Whether you’re stuck in State College or happen to spend your time in Philadelphia over the breaks, it can be hard to find something to do in the nearby areas. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled places for all of you “outside of Philly” kids to go and visit as you waste the hours away until you come back to Happy Valley for the rest of the semester.

Visit the sites

By just walking downtown, you can find plenty of hidden gems and cool things to check out in the City of Brotherly Love. One of my favorite spots is the John F. Kennedy Plaza near City Hall. The plaza is also known as LOVE Park for the LOVE Statue that everyone loves to take a photo under. The statue was made by Robert Indiana and was installed in 1976.

The Eastern State Penitentiary is also an awesome place to visit if you are a history buff. The new hands-on tour offers people a chance to unlock a cell door as well as learn about prison breaks and how to play bocce. It’s an awesome experience learning about who lived within the cells of this massive penitentiary. You can also take as long as you want with the audio tours, as you can go at your own pace without a tour guide or group to hurry you along.

Food

Your taste buds will thank me if you go to these hot spots in Philly. First, you can (and should) get the tastes of the world in one place at the Reading Terminal Market. This is a great place to get a quick bite to eat while giving something new a try. The options are nearly unlimited — there’s Asian, Pennsylvania Dutch, Thai, southern, Cajun, and pretty much anything else you can think of. With witty restaurant names like Franks A Lot and By George!, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t gone to check them out yet.

My other recommendation is a bit on the pricier side, but I tried Chima Brazilian Steakhouse with a friend during spring break two years ago and my taste buds haven’t been the same since. If you like anything wrapped in bacon, you’ll be in heaven with the endless filet and boneless chicken breasts wrapped in smoky, salty pig. The pork loins are to die for, as well as sirloins, lamb chops, and ribs. The dessert was equally amazing – my friend had the cream caramel flan, while I had the tiramisu. Both were, in a word, wonderful.

Music

While the following concerts may not be on your wish list of artists to see, these are definitely some time-killers to attend as you enjoy your break.

Method Man and Redman – 8 p.m. Nov 25 at the Theatre of the Living Arts

Dillon Francis with TJR and Hoodboi – 9 p.m. Nov. 26 at the Electric Factory

The New Deal with Conspirator and Cocktail Party Phenomenon – 8:30 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Electric Factory

WDAS Holiday Jam featuring Jill Scott and Faith Evans – 7 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Liacouras Center

Hoodie Allen with Chiddy Bang and MAX – 8 p.m.  Nov. 29 at the Liacouras Center

GWAR with Corrosion of Conformity and American Sharks – 8 p.m. Nov. 29 at the Electric Factory