Photo Credit: iStock Photo/drbueller

With its part in American history and numerous Georgian architectural wonders, it’s no wonder Philadelphia has been the set for more than 1,000 films. Philadelphia is where the busy streets of the sixth-largest city in the nation meet the quiet, surrounding Amish country. The city is home to multiple historical sites and landmarks, including Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the Liberty Bell, one of the most prominent symbols of the American Revolutionary War.

From vintage to modern, urban to rural and everything in between, Philadelphia has it all. Here are the top five movies that represent the City of Brotherly Love:

Philadelphia
About: A lawyer (Tom Hanks) with AIDS is fired by a conservative Philadelphia law firm because of his condition, and he fights back against the firm with a wrongful dismissal lawsuit.
Represent, Philly: The library scene was filmed in the Furness Building, a fine arts library at the University of Pennsylvania, and the courtroom scenes were filmed in an actual Philadelphia courtroom that the city let the producers use.
Fun Fact: In the film, Denzel Washington’s character says he prays the Philadelphia Phillies will win the National League Championship Series pennant, and in 1993, the year the movie was released, the Phillies did.

Rocky
About: An amateur boxer gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fight the heavyweight champion and have his one chance at making a better life for himself.
Represent, Philly: Despite the entire movie’s filming in Philadelphia, few movie scenes are as memorable as the training montage in “Rocky,” where Rocky runs up the 72 steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and “air boxes” at the top, all to the tune of “Gonna Fly Now,” the “Rocky” theme song.
Fun Fact: While shooting his famous jog through the streets of Philadelphia, Sylvester Stallone pulled a tendon in his leg and was taken to a nearby hospital in a wheelbarrow.

The Sixth Sense
About: A child (Haley Joel Osment) who sees ghosts who don’t know they’re dead seeks the help of a regretful child psychologist named Malcolm (Bruce Willis).
Represent, Philly: In the scene where Cole is playing with toy soldiers in the church, he is in St. Augustine Catholic Church on the corner of 4th and Vine Streets. The scene where Malcolm misses his anniversary date with his wife is filmed at The Striped Bass restaurant on Walnut Street.
Fun Fact: When Cole and his mother are sitting in the kitchen, an empty container of Penn Maid sour cream is one of the glasses on the table. Penn Maid sour cream is only available in Philadelphia.

Twelve Monkeys
About: James Cole (Bruce Willis) is a convicted criminal living in a post-apocalyptic future who, to earn a pardon, goes back in time to collect information on a deadly virus.
Represent, Philly: In addition to the various abandoned buildings and public Philadelphia landmarks shown throughout the movie, interior shots of the climatic airport scene were shot at the Pennsylvania Convention Center at Reading Terminal, and scenes at the psychiatric hospital were done at Eastern State Penitentiary.
Fun Fact: At the time of filming, the two newscasters shown in the movie were actual journalists on Philadelphia’s Channel 10 news.

Witness
About: After an Amish child witnesses a murder, policeman John Book (Harrison Ford) goes into hiding in Amish country to protect him until the trial.
Represent, Philly: Most of the movie was filmed in Philadelphia and surrounding towns. The scene where Book talks to the child witness in the train station was shot at the 30th Street Amtrak Station.
Fun Fact: The 30th Street Station has also the filming location of the films “Trading Places” and “The Happening,” as well as four other movies.

Imagine having your intimate wedding in a free, large, well-decorated space that overlooks an expansive, sparkling-blue pool, surrounded by dogwood trees in full bloom.

Imagine… your apartment complex clubhouse.

Hosting your wedding at an apartment clubhouse is probably not how you envisioned your wedding as a child, but it can be beautiful regardless. There are plenty of bathrooms, guests can swim in your complex pool during your wedding weekend and you can host a laid-back cookout for your rehearsal dinner. Plus, the wrought-iron railing that surrounds the pool, detailed landscaping and multiple lights provide instant ambiance.

