List of Local Businesses in New York City

Thankium Advertising, based in New York, approaches brand building with a clear emphasis on creativity and emotional connection. The agency focuses on shaping identities that feel expressive and relatable, aiming to bridge the gap between products and the audiences they serve. Rather than relying on formulaic campaigns, Thankium leans into bold ideas designed to spark curiosity and engagement. Its work centers on helping brands speak in a voice that resonates with their target market, encouraging new customers to take notice and giving existing audiences a stronger reason to stay connected.

Bayard Advertising Agency Inc. based in New York is a Recruitment Marketing and Employer Brand agency. With over 95 years of growth and innovation, they continue to focus on helping great companies find fantastic people. Through a steadfast emphasis on customer service, they specialize in Digital Strategy, Employer Branding, Creative Execution, Technology Consulting, Social Media Strategy & Execution, Metrics & Analytics, and RPO. their work has taken them around the world. With this international experience, they have the expertise needed to help project succeed, no matter where it is.

Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising Agency based in New York has grown from a start-up advertising agency in London in 1970 to a global creative communications company headquartered in New York with 130 offices in 70 countries and over 6500 employees. Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising Agency is part of the Publicis Groupe, the world’s third largest communications group. They are a full service, integrated communications network and they work with 6 of the top 10 and over half of the top 50 global advertisers. They believe passionately in the power of ideas to differentiate and motivate. And to change the world for the better. They have an unshakeable spirit and unbeatable attitude from day one at Saatchi & Saatchi that Nothing is Impossible.

Accountants on Air is a New York–based firm bringing a modern, tech-forward approach to accounting and tax planning. Serving entrepreneurs, small business owners, and individuals in the U.S. and abroad, the firm focuses on accessibility and responsiveness, no matter where clients are located. Founded by a young entrepreneur with a vision to modernize traditional accounting practices, Accountants on Air emphasizes convenience without compromising quality. By leveraging current technology and staying aligned with evolving tax policies and regulations, the firm delivers streamlined, practical solutions. Its approach combines efficiency, insight, and personal attention—positioning the company as a forward-thinking partner for clients seeking reliable financial guidance in a connected world.

U.S. Accounting, Inc. has been serving clients in New York since 2009, offering dependable accounting support to both individuals and businesses. Backed by more than 15 years of experience, the firm provides guidance in tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll services, and financial reporting. Known for its emphasis on integrity and security, U.S. Accounting, Inc. approaches each engagement with professionalism and attention to detail. Their services are structured to help clients maintain control over finances while identifying opportunities to operate more efficiently. With a practical and client-focused approach, the firm aims to simplify complex financial matters and support sound decision-making for long-term stability and growth.

212 Tax & Accounting Services has been advising New York clients since 2008, under the leadership of founder Anil Melwani. The firm serves a diverse range of industries—including hospitality, nightlife, real estate, legal, and medical—offering tailored tax planning and accounting solutions. Beyond standard tax preparation, the team provides QuickBooks training, audit defense, and practical guidance designed to simplify complex financial matters. Anil is particularly experienced in assisting clients within the hospitality and entertainment sectors, as well as individuals facing international tax concerns, including those connected with the United Nations and foreign governments. With a strong background in resolving tax issues and negotiating penalties, the firm is known for its steady, solution-focused approach.

SG Quality Accounting Corp. is a New York–based firm that balances full-service capabilities with personalized attention. Large enough to provide comprehensive accounting and tax solutions, yet focused enough to treat every client as a priority, the firm has built its reputation on responsiveness and precision. President Steven Geller has been preparing accurate tax returns since 1996 and serves clients across all 50 states. A graduate of Baruch College and an Enrolled Agent since 2012, he holds unrestricted representation rights before the IRS and maintains ongoing continuing education. As a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals and an authorized IRS e-file provider, Steven leads the firm with professionalism and dedication.

Schneider National Logistics based in New York is a provider of truckload, intermodal and logistics services. Schneider's services include regional, long-haul, expedited, dedicated, bulk, intermodal, brokerage, cross-dock logistics, pool point distribution, supply chain management, and port logistics.

Kintetsu World Express operates from New York as part of a worldwide logistics network, offering air freight, ocean freight, customs brokerage, and surface logistics services. The company also provides third-party logistics (3PL) solutions, including warehousing and inventory management, supporting clients across a broad range of industries. A subsidiary of Kintetsu Group Holdings, Kintetsu World Express connects cargo to markets around the globe through an established international infrastructure. With integrated transportation and distribution capabilities, the firm positions itself as a comprehensive logistics partner for businesses requiring coordinated global supply chain solutions.

Titmouse, Inc. is an award-winning animation studio known for bold, distinctive work across television, film, commercials, and digital content. With major studios in New York, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, the company handles projects of virtually any scale entirely in-house. Its large team of writers, directors, animators, and editors allows for seamless production from concept through final cut. Backed by state-of-the-art sound and post-production facilities, Titmouse has built a reputation for delivering high-energy, creator-driven animation that stands out in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.

Founded in 2004, BUCK has grown into a globally recognized creative company with studios in Los Angeles, New York, Sydney, and Amsterdam. Built around a talent-first, collaborative culture, the studio brings together directors, designers, animators, and technologists to craft work across advertising, technology, and entertainment. BUCK is known for turning creative challenges into opportunities — producing visually striking, concept-driven projects that feel both ambitious and refined. With an emphasis on partnership and execution, the company consistently delivers work that blends strong design sensibility with forward-thinking storytelling.

Located at the crossroads of Little Italy, SoHo, and Chinatown, Nathan Love is a New York City studio known for vibrant animation and imaginative storytelling. With more than a decade of experience, the team creates memorable characters, richly designed worlds, and interactive experiences that balance craft with heart. Beyond the work itself, Nathan Love places strong emphasis on building an inclusive, supportive creative environment. Their commitment to diversity and collaboration is reflected in a culture where artists and storytellers are encouraged to grow — resulting in animation that feels both joyful and thoughtfully made.

Not To Scale is an international, award-winning film and animation studio known for delivering polished, brand-driven content. Operating as a full-service production company, it offers advanced production and post-production facilities across North America, the UK, and Central Europe. With strong expertise in animation and VFX, the studio combines creative direction with high-end technical capability — from CG and compositing to color grading and audio. By housing the entire workflow under one roof, Not To Scale provides clients with a streamlined, efficient production experience without compromising on visual impact or craft.

Founded in 2012 by interactive artist Michelle Higa Fox, Slanted Studios has built a reputation for inventive, cross-disciplinary production. Based in New York, the studio collaborates with a wide network of illustrators, designers, animators, and programmers to create work that blends 2D and 3D animation, stop-motion, live action, and creative coding. From interactive installations to TV spots and digital content, their projects often feel tactile and experimental. With collaborations including major media brands, Slanted Studios stands out for its ability to merge art and technology into visually memorable storytelling experiences.

