The second largest city on the East Coast, Philadelphia ranks fifth in the nation, with a metropolitan population of 5.8 million. Philadelphia is located 88 miles south of New York City, 133 miles north of Washington, D.C., and 55 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean.
B. History.
From its inception by Swedish settlers in the 1640's, and the official founding as a city by William Penn in 1682, the streets of Philadelphia have flourished with business and bustling city activity. "The City of Brotherly Love", has been the scene of much important American History.
Philadelphia is the birthplace of America .
Its Independence National Historical Park is one of the most famous square miles in the United States; the park is home to the Liberty Bell, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Independence Hall. Other famous landmarks include: Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, and Valley Forge National Park. It is also home to the largest Urban Park in the country, Fairmount Park, encompassing over 8,900 acres in size. There are also world-class museums, The Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Franklin Institute, specifically, along with the brand new Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, which is the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra. .
C. Facts.
Some Famous Philadelphians: Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross, Kim Delaney.
Will Smith, David Brenner, Bill Cosby, Bob Saget, Kevin Eubanks, Grace Kelly.
(Princess Grace of Monaco), Marian Anderson, Kevin Bacon, Richard Gere, Patti LaBelle, Boyz 2 Men, Eve, Rich Gannon, Eddie George.
Philadelphia was named the safest of the 12 largest cities in America, according to a recent FBI Crime Index Report; it was also named the friendliest. Conde' Nast Traveler, voted Philadelphia the Best Restaurant City in the country.
We have four major sports teams, the Eagles (NFL) Flyers (NHL) Sixers (NBA) and Phillies (MLB). The Flyers and Sixers play in the First Union Center which is 4 years old, while the Eagles and Phillies play in Veterans Stadium, although separate stadiums are nearing completion, this is the Eagles final season at the Vet, while the Philles have one more remaining.
