Category Archives: News

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pennsylvania Gems

Frank Lloyd Wright is considered the greatest American architect of all time. A pioneer of organic architecture, which was inspired by the landscape of Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands. Four of his homes can be found in the area, each capturing the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding its architecture.

Wright’s masterpiece, Fallingwater is considered one of the most renowned residences in the world. Now a World UNESCO Heritage Site it is operated by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. This year marks the 60th anniversary since the property opened up to public and the house will has just opened after it’s winter preservation work finished on 15th March. For information on visiting Fallingwater click here.

Above: Fallingwater, photo courtesy of fallingwater.org

Just seven miles southwest of Fallingwater and high atop a bluff overlooking the Youghiogheny River Gorge stands another Wright masterpiece in Kentuck Knob, which is an extraordinary interpretation of Wright’s Usonian ideals, with its organic floor plan, cantilevered overhangs, and great expanses of glass. The 2024 visitor season started this week, with the house open for visitors daily, until November 2nd. For more information and tour tickets click here.

Above: Kentuck Knob, photo courtesy of kentuckknob.com

Located less than 30 miles from Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob, Polymath Park features two houses designed by Wright, the Duncan house and Mäntylä that were constructed in the Midwest and relocated to the Laurel Highlands, as well the Balter and Blum houses that were built on the Westmoreland County property and designed by Wright apprentice Peter Berndston.

Duncan, Photo courtesy of franklloydwrightovernight.net

Mäntylä. Photo courtesy of franklloydwrightovernight.net

Balter, Photo courtesy of franklloydwrightovernight.net 

Blum, Photo courtesy of franklloydwrightovernight.net

Unique visitor experiences include “destination dining” in TreeHouse dining pods or at TreeTops Restaurant at Polymath Park, or you can even stay overnight at a Wright house as
All four of the homes are available for daily rentals, prices start from: Duncan $675 per night, Mäntylä $825 per night, Balter $475 per night, Blum $475 per night.

To further explore the working life of Frank Lloyd Wright, you can walk through his office, which is now a museum located within a specially designed building in Erie. The office is featured in the list of the public Wright sites around the world. Click here to read more.

For more reasons to visit Pennsylvania, check out visitPA.com.

ENDS

For further press information, imagery and to discuss media visits please contact:
Anna Watt
PR Director, GEC TR
anna@gectr,co.uk
07815 898995

About Pennsylvania Tourism Office
Visit Pennsylvania is the official tourism office for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Their mission is to promote Pennsylvania as a premier travel destination, highlighting the state’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions. The office works with industry partners and stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences, drive economic growth, and showcase the vibrant offerings of the state to a global audience.

 

 

Philadelphia Flower Show, the largest horticultural event in the United States

The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) has held the Philadelphia Flower Show since 1829. The event attracts 250,000 attendees from across the globe. It raises $1 million for PHS programs that promote sustainability, health, and well-being.

Above: PHS Flower Show 2023. Photo by Pel Productions for the PHLCVB

With a new theme each year, the Philadelphia Flower Show invites premier floral and landscape designers from around the world to bring dazzling displays to life in Philadelphia. The event draws both floral artists and aficionados, bringing them together to marvel at the show’s breath taking arrangements.

Above: PHS Flower Show 2023. Photo by Pel Productions for the PHLCVB.

2024 Flower Show

The 2024 PHS Philadelphia Flower Show will mark the event’s 195th year. It will be held March 2-10, 2024 with “United by Flowers” as its theme. Organizers say the theme is a celebration of “the colourful community that comes together to share in their love of gardening, flowers, and plants, and the impact they make on our lives all year round.”

In addition to its usual impressive floral displays, the 2024 show will also feature the world’s largest houseplant and indoor plant competition. Both expert and amateur horticulturalists are encouraged to enter their displays which will be judged by experts from around the world.

Above: PHS Flower Show 2023. Photo by Pel Productions for the PHLCVB.

As well as enjoying the flower exhibits, guests can take part in a number of events and activities to enjoy at the show. New this year is a specialty Behind the Blooms Tour which goes deeper into the realm of horticulture at the Flower Show. Led by expert-level horticulturists, and designed for master gardeners, participants learn about the Show’s diverse and sustainable plant varieties as well as garden design concepts.

Flowers After Hours is an after-hours dance party which takes place on 9th March. The evening features music and entertainment among the Flower Show floral, garden, and landscape designs. Immerse yourself in an iridescent celebration with this year’s theme, Shimmer & Shine. The event is for guests 21 years of age and older and takes place from 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm.