FlatRate Moving has been reshaping the moving industry since its founding in 1991. By introducing an all-inclusive, guaranteed flat-rate pricing model in New York City, the company set out to eliminate surprise charges and redefine transparency in relocation services. Today, with hundreds of international agents and multiple U.S. and London branches, FlatRate handles everything from local apartment moves to long-distance and international relocations. Known for its structured pricing and low claims rate, the company emphasizes planning, accountability, and customer confidence. Serving more than 200,000 customers over the years, FlatRate has built its reputation on consistency, clarity, and a forward-thinking approach to moving.

Roadway Moving positions itself as a customer-first moving company focused on turning a typically stressful day into a smooth, even enjoyable, experience. Serving New York City and beyond, the company handles residential and commercial relocations, whether cross-town or cross-country. With options like “Roadway Black” for full-service packing, setup assistance, and coordination of utilities, the firm emphasizes convenience and white-glove care. Their climate-controlled trucks are designed to safeguard valuables such as fine art and wine collections. Known for attentive crews and a polished operation, Roadway Moving has built a reputation around service, organization, and a commitment to treating every client with genuine care.

Movers and Packers NJ is a full-service moving company serving clients throughout New York and neighboring states. With experience handling thousands of relocations over the years, the company assists with local, interstate, and out-of-state moves, offering practical support for both residential and commercial clients. Equipped with professional tools, well-trained crews, and organized logistics, Movers and Packers focuses on timely delivery and careful handling of belongings. Their approach centers on reliability and preparation, aiming to minimize disruption during what can often be a demanding transition. For those planning a move within the region or beyond, the company presents itself as a steady and experienced option.

Available Movers & Storage has been serving New York clients since 1994, providing residential and commercial moving services within the city and beyond. With decades of experience, the company assists individuals and businesses relocating to, from, or within New York City. Specializing in home, office, and business moves, Available Movers & Storage emphasizes organized planning and careful handling of belongings. The firm positions itself as a dependable option for those looking to ease the burden of relocation, offering structured services designed to protect valuables and streamline the process. Over the years, it has maintained a steady presence in the competitive New York moving industry.

Digital Surgeons are a creative consultancy and full-service digital marketing agency in New York for forward-obsessed brands looking to spark new ways to drive demand for their business. They work with brands, businesses, and teams across every industry to unlock new ways of driving growth for their organization. they believe that design goes beyond how a brand looks. Design transforms how a brand is experienced. How it’s perceived. How it’s felt. they focus on specific high-growth categories and help businesses reimagine their brands’ future. they craft three types of outputs for brands: branding, digital experiences, and growth marketing.

Sosemo LLC are an award-winning strategic media planning, buying and campaign management agency that specializes in marketing brands across the digital landscape. their team leverages core digital channels including search marketing (SEM/SEO), social media, display and programmatic to increase brand awareness and acquisitions for their clients.

SEO Services New York focuses on strengthening online visibility by building relevance and trust across every layer of a client’s website. Based in New York City, the agency develops tailored SEO strategies designed to improve search positioning and attract consistent organic traffic. The team emphasizes deep research and data analysis before launching any campaign, shaping plans around measurable goals rather than guesswork. Their framework for organic growth has been applied across more than 120 brands in multiple countries. With a methodical, research-driven approach, SEO Services New York positions itself as a practical partner for businesses seeking long-term search performance.

Hozio brings together a team of website designers and SEO specialists serving businesses across Long Island and New York City. The agency keeps pace with current trends in online marketing while maintaining a practical, business-minded perspective. What distinguishes Hozio is its partnership approach. The leadership views clients as collaborators, focusing on clear goals and measurable progress. By integrating search engine optimization, social media engagement, and conversion-focused web design, the firm builds coordinated marketing strategies rather than isolated campaigns. The result is a balanced approach aimed at generating leads, encouraging referrals, and supporting long-term business growth.

SEO Image is a New York–based search engine marketing firm known for its results-driven approach and long-standing client relationships. In a crowded industry, the agency emphasizes measurable performance over sales promises, focusing on sustained rankings, qualified traffic, and meaningful conversions. Rather than operating as a high-volume, short-term provider, SEO Image maintains a senior-level team with substantial hands-on marketing experience. Many clients remain with the firm well beyond their initial contracts, a reflection of consistent outcomes and ongoing campaign refinement. Offering services that include SEO, PPC management, social media, reputation management, and web design, the agency positions itself as a seasoned, performance-focused partner for serious brands.

Mimvi is a New York–based digital marketing agency with more than a decade of experience helping businesses strengthen their online visibility. Specializing in SEO-driven strategies, the firm works with companies of all sizes throughout NYC and Long Island, focusing on measurable growth and sustainable search rankings. Mimvi’s team brings together professionals from diverse educational and industry backgrounds, creating a well-rounded approach to digital campaigns. With subject matter expertise across multiple fields, the agency tailors its strategies to fit each client’s market. Known for its results-oriented mindset, Mimvi positions itself as a committed partner for businesses aiming to compete—and rank—at the highest level online.

Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP is a New York City personal injury firm representing clients in serious injury and wrongful death matters. The firm handles cases involving car and motorcycle accidents, slip and fall incidents, premises liability, and asbestos-related claims, including mesothelioma litigation. With a track record of recovering millions of dollars on behalf of injured clients, the attorneys focus on thorough case preparation and persistent advocacy. Known for a client-centered approach, Meirowitz & Wasserberg works closely with individuals and families navigating difficult circumstances, offering guidance and determined representation aimed at securing meaningful financial recovery.

Belluck & Fox, LLP is widely recognized for its work representing individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. With more than 25 years of experience, the firm has secured nearly $1 billion in verdicts and settlements, including significant trial victories and appellate successes in New York’s highest court. The attorneys conduct detailed investigations to determine when and where asbestos exposure occurred, drawing on extensive occupational and corporate records. While many cases are resolved through negotiated settlements, the firm is fully prepared to take matters to trial when necessary. Belluck & Fox is known for thorough preparation, strong courtroom advocacy, and a determined commitment to securing justice for affected families.

the New York based mesothelioma attorneys at Levy Konigsberg LLP have been recognized by clients and other lawyers alike as the “right attorneys” for the legal needs of victims across the United States. The firm has recovered over $1.5 billion dollars for those suffering from mesothelioma. The decades of successful representation of patients have helped their lawyers develop an unparalleled arsenal of knowledge, experience, skills, and reputation that has enabled them to obtain substantial recoveries on behalf of so many victims and their family members all over America.

Are you looking for a top New York mesothelioma lawyer? The Williams Law Firm handles all types of mesothelioma cases caused by asbestos exposure in high-risk occupations such as mechanics, construction workers, shipyard workers, & Navy seamen as well as in products containing asbestos like talc powder & insulation. With over 25 years of experience, The Williams Law Firm, P.C. founder Joseph Williams has established a reputation as one of the best mesothelioma & asbestos attorneys in New York, recovering millions of dollars for 800+ families. While their office is located in New York City, they serve areas including the Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, and even represent families nationwide.

