When William Penn designed Philadelphia as "green countrie towne" in 1682, he did not imagine how his squares and parks would create the perfect balance for a lively urban center. Centuries later, many of its original spaces remain intact, although on those same streets are born fashionable bistrots and eaves the skyscrapers. How hidden gems in buildings in the hills Fairmount Park, outdoor spaces Philadelphia I am not an escape from the city, but they represent the city itself.
To really experiment Philadelphia the greenest city in America, explore these natural spaces. On foot by bike or boat you can reach suggestive corners that show the beauty of the city by encouraging visitors the desire to do outdoor sports.
Walking
Exit the hotel and choose a direction. The road map Philadelphia It is simple and the city is easy to explore on foot. Walking in the central area, you reach the original squares desired by Penn: Rittenhouse Square perfect for a packed lunch and to observe people, Washington Square to rest a bit and read some chapters of a good book, Franklin Square for a ride on the ride or a swing in the historic mini golf and finally Logan Circle for an approach to one of the most famous monuments of the city, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The walk leads directly to the last open space, wanted by Penn, which today is the seat of the City Hall of Philadelphia. Here are antique markets, paintings and small sculptures, ancient and modern (who would not like to bring home a replica of The Clothespin, La Molletta one of the city symbols). The collection has been evaluated by USA Today as one of the 10 major collections of public sculptures in United States.
Cycling
The use of the bike in Philadelphia is in full expansion and can be seen cycling through the streets of the city. Bikes can be rented in various places in the city: Boathouse Row or Forbidden Drive. The classic city bikes and the most demanding mountain bikes are for rent by Wheel Fun Rentals (4 different locations) where you can choose, in addition to traditional bikes, also rickshaws, tandems and strollers to hook up to the bikes, for the smallest. Philadelphia Bike Tours delivery of bikes for rent at the hotel where you stay.
Walking from river to river you can discover the beauty of the neighborhoods of Philadelphia, which has 180 km of cycle paths, or use the bike to discover the beauty of the city oasis of Fairmount Park. The park offers kilometers of cycle paths along the Schuylkill River, with trails that line torrents and buildings of historical importance. Walk along the path to Belmont Plateau for a breathtaking view of the skyline and make a stop along Kelly Drive, to admire the rowers on the river waters.
On the river
A relaxing cruise River Delaware is ideal for enjoying the beauty of the city. A ride on Ride the Ducks off-road vehicles through the city and water, all in one trip. For a dinner on the river, book a table on the Spirit of Philadelphia ship. Rent a sailboat for a relaxing river trip from American Sailing Tours, watching the other boats passing under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
