WanderList: A Day Trip To Philadelphia

(Photo : Design & Trend - Meg Busacca )

As a California girl who now lives in New York City, the east coast has made me even more curious about exploring cities in this side of North America.

I've always had a thirst for adventure after taking many a childhood trip up and down the west coast. However, it wasn't until I visited Europe that I experienced the novelty of visiting a variety of cities that lie close to one another in proximity. I have found that that same novelty is comparable to how I now feel living on the east coast. Now, a simple bus excursion or train ride can take me to a new state in just a few, short hours.

My most recent jaunt was to Philadelphia, Penn., where the trip itself was a mere two-hour bus ride away from cheese steaks, delicious chocolates and even wine tasting.  Although it functions at a decidedly slower pace than Manhattan, I found that Philly reminded me of the Big Apple as I wandered its streets with no end destination. Philly, like Manhattan, offers an off beat assortment of street art and vintage shops, art galleries and food halls.

I rounded up a few of my favorites from Philly, a city that is ideal for day trips and offers an excellent opportunity to get a breath of fresh air — a much-needed remedy when you live in the city that never sleeps.

1. TO SEE

For a fresh take on street art, check out Philadelphia's Magic Gardens. It's a mosaic outdoor garden/art piece constructed by artist Isaiah Zagar. In 1994, Zagar began working on an empty lot next to his studio that eventually became a 3,000 square-foot space with tunnels, grottos and multi layered walls, all completely covered in mosaics.

The artist has several murals in Philadelphia with nearly 30 locations. However, the gardens are truly a one-of-a-kind place that provides endless visual stimulation. 

(Photo : Design & Trend - Meg Busacca)

2. EATS

I am such a foodie and have always been quite the adult eater from a young age. My first meal of the day was brunch at a charming French bistro in Rittenhouse Square, Parc Restaurant. I tasted everything from the house pancakes to croquet Madame, but my ultimate favorite was the smoked salmon tartine. Also, I cannot forget about their assortment of freshly baked breads that they gave us as we waited for our meal. Such a warm and tasty variety!

Talk about an assortment of food options! Head to Reading Terminal Market where they boast everything from shortbread black and white cookies, cheese steaks and fried chicken, to Italian meats and cheeses and a vast beer and wine selection (not to mention every sugar-packed candy ever created). I recommend visiting on an empty stomach. When you're finished with food, find the wine tasting room, or buy a new book or gift.

For a more homemade and authentic Philly dessert, head to Tartes. The petite bakery is home to the city's best pies, key lime tarts, cupcakes and cookies. The charming treat spot is conveniently located across from what was once the home of Betsey Ross. Treat yourself to a baked good and experience a bit of U.S. history at the same time.

3. TO SHOP

I ventured into Old City, an area I was told to check out for its vintage apparel, home décor and art galleries. Third Street offers a variety of spots to treasure hunt for unique fashion and accessory finds. My favorite spots were Briar Vintage, Scout Salvage and Vintage Rescue and Lost and Found.

I have quite the infatuation with floral boutiques as they never fail to bring a smile to my face. The latest contender for my list of darling floral shops, Petit Jardin en Ville, is an absolutely darling Parisian shop full of color and fresh blooms.

I frequently visit galleries and I love discovering new artists. This trip, I stopped into LGTripp Gallery where they were exhibiting Paintings and Constructions by Charles Kalick. The vibrant color and wood textures of his pieces caught my attention immediately.

Kalick creates geometric paintings with textured surfaces and contrasting colors that carry across pockets of space. I am highly attracted to color, distinct textures and shapes that are bold. Really, anything that has the potential to instantly transform an interior wall. 

Philly was the perfect day trip and the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of New York. If you live on the east coast and like to do something out of the norm on the weekends, I hope you think of Philadelphia for your next adventure!