With a history spanning 175 years, New York Life Insurance Company has grown into one of the most established names in the life insurance and financial services sector. The firm’s focus extends beyond traditional life coverage, offering guidance in retirement planning, wealth strategies, and long-term financial security. Its financial professionals work closely with individuals and families to address pivotal life decisions, from protecting loved ones to preparing for future milestones. Backed by decades of institutional experience, New York Life emphasizes stability, personalized advice, and a commitment to helping clients build enduring financial confidence.

Serving clients across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, GMI Brokerage operates as a full-service insurance agency focused on accessibility and choice. The firm provides a broad selection of coverage options for both individuals and businesses, aiming to ensure that clients can secure protection tailored to their specific needs. Its approach centers on attentive service and practical guidance, helping customers compare policies without feeling limited to a single carrier or solution. By combining regional experience with a customer-first mindset, GMI Brokerage positions itself as a dependable resource for those seeking comprehensive insurance support in the tri-state area.

Golden Coverage operates as an independent insurance agency in New York City, offering clients access to a broad network of reputable carriers. The firm focuses on balancing cost savings with meaningful protection, helping individuals and businesses avoid being underinsured while still keeping premiums competitive. By working with multiple providers, Golden Coverage is able to present varied policy options rather than a one-size-fits-all solution. Its approach emphasizes careful assessment of each client’s needs, whether personal or commercial. For those seeking flexibility and informed guidance in a complex insurance market, the agency provides a practical and client-centered alternative.

With roots firmly planted in Long Island, Grober Imbey Agency operates as a family-owned firm serving individuals, families, and businesses across multiple states. The agency blends local familiarity with broader market access, offering insurance solutions tailored to the priorities of each client. Its leadership remains closely connected to the Long Island community, shaping a service approach that emphasizes relationships over transactions. Rather than offering generic policies, the team focuses on understanding what matters most to clients and structuring protection accordingly. The result is a personalized, community-oriented model built on trust, accessibility, and long-term support.

Dennis Shipping Co Inc provides ocean freight services to destinations across the Caribbean and Central America, focusing on timely and efficient cargo movement. The company coordinates with multiple ocean carriers to help reduce transit times, with most shipments arriving within two to three weeks. Serving customers in New York and Florida, Dennis Shipping handles barrels, boxes, furniture, appliances, and general packages. Clients have the option to schedule pickups, drop off items at the warehouse, or even pack shipments on-site, making the process practical and convenient for personal and household cargo needs.

Morgan Shipping Lines is a U.S. international shipping company (OTI) licensed and bonded by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). Morgan offers multiple ocean and air shipping services to and from the US. their international ocean freight services include international shipping of household goods, boxes, crates and pallets for consolidated shipments (LCL); international shipping for exclusive ocean freight full container loads (FCL ); international shipping of cars RO-RO and consolidated in ocean containers. they handle break-bulk services for large oversize cargo and special government projects. Morgan has a network of offices and agents around the world that provides global coverage for any logistics requirements from beginning to end.

Global Shipping offers secure, insured bonded storage facilities along with consolidation services designed to help clients achieve competitive sea and air freight rates. By combining shipments where possible, the company works to reduce overall transportation costs while maintaining careful handling and oversight. With established relationships across major Caribbean ports and beyond, Global Shipping leverages its network to streamline logistics and facilitate efficient movement of goods. The firm positions itself as a dependable partner for businesses and individuals seeking organized freight solutions backed by secure storage and coordinated international shipping expertise.

Sunset International Shipping provides relocation and international shipping services, assisting clients with everything from packing and unpacking to secure storage solutions. The company handles air and ocean freight, door-to-door and door-to-port shipments, as well as overseas vehicle transport. With a hands-on approach, Sunset International Shipping guides clients through each stage of the relocation process. Their team supplies all necessary packing materials and works to ensure belongings are properly protected for transit. Emphasizing clear communication and transparent pricing, the company offers flat-rate options designed to eliminate unexpected costs and make international moves more manageable.

NY International Shipping provides tailored overseas moving solutions from its New York base, offering both ocean and air freight options. Shipping costs are calculated by cubic feet or weight, giving clients flexibility depending on shipment size. For larger relocations, ocean freight is typically the more economical choice, while smaller consignments may benefit from air transport. Known for guiding families through the complexities of international relocation, the company emphasizes careful planning and personalized service. Whether moving to or from the United States, NY International Shipping combines experience with practical logistics support to help ensure a smooth, well-coordinated overseas transition.

The Experience A towering gilded statue of the Buddha generates elegant calm in this 175-seat, Pan Asian restaurant with sleek, modern decor. Immensely popular, Buddakan is a restaurant that is great for both large parties and intimate dinners. Located in the heart of the bustling Old City neighborhood, Buddakan features two full bars as well as a popular (and hard to reserve) 20-person, lit-from-within, community table for sharing food and conversation. The fare is top notch - appetizers include seared kobe beef carpaccio, endamme ravioli, miso tuna tartare and tea smoked spareribs. For the main course, delve into delicious dishes like Japanese black cod, wasabi crusted filet mignon, roasted ponzu chicken and collosal tempura shrimp. For dessert, the chocolate bento box will please just about anyone. Be sure to make your reservation before coming to town as Buddakan fills up quickly especially on weekends. Better yet, make your reservation right now .

Stephen Starr creative Japanese restaurant has garnered all kinds of national and international attention since opening a few years back. Located a block from Independence Hall on Chestnut Street, Morimoto has an interior - awash in glass and colors - that is both striking and serene in its design. The restaurant´s namesake and head chef, Morimoto (of Food Network´s Iron Chef fame), has created a menu offering the very best in contemporary Japanese cusine. While regulars flock here for the exquisitely prepared sushi, Morimoto offers diners a broad spectrum of flavors that delve beyond nigiri and sashimi. In recent years, the restaurant has made it onto Gourmet magazine´s “Best Restaurants in America” list and Conde Nast Traveler magazine 50 Hot Tables in America. Today Morimoto remains one of the hottest spots to dine in Center City and continues to receive rave reviews from regulars and first-timers alike. That said, be sure to call ahead for reservations. Insider Tip The mezzanine level lounge is a great spot to have a pre-meal cocktail while waiting for your table. You can enjoy a sake or try a “Sakura” - a cosmo made with Sake - in the sleek space that overlooks the brilliant restaurant below.