If you do not live in a apartment complex but want to utilize a clubhouse you’ve seen, many apartment complexes will rent their spaces to you. Better yet, if you do live in an apartment clubhouse, you may not have to pay anything at all. Simply call the apartment manager and find out how you may reserve the space, but specify that you want to reserve the pool and grills as well so you have complete control of the space. Perhaps you could also arrange for your guests to stay in the complex’s furnished apartments instead of nearby hotels.

Having your wedding in your apartment complex clubhouse means that, for the most part, your wedding will be outdoors. The clubhouse is where guests can use the restroom and where the wedding party dresses. Since it’s equipped with a large kitchen, the clubhouse will also be where caterers or family members prepare the food. You can even have your bridesmaids’ luncheon inside a well-decorated clubhouse, as it often has café tables and chairs, as well as sofas and armchairs.

The ideal apartment clubhouse will have a balcony that overlooks the pool. The bride and groom can say their vows on the balcony and the wedding party can be there too, or the bride and groom can be alone on the balcony (with the officiator, of course). In this instance, guests’ chairs should be lined up around the pool. Or, arrange for the band or DJ to be on the balcony, and the bride and groom, wedding party and guests are on the same level as the pool.

To differentiate your wedding from your reception, divide the surrounding area of the pool into separate spaces simply by using décor. Designate one area for food display, one for dining, one for dancing, one for gift display and one for photos of the bride and groom, and separate them with varying light displays, sheer, draped cloth or rented tents. Indicate the focal point of the wedding – where the bride and groom will say their vows – with two large flower displays and a rented archway. To really set your romantic scene, display rented ferns in varying heights near the food, string white lights around the fence and set up an area with white paper lanterns overhead for dancing underneath. You can always have someone move the flower displays and archway, and put a rented dance floor in their place.

Of course, with a apartment complex wedding, you may worry about freeloaders or onlookers. Chances are, if you utilize a space in a luxury Philadelphia apartment complex, you will not have to worry about freeloaders. If you’re still worried, speak to the apartment manager about arranging security for the area, or have him send out advanced notice to nearby residents about the event, so they don’t think it’s an apartment-sponsored party.

Some residents may look from their balconies at the romantic scene happening at the pool, but they will most likely be respectful of the event. Besides, you’ll be having such a good time and saving so much money that you probably won’t even notice.

Image by: firstbaptistnashville on Flickr

It’s easy to find a volunteer organization in Philadelphia that could use your talents and give you the great feeling of helping others. Here are a few great places to get started.

Philadelphia Cares

For those who are not sure what to volunteer for, the Philadelphia Cares Web site is a good place to start. The Philadelphia Cares site calendar features the latest events in need of volunteers and matches people with various nonprofit agencies. You can decide on a volunteer opportunity based on when it is convenient for you and which opportunity best matches your talents and resources. From fundraising events to working with animals, children and senior citizens, you can find something that has meaning to you.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Philadelphia

If you are looking to develop a bond with a youth in need, this is a great organization that fosters mutual bonds between an adult mentor and a child. According to the latest Census information, approximately 120,000 children in Chester, Delaware, Philadelphia and Montgomery counties are at risk of social and academic failure. You can be a positive influence on a child’s life, but you may discover that you need to mentor a child just as much as he or she needs you.

Philabundance

Philabundance is Philly’s largest food bank network in the area. Their mission is “to end hunger and malnutrition in the Delaware Valley by acquiring food and distributing it through organizations serving people in need.” According to a recent study by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), a national nonprofit company in Washington, Philadelphia is the second-hungriest area in the nation. Philabundance has volunteers of all ages and walks of life who donate their time to work in the warehouse, provide administrative support, and assist with special events.

Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo relies heavily on volunteers of all ages to help with administration, give tours and even help as zookeeper assistants. The zoo has volunteer programs that are perfect for adults, teens and college interns. If you love working with animals and enjoy educating other people about animals, the Philadelphia Zoo would be a great place to give your time and interact with other animal lovers.

Habitat for Humanity in Philadelphia

Doing physical work with your hands can be very rewarding. Habitat for Humanity in Philadelphia focuses on building multiple homes in a community rather than scattered site houses. The organization rehabilitates entire neighborhoods by providing simple, decent, affordable homes for families in need. You can get involved with Habitat for Humanity in Philadelphia by providing some much-needed elbow grease in building homes or donating materials to the organization.

