With its deep-rooted historical significance, Philadelphia serves as the custodian of numerous iconic sites that hold great national importance. Notable examples include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Valley Forge National Historical Park. Additionally, Philadelphia proudly showcases a remarkable array of world-famous pop culture attractions, such as the renowned Rocky Steps, LOVE Park, and the vibrant South Philly intersection, which serves as a haven for cheesesteak enthusiasts.
But within Philly lie countless hidden gems that remain undiscovered by many — but not for long, my friend, as you are about to uncover them. Delve into the following list of 10 secret spots in Greater Philadelphia that will undoubtedly establish you as a bona fide insider of the city.
1. Baldwin’s Book Barn
Baldwin’s Book Barn is a historic and iconic bookstore located in West Chester, Pennsylvania, USA. It is known for being one of the country’s largest and oldest used bookstores. The bookstore is housed in a five-story barn that dates back to 1822, providing a unique and charming setting for book lovers with more than three-hundred thousand books.
The barn is filled with a vast and diverse collection of books, ranging from rare and antiquarian books to more contemporary titles. Visitors can explore the various rooms and nooks of the barn, each filled with shelves of books on different subjects. The bookstore has a particularly extensive collection of Americana and Pennsylvania history books.
Baldwin’s Book Barn has become a destination for book enthusiasts, collectors, and tourists alike. The rustic and historic atmosphere, combined with the abundance of books, creates a memorable and immersive experience for visitors.
2. Fort Mifflin
Fort Mifflin, established in 1771, proudly stands as the oldest active military facility in the United States and the sole operating base that predates the Declaration of Independence. Its most significant involvement occurred during the Revolutionary War in 1777. The fort played a crucial role in repelling a Hessian invasion and successfully demolishing two British warships during the Battle of Red Bank.
Today, visitors can embark on a journey through history by exploring the fort’s historic grounds and buildings from the Revolutionary era. They can also witness captivating reenactments, enjoy picnics, or even engage in paranormal investigations. Located at the eastern edge of Philadelphia International Airport, the fortress also serves as a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts.
3. The Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection
The Free Library of Philadelphia Rare Book Collection, situated at the Parkway Central Library flagship branch on Logan Square, is home to more than 100,000 books and manuscripts. This remarkable collection, one of the largest public library special collections in the nation, boasts items that date back over 5,000 years. Among its treasures are ancient cuneiform tablets, medieval manuscripts, original artwork by Beatrix Potter, and even Grip, Charles Dickens’ taxidermied pet bird, which served as the inspiration for Edgar Allan Poe’s famous poem, The Raven.
4. Masonic Temple
The Masonic Temple, located on North Broad, may deceive you into thinking that it is one of the city’s magnificent churches due to its grand Norman cathedral-style structure. However, this colossal temple is not a church, but the headquarters of the Freemasons of Pennsylvania, which has been in existence for 150 years. Although it still serves its original purpose, it is also open to the public for guided tours that last an hour. The temple’s intricate architecture, which includes Renaissance neoclassical corridors and staircases, as well as grand halls inspired by Moorish, Egyptian, and Knights Templar designs, is the highlight of the tour.
5. Harrah’s Philadelphia
When you think of the City of Brotherly Love, gambling might not immediately come to mind. But, since casinos became legal in 2004, and later online gambling in 2019, Philadelphia has become home to world-famous casino brands, including Harrah’s Philadelphia. Harrah’s Philadelphia offers a variety of gaming options, including a large selection of slot machines, table games, and a poker room.
The facility includes a harness racing track where visitors can enjoy live horse racing events. Betting on these races is also available. Harrah’s Philadelphia typically has several restaurants and bars on-site, providing a range of dining options and entertainment.
6. Wagner Free Institute of Science
North Philly’s Wagner Free Institute of Science is a fascinating institution that predates the Civil War. It is a library, lecture hall, and natural history museum, and is one of the few remaining scientific societies from the Victorian era. The three-story building, designed in the Renaissance style, has a bright second floor that beckons visitors to explore its vast collection of over 100,000 items. The collection includes rocks, minerals, fossils, preserved insects, taxidermy displays, and mounted skeletons of a buffalo, an English draft horse, and the first saber-tooth tiger bone discovered in America.
7. The Clay Studio
With its impressive size and influence, The Clay Studio stands as the largest ceramic arts organization in the nation. It showcases remarkable clay and ceramic gallery exhibitions, highlighting the artistic endeavors of both international craftsmen and local masters. Moreover, the organization offers workshops and art courses focused on ceramics.
8. The Fabric Workshop and Museum
The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) located in Market East showcases contemporary art made from fabric and various related materials. Established in 1977, FWM holds the distinction of being the sole museum of its kind globally, exhibiting a diverse range of items including clothing, textiles, sculptures, drawings, paintings, and more. Unlike other galleries, FWM does not rely on auctions or loans from private collectors to enhance its collection. Instead, it provides artists with the unique opportunity to create their artwork on-site.
9. Museum for Art in Wood
Philadelphia has a rich artistic heritage, particularly in the realm of woodwork, which is beautifully showcased at the Museum for Art in Wood in Old City. Previously recognized as the Wood Turning Center, this establishment, with a history spanning four decades, proudly exhibits both temporary and permanent collections comprising of 1,200 wood art pieces. Additionally, it houses an extensive research library, boasting a staggering 25,000 items, dedicated to the exploration of woodturning and woodworking throughout history.
10. Wharton Esherick Museum
Wharton Esherick, the “Dean of American Craftsmen,” resided in the Chester County woods, atop a mountain near Valley Forge National Historical Park. He was a renowned wood sculptor who built his 12-acre rural modernist home, farmhouse, and studio by hand. After his death in 1970, his property became a National Historic Landmark for Architecture. Today, the Wharton Esherick Museum is an interactive destination that showcases over 200 of his works.
