PH Travels: Philadelphia itinerary

Join Preservation Houston in September 2025 for an inspiring journey to Philadelphia, a city where history, art and innovation converge. This draft itinerary offers a glimpse of the thoughtfully curated experiences that await. Please note that plans may change as we finalize the schedule. We’ll post updates here, and travelers who register for the Philadelphia trip will receive detailed information as it becomes available.

Day 1: Welcome to Philadelphia

Wednesday, September 17 — The trip begins as you settle in at the stylish Hotel Palomar, located near Rittenhouse Square in one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome happy hour at the Bok Bar, a South Philly rooftop with sweeping city views followed by dinner at the storied Palizzi Social Club (which is opening that evening just for us). It’s a perfect way to connect with fellow travelers and kick off the adventure.

Day 2: Historic landmarks and urban innovation

Thursday, September 18 — Discover the Colonial heart of Philadelphia with a guided tour that brings the city’s founding history to life. As we explore, you’ll gain a feel for the city’s innovative grid plan, which dates back to its founding in 1682. We’ll enjoy lunch at the historic Bourse in Philadelphia’s Old City followed by a special tour of works from Mural Arts, the country’s largest public art program, and a visit to Philadelphia’s iconic City Hall. We’ll wrap the day up with a private dinner at The Dandelion, a favorite spot near Rittenhouse Square.

Day 3: The suburbs and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Friday, September 19 — We’ll begin the day with an exclusive tour of Lynnewood Hall, a stunning Gilded Age estate poised to become one of the nation’s largest preservation projects, before visiting Louis Kahn’s exquisite Margaret Esherick House in Chestnut Hill, a neighborhood known for its charm and character. After lunch we’ll return to the city for a tour of the Barnes Foundation, a world-class museum celebrated for its art collection and intriguing history. Wrap up the day with a stroll along the grand Benjamin Franklin Parkway, often called “Philadelphia’s Champs-Élysées.”

Day 4: West Philadelphia and the art museum

Saturday, September 20 — Experience the charm of West Philadelphia beginning with a visit to the University of Pennsylvania’s stunning campus — including a look inside the Fisher Fine Arts Library, a masterpiece by Philadelphia architect Frank Furness. We’ll enjoy lunch at a favorite University City spot followed by a visit to Bartram’s Garden, the nation’s oldest botanic garden, where history and natural beauty intertwine. Later, we’ll tour the beautiful Philadelphia Museum of Art with a guided architectural tour and time to explore the extraordinary collections. That evening, we’ll gather for a special dinner in Fishtown, a historic neighborhood now thriving as a hub for creativity and culture.

Day 5: Farewell Philly

Sunday, September 21 — Our final morning begins with a delicious brunch near leafy Rittenhouse Square followed by a guided tour of the park. Afterward, enjoy free time to savor the city’s atmosphere or make a last visit to a favorite spot before you return home. As our journey concludes, you’ll carry with you cherished memories and a deeper connection to one of America’s most remarkable cities.