Chef and charismatic television star Michael Schulson returns to Philadelphia with the opening of Sampan, a modern Asian restaurant where he serves the acclaimed cuisine that has made him one of the country´s highly sought-after culinary talents. Schulson returns to Philadelphia after having opened Buddakan in New York City for Stephen Starr and Izakaya at the Borgata in Atlantic City and then having gone on to star in Style network´s popular series Pantry Raid and TLC Ultimate Cake Off. Chef Schulson has been looking forward to a time when he could come back to Philadelphia and cook in a small, personal space, which he has now achieved with Sampan. To him, Sampan is a place where he can prepare serious food from across Asia while interacting with guests and sharing his love of the cuisine with them. Design Designed by Philadelphia´s Sparks Design, Sampan features distressed metals, reclaimed timber and a rustic, natural aesthetic anchored by a custom-crafted, color washed painting that lends a warm ambiance to the space. In contrast to the large scale restaurants such as Manhattan´s Buddakan and West Philadelphia´s Pod, where Chef Schulson served as executive chef, this 80-seat gem is a cozy setting that allows his passion for Asian flavors, thoughtfully prepared, to shine. Cuisine Schulson´s says his mission at Sampan is to make the more exotic and unfamiliar flavors of Asian cuisine accessible and inviting to American palates. Sampan menu is composed of a variety of small plates - Chef Schulson´s preferred way to cook because it is ideal for sampling and sharing. Tempting dishes include: his signature Edamame Dumplings, with truffles, shoots and sake broth; Thai Chicken Wings with pickles, mint and basil; Pekin Duck with tamarind pancakes, scallions and cucumbers; Lamb Satay with yakitori, penko and ginger; Crispy Chili Crab with Hong Kong noodles, black beans and ginger chips; Mao Pao Tofu with pork, ginger and garlic; and Wild Mushroom Salad with goat cheese, puffed rice and truffles. Prices range from $5 to $19.

A deluxe hotel like The Rittenhouse deserves a deluxe restaurant, a fitting description for Lacroix, named “Restaurant of the Year” in 2003 by Esquire magazine. Located on the second floor of the Rittenhouse Hotel, Lacroix features elegant décor and a broad view of Rittenhouse Square, which combine to make the ambiance at Lacroix as enjoyable as the meal itself. The creative French menu changes with the season and in the past has included favorites like pumpkin soup with fried shallots and tuna steak with salmis sauce. The wine list is excellent and extensive - thanks to the 4,000-bottle wine cellar . The tasting menus can be catered to your preference - three-, four- and five-course selections are offered at set prices during lunch and dinner. Sunday Brunch at Lacroix - which features such delectable dishes as baby lamb chops with garlic crust and banyuls sauce, niman ranch smoked bacon, quail eggs with artichoke, golden beet and shiitakes, and french baguette toast with apple, raspberry and rosemary jam - is also highly recommended.

A deluxe hotel like The Rittenhouse deserves a deluxe restaurant, a fitting description for Lacroix, named “Restaurant of the Year” in 2003 by Esquire magazine. Located on the second floor of the Rittenhouse Hotel, Lacroix features elegant décor and a broad view of Rittenhouse Square, which combine to make the ambiance at Lacroix as enjoyable as the meal itself. The creative French menu changes with the season and in the past has included favorites like pumpkin soup with fried shallots and tuna steak with salmis sauce. The wine list is excellent and extensive - thanks to the 4,000-bottle wine cellar . The tasting menus can be catered to your preference - three-, four- and five-course selections are offered at set prices during lunch and dinner. Sunday Brunch at Lacroix - which features such delectable dishes as baby lamb chops with garlic crust and banyuls sauce, niman ranch smoked bacon, quail eggs with artichoke, golden beet and shiitakes, and french baguette toast with apple, raspberry and rosemary jam - is also highly recommended.

The Fountain Restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia has received seemingly every type of accolade there is, from top honors in Gourmet magazine to Forbes Travel Guide´s 2010 Five Star award to a perfect Five Diamond rating from AAA. It´s been a Philadelphia favorite for special occasion meals for decades. Additionally rated as the best restaurant in Philadelphia by Zagat´s, the Fountain Restaurant overlooks the majestic Swann Memorial Fountain sculpture by Alexander Stirling Calder in the center of Logan Square. You´ll also enjoy sweeping views of the grand Benjamin Franklin Parkway and its gorgeous Beaux Arts architecture. Fountain is definitely an incredibly romantic restaurant, so if you´re visiting with a special someone, you will surely impress them with a meal at Fountain. You can order a la carte or select the prix fix option to enjoy the “spontaneous tastes” menu which gives the chef control of a few courses. The menu changes regularly, but you can expect to see globaly influenced items like Pan-fried Veal Sweetbreads, Braised Dover Sole Roulade, Sautéed Venison Medallions and Roasted Australian Lamb Saddle.

Percy Street Barbecue sees the South Street debut of restaurateurs Steven Cook and Michael Solomonov (Zahav, Xochitl). Serving a straightforward selection of slowly smoked meats and homey side dishes alongside craft beers and tasty cocktails, Percy Street is an ideal venue for Chef Erin OShea much-lauded Southern cooking, and is on its way to become the city top spot for barbecue. Working with J&R smokers sourced from Texas, Chef O´shea and her crack team of barbecue wizards headed down to Texas - tested no fewer than 20 beef briskets - as they perfected the ideal balance of salt, smoke and seasoning. Check out this video about their culinary field trip to the Lone Star State. The Eats That Brisket which is Percy Street´s signature dish, served - as is the custom in Texas - by the half pound or pound, in three distinct cuts: Moist, Lean and Burnt Ends. Other menu items include: Spare Ribs; house-made Sausage; half or whole Chicken; and Pork Belly, all slowly smoked and served with white bread and pickles. Sides, available small or large, include: Pinto Beans; Green Bean Casserole, Root beer Chili, Coleslaw; Collard Greens; Macaroni and Cheese; and Vegan Chili. The Drinks In keeping with their bare-bones, Texas-frontier aesthetic, Percy Street´s craft beers are served exclusively on draft at the poured concrete bar, lit from above by illuminated green glass beer growlers. Beers include Sly Fox Rauchbier (available in Pennsylvania exclusively at the restaurant) as well as a hand-crafted Root Beer from Yard´s Brewing Company. Cocktails include: FM 423, with Tito handmade vodka, peach juice and sweet tea; Jack & Ginger, with Jack Daniels, Canton ginger liqueur, lime cordial and ginger ale; and Cherry Cola, with Beam rye, cherry Heering, DiSaronno and cola. Atmosphere Percy Street´s simple, rustic decor was created by Elisabeth Knapp, who also designed Cook and Solomonov Xochitl and Zahav restaurants. Her frontier-influenced design focuses on the fire engine red smokers, visible through a window in the dining room and bar area. The restaurant features light wood floors, weathered red paint, a working jukebox and custom “blackboard walls,” large panels of schoolhouse blackboards that can be rearranged to create private dining areas throughout the 80-seat space. Seating in the form of repurposed church pews, and bare light bulbs overhead in the dining room lend to the restaurant Texas-esque aesthetic.

