Autumn is, hands down, my favorite season. Philadelphia, hands down, is my favorite place to spend the season – particularly in October.  A hectic travel schedule has me unable to enjoy the pre-Halloween festivities I so enjoy this year, but I encourage you all (especially my New York friends) to make the quick trip to the City of Brotherly Love  and enjoy my fall favorites.
Stay: While New Yorkers can make a day trip here via Bolt Bus or Amtrak, I recommend the Hotel Palomar if you decide to stay the night. Â A gorgeous boutique hotel right in the heart of Center City, it boasts absurdly comfortable beds, beautifully appointed bathrooms, and a great restaurant and bar.
See: Rittenhouse Square is worthy of a leisurely walk – great people watching and gorgeous fall foliage. Â Grab a coffee at La Colombe beforehand, or stop by DiBruno Brothers for Italian treats and have a picnic. Â If it’s raining, head to either the Philadelphia Museum of Art or the Franklin Institute, depending on your interests. Â History fans should see the Liberty Bell and Constitution Hall, obviously – but also shouldn’t miss Constitution Center.
Play: Philly boasts one of the best haunted houses in the country – at a former prison, no less.  The Eastern State Penitentiary is terrifying and amazing at the same time.  Go at nighttime to enhance the spook factor – and head to the nearby Rose Tattoo Cafe  for a cozy dinner.  If you’re up for a more lively scene, cab it to Northern Liberties, where you can dine (see below), dance at 700 Club, or bowl at North Bowl.
Taste: Philadelphia is so much more than cheesesteaks (though they are delicious – head to Jim’s on South Street for the real deal).  In addition to my aforementioned recommendations, I have many, many more.  In Rittenhouse, check out Parc (French), Butcher & Singer (60’s style steakhouse), El Vez (Mexican), and  Bindi (Indian BYOB).  In my beloved Northern Liberties, my go-tos are Bar Ferdinand (tapas), El Camino Real (Tex-Mex), PYT (burgers), and Standard Tap (comfort food).