At Butterflies Live you can experience native and exotic butterflies surrounded by flowering plants in a serene setting that allows hundreds of butterflies to spread their wings. Younger Flower Show guests can have fun in the free Kids Cocoon activities area where they can have a go at planting a seedling, read a story, and enjoy hourly program of activities from many local horticulturally-focused partners.

Tickets to the Philadelphia Flower Show are now on sale here.

For information on things to see and do in Philadelphia go to www.discoverPHL.com

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For Further Press Information and high-resolution images, please contact:
Anna Watt – Philadelphia UK Office
Tel: 07815 898995
Email: anna@gregevansconsultancy.com

About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau
Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organization has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.

Art in the Garden: The Best Places in PA to See Outdoor Sculpture

Let’s take a minute to celebrate the gardens that don’t rely solely on leaves and petals to engage the spirit. Pennsylvania is full of interesting, inspiring sculpture parks, showcasing outdoor works of art large and small. An added bonus for garden lovers: These creative havens typically cultivates striking landscaping to frame the works, embracing the synthesis of art and nature. That said, sculpture parks are exciting to visit even during colder months when nothing is in bloom.

Hartwood Acres Sculpture Garden, Allegheny County
The Pennsylvania sculpture scene has a new feather in its cap: The Carol R. Brown Sculpture Garden at the 629-acre Hartwood Acres Park, which spans Hampton and Indiana Townships outside of Pittsburgh, showcases 14 stunning pieces of sculpture. Thirteen older pieces, including “Ring Series #5” by kinetic sculpture artist Fletcher Benton and the massive, industrial “Stretch” by Charles Ginnever, have been painstakingly restored to their former glory, and one new work, “Margie and Pete” by Pittsburgh sculptor Dee Briggs, was constructed from weathering steel. The park also features include ADA-compliant walkways, modern lighting, native landscaping, and nearly 300 new trees.

Above: Hartwood Acres Sculpture Garden

Allegheny Landing Park. North Shore, Pittsburgh
Located on the riverfront adjacent to PNC park, the Allegheny Landing Park sculpture garden features George Sugarman’s free-standing sculptures; Isaac Witkin’s abstract sculpture that pays tribute to Pittsburgh’s industrial past and the confluence of the three rivers; and works by Ned Smyth whose sculptural installations reflect “mankind’s origins, the role of labor and human culture, and the balance between civilization in nature.” The beautiful setting features colorful pieces of metalwork along with intricate stone mosaics. Bring a picnic and enjoy stunning views of the city’s iconic bridges and the downtown skyline.

Above: Allegheny Landing Park

Rhoneymeade Arboretum and Sculpture Garden, Centre Hall
Situated on a high ridge between the Nittany and Tussey Mountains, this gorgeous 150-acre garden and outdoor gallery was an active farm for more than 200 years before being purchased and enshrined as open space. The Rhoneymeade Arboretum and Sculpture Garden collection showcases rustic, textural pieces in wood, bronze, iron, and marble. The organization puts a particular emphasis on the fruitful connection between art and nature and welcomes plein air painters to capture the grounds.

Above: Rhoneymeade Arboretum and Sculpture Garden

James A. Michener Art Museum, Doylestown
This small, revered art museum in Bucks County puts just as much thought and energy into its exterior spaces as it does its indoor galleries. On the grounds of the James A. Michener Art Museum, experience several large sculptures along with an installation based on a cell from the old Bucks County Jail, the building’s earlier iteration. The Patricia D. Pfundt Sculpture Garden, a beautiful tucked-away space inside the institution, boasts more exciting works.

Above: James A. Michener Art Museum

The Bower, Shermans Dale
Completed in 2021, the 36-acre preserve known as The Bower in Perry County, just 30 minutes from Harrisburg, showcases 13 stunning sculptures formed from dry stacked stone, and polished marble, each set within a beautiful landscape featuring native plants. Artists include Rebecca Rutstein whose “Ridge and Valley” is a massive, abstract steel installation inspired by the ecoregions of the Commonwealth; Robert Koch’s “Pollen,” a series of bronze spheres, underlines naturally occurring geometries; and Swiss sculptor Evelyne Brader-Frank whose “Thaia” was inspired by Greek mythology. Reservations are required to visit.

Above: The Bower

Schaefer’s Auto Art, Erie
Here’s something a little bit different: In 1988, outsider artist Dick Schaefer began building large-scale sculptures out of old cars. These fun, whimsical, quirky works of art are displayed on a piece of land outside of Erie, and are free to visit at Schaefer’s Auto Art — we recommend coming during Halloween when many of the pieces are in costume!