If you love Paris in the springtime, Parc is a veritable grand cru. With Parc, famed restaurateur Stephen Starr brings a certain je ne sais quoi to Rittenhouse Square. Parc offers an authentic French bistro experience, fully equipped with a chic Parisian ambiance and gorgeous sidewalk seating overlooking the Square. Cuisine Parc menu encourages a joyful dining experience, where croissants, champagne and conversation are enjoyed in equal measure. Sample hors d’oeuvres include salade lyonnaise with warm bacon vinaigrette and poached egg, escargots served in their shells with hazelnut butter and a crispy duck confit with frisée salad and pickled chanterelles. Outstanding entrées include boeuf bourguignon with fresh buttered pasta and steak frites with peppercorn sauce. A variety of plats du jour are also offered, including a seafood-rich bouillabaisse on Fridays and a sumptuous coq au vin, perfect for Sunday night suppers. And what´s an authentic French meal without wine? More than 160 expertly chosen varietals are offered by the bottle, with more than 20 available by the glass. See and Be Seen With seating for more than 75 at its sidewalk and window seating, Parc has instantly become one of the best places in Philadelphia for alfresco drinking and dining. The awning-covered seating wraps around the restaurant´s two sides and overlooks Rittenhouse Square, one of Philadelphia´s most popular public spaces. Atmosphere The aroma of freshly baked breads fills the air as one enters Parc´s casual front room, which is clad in hand-laid Parisian tiles in shades of ecru and green. Red leather banquettes flanked by frosted glass offer subtle intimacy, while well-worn wooden chairs, reclaimed bistro tables and mahogany paneled walls give the room a sense of place. The more formal dining room provides a slightly more sophisticated experience while maintaining the energy and emotion of a bustling brasserie. To put it simply, Parc is nothing short of an authentic Parisian dining experience - right here in the heart of Rittenhouse Square.

Zavino is a new pizzeria and wine bar located at the epicenter of the city´s trendy Midtown Village neighborhood. The restaurant features a seasonal menu, classic cocktails, an approachable selection of wine and beer and some of the best late night menu offerings in the area. The restaurant´s interior looks great - it has a simple, rustic feel with an original brick wall, large picture windows, a long bar and a large outdoor cafe coming this spring. And the menu is great too - it boasts affordable snacks ranging from pizza to pasta to charcuterie to satisfy diners’ hunger, and then cocktails, including Italy´s venerable Negroni and Bellini, and an ever-evolving assortment of wine and beer offerings, to quench their thirst. Menu items vary seasonally, as is customary in Italy, and may include: House-Made Beef Ravioli with brown butter and sage; Roasted Red and Golden Beets with pistachios and goat cheese; Roasted Lamb with fried eggplant and mint; a delicious house-made gnocchi; and traditional Panzanella, a tomato and bread salad. There is also a nice selection of cheese and charcuterie available a la carte. The Pizza The gourmet pizzas are baked in a special wood-burning oven that reaches temperatures of up to 900 degrees. The pizzas are approximately 12 inches in diameter. And Chef Gonzalez describes the crust as neither too thin or too thick, but rather somewhere right between Neapolitan and Sicilian, “crunchy and tender, and just exactly right.” Three classic pizzas will be available year-round: Rosa, with tomato sauce and roasted garlic; Margherita, with tomato sauce and buffalo mozzarella, topped with fresh basil; and Polpettini, tomato sauce and provolone cheese with veal mini-meatballs. The specialty pizzas that are on the opening winter menu include: Philly, with bechamel, provolone, roasted onions and bresaola; Kennett, with bechamel, claudio´s mozzarella, roasted onions with oyster, cremini and shitake mushrooms; Sopressata, with tomato sauce, claudio´s mozzarella, sopressata olives, pickled red onion and pecorino; and Fratello, with bechamel, broccoli, roasted garlic and claudio´s mozzarella. Pizzas vary in price from $8 to $12.

Located in a Rittenhouse Square space evoking the free-wheeling spirit of a speakeasy, Village Whiskey is prolific Chef Jose Garces’ intimate, 30-seat tribute to the time-honored liquor. In fact, Village Whiskey features a veritable library of 80-100 varieties of whiskey, bourbon, rye and scotch from Scotland, Canada, Ireland, United States and even Japan. Much as Village Whiskey could be a scene for toasting and roasting, it also comes from the culinary imagination of Jose Garces (of Amada, Tinto, Distrito and Chifa fame), meaning the food is no less than outstanding. Cuisine Village Whiskey´s specialty from the kitchen is “bar snacks,” but that doesn´t mean a bowl of cashews. Rather, it means deviled eggs, spicy popcorn shrimp, soft pretzels and an à la carte raw bar, all treated with the culinary care that made Jose Garces a finalist on The Next Iron Chef. Perhaps you seek something heartier. The lobster roll, raw bar selections and Kentucky fried quail are standouts, but you’d really ought to order the Whiskey King: a 10 oz patty of ground-to-order sustainable angus topped with maple bourbon glazed cipollini, Rogue blue cheese, applewood smoked bacon and foie gras. Bring your appetite. Cocktails Whiskey-based cocktails are divided into two categories: Prohibition (classic cocktails) and Repeal (more contemporary, modern takes). Meanwhile, the venerable Manhattan is a mainstay, mixed using house-made bitters. Prohibition cocktails include: Old Fashioned (Bottle in Bond Bourbon and house bitters); Aviation (Creme de Violette and gin); and Philadelphia Fish House Punch (dark rum, peach brandy and tea). Repeal cocktails include: APA (hops-infused vodka, ginger and egg white); De Riguer (rye, aperol, grapefruit and mint); and Horse With No Name (scotch, Stone Pine Liqueur and pineapple). Atmosphere The speakeasy atmosphere is accomplished through dim lighting, posters for various alcohols, a tin ceiling and antique mirrors. Black-and-white white tiled floors, marble topped tables and wooden drink rails add to the traditional bar decor. Behind the pewter bar, whiskies are proudly displayed like leather-bound books. During the warmer months, diners can sit at large, wooden tables placed along Sansom Street for whiskey alfresco.

The Chestnut Hill Hotel is located in the historic community of Chestnut Hill, approximately nine miles northwest from Center City Philadelphia. Although Chestnut Hill is close to Center City by today´s standards, it was originally a distant “suburb” on the outskirts of the Philadelphia countryside. Today, it is one of the region´s most charming neighborhoods. Tree-lined streets and grand estates surround its main street, Germantown Avenue, where you can stroll and shop at more than 200 specialty shops and restaurants, along with trendy salons and other modern boutiques. The Chestnut Hill Hotel fits perfectly in this setting - the hotel´s 36 rooms and suites, decorated in an 18th-century style, hold the hotel to its boutique roots. It´s a perfect place at which to enjoy a romantic getaway in Philadelphia.

The Alexander Inn is one of Philadelphia´s most popular and reasonably priced small hotels. Conveniently located in the heart of the Washington Square West neighborhood in Center City Philadelphia, the Alexander Inn is a great place to base your stay in Philadelphia. The décor of the hotel´s 48 designer rooms is inspired by the style of the grand cruise ships of the 1930s, which is reflected in the rooms’ hand selected furnishings, fabrics and accessories. Beautiful artwork adorns the walls of each rooms, which all include private baths with plush towels. Rooms are also fitted with DirecTV (including many complimentary channels like CNN, ESPN, eight movie channels, etc.) and telephones with modem ports and direct dial. You will also have access to the hotel´s free 24-hour fitness and e-mail centers.

