Philadelphia is a city any lover of American history should visit. It’s also a great destination for those looking for a family vacation or those looking for the modern attractions of the city. The climate of the city is humid continental with cold and often snowy winters. During the colder months, the temperatures hover around freezing.
Planning the budget
For the majority of travelers, when they plan a family vacation , they only think about going to theme parks or to a beach resort. But visiting historical sites and important cities for the American history can be an excellent way to teach the children history in a fun way.
If it’s impossible to find a vacation package to suit your plans, then you can always book the flight and the hotel separately. Flights to Philadelphia are not hard to find as the airport serving the city is a major hub for US Airways. So you should start the search on their website, especially if you are looking for deals. Typically, late winter flights are cheap but you need to take into account the possibility of bad weather and delays.
Cheap hotels in Philadelphia are plentiful but you should be careful to choose a hotel located close to Central Philadelphia or close to the public transportation. Otherwise, you should look into renting a car for the time you spend here.
Things to do in Philadelphia in February
The cold weather keeps both the locals and tourists focus on indoor activities. But that doesn’t mean you’ll be bored while staying here.
Those who know how to sing, can win $1000 each Tuesday Day. There’s a karaoke contest at the Triumph Brewery (in the Old City) which anyone can be part of. It’s a fun way to spend a night out and if you are talented you might be the lucky winner. And that’s not the only place in town where you can sing!
Philadelphia Museum of Art hosts a lot of interesting exhibitions which will definitely appeal to both adults and children. The Montiers of Philadelphia and The Horse and Man Armors are ongoing exhibitions while several others are open through the year.
America’s oldest outdoor market, the 9th Street Italian Market, is open even during the cold season. Pack your camera and enjoy the sites. You are more than welcome to try the fresh produce as well.
The Body Worlds Exhibit at the Franklin Institute is a very interesting experience for both adults and children. During the day, the ticket ($27 adults and $19.80 children includes the general admission to The Franklin Institute) while the evening ticket includes only the exhibit admission.
Where to stay
There are plenty of places to stay in Philadelphia, catering for all budgets. It’s important to look for a place located close to the sites you want to visit or close to the public transport. Otherwise, consider renting a car.
Apple Hostels of Philadelphia is located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Old City in downtown. The hostel offers free coffee and tea all day, free wireless internet, free bed linen and free billiards table. There’s a large lounge and a common kitchen guests can use. The hostel offers both private rooms (which are not listed on the online booking websites) and dorms. In early February, bed rates (in dorms) start at $30.50 per night.
Days Inn & Suites is located 2 miles from Walt Bridge, 5 miles away from Historic Philadelphia. It offers free breakfast, free internet in all rooms, free access to fitness room and free parking. All rooms have microwave and fridge. In early February, the rates for a standard double room start at $48.95 per person per night.
Econolodge Philadelphia Airport offers free airport transport, free parking and free continental breakfast. The airport is just 3 miles away. The lodge comprises 89 guestrooms, with free internet, and cable TV. All rooms have AC and Coffee/tea maker. In early February, the room rates for a private double room ensuite start at $43.45 per person per night.
Quality Inn – Philadelphia is located outside the city. There’s free wi-fi available. All rooms have AC, coffee maker, microwave and fridge. In early February, the room rates for a private double room ensuite start at $33 per person per night.
HI – Chamounix Mansion is located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. It offers a welcoming front porch and two communal rooms. It’s a nice location for those planning for an active holiday. Travelers can use the free bikes to explore Fairmount Park and play tennis nearby. In early February, the bed rates (in dorms) start at $23 per night.
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