As a cardiac surgeon, Dr. Zachary F. Solomon has been known to recommend that his patients try to walk more. Dr. Zachary F. Solomon notes that walking becomes a much more accessible part of a daily routine when a person calls a walkable neighborhood home. Today, Dr. Zachary F. Solomon will discuss why Philadelphia is one of the most walkable cities in America. Most people think of New York City when they think about walkable neighborhoods in major cities. Still, Philadelphia has the perfect blend of historical landmarks, museums, shopping, and food to make it the best walking city in the country. Whether you live in the area or are planning a visit, Dr. Zachary F. Solomon hopes this article helps motivate people to walk around the City of Brotherly Love.
For those new to the area, Dr. Zachary F. Solomon recommends starting their walking journey in Old City. There’s something special about walking the same streets as the people responsible for the formation of the United States. The Liberty Bell Center is a major tourist destination, but there’s plenty to see and do while waiting your turn to see the Bell. For instance, the Museum of the American Revolution has an incredible collection of historical artifacts and artwork. Another great destination within walking distance is the home of Betsy Ross. Betsy Ross is credited with the creation of our nation’s flag. Just a short walk from her home is the Fireman’s Hall Museum. This spot marks the location of the first firehouse in America, an idea credited to Benjamin Franklin.
Dr. Zachary F. Solomon believes Philadelphia excels as a walkable city due to its incredible diversity. While he recommends taking advantage of historical tours, which bring the history of the American Revolution to life, there are walking tours that guide people through Philadelphia through the views of an artist, a food lover or even a ghost tour. Each trip can be tailored to the specific needs of the person walking around the area. Dr. Zachary F. Solomon recommends that those who enjoy a bit of shopping arrive in town on the first Friday of every month. Philadelphia celebrates every first Friday with unique art galleries, street performances, and extended hours so that people can take advantage of special deals on their most popular items.
You can’t talk about Philadelphia as a walkable city without mentioning the country’s most popular walkable food market. Reading Terminal Market welcomes thousands of people each day who have their choice of cuisines from all over the world. Pennsylvania Dutch Vendors serve up their famous pretzels next to DiNic’s, one of the city’s most acclaimed Philly cheesesteak restaurants. In addition, locals often turn to the market to buy fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood. There’s something for everyone at the Center City market, which has been in business for more than 125 years.
Dr. Solomon talks to many friends and family members who haven’t been to Philadelphia in a few years about the significant updates made along the Delaware waterfront. The city has made a concerted effort to turn the waterfront into a destination for locals and tourists alike. People can walk along Cherry Street Pier and enjoy seasonal attractions like the Blue Cross RiverRink in the winter or the Spruce Street Harbor Park in the spring. With views of the Ben Franklin Bridge in the background, this area is as beautiful as it is vibrant.