The Alexander Inn is one of Philadelphia´s most popular and reasonably priced small hotels. Conveniently located in the heart of the Washington Square West neighborhood in Center City Philadelphia, the Alexander Inn is a great place to base your stay in Philadelphia. The décor of the hotel´s 48 designer rooms is inspired by the style of the grand cruise ships of the 1930s, which is reflected in the rooms’ hand selected furnishings, fabrics and accessories. Beautiful artwork adorns the walls of each rooms, which all include private baths with plush towels. Rooms are also fitted with DirecTV (including many complimentary channels like CNN, ESPN, eight movie channels, etc.) and telephones with modem ports and direct dial. You will also have access to the hotel´s free 24-hour fitness and e-mail centers.

Overview The Philadelphia Downtown Courtyard opened it´s doors after a grand $75 million restoration, recapturing the grandeur of its 1926 origins while incorporating state of the art systems throughout. Designed by renowned architect Phillip H. Johnson, the 18-story, 498-room hotel is listed on the “National Register of Historic Places” and stands as a charming testament to time with elegant bronze work, plaster detailing, striking marble finishes and unique architectural details. Catering to both leisure and business travelers, the historic full-service hotel is ideally located in the “Heart of Center City” across from City Hall, one block to the Pennsylvania Convention Center and within walking distance of the Financial & Historic Districts, Avenue of the Arts and some of the finest restaurants and shopping the city has to offer. Guestroom Features The hotel features stylishly appointed oversized guestrooms with 11ft-high ceilings, a 42” LCD TV, Refrigerator, I-Pod Docking Station Alarm Clock, complimentary Wireless or Wired internet access, and Marriott´s plush Revive bedding package. In addition, the property offers 61 suites for those who like additional room and added comfort as well as 50 rooms which include a striking Wall Mural of Philadelphia´s Independence Hall. Hotel Services As the largest Courtyard by Marriott in the United States, this hotel is truly unique offering all the full-service features and amenities you would expect from a premier hotel. The Annex Grille & Lounge serves American Cuisine for breakfast, lunch & dinner as well as is a great location for a refreshing beverage or cocktail. Or you can dine in the convenience of your guestroom with the hotel´s evening Room Service. The hotel´s Lobby Concierge Services and Bellman are ready to assist you with any request as well as information on all Philadelphia has to offer. Stay in shape in the hotel´s State of the Art Fitness Center, and then unwind in the Indoor Pool and Whirlpool. If you are looking for a quiet place to getaway, visit our Philip H. Johnson Library where you can read all about Historic Philadelphia. Meetings & Events Recently featured on WE TV´s “My Fair Wedding”, the Courtyard Marriott Philadelphia is one of the city´s leading venues for corporate and social affairs with over 10,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space, including two Grand Ballrooms each with over 3,000 square feet accommodating up to 250 people. In addition, the hotel has a total of 11 meeting rooms making it…

Overview The Philadelphia Downtown Courtyard opened it´s doors after a grand $75 million restoration, recapturing the grandeur of its 1926 origins while incorporating state of the art systems throughout. Designed by renowned architect Phillip H. Johnson, the 18-story, 498-room hotel is listed on the “National Register of Historic Places” and stands as a charming testament to time with elegant bronze work, plaster detailing, striking marble finishes and unique architectural details. Catering to both leisure and business travelers, the historic full-service hotel is ideally located in the “Heart of Center City” across from City Hall, one block to the Pennsylvania Convention Center and within walking distance of the Financial & Historic Districts, Avenue of the Arts and some of the finest restaurants and shopping the city has to offer. Guestroom Features The hotel features stylishly appointed oversized guestrooms with 11ft-high ceilings, a 42” LCD TV, Refrigerator, I-Pod Docking Station Alarm Clock, complimentary Wireless or Wired internet access, and Marriott´s plush Revive bedding package. In addition, the property offers 61 suites for those who like additional room and added comfort as well as 50 rooms which include a striking Wall Mural of Philadelphia´s Independence Hall. Hotel Services As the largest Courtyard by Marriott in the United States, this hotel is truly unique offering all the full-service features and amenities you would expect from a premier hotel. The Annex Grille & Lounge serves American Cuisine for breakfast, lunch & dinner as well as is a great location for a refreshing beverage or cocktail. Or you can dine in the convenience of your guestroom with the hotel´s evening Room Service. The hotel´s Lobby Concierge Services and Bellman are ready to assist you with any request as well as information on all Philadelphia has to offer. Stay in shape in the hotel´s State of the Art Fitness Center, and then unwind in the Indoor Pool and Whirlpool. If you are looking for a quiet place to getaway, visit our Philip H. Johnson Library where you can read all about Historic Philadelphia. Meetings & Events Recently featured on WE TV´s “My Fair Wedding”, the Courtyard Marriott Philadelphia is one of the city´s leading venues for corporate and social affairs with over 10,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space, including two Grand Ballrooms each with over 3,000 square feet accommodating up to 250 people. In addition, the hotel has a total of 11 meeting rooms making it…

Located in the heart of Penn´s campus in the beautiful University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, The Hilton Inn at Penn is a great choice for accommodations during your upcoming visit to Philadelphia. The location puts you right in the middle of the prestigious University of Pennsylvania and its many nearby educational, medical and corporate centers. And Center City Philadelphia is only a short cab ride away. So if you want to get out and explore the city, you are set. Take in a show at the Annenberg Theater; visit one of the many museums the city has to offer; dine at area restaurants that boast a range of cuisines, from Thai to Indian to Japanese to classic comfort cuisine; peerless boutique shopping along Walnut Street from University City to Old City. The beautifully appointed guest rooms are equipped for the technologically sophisticated and include two dual-line phones with voice mail, data ports and high speed and wireless Internet access. Each room also offers WEBTV, plush terry cloth robes and luxurious bath amenities provide a touch of indulgence. Additionally, a refreshment center is now located in each guestroom with snacks and refreshments along with an in room safe for valuables and laptops. The Hilton Inn at Penn is a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond rating. There is also a 24-hour fitness center with a full range of cardiovascular and weight training equipment. Penne Restaurant and Wine Bar One of University City´s finest Italian restaurants is Penne at the Inn at Penn. Featuring innovative, regional Italian cuisine and hand-made pasta made fresh daily, Penne is a great choice for lunch or dinner. The pasta is handmade right in front of you and then dished up along side delectable entrées such as grilled veal tenderloin and honey glazed sea scallops. And the wine bar offers more than 30 varieties by the glass and more than 100 by the bottle.

