Sign up for our free newsletter. 52 Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia. You can reach here at Horticulture Center in West Fairmount Park and can spend some time enjoying the views. Hidden Gems in Los Angeles: Unique Things To Do in LA The atmosphere is energetic and fun a far cry from the Sbarros of yesteryear. The two-floor Insectarium side features mounted displays, live specimens, insect sculptures and an exhibit about extermination poisons. Top 10 Best Hidden Gems in Philadelphia, PA - August 2022 - Yelp Deep in the Chester County woods and atop a mountain near Valley Forge National Historical Park lived wood sculptor Wharton Esherick, the Dean of American Craftsmen. Upon his death in 1970, his hand-built, 12-acre rural modernist home, farmhouse and studio a National Historic Landmark for Architecture turned into the Wharton Esherick Museum, an immersive, interactive destination featuring more than 200 of his works on display. That said, here are the best hidden gems in the city of Philadelphia. The garden has century-old plants that were then used for medicinal purposes. This pocket park just off 17th Street occupies a narrow space between Chestnut and Ranstead. The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park is an ecological oasis on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. Cafe Diem. Formerly known as the Wood Turning Center, the four-decade-old center features temporary and permanent collections consisting of 1,200 wood art-related objects and a 25,000-item research library on the history of woodturning and woodworking. Heres where youll find the Italian Market, one of Americas oldest open-air markets. If youre looking to uncover off the beaten path (but beloved by locals) places in a city, you should probably go straight to the source. A variety of events are frequently held at the house. Discover The Bridge to Nowhere. This 1950s house was built in Japan, put on display at MoMA in New York City, then moved to Philadelphia to be a permanent tribute to Japanese culture. The gardens here are incredible, and the events that the Shofuso House hosts are truly unique. Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel writer who has lived and worked in and around Philadelphia for nearly 20 years. New York 212.682.7300; . Engaging exhibits throughout the 1,000-piece collection spotlight shoes from various times and cultures. This spot has an impeccable pedigree: Its helmed by Nicholas Elmi, of the stellar Laurel, and hes partnered with people behind some of the citys most beloved pubs (Royal Tavern), secret sushi spots (Royal Sushi and Izakaya), and kitschy-but-delicious Mexican hot spots (Cantina Los Caballitos). Philadelphia doesn't run short of beautiful gardens.