Tourist Office -- The Independence Visitor Center, 6th and Market streets, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (tel. 800/537-7676, 215/965-7676, or 215/636-1666; www.independencevisitorcenter.com) is a great first stop. Separating the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall from the National Constitution Center, this expansive center offers a concierge kiosk, regional publications, events calendars, city and regional maps, a book and gift shop, and a first-class exhibition on Philadelphia's place in history. Knowledgeable volunteers staff the phones and counters. Ask for the "Official Visitors Guide," a seasonal compendium of exhibitions, events, and the like. The Center also offers an increasing number of package tours combining special museum exhibitions, concerts, or sporting events with discount hotel prices, free city transit passes, and Amtrak discounts. Many bus tours, historic trolley rides, and walking tours start from here.
International visitors who want special advice or would like to arrange meetings or home stays should reach out to the International Visitors Council of Philadelphia, 1515 Arch St., 12th floor (tel. 215/683-0999; www.ivc.org).
Websites -- Philly has umpteen sites to explore online. The best belong to the Independence Visitor Center (www.independencevisitorcenter.com), the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (www.philadelphiaUSA.travel), and my favorite, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (www.gophila.com). Nationally based city guide sites include www.digitalcity.com/philadelphia and www.philadelphia.citysearch.com. Find updates to this guidebook at www.frommers.com. For news and information, along with restaurant reviews and arts and entertainment, visit www.philly.com, the site shared by the Philadelphia Inquirer and the Philadelphia Daily News, two daily newspapers, or www.phillymag.com, the online version of monthly glossy Philadelphia magazine.
Philadelphia Pre-Departure Checklist
Did you book in advance? If you're planning on going to a popular restaurant such as Amada, Buddakan, or Gayle or to a theatrical event at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, you'll need to reserve in advance. Independence Hall (among others in the historic district) has increased security and requires that you book a time slot, and museums such as the Barnes Foundation have limited hours and attendance, so call ahead.
Did you confirm the hours of operation? Many scheduled tours, festivals, and special events change regularly, so call ahead for opening and closing hours.
Did you bring your ID cards that could entitle you to discounts (AAA and AARP cards, student IDs, and such)?
Did you bring emergency drug prescriptions and extra glasses and/or contact lenses?
Do you have your credit card PINs?
If you have an e-ticket, do you have documentation?
Did you leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home?