Get ready to stay and play at the new aloft Philadelphia Airport! This incredibly modern hotel is located just five minutes from Philadelphia International Airport, offering a great convenience to travelers looking for fresh and fun accommodations. Guest Rooms The hotel´s spacious guest rooms make you feel right at home with extra large windows, iPod docking stations, high-speed wireless internet, 42” LCD televisions and king- or queen-sized beds. Like the rest of the hotel, the guest rooms feature ultra-modern touches and a fun, energetic design. Things to Do Want to socialize? That´s easy at aloft - just step into the re:mix lobby to relax and chat, work on your laptop or shoot a few games of pool. Ready for cocktail hour? The w xyz bar has great drink specials and tasty bar fare. Time for a snack? The re:fuel shop offers self-serve bites like sandwiches, salads and fresh fruit. The Splash indoor pool and re:charge fitness center complete your overnight experience. And lucky for you - self check-in kiosks allow you to print out your next flight´s boarding pass! Talk about convenient. Re:Fuel Just off the plane and craving something to nibble? Thanks to Aloft Philadelphia Airport´s innovative eating options, you don´t have to make do with bland in-flight meals or unhealthy airport fare. Enticing edibles are here, from sweet treats to healthy eats and more. There is something to please your palate at any hour. Help yourself at the 24-7 re:fuel by Aloft(SM) for a quick bite whenever hunger strikes. Or mix and mingle with a drink and snack at the w xyz(SM) bar. Fun For the traveler open to possibilities, Aloft Philadelphia Airport is a fresh, fun, forward-thinking alternative. Breeze into a hotel that offers more than a comfy bed and a friendly smile, and enjoy a whole new travel experience. Energy flows and personalities mingle in a setting that combines urban-influenced design, accessible technology, and a social scene that´s always abuzz. Energizing public spaces draw you from your room to socialize, or just enjoy the hum of activity as you do your own thing. Sip a drink, read the paper, or work on your laptop in the re:mix(SM) lounge or w xyz(SM) bar, where lighting and music change throughout the day to set the perfect mood. The hotel´s open flow of features and help-yourself services inspire you to step outside the one-size-fits-all travel routine. Customize your stay…

OVERVIEW One of the most important architectural works of the 20th Century, the PSFS (Philadelphia Savings Fund Society) Building has been converted into the new 585-room Loews Philadelphia Hotel. Designed by George Howe and William Lescaze, the building was erected in 1932 and was the first international style, modernist high-rise building. Today, the building retains period details, such as Cartier clocks, bank vault doors and polished granite, as well as modern amenities such as a full service health spa, business center, spinning room, lap pool and over 40,000 square feet of multi-purpose space, including three ballrooms. THE HOTEL Loews Hotels is proud to have restored the landmark PSFS Building to its original grandeur, while transforming it into a hotel that people from all over the world can experience and enjoy. The hotel takes full advantage of the building´s historical features. The three-story former banking room has been preserved as Millennium Hall, a dramatic banquet space. The historic, rooftop boardroom has been converted to a spectacular setting for catered events. The building retains period details, such as Cartier clocks, bank vault doors and polished granite, as well as modern amenities such as a full service health spa, business center, spinning room, lap pool and over 40,000 square feet of multi-purpose space, including three ballrooms. Feel the comforts of home in accommodations that perfectly balance the contemporary with the elegant. Where every detail from the lofty ten-foot ceilings to the miles of spectacular views is designed to serve one purpose – yours. Whether you´re working hard or playing hard, you can always rest easy. The Loews is perfect for families. The hotel offers special kid-friendly programs and features dedicated to the principle: “the family that stays together plays together” (and that includes four-legged family members too). Learn more about Loews Signature Family Travel Benefits. DINING AT THE HOTEL Solefood SoleFood is a fusion of seafood and cutting edge culinary expertise, offering seafood inspired dishes at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy a cozy table for two or make new friends at one of the communal tables featuring a center display of river rocks and candles. In order to create a memorable culinary experience in an upscale, hip environment which mixes eclectic cool with classic style, Solefood Restaurant continues to create exciting food and drinks that are mixed with just the right amount of attitude. SoleFood has received local and regional accolades…

Unlike the other squares, the early Southwest Square was never used as a burial ground, although it offered pasturage for local livestock and a convenient dumping spot for “night soil”. History By the late 1700s the square was surrounded by brickyards as the area´s clay terrain was better suited for kilns than crops. In 1825 the square was renamed in honor of Philadelphian David Rittenhouse, the brilliant astronomer, instrument maker and patriotic leader of the Revolutionary era. A building boom began by the 1850s, and in the second half of the 19th century the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood became the most fashionable residential section of the city, the home of Philadelphia´s “Victorian aristocracy.” Some mansions from that period still survive on the streets facing the square, although most of the grand homes gave way to apartment buildings after 1913. In 1816, local residents loaned funds to the city to buy a fence to enclose Rittenhouse Square. In the decade before the Civil War, the Square boasted not only trees and walkways, but also fountains donated by local benefactors – prematurely, it turned out, for the fountains created so much mud that City Council ordered them removed. The square´s present layout dates from 1913, when the newly formed Rittenhouse Square Improvement Association helped fund a redesign by Paul Philippe Cret, a French-born architect who contributed to the design of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Rodin Museum. Although some changes have been made since then, the square still reflects Cret´s original plan. Layout The main walkways are diagonal, beginning at the corners and meeting at a central oval. The plaza, which contains a large planter bed and a reflecting pool, is surrounded by a balustrade and ringed by a circular walk. Classical urns, many bearing relief figures of ancient Greeks, rest on pedestals at the entrances and elsewhere throughout the square. Ornamental lampposts contribute to an air of old-fashioned gentility. A low fence surrounds the square, and balustrades adorn the corner entrances. Oaks, maples, locusts, plane trees, and others stand within and around the enclosure, and the flowerbeds and blooming shrubs add a splash of color in season. Rittenhouse Square is the site of annual flower markets and outdoor art exhibitions. More than any of the other squares, it also functions as a neighborhood park. Office workers eat their lunches on the benches; parents bring children to play; and many people stroll…

The Experience The Liberty Bell has a new home, and it is as powerful and dramatic as the Bell itself. Throughout the expansive, light-filled Center, larger-than-life historic documents and graphic images explore the facts and the myths surrounding the Bell. X-rays give an insider´s view, literally, of the Bell´s crack and inner-workings. In quiet alcoves, a short History Channel film, available in English and eight other languages, traces how abolitionists, suffragists and other groups adopted the Bell as its symbol of freedom. Other exhibits show how the Bell´s image was used on everything from ice cream molds to wind chimes. Keep your camera handy. Soaring glass walls offer dramatic and powerful views of both the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, just a few steps away. History The bell now called the Liberty Bell was cast in the Whitechapel Foundry in the East End of London and sent to the building currently known as Independence Hall, then the Pennsylvania State House, in 1753. It was an impressive looking object, 12 feet in circumference around the lip with a 44-pound clapper. Inscribed at the top was part of a Biblical verse from Leviticus, “Proclaim Liberty throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof.” Unfortunately, the clapper cracked the bell on its first use. A couple of local artisans, John Pass and John Stow, recast the bell twice, once adding more copper to make it less brittle and then adding silver to sweeten its tone. No one was quite satisfied, but it was put in the tower of the State House anyway. Fast Facts The Liberty Bell is composed of approximately 70 percent copper, 25 percent tin and traces of lead, zinc, arsenic, gold and silver. The Bell is suspended from what is believed to be its original yoke, made of American elm. The Liberty Bell weighs 2,080 pounds. The yoke weighs about 100 pounds.

