Philadelphia Favs

If you’re headed to the 2025 International Convention and want to explore Philadelphia, lifelong local (and 2019 World Champion of Public Speaking) Aaron Beverly has some favorite places to share. Turns out there’s a lot more to his hometown than the Liberty Bell and the steps Rocky famously ran up.

• Jim’s South Street
  Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks might be famous, but any native Philadelphian will tell you: That’s not where we go. Jim’s Steaks is an equally legendary spot and, in my opinion, has much better cheesesteak. 
  

  400 South Street, Philadelphia

  jimssouthstreet.com
  
  
• Taste Cheesesteak Bar
  Since Philly is known for the cheesesteak, I have to devote two entries. Taste is more of a gourmet cheesesteak spot, but it’s top-tier. This place has the best chicken cheesesteak I’ve ever had in my life (no exaggeration). 
  

  1809 JFK Blvd, Suite B, Philadelphia

  tastecheesesteaks.com
  
  
  
  
• Reading Terminal Market
  One of the best food halls in the country, and it’s right next to the convention center. Be sure to grab a roast pork sandwich from DiNic’s and top it off with a milkshake from Bassetts Ice Cream—there are dozens of flavors to choose from.
  

  1136 Arch Street, Philadelphia

  readingterminalmarket.org
  
  
• The Franklin Institute
  My favorite museum anywhere (but I may be biased). This is Philly’s most iconic science museum, full of fun, interactive, and inspiring exhibits for kids and kids at heart.
  

  222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia

  fi.edu/en
  
  
• The Academy of Natural Sciences
  Right next to the Franklin Institute, this museum is home to dinosaur fossils and fascinating exhibits about wildlife and ecosystems. A great indoor adventure if you want to escape the August heat in Philly.
  

  1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia

  ansp.org
  
  
• Tango Karaoke Lounge (Chinatown)
  Chinatown itself is a destination; however, I’m a karaoke fiend, and Tango Lounge is my most frequented karaoke spot. If any Toastmasters want to do karaoke while you’re in town, hit me up! 
  

  1021 Arch Street, Philadelphia

  visitphilly.com
  
  
• Fairmount Park
  When you just need a quiet moment, Fairmount Park is free and a readily available spot for you to unwind. It also has miles of running trails, hidden statues for photos, and views along the Schuylkill River.
  

  4700 States Drive, Philadelphia

  myphillypark.org
  
  
  
  
• LOVE Sculpture (JFK Plaza)
  You’ve seen it in pictures, and it’s a great spot to take your own. The LOVE sculpture is a must for that perfect Philly photo.
  15th Street and JFK Boulevard, Philadelphia
  visitphilly.com


• Fashion District Philadelphia
  If you’re looking to do a little shopping (or a lot), the Fashion District has everything under one roof. It’s also home to entertainment options like movie theatres and bowling.
  901 Market Street, Philadelphia
  fashiondistrictphiladelphia.com

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