American Public Health Association Annual Meeting 2009 - Spouse and Guest Activities

Independence National Historical Park Visitors Center

There's something in Philadelphia for everyone - and that of course includes American history buffs! Philadelphia's most famous historical attraction is Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell - site of the Second Continental Congress. If you visit just one historical site in your time in Philadelphia, make ti this one!

You can learn more about the history of the Liberty Bell itself here: http://www.ushistory.org/libertybell/

Christ Church

One more historical stop while you're in Philadelphia - Christ Church, the Georgian-style, church attended by the founding fathers. The church is still functioning today if you'd like to catch a service while you're in town, but its perhaps best known as the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and 4 other founding fathers. Definitely a great attraction to visit while in Philadelphia.

Please Touch Museum

If you're looking for kid-friendly activities in Philadelphia, the Please Touch Museum is one of the best. Children can get hands-on learning experiences about urban settings, flight, water, history, imagination, and more. Be aware that the museum can get particularly busy on rainy days.

For more about the museum, visit http://www.pleasetouchmuseum.org/

Philadelphia Zoo

At 150 years old in 2009, the Philadelphia Zoo is America's oldest zoo and a great attraction for both kids and adults. the 42-acre zoo is home to over 1,300 animals, many of which are rare or endangered. It is the city's most popular family destination, with over 1.2 million guests annually. In addition to nearly 20 different animal habitats there are several rides and other encounters at the zoo. For more, visit the website at: http://www.philadelphiazoo.org

The Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute is a great Philadelphia attraction for the whole family. The center houses live science shows, interactive exhibits, fireworks shows, The Giant Heart exhibit, Sir Isaac's Loft, which combines art & physics, and a number of other visiting and permanent exhibits. There are also several theaters, including an IMAX theater. For more, visit their website: http://www2.fi.edu/

Reading Terminal Market

Philadelphia's foodie culture doesn't end at cheesesteaks - one stop at the Reading Terminal Market will convince you of that. Here you will get a real taste for local flavor by shopping the food stands and by tasting the food prepared by excellent local chefs, all right in one spot! The market is home to 30 restaurants of every cuisine imaginable. Every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:00 am there is a walking tour of the market led by a local food writer, which will give you lots of information about Philadelphia's most famous foods and their histories.

King of Prussia Mall

If shopping is on your agenda while in Philadelphia, you can't miss King of Prussia Mall, just outside of Philadelphia - one of the United States' largest retail complexes and home to over 400 stores, ranging from discount to designer. http://www.kingofprussiamall.com/

Rittenhouse Row

Rittenhouse Row is one of Philadelphia's hottest neighborhoods and is known as an upscale shopping and dining strip. The neighborhood is also a hotspot for arts & culture as it is home to the Kimmel Center, Merriam Theater, Prince Music Theater, and more.
http://www.rittenhouserow.org/index2.html