Audacious Freedom, the major, new exhibit at the African American Museum in Philadelphia , explores the lives of people of African descent living in Philadelphia between 1776 and 1876. Discover how African Americans in Philadelphia lived and worked while helping to shape the young nation in its formative stages. Exhibit themes include entrepreneurship, environment, education, religion and family traditions of the African American population, played out through interactive displays, video projections and vivid photography. The groundbreaking exhibit allows visitors to “walk the streets” of Historic Philadelphia using a large-scale map. Young children can join the action with Children´s Corner, which highlights the daily lives of children during that period.

The Experience Museum Without Walls: AUDIO is a multi-platform, interactive audio tour, designed to allow locals and visitors alike to experience Philadelphia extensive collection of public art and outdoor sculpture along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Kelly Drive. This innovative program invites passersby to stop, look, listen and see this city public art in a new way. Discover the untold histories of the 51 outdoor sculptures at 35 stops through these professionally produced three-minute interpretive audio segments. The many narratives have been spoken by more than 100 individuals, all with personal connections to the pieces of art. Works in Museum Without Walls: AUDIO include the sculpture Jesus Breaking Bread, which is located in front of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at 18th and Race Streets. The sculpture´s audio program features the voices of three people who are each intimately, yet distinctly, connected to the piece. Listeners can hear Martha Erlebacher, the wife of the now-deceased sculptor and an artist herself, recall the personal challenge Walter Erlebacher set to humanize the figure. Monsignor John Miller, who oversaw the commission of the sculpture for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, discusses the artist confrontation with historic interpretation, and Sister Mary Scullion, who runs the renowned program for the homeless in Philadelphia, Project H.O.M.E., and who also attended the sculpture dedication as a student, talks about the importance of placing the figure outside of the church. In the audio program for the sculpture Iroquois, listeners will hear a first-person account from Mark di Suvero, the artist himself, who discusses the abstract sculpture and its open shapes that invite public interaction and viewing from multiple angles. I think that in order to experience [Iroquois] … you have to walk in through the piece, you have to have it all the way around you and at that moment, you can feel what that sculpture can do, says di Suvero. Lowell McKegney, di Suvero construction manager and longtime friend, compares the sculpture to music and encourages listeners to appreciate it in the same way. History Philadelphia has more outdoor sculpture than any other American city, yet this extensive collection often goes unnoticed. This program is intended to reveal the distinct stories behind each of these works, that have become visual white noise for so many of the city residents and visitors.

A more than 500-acre nature preserve ideal for walking and hiking, Sadsbury Woods is also an important habitat for interior nesting birds and small mammals. An increasingly rare area of interior woodlands, defined as an area at least 300 feet from any road, lawn or meadow, provides a critical habitat for many species of birds, especially neo-tropical migrant songbirds. Situated on the western edge of Chester County, the land remains much as it did centuries ago, and now serves as a permanent refuge in an area facing dramatically increasing development pressure. The colorful birds that breed in the forest during the spring and summer months fly to South America for the winter. To survive here, they need abundant food and protection from the weather and predators, something they´re able to find in Sadsbury Woods. A recent bird count identified more than 40 different species in just one morning. The preserve has been assembled from more than one dozen parcels, an effort that was made possible thanks to landowners who were willing to sell their land for conservation purposes. One such landowner recalled exploring these woods as a child and wanted to ensure that his grandchildren and great-grandchildren would be able to do the same. Natural Lands Trust is working to expand the preserve, and hopes to eventually protect a total of 600 acres. Support the Natural Lands Trust The Natural Lands Trust seeks volunteers and members to help protect and care for Sadsbury Woods and its many other natural areas. Members are invited to dozens of outings each year including canoe trips, bird walks, hikes and much more. Come Prepared The preserve is open from sunrise to sunset. Pets must be leashed. Alcoholic beverages, motorized vehicles and mountain bikes are not permitted. Horseback riders are welcome, but you must ride in, because there nowhere to park a trailer. Maps and other material are available in the kiosk by the parking area. Outsider Tip The deep forest is a great place for spotting neo-tropical songbirds in the spring and summer months

The Experience It only four pages long, but the U.S. Constitution is among the most influential and important documents in the history of the world. The 160,000-square-foot National Constitution Center explores and explains this amazing document through high-tech exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. The Kimmel Theater, a 350-seat star-shaped theater, features Freedom Rising, a multimedia production combining film, a live actor and video projection on a 360° screen to tell the stirring story of We the people. Then experience it yourself: don judicial robes to render your opinion on key Supreme Court cases, then take the Presidential oath of the office. In Signers Hall, where life-size bronze figures of the Constitution´s signers and dissenters are displayed, visitors can choose to sign or dissent. One of the rare original public copies of the Constitution is on display. History Freedom of speech, protection from unlawful search and seizure, and other individual rights were not part of the original Constitution. Recognizing its imperfections, the authors built in a mechanism to amend the Constitution, making it adaptable for unknown eventualities. The first ten amendments guaranteeing numerous personal freedoms - The Bill of Rights - were not ratified until 1791. Insider Tip While the Center hosts amazing evergreen presentations, take a look at the Events Calendar for the latest premiere or traveling exhibit. Kids Stuff The Center frequently hosts special events with a focus on children that include informative and engaging hands-on activities. For specific information, check out the Center website.

New Location! Who doesn´t love the Please Touch Museum? And now, taking kids to the Museum is better than ever. The nation´s premier children´s museum - which has been a beloved landmark since it opened in 1976 - has a new home in Fairmount Park, opening its doors to a world of educational, hands-on fun. The new location in Memorial Hall - a National Historic Landmark built in 1876 for the Centennial Exhibition celebrating the country´s 100th birthday - will boast three times more space for exhibitions and programs. Just outside the museum, kids and adults will also delight in riding the meticulously restored 1908 Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel, built in Philadelphia for a now-defunct amusement park 10 blocks from Memorial Hall. Visit The Please Touch Museum for more info! The Experience The city´s award-winning children´s museum is fun-filled, totally hands-on, and so delightful that adults are entertained, too. Each nook and cranny has a different theme - from the fantastic to the practical. In Alice´s Adventures in Wonderland, kids can play croquet with the Queen and sip tea with the Mad Hatter; nearby, oversized props bring Maurice Sendak´s classics to life. Kids can take the wheel of a real bus and sail a boat on a mini-Delaware River; in “Nature´s Pond,” the youngest visitors (age 3 and under) can discover animals nestled among high grass and a lily pond, or enjoy stories and nursery rhymes in “Fairytale Garden.” Please Touch is also a first live theater experience for young children - Please Touch Playhouse performances are original and interactive and take place daily! Please Touch Museum tends to be busier on rainy days. You may want to schedule your visit on fair weather days. Mornings are also a busy time with most school groups visiting during this time. Afternoons are a great time to visit the museum as well as Mondays when groups are not scheduled. History One of the lasting museums from the tourist upgrade of Philadelphia that coincided with the 1976 Bicentennial celebration, Please Touch Museum® filled a gap in the city´s cultural scene. Other museums in the area certainly have sections for children, but Please Touch Museum´s new home not only offers three toddler areas, but also exciting exhibit components for older siblings (for ages 7 and up). Visiting Tips Please Touch Museum tends to be busier on rainy days. You may want to schedule your…