Philly in a Day

Shortly after our cross country trip (3 days in fact), I once again boarded a plane. With 3 focus groups planned in 3 cities over 3 days, there was no rest for the weary. I took my daughter along, who turned out to be our official assistant during the business trip. It also was a great way to expose her to a couple cities we haven't yet been to.

After our first FG in Jersey, we took the couple hour drive to Philly for FG #2. Since these research events take place in the evenings, I had an opportunity for a quick visit with my college roomie Jennifer Waite Hawes. She graciously toured Taryn and I through historic downtown Philly.

In case you ever wondered what you can see in 3 hours in Philly, it goes like this...

We parked under the new National Constitution Center, which houses the U.S. Constitution and 160,000 sq ft of exhibits surrounding the historical 4 page document. We did not enter the museum, but I heard there is a hall of life-size bronze figures of the constitution's signers. Next, we wandered through the adjacent Independence Visitors Center and received some tips on a quick tour of Old City.

We strolled on down to the Liberty Bell. Even though it measures 14' in diameter, for some reason I expected it to be bigger. Regardless, it is housed in a lovely new building that is light and airy with great photos and historical documents displayed throughout. It also happens to be free to enter the exhibit, which can be a quick pass through or you can linger a little longer.

On the far end of Independence Mall stands Independence Hall, the infamous location where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the U.S. Constitution was penned. Manned by National Park Rangers, we wandered the grounds and found our way to Ben Franklin's former home site and print shop. Here, I purchased a printed scroll for the husband-and-wife business friends I was traveling with. It said, "Keep your eyes wide open before marriage, and half shut after."

There is so much more to see in Philly that we didn't have time for, but I was able to get a sense of the spirit of our Nation's founders in this original American city.

Jen was such a good sport whisking us around Philly on a toasty summer day, and we toasted to old times and good friends at a sidewalk cafe. The special of the house, a fruity vodka cocktail, was a refreshing end to a lovely afternoon. Thanks, Jen!