They’re versatile! Following a visit early this summer designed to highlight arts and culture (culminating in tickets to a performance of the Philadelphia Orchestra), delegates from the Philadelphia Visitors and Convention Bureau returned to Toronto Wednesday, this time (ball) cap in hand while hosting select members of the trade at a Phillies-Jays game at the Rogers Centre.
The Jays blew a big lead (in unsurprising fashion), but the evening was fun and informative, and illustrated that the City of Brotherly Love has many facets, not least a passion for sport that extends to its baseball club, as well as NFL, NBA and, of course, NHL entries, amongst other teams.
PHLCVB President and CEO Gregg Caren noted that Canada is Philadelphia’s top partner in both trade and tourism, and shared many connections, including enthusiasm for sports.
Of course, the city – reached by 60-minute flight or eight-hour drive from much of Ontario or Quebec – also boasts a rich history dating to the era of US independence, with some of America’s most historically significant sites found in Independence National Historical Park.
Dubbed America’s “most historic square mile,” it includes such essential spots as Independence Hall – where the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were debated and adopted – and the Liberty Bell, the iconic symbol of freedom.
A vibrant arts and cultural is highlighted by the renowned Franklin Institute;, the Philadelphia Museum of Art; Barnes Foundation;, and the Rodin Museum (with the artist’s famed statue “The Thinker” presiding over the museum’s entrance. Meanwhile more 4,000 murals are testament to a thriving street art scene.
Of course, Philadelphia is renowned for its food (can you say Philly cheesesteak?), and the city boasts a vibrant gastronomic scene, including being home to several highly rated James Beard award-winning restaurants.
Looking ahead, 2026 will be the 50th anniversary of one of Philly’s favourite “sons” – Rocky Balboa, the iconic cinematic boxer played by Sylvester Stallone who has come to represent the city’s enduring grit and determination.
Moreover, added to Philly’s regular roster of sport will be 2026 World Cup of Football games as the city serves as one of the host cities.
But before then, If the Phillies’ come-from-behind win against the Jays on Wednesday is any indication, then the team may well be playing for the World Series in October.
Taken all together, Caren says Philadelphia is not only an iconic city, but one full of daily passions and undiscovered gems. And that, he says, is the “Philly” in the tourism city’s tourism slogan, “Come for Philadelphia, Stay for Philly.”
“People know ‘Philadelphia’ for the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall…” he says. “But there are so many unknown surprises.”