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76 Other Ways Philly Changed the World

Sure, Philly gave America democracy. But, from bubble gum to the world’s first computer to life-saving medical breakthroughs, Philadelphia’s greatest export is actually our influence.

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Our style-savvy editors hit the streets to scout the latest fashions.

The always weather-aware Val Yeager made a highly intelligent move and went out and about last week, when it was unseasonably warm, with nary a […]

I spent the recent Blizzard of 2009 trudging through two feet of snow in our nation’s capital. Use my hypothermic misfortune as your guide to a great weekend getaway.
 
STAY: The Affinia hotel group recently completed a renovation of a — don’t judge — Holiday Inn, transforming it into The Liaison, a lovely boutique hotel that’s not exactly the lap of luxury, but is very comfortable, affordable, and literally steps away from the Capitol and the Mall. Weekender readers can take advantage of an unbelievable deal: room rates from $149, a $50-per-stay dining/drinking credit (including in-room), a free movie (is it getting hot in here?), and 2 p.m. checkout on weekends. Just use the promotional code D8NGHT when making your reservation.
 
EAT: The aforementioned hotel restaurant – Art & Soul – is presided over by Art Smith, who served as Oprah’s personal chef until 2007. And after a brunch there, I think I understand the talk-show queen’s struggles with weight gain. Think country fried steak and chicken and waffles, or try Gayle’s (as in Oprah’s BFF) favorite, the lemon yogurt pancakes. Once you have room for something else, head to the nearby and tiny-by-any-measure Chinatown for cheap eats. I had excellent food at the jam-packed Chinatown Express, where staff stands in the front window making noodles and dumplings by hand. Or, if you want to spend some of the money you’ve saved with the hotel hookup, try esteemed (and expensive) popular-with-politicos French spot Bistro Bis, just named one of the capital’s top restaurants by Washingtonian magazine. So expect a wait. More casual but none less reliable is the critically acclaimed fish-house Johnny’s Half Shell. Get the po’boys and fried oysters.
 
DRINK: The Sonoma wine bar is less than a mile from the hotel and offers 40 wines by the glass. If you’re in town on the weekend, don’t miss the Saturday happy hour, when the wine-of-the-week is $20 for a bottomless glass. If a beer is in order, Capitol City Brewing Company — D.C.’s first brewpub — is just a few blocks away. I also had a great time hanging out with the friendly snowed-in locals (and some very tipsy Fox News employees) at the vast Kelly’s Irish Times, which is even closer.
 
DO: Obviously, since you’re so close to the Mall, you’d be a fool not to take in the many free museums. New Smithsonian exhibits include “One Life: Echoes of Elvis” at the Portrait Gallery, “Moving Beyond Earth” at Air & Space, and “Abe Lincoln: An Extraordinary Life” at National History. The International Spy Museum and the Newseum, while not free, are also in the neighborhood. On a non-museum note, I highly recommend you check out Orestes, A Tragic Romp at the world-renowned Folger Shakespeare Library, which is quick cab ride away (though walkable too). There’s some Philly talent involved — Arden co-founder Aaron Posner and Obie-winning Pig Iron man James Sugg — and the show runs through March 7th. For $10 off any ticket (Tuesday through Friday and Sunday evenings only), use the promotional code WEEKENDER.
 
INSIDER TIP: If you’re driving, know that parking at the hotel is an atrocious $42 a night. That includes in-and-out privileges, but you don’t really need a car in this neighborhood. If you can’t detach yourself from your car, park at the very close Union Station, where it’s $19 per 24 hours. Or, better yet, save yourself the aggravation and take the two-hour train ride. Two of you can get there for as little as $132 round trip on Amtrak. Unfortunately, the Bolt Bus doesn’t do Philly-DC yet, though you can try your luck with the Chinatown buses.

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76 Other Ways Philly Changed the World

76 Other Ways Philly Changed the World

Sure, Philly gave America democracy. But, from bubble gum to the world’s first computer to life-saving medical breakthroughs, Philadelphia’s greatest export is actually our influence.

Our Petition Worked — Ona Judge Day Is Now Official

Our Petition Worked — Ona Judge Day Is Now Official

We launched a petition to urge the Mayor and City Council to make May 21st a day to honor the brave former slave who escaped from George Washington — because no one tells Philadelphia to keep the truth to ourselves.

The race to be the best of the best defines life inside the Curtis Institute of Music.

Imagine a Rittenhouse Square mansion stuffed with the world’s top musical prodigies. Now imagine you’re one of them, trying to survive round-the-clock rehearsals, barking instructors […]

A 24-year-old newly single professional who has three months to fit into her bridesmaid dress. “I’m a bridesmaid in two weddings that are quickly approaching, and I’m hoping to be rocking the form-fitting dress.”

Jessica’s Sweat Trainer: Meghan Anderson [sidebar]Initial assessment: “Jessica was extremely positive and determined to enter into our training program. In the past, she tried working […]

A soon-to-be-40 working mom who wants to drop pounds so she can keep up with her teenage daughter. “I want to keep up when walking and for her to understand the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.”

Deidre’s Sweat Trainer: Adarrel Fisher, Head Trainer  Initial Assessments: “Deidre has a wonderful personality. She is willing to do whatever it takes to improve her […]

A 25-year-old just-married caterer who wants to begin the greatest adventure of her life looking good and feeling great. “I don’t feel beautiful because I know I’m not healthy. I want to start my married life as a healthy, beautiful woman.”

Devon’s Sweat Trainer: Holly Waters [sidebar]Initial Assessments: “The girl is in it to win it! I am honored to work with such an enthusiastic and […]

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