fabric Row’s historic textile shops in Queen Village, or explore Chestnut Hill’s garden district, where artisans and local designers thrive at places like Artisans on the Avenue and The Market at the Fareway. With each neighbourhood offering its own distinct charm, Philadelphia promises an unforgettable shopping spree with your closest pals.
Located approximately 35 miles northwest of downtown, Philadelphia Premium Outlets is home to 150 fashion brands, with heavy discounts.