by Rachel Brougham

Created on: June 19, 2008   Last Updated: December 05, 2008

Any well informed traveler will tell you that the best way to explore any city is on foot. Philadelphia is no exception. The city is full of activities for all ages, and walking is the best way to experience everything the city has to offer.

If museums are a must, head west of Broad Street, between Girard Avenue and Spring Garden Streets. This section is known as the Fairmount area and is full of not only museums, but plenty of bar and restaurant hotspots, and during the summer, there are plenty of special events. Fairmont Park is a welcoming spot for those just wishing to relax and enjoy the day. The Fairmont area also offers the world's largest landscaped urban park, and includes historic mansions, landmarks and green meadows.

Bars, restaurants and plenty of popular dives can be found in Center City, the section of Philly situated between the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers and south of Spring Garden. Center City is the third most populous downtown in the United States. This is the thriving hub of Philadelphia and also home to cultural institutions, nationally-known fine dining, and plenty of charming neighborhoods.

If you're looking for authentic German sausage and beer, look to Germantown to satisfy your taste buds. Germantown is home to many middle-class families and offers plenty of shops, restaurants and bars. There are a few art galleries as well. The area is ideal for those looking to explore the outdoors, since it features plenty of hiking, jogging and bike trails.

When the Quakers first came to Philadelphia, they set up shop in what is now known as Old City. Old City is considered to lie south of Vine Street, north of Pine Street, and east of 7th Street. Old City is one of the most happening spots in the city, and is home to performance theaters and some of the most exciting art galleries on the east coast. While in the Old City neighborhood, you'll also want to take a stroll through Independence Park where you can absorb the rich history of the area.

What trip to Philly wouldn't be complete without indulging in a famous Philly Cheesesteak? Head to South Philly to experience this culinary delight. Now it's debatable who has the best cheesesteaks- Geno's, Pat's or Jim's, so you are the judge. South Philly is also home to the city's expansive Sports Complex. And if you're looking for a younger hip crowd, you'll find them in South Philly's numerous bars and nightclubs.

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