Originally built in 1801, The St. Augustine Church was the first order of its denomination built in the United States and also housed the largest theological library in the city. Unfortunately, during the infamous anti-Catholic Nativist Riot of 1844, the church was burnt down to the ground destroying over 3000 volumes and some rare books. The second church was constructed in 1847 by Napolean LeBaron, an architect responsible for other Philadelphia landmarks including the Academy of Music and Cathedral of St. Paul and Peter. The church is an example of Palladian architecture and has impressive features like the white marble alter, Mexican onyx tabernacle and beautiful stained glass windows (all representing different saints) that lets colorful light into the church. This Roman Catholic Church is responsible for the founding of Villanova University and the Philadelphia Orchestra, both prestigious organizations in Pennsylvania. 

Built in 1837 by William Strickland (famous architect of The Merchants' Exchange Building and The U.S. Mint), the National Mechanics Building is a prized landmark in Philadelphia. The building has been home to a variety of businesses; once the Mechanics National bank, a church, and a club. Now, the historic landmark is one of the city's most popular bars and restaurant. Keeping with the old-world feel, the bar has created a warm but quirky atmosphere filled with off-kilter accents and peculiar decor from homemade light fixtures to strange wall hangings. One thing not reflective of the peculiar history is the food and beer menu, which is brimming with fresh and local cuisine. Featuring gastro-pub favorites like grilled flank steak with steak frites and seasonal vegetables, the National veggie burger (house favorite) and nostalgic dishes like homemade tomato soup with grilled cheese make this local pub a must-see. The beer menu is filled with local, national and international brews that will make any beer-lover rejoice in the heart of the Old City. Check out the happy hour on weekdays from 5p-7p for great prices on food and selected beers. 

Located in the beautiful and historic Old City district and housed in a 1902 firehouse, The Fireman's Hall Museum is a great attraction for the whole family. The museum is dedicated to upholding the history of firefighting in Philadelphia and celebrating its heroes both past and present. The gallery in the museum has many pieces of antique fire equipment on display that demonstrate how far the technology of the profession has come over that last century. The museum frequently hosts awards ceremonies and benefits for local firehouses and community events. The admission is free but donations are graciously accepted.

The outside of the building indicates that patrons are in for a unique experience-and (thankfully) the inside lives up to the expectation. This visual art and live performance gallery has long been a revered institution for those looking to avoid the mainstream, and hosts the city's longest continually running Jazz series. Free admission to the Painted Bride Art Center is available year-round. Live performances inside the center's 250 seat theatre take place at various times. All in all, a great place to admire awe-inspiring art forms.

The smell of incense hits you as you walk through the door of this one-of-a-kind shop in Old City. With jewelry, textiles, antiques, soaps, and pottery from various parts of the world, Indigo has captured the feeling of shopping in a local store in Mexico or Africa. An art gallery featuring paintings and sculptures from around the globe is located on the second floor. Founded in 1986, the owners of Indigo Arts wanted to share their enthusiasm for world culture with the public and pride themselves on purchasing work directly from artists, cooperatives, and arts organizations.

The original cemetary of Christ Church is the final resting place of the most famous member of the congregation, Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790). His marker, and that of his wife Deborah, are along the north fence. It's traditional to toss a penny on his marble tombstone for luck, though Franklin once wrote "A penny saved is a penny earned."

Though William Penn left the Anglican Church to become a Quaker, he practiced religious tolerance. The Anglicans built this 1727-44 beautiful structure, based on Christopher Wren's designs in London. There are still services on Sundays and holy days, plus architectural tours. George Washington's seat is marked by a plaque. The Christ Church burial ground, the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and his family, is at the corner of 5th and Arch Streets.

After a long day of enjoying Philadelphia's public transportation, why not stop off at SEPTAs Transit Museum Store and see how things got the way they are today? There's a restored PTC (Philadelphia Transportation Company) trolley that kids can board, as well as historical photographs and artifacts from one of the country's oldest public transportation systems. There's also a gift shop selling shirts, hats, postcards and a lot of books and models.

Chef Poon is known as the father of Asian Fusion cooking in Philadelphia. He earned his reputation for his Peking duck, and then added to his fame with Peking duck tacos. Just about everything is recommended, from the spicy wild mushroom soup to the sizzling ostrich steak. Be sure to leave room for dessert. Poon also shares his kitchen secrets with ongoing hands-on cooking classes at this location. And if this were not enough he also leads Wok 'n Walk tours of the neighborhood. 

Founded in 1767, Historic St. George's United Methodist Church is the world's oldest Methodist Church building in continuous use. In addition to weekly worship services, a museum contains many artifacts of the early Methodists. Treasures include the 1771 Asbury Bible, the oldest known Methodist Chalice in the world, many portraits of famous early Church members and an extensive collection of early Methodist publications. There's also a Gift Shop. Call ahead to schedule a guided tour.