Above: Schaefer’s Auto Art

Kentuck Knob, Chalk Hill
This Frank Lloyd Wright home — one of the last buildings he ever designed — might not have the name recognition of nearby Fallingwater, but is fascinating in its own right. A national historic landmark, Kentuck Knob is a modernist masterpiece that boasts more than 30 sculptures installed by Lord Peter Palumbo who with his wife, Lady Hayat Palumbo, acquired the property in the mid-1980s. Sir Anthony Caro, George Rickey, and Andy Goldsworthy are among the artists whose sculptures can be found on the property.

Above: Kentuck Knob

Anne d’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden, Center City, Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Museum of Art turned a problem into an opportunity, covering a large underground parking garage with a green roof/sculpture garden. Visitors to the Anne d’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden can see large-scale works by major contemporary artists such as Claes Oldenburg and Toshiko Takaezu, and enjoy views of the iconic building, the Schuylkill River, and Boathouse Row.

Above: Anne d’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden

The Morris Arboretum & Gardens at the University of Pennsylvania, Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia

Located on the very edge of northwest Philadelphia, the Morris Arboretum & Gardens at the University of Pennsylvania offers far more than beautiful gardens and towering trees, featuring several outdoor sculptures, including works by artists George Rickey, Madeleine Butcher, George Sugarman, and Linda Cunningham.

Above: The Morris Arboretum

Lehigh Millennium Folk Arch and Art Enclave, Bethlehem
If you’re looking for something a little wilder, look no further than this quirky brainchild of a Lehigh University professor. Officially dubbed the Stolfo Sculpture Garden — though most locals know it as the Millennium Folk Arch and Art Enclave — this collection of outsider-art-inspired sculpture showcases an assortment of off-beat works by students.

Above: Lehigh Millennium Folk Arch and Art Enclave

For more reasons to visit Pennsylvania, check out visitPA.com.

ENDS

For further press information, imagery and to discuss media visits please contact:

Anna Watt
PR Director, Greg Evans Consultancy
anna@gregevansconsultancy.com
07815 898995

About Pennsylvania Tourism Office
Visit Pennsylvania is the official tourism office for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Their mission is to promote Pennsylvania as a premier travel destination, highlighting the state’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions. The office works with industry partners and stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences, drive economic growth, and showcase the vibrant offerings of the state to a global audience.

Fall Activities, Festivals and Events in Philadelphia

The Autumn months are a wonderful time to visit Philadelphia with the colour changes of nature evident in the tree lined streets and urban parks, many fantastic fall and harvest events, the party atmosphere of the city’s many Octoberfest events and of course Halloween, which Philadelphia goes all out for.

Oktoberfests
Philadelphia has been at the heart of German American culture since the first immigrants settled in Pennsylvania, and the beer is certainly flowing in the many authentic Oktoberfest celebrations that take place throughout the city.

The 15th annual South Street Oktoberfest takes place on September 16th on the 700 block of South Street. With a covered seating for over 1,000 people, live Oompah music all day, German dancers, the litre lift competition, a dozen German beers, signature Bavarian dishes and much more.
23rd Street Armory Oktoberfest which takes place on 13th and 14th October claims to be the most Authentic Oktoberfest experience outside of Munich. Taking place in a 16,000 foot tented venue which can fit up to 1,400 people and features live German Oompah music, cultural German dance performances, original festival food, and of course, plenty of German beer.

Philadelphia has a thriving craft beer scene, and during Oktoberfest, many breweries create special beers inspired by German traditions. This is a chance to explore the local craft beer offerings with an Oktoberfest twist.

Above: Photo courtesy of Brauhaus Schmitz

Fall and Harvest Events

As the air grows crisp the smells of autumn and spectacular foliage of red, yellow, and orange signal a season of incredible events in Philadelphia.

To experience the stunning fall foliage head to city’s parks, such as Fairmount Park, one of the largest city-owned urban park systems in the world and Wissahickon Valley Park which has 1800 acres and 50-plus miles of trail

Take a trip to The Countryside of Philadelphia – just a short drive from the Centre City – for more scenes of vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves which make for great photo opportunities.

Philadelphia hosts a variety of seasonal events. At Fall Fest, which takes place at Morgan’s Pier, you can sip cider and carve pumpkins whilst enjoying stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Northern Liberties Night Market allows visitors to sample the vibrant neighbourhood’s best food trucks, shop from local vendors, and enjoy live music and street performances.

Philadelphia has a variety of farmers’ markets that come alive with the colours and flavours of the harvest season. You can find fresh produce and seasonal goodies to enjoy or take home with you.

Above: Morgan’s Pier Fall Fest. Image courtesy of Morgan’s Pier

Halloween
There is a flurry of Spooktacular Halloween events in Philadelphia, from family-friendly activities to more intense haunted experiences, you’ll find something for everyone.