No matter how much time you have to give or what your interest, there is a volunteer organization that needs your help in Philadelphia. Discover the joys and benefits of being part of a bigger community in Philadelphia.

April Lentini writes for Philadelphia Apartment Guide near Restaurant Row.

Image by: CarbonNYC on Flickr

Philadelphia Coffee and Dessert with Free Wi-Fi

RIM Café
1172 South 9th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147

RIM Café is a cozy little hole in the wall on the southern edge of the Italian Market. If you are looking for a taste of Europe, a unique atmosphere and a charming experience, this coffee house will win you over. Serious chocolate lovers enjoy the Dirty Volcano, a hand-poured hot chocolate drink using the finest ingredients. Many guests also appreciate the clean and stylish restrooms.

Golosa Chocolate Bar & Dessert Lounge
806 South 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147

If you are looking for a sugar rush while you work online, try Golosa Chocolate Bar & Dessert Lounge. They lure you in with free wi-fi, then hook you on their heavenly selection of chocolates, cakes and pastries. This gourmet place is known as the best chocolatier in Philadelphia. If you are a true connoisseur of fine chocolate, you will be blown away by the quality and integrity of the “food of the Gods” found in this desert bar.

Chapterhouse Cafe & Gallery
620 South 9th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147

Get cozy with your laptop and enjoy the view overlooking the garden. Residents of Washington Square West have made this hotspot a favorite when it comes to local coffee houses. On a cold winter day, you can warm yourself on a cushy couch near the fireplace. The beautiful and inviting interior space features cool artwork on the walls. With high ceilings, lots of natural sunlight and wide open spaces, you are sure to be creatively inspired.

Philadelphia Restaurants with Free Wi-Fi

Almaz Café
140 South 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Don’t let the neighborly, inconspicuous space fool you. Residents of Rittenhouse Square and Penn Center love this local ethnic restaurant for browsing the Internet and eating a tasty meal. Vegetarians enjoy the Ethiopian menu, and the coffee is some of the best in Philadelphia.

Soy Café
630 North 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123

If you happen to be in the Northern Liberties or Spring Garden neighborhood, check out Soy Café. This is a haven for vegetarians that need free wi-fi, but the food is so good that even meat lovers will be satisfied with the delicious and hearty menu items. There are three or four outlets to plug in your laptop. The atmosphere is on the artsy side with an earthy, peace-loving feel.

Satellite Café
701 South 50th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19143

Located in Cedar Park, Satellite Café is a restaurant where you can sit for hours at a time, get some work done and enjoy a unique ambiance with fresh, homemade food. If you happen to be in the neighborhood in the morning, try the breakfast burrito with beans, cheese and spicy tomato sauce. There is a down-to-earth community vibe here, and the menu is mostly geared for breakfast or lunch.

Bars in Philadelphia with Free Wi-Fi

Intermezzo Cafe
3131 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

If you are looking to link and drink, this bar has free wi-fi, and you won’t be harassed for making yourself comfortable. They have live music on Friday nights and feature Open Mic Night on Wednesday nights. Intermezzo Café serves food late, so it is the perfect location for nearby hospital staff to relax and have a drink after their late shifts.

Photo by: Tabooz on flickr

World Café Live

3025 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Located In the neighborhood of University City, World Cafe Live creates a fun and interactive live music experience for kids and parents. This is a place you’ll want to take the kids for lunch as the doors generally open at 11 a.m. with the show starting at 11:30 a.m. The Dodge Caravan Peanut Butter & Jams series is a popular Saturday morning show followed by a family friendly lunch buffet (not included in ticket price). World Café Live was voted “Best Kids Concert Series” by Philadelphia Magazine.

Hibachi Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar

Pier 19
325 North Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Kids will enjoy the fire shows from the chef’s open grill. Best of all, young gourmets can enjoy an entree of fried rice and grilled veggies with teriyaki chicken, shrimp, scallops, salmon, red snapper or steak for less than $10. Specials include early bird specials for the whole family and a wide selection of appetizers. Get ready for the show as soon as the chef arrives at the hibachi table. Your kids will get a kick out of the squirting mustard bottles prank, flaming onion volcanoes and food tossing to guests. Adults will enjoy a beautiful view of the water from Penn’s Landing.

