Welcome to the city of Brotherly Love. As a visitor to Philadelphia, there are certain things that you need to know. One don't mess with the Parking Authority. You will get a ticket approximately 2 seconds after the meter expires. Second, if you see big haired and fake-busted women and men with tight shirts and muscles don't blame us it's the Jersey idiots coming over for a party. Third you need to know where to grub, catch a cheap drink, shop and find the athletes while they are partying downtown.
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| Geno's Steaks - for the late night artery clogging hangover buster... And a damn fine steak sandwich. |
Lets start with food. There are a number of classic Philly joints that you need to hit, especially for a cheesesteak or slice of pizza. For the late night munchies, roll down to 9th and Wharton in South Philly and hit Pat's and Geno's, both amazing options for a great cheesesteak. If you are feeling the need to catch a slice, roll down to 3rd and South and grab a piece of Lorenzo's, the best pizza on the planet. One thing to know don't ask for toppings, condiments etc. - you will get tossed out the door by the seat of your pants. If you have the time during the day, make your way to Steve's in the Northeast, or Delassandro's on Henry Ave. for the best steaks in town. If you feel like having a more substantial meal, head over to Dinardo's on 4th and Race. On Monday and Tuesday they have all you can eat crabs for about $20 amazing deal.
Cheap drinks are a staple for Philadelphians. There are numerous bars to hit while you are in town. If you are in Old City, make your way to Sugarmom's (225 Church St.). Mom's boasts the most diverse staff and clientele in Philadelphia from tattooed hardcore types and emo kids to hip-hop heads and club folk. They have a pool table, USA vs. Canada hockey dome, pinball machines, a piano adorned in flames, bumper cars to sit in and porn on the walls of the bathroom. If you are in Center City, roll over to McGlinchey's (259 South 15th St.), Dirty Frank's (347 South 13th Street, or Bob and Barbera's (1509 South St.). You can get a shot and a beer for less than 4 bucks in all of these establishments. For a little higher class partying, crawl around Old City on any given night to any of the lounges and restaurants. If you are into glitzy joints, head to the upstairs VIP lounge at Glam (3rd between Chestnut and Market).
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| Dirty Frank's in Center City is always good for a cold one. |
For the bigger events and to catch your favorite athletes, here are a few X Games parties to check out. On Thursday night, August 15th, make your way to 7th and Willow. Slayer is playing at The Electric Factory, and there is a huge party across the street at Shampoo, featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff. This party, hosted by Sal Masekela and Dave Paine, will most likely be one of the biggest of the Games, and a great place to kick it with your favorite athletes and local celebrities. On Friday night there are numerous options. Check out Chrome (939 North Delaware Ave.) for an 18 and up party of momentous proportions. With a half pipe in the parking a lot, the biggest climbing wall in the Northeast (Go Vertical is attached to the club!), foam on the outside deck, PS2 demonstrations etc., this one is sure to be off the walls. You can also check out the Familie, Savren and DC shoes over at the Trocadero with Blackalicious, or Mark Farina at 1616 Locust Street. As if this all isn't enough, make your way over to Transit (600 Spring Garden) on Saturday night for the Maxim, Sobe, 101 party. Featuring a live performance by Fishbone and DJ Cash Money, this one will certainly be off the meter! If you are still in the mood to party by Sunday night, join the 101 staff over at Delilah's (best strip club in town!) for our X Games VIP joint.
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| Kerry Getz owns the Nocturnal Skateboard Shop just off South St. |
If you are looking to find some athletes hanging out during the day, make your way down to South Street and check out Nocturnal Skate Shop (3rd btw Bainbridge and South.) Owned and managed by professional skaters, there are always pros hanging out. Elite is also on South Street, and there are sure to be guys making their way through there as well. For other gear, you should also make your way to Gmart (3rd between Market and Arch). They have the largest selection of Pumas you have ever seen
you can also catch the skaters in action at City Hall, FDR Skate Park, and even the old Love Park (when cops aren't chasing them down).
Need some info on the city in general? Pick up a copy of 101 Magazine at any skate shop, record store, bar or boutique. This months issue contains an interview with Caleb Wyatt, as well as the complete schedule of X Games events. You can also see complete listings of clubs and bars.
So that's it a quick guide to the greatest city on earth. So you down at the F.U.C! The First Union Center that is...
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