Eastern State Penitentiary’s Halloween Nights takes place on select nights from 22nd September to 11th November is an immersive experience featuring five thrilling haunted houses, museum exhibits, themed lounges, live performances, and more, all inside

Philadelphia is home to America’s first zoo, which hosts Philadelphia Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo during the three weekends leading up to Halloween. Visitors of all ages can explore the zoo’s grounds for special treats, photo opportunities, and a not-so-scary extinction graveyard.

If you’re more interested in unexpected experiences, tour reportedly haunted sites and attractions during a Ghost Tour of Philadelphia when costumed guides will lead you to some of the city’s most historic sites, including Independence Hall and Washington Square.

To read more about fall activities in Philadelphia click here.

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For Further Press Information and high-resolution images, please contact:

Anna Watt – Philadelphia UK Office
Tel: 07815 898995
Email: anna@gregevansconsultancy.com

About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau
Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organization has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.

 

 

Top 10 Ways to Celebrate Halloween in Pennsylvania

Whether you’re already a diehard “spooky season” fan or are merely curious as to why Americans are so obsessed with Halloween, Pennsylvania is the place for you to visit in September and October. With typical temperatures ranging from 28 C (82 F) to 16 C (61 F) and a majority of days with sunshine, autumn in Pennsylvania is perfect for afternoons of strolling along gorgeous foliage, enjoying meals from freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, and joining in classic American activities such as baseball and football games. But after the sun sets – which can be as early as 5 p.m. – the spooks come out, churning up plenty of fun with ghost tours, costumed capers, and more. Like so many spirits, you’ll never want to leave.

Above: Field of Screams, Mountville

Zombies!
More than 50 years ago, George Romero filmed the classic flick, “Night of the Living Dead,” in Pennsylvania, breathing life into the undead — zombies! Dive deep into horror film history on Pennsylvania’s Trail of the Living Dead, which will take you the filming location of many of Romero’s iconic horror films, as well as other horror hits such as Silence of the Lambs. Along the way, stop in at the University of Pittsburgh to dig through the George A. Romero Archival Collection and see genuine screenplays, props, dailies, artwork and more.

M. Night Shyamalan
Most films written, directed, and produced by M. Night Shyamalan — arguably the modern master of the supernatural thriller – have been filmed near his home in Philadelphia. Stroll City Center Philadelphia and the surrounding neighbourhoods to immerse yourself in the world of Shyamalan’s masterpieces, including “The Sixth Sense,” “Signs,” “the Village,” the “Unbreakable” trilogy, and the series “Servant.”

Prison Poltergeists
Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. Visit in September, October, and early November for Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary.

Travel a short distance north to Jim Thorpe for another haunted prison. In June 1877, one of the leaders of the Molly Maguires, a secret union of coal miners, was sentenced to his death at the Carbon County Jail. It is said that on his way to be executed, he slammed his hand on the wall and pronounced he didn’t commit the crime. He went on to proclaim that his handprint will remain as proof of his innocence. Years later, after cleaning, repainting and even remodelling, the handprint remains. To this day visitors can walk the cold hallways of the jail and view the mysterious handprint in cell 17. On the first three Saturdays in October, the Old Jail hosts ghost tours of the property.

Haunted Battlefields
Satisfy your ghostly cravings with a trip to Gettysburg, the site of the largest, costliest, and deadliest battle of the American Civil War and a well-known hang-out for the ghostly crowd. It is on these hallowed grounds that many of the 7,058 known dead Union and Confederate soldiers and upwards of 11,000 missing are believed to still roam this earth. Several organizations offer a variety of narrated tours, such as the Ghosts of Gettysburg candlelight walking tour.

Fields of Fright
Known as “Pumpkin Alley” by day, farmlands in Mountville, near Lancaster, invoke terror after nightfall as “Field of Screams.” Named the top haunted attraction in America by several publications, Field of Screams boasts four uniquely frighteningly attractions, including a four-story haunted house and a horrifying hayride. Prepare to be chased by monsters wielding chainsaws at this scream-worthy site.

Haunted Hill
Haunted Hill View Manor once housed the county’s mentally ill, severely destitute, and elderly residents who didn’t have any known family. The home is now one of the most haunted houses in western Pennsylvania. Curious visitors have reported activity including voices, footsteps, being touched, doors slamming, things moving on their own, and the sighting of various apparitions. According to folklore, if you lay eyes on a little boy dubbed “Jeffrey,” who appears to be about six or seven years of age, you would die soon after – although no documented deaths have been attributed, so far. For more paranormal contact, go to room 105 if you dare to encounter the home of a former patient named Mary Virginia. Haunted Hill View Manor is open to public investigations, overnight investigations, paranormal conventions, tours, and more.