Nifty Fifty’s
2491 Grant Avenue at Roosevelt Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19114

If you are looking for a fun, themed restaurant, check out Nifty Fifty’s, built and decorated like a classic 1950’s diner. Complete with retro music and bright neon lights, kids will enjoy the constant action of this 50’s themed diner. The food is not too shabby either. The rich milkshakes are the restaurant’s signature item, as well as the custom soda flavors. Order any flavor of soda, including banana, bubble gum or cotton candy, and a Nifty Fifty’s server can create it for you. They have more than just burgers. For more sophisticated palates, try the Maryland Crab Cake Sandwich.

Hard Rock Café
1113-31 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107

If you happen to be in the Market East neighborhood with your kids visiting Independence Hall, check out the Hard Rock Café located in the historic Reading Terminal train station. It’s fitting that this rock ‘n’ roll themed restaurant is just blocks away from the birthplace of America. Hamburgers are just one of the menu items that can be enjoyed by the kids. The adults will appreciate the wide variety of drinks available at the bar while music and videos play in the rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia-decorated restaurant.

Friendly’s
9165 Ridge Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19128

Any restaurant with a tagline like Friendly’s, “where ice cream makes the meal”, is going to please kids. Friendly’s has a kids menu that includes a kid-pleasing variety of drinks, meals and desserts. Adults can tap into their inner child while ordering healthy options such as soups and salads, sandwich wraps and even steaks and seafood. For a fun treat at any age, order the Fribble with Butterfinger and Reeses and get the straw that changes colors when it gets cold.

April writes for Apartment Guide in Philadelphia. If you are looking for a cool place to live in Center City, check out the wide variety of apartments in Philadelphia.

Photo by: Edenpictures on Flickr Creative Commons

Especially if you have kids, playgrounds in your neighborhood can greatly enhance the quality of your daily life. Fortunately, if you live in Philadelphia, there are plenty of neighborhoods with great playgrounds within walking distance from your home. Whether you are a Philly mom looking for some play space for your little ones, or you are an adult looking to satisfy your inner child with some clean open green space, you’ll find these Philadelphia neighborhood parks will accommodate your needs.

Here are three neighborhoods that offer close proximity to some of the best playgrounds in Philadelphia:

1. Society Hill

Three Bears Park has been called a hidden treasure in Society Hill. Local residents with smaller kids love it because it has lots of equipment for young toddlers. Also, it seems to be a social hot spot for parents who are regulars of this neighborhood, which is perfect if you are looking to make friends with other moms or dads.

Starr Garden Playground was established in 1905. While the park has more concrete than green space, the well-kept baseball field and basketball courts make it the perfect place to play sports. For young kids, there are enough slides and swings to keep junior happy. If you are looking for a place to take some cool photos, check out Starr Garden’s inner courtyard. With plenty of benches, a pretty garden, mosaic work and steel statues, it’s a great spot to get away or get inspired.

For older kids, Seger Playground has basketball courts, tennis courts, a dog run and ample grassy areas for relaxing picnics. For kids, Seger Playground offers two playgrounds with fenced-off areas for children under six. The swings and jungle gym are safe, clean and well-maintained. Overall, this park is fun for the whole family.

2. Northern Liberties

Liberty Lands Park is a great park for kids and adults. In the spring and summer you can count on regularly scheduled free outdoor concerts and art festivals. For younger kids, the park’s jungle gym is separated from the rest of the park and has good equipment that is well maintained.

If you live in the Northern Liberties neighborhood in Philadelphia, you are also strategically located within five miles of the three best-rated playgrounds in downtown Philadelphia: Seger Park, Smith Memorial Park and Starr Garden.

