Philly and Boston Part 2

Well, I had to cut short my other stops...a foot of snow in Ocean City (and their lack of snowplows) made it non-accessible. While back in the DC area, we got around 6 inches of snow.

Anyhow, back to the Philly and Boston overview...

History

First, Philadelphia:

Obviously there was a lot of things to see in Philly when it came to history. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, old churches. Independence Hall was a very nice stop. They offer free tours inside the building, with someone who will tell you about the history of the rooms and take questions from anyone if they have them. Obviously with the signing of the Declaration of Independence taking place there (not to mention everyone of importance during the Revolution being there at one time or another) it's worth seeing.


The Liberty Bell is in a stand alone modern looking glass building across the street from Independence Hall. It is also free to go see...just make sure you don't have any weapons on you...

We also got to see both an old Methodist church and a very large Mason building, side by side, directly in front of the State House. Didn't get to explore them, but figured I'd mention them.

Boston:

The Old North Church, were Paul Revere had his signal laterns for the British landing, was pretty cool. They actually still use the church too. The original lanterns used are still displayed in the steeple of the church.

Paul Revere's house is about 2 blocks behind the church. This whole area of town still has a very old timey feel to it. It's definitly a bit more upscale in price (and Italian) but nice to drop by and see. About 3 blocks east (if the North Church is to your back or south) are the Irish eateries. The TD Garden, where the Bruins and Celtics play, is about 3 blocks south of the Old North Church. Very navagatable and close quarters.

Although I didn't get a chance to see it, a Bunker Hill memorial is maybe a quarter mile from the Old North Church. So there is a lot of historical landmarks all around Boston.

Anyhow, like I said in my last post, I enjoyed Boston the most, but both cities have their own draws. If you like museums and maybe a bigger city feel, but want to eat at TGI Fridays or go to Best Buy, then Philly is for you. If you want to be in a more college centered city, with a lot of old churches, historical landmarks, ethnic areas, and local eateries and not feel like you are looking up all the time, then Boston is for you (oh, and if you hate the Yankees too).


****Correction**** by state house i "obviously" meant city hall. thanks doug for the correction. ;) 2/3/10