Asylums, Morgues, and More
Head to the Pennhurst Asylum to send chills down your spine. The hospital-themed, walk-through attraction features items and artifacts that were part of the original government institution for people with physical or learning disabilities. Today, the facility is also an attraction that combines high-tech animatronics, digital sound, and motivated actors, as well as fine detail and realism to create a terrifying experience. While visiting, guests will brave the Legendary Pennhurst Asylum, the Morgue, and the Pennhurst Tunnels.

Costumed Celebrations
The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is one of the largest renaissance fairs in the United States. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes anytime, but during the last three weekends of October, the festival descends into a Halloween storyline. Frightful events take place throughout the day as well as trick-or-treating (for all ages!), a costume contest, and more.

Edgar Allan Poe
Celebrated American Gothic horror poet and novelist Edgar Allan Poe resided in Philadelphia during his most productive period, drafting many of his most famous works in his Seventh Street home that is now a National Historic Site. The house is easily identifiable by the statue outside dedicated to “The Raven,” Poe’s famous poem that is recited beneath the shadow if this looming bird.

Spooky Amusement Parks
If roller coasters alone don’t give you enough of a fright, several of Pennsylvania’s amusement parks hold special Halloween-themed events.

Kennywood, near Pittsburgh, hosts Phantom Fall Fest with seven haunted houses and four scare zones that include zombies, voodoo priestesses, vampires, and monsters.

In Central Pennsylvania, visit Knoebels Amusement Resort in October for Hallo-Fun, which offers a range of traditional fall activities and frightful haunts.

In Hershey, visit HersheyPark for Hersheypark Halloween trick-or-treating during the day and Dark Nights after sundown.

At Sesame Place, near Philadelphia, you can join Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and your other favorite Muppets in celebrating The Count’s Halloween Spooktactular, a family-friendly Halloween haven complete with decorations, costumes, and trick-or-treating.

For more reasons why Pennsylvania is the place to visit for Halloween, check out visitPA.com.

ENDS

About Greg Evans Consultancy
Greg Evans Consultancy is a leading marketing and consulting firm specializing in the travel and tourism industry. With a proven track record of success, the consultancy offers innovative strategies, digital solutions, and branding expertise to destinations worldwide. Their mission is to help clients elevate their brand presence, drive visitor engagement, and achieve long-term growth in the highly competitive travel industry.

About Pennsylvania Tourism Office
Visit Pennsylvania is the official tourism office for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Their mission is to promote Pennsylvania as a premier travel destination, highlighting the state’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions. The office works with industry partners and stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences, drive economic growth, and showcase the vibrant offerings of the state to a global audience.

-ENDS –

For further press information and imagery please contact:

Anna Watt
PR Director, Greg Evans Consultancy
anna@gregevansconsultancy.com
07815 898995

Philadelphia is the 2023 Best City for Street Art

The city of Philadelphia has enjoyed yet another accolade having been named the 2023 Best City for Street Art by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

This designation recognizes that Philadelphia is home to thousands of vibrant outdoor murals, sculptures, statues, and public art pieces that are easily accessible for visitors and residents alike.

Philadelphia is widely recognised as the  ”Mural Capital of the World”  due to its vibrant and awe-inspiring public art scene. From towering masterpieces that adorn entire buildings to hidden gems tucked away in neighbourhood streets, Philadelphia’s mural art has become an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, captivating residents and visitors alike.

USA Today cited the work of Mural Arts Philadelphia for helping to cement Philadelphia’s global reputation for street art. Since its inception in 1984, Mural Arts Philadelphia has overseen the creation of 4,400 works of public art, working tirelessly to bring together artists, communities and organisations to create stunning murals that transform public spaces and inspire dialogue.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the city’s street art on foot, by train, by trolley, bicycle or Segway, either guided by volunteers from Mural Arts Philadelphia or with the aid of a free smartphone app.

Philadelphia’s street art also won international praise in Michelin’s new Philadelphia destination guide, released earlier in 2023. “Few North American cities have shown such consideration to art and urban planning,” the Michelin Green Guide states. “Philly is practically an open-air museum. Everywhere you look are statues, porticos, Greek Revival or neoclassical pediments, museums.”

For more information on Philadelphia’s street art visit Discover Philadelphia.

ENDS-

For Further Press Information, please contact:

Anna Watt

anna@gregevansconsultancy.com

07815 898995

About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organisation has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.

The Pennsylvania Tourism Office appoints Greg Evans Consultancy as its new PR representation agency in the UK & Ireland

London, 18 July – The Pennsylvania Tourism Office, the official tourism office of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, has officially appointed destination specialists The Greg Evans Consultancy, also trading as GEC, as its new PR representation agency in the UK & Ireland.