3. Fairmount

Smith Memorial Park is by far the most popular play park in this neighborhood and perhaps in the whole area of Philadelphia. Rich in history, this large playground is located in a safe neighborhood and has some of the most modern and cool play equipment you’ve ever seen. Established in 1899, Smith Memorial Park takes outdoor recreation just as seriously as it did during the playground movement of the late 1800s.

If you are looking for a versatile, wide-open and spacious play area, Fairmount Park may be reason enough to move to the Fairmount neighborhood. Fairmount Park is a place where you can escape the urban life of Philly and enjoy one of the largest urban park systems in the country. Fairmount Park features several unique amenities that make regular playgrounds seem dinky. The kids will love running around the open stretch of land, going down to the water and splashing around. If you’d like to introduce them to some culture, take them to see the Japanese Tea House, the Horticulture Center or one of the park’s museums.

If you are looking for a cool place to live in Philadelphia, you’re in luck; the growing metro area of Philadelphia has a variety of eclectic neighborhoods to choose from. From rainbow communities to older parts of town with character to areas with green space and environmental awareness, Philadelphia offers multiple options for finding apartments with like-minded hipster neighbors.

Germantown

Germantown has been described as one of the nation’s oldest suburbs, but it is still within the city limits, allowing easy access to public transportation. Home to many middle-class families, there are plenty of neighborhood shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance. Residents of Germantown enjoy nearby art galleries and seasonal events and are often involved in community organizations. Fairmount Park is just across the river, which is ideal for outdoor, sporty types who like to go for walks, jog and bike.

Manayunk

If you like a condensed area where you can hop from one bar to another, Manayunk is the place for you. Manayunk has a huge assortment of bars and restaurants. The young, hip crowd can usually be found on Main Street, where there is good live music on most nights at any given bar. On weekends, you can find hundreds of people out on the streets of Manayunk shopping, eating and enjoying the sites. Manayunk was officially named a National Historic District in 1983. Manayunk, also called “Philadelphia’s Main Street,” boasts more than 65 chic boutiques and galleries and dozens of restaurants.

Chestnut Hill

Generally, people who live in Chestnut Hill are geared towards improving their beautiful community through organizations, clubs and social events. If you choose to live in Chestnut Hill, you will enjoy the wide variety of art galleries, restaurants, specialty boutiques and antiques shops. Located on Philadelphia’s northwest boundary, Chestnut Hill is a pedestrian-friendly area, within walking and biking distance of the city’s action. Chestnut Hill is a perfect spot to rent a trendy loft apartment or own a small, older home. If you have a family, your kids will love the many cultural events taking place in Chestnut Hill yearround, including festivals and parades.

Northern Liberties

Northern Liberties is the perfect place to live if you are looking to mix and mingle with the young, outgoing crowds of modern Philadelphia. Known as an alternative night spot for hipsters, the district is home to many eclectic bars and restaurants ranging from small neighborhood bars to larger places such as the Standard Tap. If you are the artsy type, you’ll appreciate that Northern Liberties is one of Philadelphia’s greatest artist magnets, attracting great musical acts at places such as Ortlieb’s Jazz Haus. Despite Northern Liberties’ trend-setting art scene, it maintains a down-to-earth appeal, where you can expect to find plenty of nightlife.

Olde City

Olde City is considered by many as the most happening spot of Philadelphia. Known for the most exciting collection of art galleries on the East Coast, Olde City is full of unique shops, restaurants and theaters. Locals enjoy strolling through Independence Park, lying on the western edge of Olde City. If you are a history buff, you will appreciate the rich history of this old Pennsylvanian town. Soak up the historical architecture as you walk along the streets. Olde City is home to many different people including young professionals, artists and writers, doctors and lawyers, shopkeepers and families with young children.

Queen Village

As Philadelphia’s first neighborhood, Queen Village has a rich past that makes it one of the city’s most interesting places to live. Not only does it offer the standard attractions of any other hip town, such as cool restaurants, nice bars and an eclectic shopping district (South Street), but it also hosts the oldest and largest fabric row in the country (4th Street Fabric Row). The Queen Village neighborhood, which is home to over 7,000 residents, is within walking distance of Independence Hall, Penn’s Landing, the Italian Market and Center City. Queen Village’s thriving business and residential areas make it one of the city’s most charming and livable communities in Philadelphia.