As part of the partnership, Greg Evans Consultancy will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic PR campaigns, fostering media relations, and raising awareness of Pennsylvania’s tourism offerings through targeted outreach to UK and Irish media outlets and influencers.

“We are thrilled to be working with the Pennsylvania Tourism Office to showcase the exceptional offerings this beautiful state has to offer,” said Greg Evans, Founder and Director of Greg Evans Consultancy. “Pennsylvania is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural wonders, and we are excited to collaborate with the media to bring these stories to life and inspire visitors to explore all that the state has to offer.”

“We are delighted to partner with Greg Evans Consultancy to enhance our outreach efforts in the UK and Ireland,” said Michael Chapaloney, Pennsylvania Tourism Office Executive Director. “Their proven expertise and extensive network will be invaluable in promoting Pennsylvania as an exceptional destination for UK and Irish travellers.”

Pennsylvania offers a blend of history, natural beauty, cultural landmarks, family-friendly activities and diverse culinary offerings, making it an appealing destination for visitors. Key attractions include:

• Historic Philadelphia: the birthplace of the United States, is known for its rich history food and world-class museums.

• Amish Country: Lancaster County is famous for its Amish communities.

• Hershey: Known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” visitors can enjoy Hersheypark and explore attractions like Hershey’s Chocolate World, Hershey Gardens, and The Hershey Story Museum.

• Pittsburgh, a vibrant city offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the Andy Warhol Museum, Moonshot Space Museum, and Phipps Botanical Garden.

• Gettysburg: History buffs can visit this renowned Civil War battlefield where the Battle of Gettysburg took place in 1863.

• Pocono Mountains offer scenic beauty, hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.

• Presque Isle State Park offers sandy beaches, boating, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking trails on the shores Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes.

• York County: the “Snack Food Capitol of the World.”

• Lehigh Valley: attractions include the Crayola Experience, the National Museum of Industrial History and Martin Guitar.

• Butler: go back in time in Harmony, a town formed by Europeans looking for religious freedom.

• PA Fun Facts: The state boasts 124 free state parks, 19 National Parks, 400+ craft breweries, 300+ wineries, and bounty of botanical gardens. Plus it offers Tax-free shopping for clothing and shoes.

To learn more about Visit Pennsylvania and explore the state’s attractions, visit www.visitPA.com.

ENDS

About Greg Evans Consultancy
Greg Evans Consultancy is a leading marketing and consulting firm specializing in the travel and tourism industry. With a proven track record of success, the consultancy offers innovative strategies, digital solutions, and branding expertise to destinations worldwide. Their mission is to help clients elevate their brand presence, drive visitor engagement, and achieve long-term growth in the highly competitive travel industry.

 

 

Philadelphia Names Most Walkable City by USA Today

Philadelphia was named the 2023 Most Walkable City in the U.S by USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards.  The city was selected by a panel of travel experts and won based on reader votes.

“Philadelphia is consistently ranked amongst the nation’s most walkable cities and we are happy to see the city again receiving national recognition for its ease of access” said Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. “This award confirms what we already knew about Philadelphia – it is an accessible destination that is easy to navigate on foot, from river to river.”

The list of 20 competing cities was determined by a panel of travel experts, looking for walkable cities that offer many hotels, restaurants and attractions, all accessible to visitors by pedestrian-friendly streets.  Philadelphia was voted number one by USA Today readers and members of the public after a 28-day voting period.

 

Above images courtesy of Visit Philadelphia, L to R: Independence Hall, Barnes Foundation and Old City

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For Further Press Information, please contact:

Anna Watt

anna@gregevansconsultancy.com

07815 898995

 

About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organisation has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.

 

 

Michelin Launches First Ever Philadelphia Guide

America’s founding city is the latest of just eight destinations in the United States to be selected by Michelin for inclusion in their distinguished collection of global guidebooks.

In June Michelin will be publishing its very first Philadelphia destination guide, highlighting the city’s top leisure travel experiences. The Michelin Green Guide includes unmissable attractions, restaurants, hotels and experiences in Philadelphia and The Countryside of Philadelphia.

Since 1900, the Michelin Guide has featured destinations around the globe and has long been recognized internationally as the most prestigious standard for restaurant and hotel recommendations.

The Philadelphia destination guide says the city “offers the perfect compromise between American excess and European spirit, not to mention all the appeal of a city packed with art, history, and a cultural effervescence few people expect.”

The editors name their standout recommendations, including biking the Schuylkill River Trail, exploring the city’s more than 4,000 public murals and marveling at the Philadelphia Orchestra. Of Philadelphia’s performing arts offerings, the guide boasts, “there’s no point in going to New York when the shows here are Broadway quality and offer all the zest and virtuosity of the typical American production.”