Maybe it is easy being green, especially in the City of Brotherly Love. If you live in Philadelphia and you’re interested in saving the planet, you’re in luck; this city is chock-full of restaurants, shops and entertainment that have the Earth in mind.

From chemical-free laundry detergent to recycled handbags to Earth-centered stores, Philadelphia is where it’s at for all things green. No matter what your style or schedule, you can fit in green living in Philadelphia at the following places.

What: Big Green Earth Store
Why: From the moment you walk through the door, this store exhibits clean living, from its products right down to its neatly designed front entrance. Find rechargeable batteries, refill your laundry detergent and dish soap at the soap filling station or browse the line of purses and bags made from recyclable materials and purchase eco-friendly office supplies.
Where: 239 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19176

What: Horizons Restaurant
Why: A favorite of carnivores and herbivores alike, Horizons is a vegan restaurant that might change your mind about meatless cuisine. Favorites include the Jamaican barbecue seitan, purple potato fritters, pan-seared tofu with peppercorns, Catalan tempeh, lemon cheesecake with berry sauce and saffron crème brulee. The wine, beer and cocktail list is lengthy.
Where: 611 S. 7th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147

What: Philadelphia AIDS Thrift
Why: Usually, when you purchase items from a consignment store, a portion of the proceeds goes to the store, and part goes back to the individuals who donated the pieces. However, Philadelphia AIDS Thrift contributes the proceeds from its vintage and second-hand products to local organizations involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS and provides free store vouchers to Philly areas HIV/AIDS clients in need of clothing and household necessities. It’s also a great place to find books, dishes, artwork and clothes.
Where: 514 Bainbridge St., Philadelphia, PA 19147

What: Liberty Lands Park
Why: As the only large public greenspace in the neighborhood, Liberty Lands Park welcomes the contributions of local residents. Feel like you’re one with nature at this park, which includes a community garden with 37 plots, a Native American herb garden, children’s playground, butterfly garden, composting area, 180 trees of varying species and sculptures by neighborhood artists. There are even recycling bins throughout the park.
Where: 913-961 North 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19176

What: Chapterhouse Café and Gallery
Why: With free wireless Internet, reading materials, 50-cent and art from local artists, Chapterhouse offers patrons far more than the coffee and green tea. The coffee house serves its beverages in real mugs and its food in real dishes, so reusing is a priority. Plus, the huge windows overlook a garden, not buildings and trash, and the café is dog-friendly as well.
Where: 620 S. 9th St., Philadelphia, PA 19147

Photo by: ifmuth

Downtown Philly Restaurants To Check Out

If you’re hungry, you can’t go wrong in the city of Philadelphia. Just in the center city area, you’ll find more than 400 restaurants to check out. Here is just a sampling of the tastes that can be discovered in downtown Philadelphia:

Devil’s Alley – Found at 1907 Chestnut St., this establishment is a casual bar and grill. Its drink specials make it a local favorite and its food covers more than a typical bar. Entrees include chicken and ribs, grilled tuna, roasted turkey and mouth-watering steaks.
Tiffany’s bakery – If you’re ready for something sweet, this 901 Market St. bakery is worth a stop. Tiffany’s is famous for everything from pastries to Danishes. Its most notable item, according to customers, is the strawberry shortcake.
Fountain Restaurant – Located in the world-famous Four Seasons Hotel, 1 Logan Square, this establishment is known for being upscale all the way. For an elegant night out in downtown Philadelphia, this restaurant is hard to top.
Table 31 – Found at 1701 JFK Boulevard, this eatery serves lunch and dinner in a bistro type setting. Menu items include such things as steaks, tomato and mozzarella salad and more.
Yonny’s – Located at 1531 Cherry Street, Yonny’s is noted for its American and Greek cuisine. It’s a favorite stop for breakfast eaters, too. Offering everything from waffles and grits to Greek salads and cutlets, Yonny’s is a favorite among locals.

Places To Shop In Downtown Philadelphia

The city of Philadelphia doesn’t lack for stores. These are just a small sampling of those found in the downtown area:

40 Degrees Inc. – Specializing in women’s attire, this shop can be found at 1518 Chestnut St.
Brewster’s Antiques – If you’re looking for some unusual pieces to make Philadelphia apartments shine, Brewster’s at 2200 Market St. is worth a stop.
Whodunit – If you’re dying for something good to read, this establishment at 1931 Chestnut St. should be on your list of places to go. The 30-year-old shop specializes in mysteries, but does carry a large line of general used books.
Young’s Florist – If you want to brighten up your Philly apartment, this 1124 Walnut St. store is ready to help!
Wolf Jewelers – Should gold and diamonds appeal, Wolf’s at 737 Walnut St. probably has what you’re looking for. In business since 1961, this retailer offers a full line of jewelry and prides itself on being pet friendly.

Photo by: .sanden.

Things To See

Eating and shopping aren’t the only things to do in downtown Philadelphia. Here you will also find some incredible sightseeing stops. Some of the places to check out include:

Franklin Square – Found in the area around Race St., this area of downtown will take you back in time to America’s birth. Here you can ride on the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, see re-enactors in full regalia and learn more about the country’s history.
Please Touch Museum – This 201 N. 21st St. museum was built with kids in mind. It offers an array of hands-on exhibits and activities.
National Constitution Center – Found at 525 Arch St., this destination features more than 100 multimedia exhibits that help explain the history of America’s birth.
The African American Museum – This 701 Arch St. destination features a variety of African American works of art.
Independence Hall – Now operated by the National Park Service, this 143 S. Third St. destination is the home of the historic bell. It is also the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence.

Downtown Philadelphia isn’t like any other place in the world. From downtown Philly restaurants to some amazing historic sites, this part of the city will not fail to please.

Financial aid is available from a number of different sources. Don’t leave a stone unturned on this front. Some of the best places to seek out funding include:

Scholarships and Grants

When these are available and you can qualify for them, this is the best kind of financing to get. The fact is scholarships and grants don’t have to be paid back. This means you won’t see your debts adding up while you’re in school. Check with your college or university’s financial aid office for information about programs you might qualify for. It’s also smart to look at smaller grants and scholarships available in your home town or home state. Even tiny $500 grants to pay for books can come in handy. Check out the sites below to help you start your scholarship search:

• Free Scholarship Search from FastWeb.com
• Find Money for College at Scholarships.com
• How to Apply for a Scholarship

Student and Graduate Assistantships

Most schools offer assistantships that pay a portion of a student’s tuition and provide a stipend. Students involved in an assistantship are usually required to teach classes, work in the library or help with research in exchange for the tuition payment and stipend. It’s possible to get an assistantship that pays for all of a student’s tuition and gives a stipend for living as well. Usually students apply for assistantships for a specific program or department and are contacted if an opening becomes available.

Student Loans

This type of financial aid is generally available to anyone who is accepted to an accredited learning program. While it’s true student loans come with interest attachments and you will have to pay back the money, they are worth looking into if other funding sources fail. The fact is that taking out a student loan is a form of “good debt.” This means you are making an investment in yourself and your future. To see for what kind of student loans you qualify, fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and make sure you put the correct college or university when prompted. You should then be contacted by your schools financial aid department to see what kind of federal student loans you qualify for.

Employment

Jobs for college students can help offset the costs of funding a Philadelphia education. Working and going to school can be hard, but the fact is even a few hours a week can put more money in your pocket and help you prevent having to rely on loans too much. Check with your school’s employment office to see what kind of jobs are available on campus. Jobs on campus will work around your school schedule and will be more flexible than a part-time job waiting tables. If you have a full time job, see if your company offers any type of tuition reimbursement benefit. Below are a few sites to search for part-time student jobs in the Philadelphia area.

• SnagaJob.com Job Search
• Groove Job – Student Part-Time Job Search
• Philly.com Job Search

Funding a college education is quite a feat. If you plan ahead and seek out all the options, you will find the work involved is nothing compared to the rewards. Completing your degree, no matter how you end up paying for it, will open doors that otherwise would remain closed.