Notable Philadelphia residents offer their personal insight on what makes the city special, featuring Mural Arts founder and executive director Jane Golden and Philadelphia Orchestra music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin.

The guide editors also list their “top picks” for dining, including classic cheesesteak spots like Campo’s and Ishkabibble’s and new favourites like South Philly Barbacoa and Her Place. Of Philadelphia’s food scene, the guide says, “the city offers many mouth-watering reasons for foodies to make a beeline for Philly.”

The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), the official tourism promotion agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, was approached by Michelin to partner on the creation of a destination guide. The PHLCVB collaborated with Chester County Tourism and Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board to extend the guide’s coverage to feature The Countryside of Philadelphia, including Nemours, Winterthur, Longwood Gardens and more. The guide will be available in both French and English language editions.

“Philadelphia truly is a global city and recognition of our excellent hotels, restaurants and attractions from Michelin with a dedicated destination guide is the result of our collective work elevating the region on the international stage,” said Gregg Caren, president and CEO of the PHLCVB. “We are confident the Michelin Green Guide will help inspire even more travellers to experience our city.”

Philippe Orain, editor-in-chief of the Michelin Green Guide said, “Philadelphia is a condensed version of today’s America: a historic city turned towards the future. It will entice you thanks to its old neighbourhoods rich with incredible restaurants, its museums of unbelievable culture and its glittering skyscrapers. It is worth the travel and becomes an essential gateway for a trip to the East Coast. ”

Orain will be in Philadelphia to launch the English-language version of the Green Guide on Thursday, May 18, when he will announce the star reward recipients. The French language version launches this month, with the English book available for UK and North American travellers from June.

Determined by Michelin criteria, the Green Guide awards stars to aspects of the tourism experience such as the destination itself, the neighbourhoods, and museums/attractions. Restaurants are given hearts which identify the editor’s favourites. The star grades, one, two or three, reflect a specific review, either worth a visit, worth a detour or worth a special journey, respectively.

Philadelphia is easily accessible with daily direct flights from London Heathrow with British Airways and American Airlines and daily direct flights from Dublin with Aer Lingus and American Airlines.

ENDS-

For Further Press Information, please contact:

Anna Watt

anna@gregevansconsultancy.com

07815 898995

About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organisation has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.

About Michelin

Michelin, the leading mobility company, is dedicated to sustainably enhancing its clients’ mobility; designing and distributing the most suitable tires, services, and solutions for its clients’ needs; providing digital services, maps, and guides to help enrich trips and travels and make them unique experiences; and developing high-technology materials that serve a variety of industries. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 175 countries, has 132,200 employees and operates 67 tire production facilities which together produced around 167 million tires in 2022. (https://www.michelin.com/)

Healthy Philadelphia

If you are looking for a healthy and active city break, look no further than Philadelphia, a very outdoorsy city boasting a huge urban park system and extensive walking, running, and cycling trails.
Many of Philadelphia’s attractions and much of the city’s magnificent collection of outdoor public art can be reached by foot so you can keep to your daily step target whilst enjoying all there is to see and do throughout the city.
If the weather isn’t playing ball, head inside to break into a sweat at one of the many hotel and public gyms. When hunger strikes, your health regime is not at risk, with many choices of healthy food options to be found.

Outdoors exploration
Philadelphia boasts one of the largest city-owned urban park systems in the world. Taking up over 2,000 acres, Fairmount Park incorporates more than 60 individual parks, as well as more than 200 historic buildings, an impressive collection of public art and the country’s first zoo and more, all within its borders.

Above: Fairmount Park Boxer’s Trail. Photo courtesy of Fairmount Park Conservancy

An extensive system of trails winds throughout the city, making it easy to get around without the need for transportation.

For more information on Philadelphia’s outdoor spaces click here.

Running

Philadelphia is built for runners, with a huge number of running trails throughout the city which you can explore alone at your own speed. Alternatively, you can join a group run, these are organised by one of Philadelphia’s many running clubs and take place most weekdays and weekends. Most are free to join and no advance reservation is required.

Philadelphia Marathon is one of the top 10 marathons in the U.S. and includes a full marathon, half marathon, 8K and kids fun run. This year’s events take place between 17th and 19th November.

Above: Philadelphia Marathon

For more information in running in Philadelphia click here.

Running tours
Visitors can enjoy an informative tour of the city whilst at the same time doing cardiovascular exercise.

SeePhillyRun’s tours pair fitness with history, as tour groups follow the guide on all-levels running trails throughout the city, stopping along the way to learn more about historical sites, cultural institutions, and public art. No running tour would be complete without an obligatory run up the “Rocky Steps” – the 72 steps leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art made famous by fictional character Rocky Balboa during his training in the movie “Rocky.”

Above: Running Tour. Photo courtesy of SeePhillyRun

Cycling

Indego is Philadelphia’s affordable and convenient bike share program. Offering more than 130 stations throughout the city with both classic and electric bikes available.

Above: Philadelphia bike share. Photo courtesy of Indego

At Fairmount Park you can cycle on or off-road for miles. Don’t miss Belmont Plateau in West Fairmount Park where you can take in amazing views of the Philadelphia skyline.

The Schuylkill River Trail is a paved scenic trail ideal for cycling. It stretches along the river for 25 miles from South Philadelphia to Manayunk and winds past Boathouse Row along Kelly Drive into the Countryside of Philadelphia.

Click here for some suggested Philadelphia bike itineraries.

Skating
Lace up your skates, stretch out your legs, and enjoy some fresh air at one of Philadelphia’s popular outdoor skating rinks. Skate beside Philadelphia City Hall at the Rothman Orthopaedics Rink in Dilworth Park, at the heart of the city. Starting in the spring, usually in April and continuing into the summer through July, the rink offers daily roller-skating sessions. Then, during the winter months – typically from November through February – the rink transforms into an ice-skating rink where visitors are encouraged to embrace the cooler temperatures and warm up with a skating session.

Above: Roller skating at City Hall

For another rink option, head to Independence Blue Cross RiverRink along the Delaware River Waterfront, a 12,000-square-foot riverside rink which offers ice skating during its annual months-long Winterfest and roller skating during its annual months-long Summerfest.

Hotels with gyms

Many hotels in Philadelphia have gyms so guests can start or end their day with a workout:

The Bellevue Hotel

A stay at this historic city centre hotel gives you access to the massive 93,000-square-foot Sporting Club at the Bellevue fitness facility which even includes an NBA-sized basketball court.

The Rittenhouse

The Rittenhouse Spa & Club, where you’ll find a heated indoor pool, fitness facility which features top scale equipment including RealRyder and Peloton indoor cycling bikes, an outdoor fitness deck, indoor pool plus sauna and steam rooms.

• Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia

Hotel guests can enjoy panoramic sky-high views of Philadelphia whilst swimming in the city’s premier Infinity Edge Pool.

Above: Pool at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia. Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

Kimpton Hotel Palomar

The hotel encourages guests to be active as much as possible, with a 24/7 fitness centre equipped with state-of-the-art cardio equipment and yoga mats provided in each room. Guests also have free use of the hotel’s custom-designed bikes and for kids there are Micro Kickboard scooters available.

Healthy food
A Philadelphia cheesesteak makes for a great treat on your cheat day, but lighter, healthier options are available at plenty of restaurants.

• Vegan and Vegetarian

Vedge, which has been ranked as one of Thrillist’s 33 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in America, offers elegant dining with an internationally-inspired, vegan, seasonal menu which features dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced vegetables,

Primary Plant Based, a casual vegan restaurant in the Fishtown neighborhood offers very reasonably priced, seasonal dishes made with local ingredients from a globally-inspired menu.

Charlie Was A Sinner is a cocktail bar that specializes in drinks made with fresh fruit juice and organic alcohol. Healthy vegetarian small plates are available, including charred shishito peppers or avocado toast topped with radishes and red onions.

• Sushi

Hiroki is a fine dining restaurant offering unique sushi options focusing on tradition and technique.

At Morimoto you can enjoy creative and delightful twists on Japanese staples, like tofu created fresh at your table, and seafood tobanyaki cooked and served in its own hot plate and red miso broth.

For a luxurious sushi dining experience, consider Omakase by Yanaga. This relatively newer restaurant in Philadelphia offers an exclusive, luxurious 25-course dining and sake pairing experience.

Above: Omakase by Yanaga, photo by J.Ryan for PHLCVB

  • Farm to Table

The pioneer of farm to table cuisine in Philadelphia, Fork serves seasonally focused contemporary American cuisine.

Talula’s Garden offers a healthy and delicious inventive spin on farm-to-table classics.

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For Further Press Information and high-resolution images, please contact:
Anna Watt – Philadelphia UK Office
Tel: 07815 898995
Email: anna@gregevansconsultancy.com

About Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), www.discoverPHL.com, a private non-profit membership corporation, is the official Tourism Promotion Agency for the City of Philadelphia globally, and the primary sales and marketing agency for the expanded Pennsylvania Convention Centre. The PHLCVB competes with its counterparts worldwide for convention and tourism business. The organization has divisions dedicated to the multicultural, sports, and life sciences markets.