Philadelphia , General info:
9/10

Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth most populous city in the United States. It is the 5th largest metropolitan area by population in the United States, and the fourth largest consumer media market as ranked by the Neilsen Media Research Co. Tourists and media often informally call the city "Philly." It is the county seat of Philadelphia County, with which it is coterminous.

Philadelphia , Cheap stuff:
9/10

If you are near center city, a little known attraction is the observatory deck atop city hall. The observatory deck is directly under the William Penn stautue. You can actually look up through an open window at him and really get a sense of how big he is. I have taken people that grew up in Philly there and they never knew it existed. It is free and the hours are Mon.-Fri. from 9:30 am-4:30 pm with tours occuring every 15 minutes (no weekends). So the hours are a little funny but it is WELL worth it if your schedule permits it.

Also since you will be in the area, another small known attraction is the Wanamaker Organ in Lord and Taylor. Lord and Taylor is kaddy corner across the street from city hall on the southeast corner. The organ is a massive 30,000-pipe organ which has been said to be the largest in the world. They have daily (FREE!) shows at noon and 5pm (7pm on Wednesday). There is a nice Café Americanstyle that overlooks the scene from a third floor terrace.

Philadelphia , Different stuff:
10/10

African American Museum in Philadelphia, Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Free Library of Philadelphia, ...

Philadelphia , Don't miss:
9/10

Warmdaddy's, Zanzibar Blue, Khyber, Electric Factory, Tin Angel

Philadelphia , Food:
10/10

There are 10 things you should do in Philadelphia:

1. Eat a Philly cheesesteak

2. See the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

3. Run, jog, or walk up the Art Museum steps

4. Experience a Big 5 basketball game at the legendary Palestra

5. Devour an authentic Italian meal in South Philly

6. Drink a local microbrew

7. Visit Penn's Landing and walk along the Delaware River

8. Try a soft pretzel and more at the Reading Terminal Market

9. Stroll down funky South Street with stops for steaks, pizza, and cheese fries

10. Have a cocktail out on Rittenhouse Square

Philadelphia , Hotels:
9/10

Loews Philadelphia Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown, Alexander Inn, Sofitel Philadelphia

Philadelphia , Safety:
9/10

Center City Philadelphia is a friendly and diverse place. Most people will gladly point you in the right direction, even if they only work in the city. Center City is generally bordered by the Delaware River on the East, Spring Garden Street on the North, the Schuylkill (Skoo - cul) River on the West and South Street on the South. If you stay within those boundaries, you're pretty safe.

Syracuse , General info:
9/10

Syracuse is a city in Central New York, USA. It is the county seat of Onondaga County and the economic and educational hub of Central New York, a region with over a million inhabitants.

Syracuse is served by the Syracuse Hancock International Airport in nearby Salina, near Mattydale. The airport is served by 17 airlines (9 major), which provide non-stop flights.

Syracuse , Different stuff:
9/10

Syracuse is known for its snowfall. Boasting 115.6 inches (293.6 cm) on average, the Syracuse metro area receives more snow on average than any other large city in the United States.

The Everson Museum of Art, which opened in 1968 features one of the most extensive pottery collections in the United States along with works of American art, dating from the 18th century to the present.

Syracuse has gained the nickname "the City of Festivals" for good reason. There are numerous festivals year round.

Syracuse , Don't miss:
6/10

The Great New York State Fair is a spectacular twelve-day summer extravaganza of New York State. Lasting from the end of August to Labor Day, it features 375 acres of family fun, mouthwatering foods, incredible animals, fascinating exhibits, top-flight entertainment, exciting competitions and much more.

Syracuse , Food:
8/10

Virtually every cuisine in every price range can be found in Syracuse, with something to satisfy every appetite.

Syracuse , Hotels:
9/10

Whether you're coming with a family of four or fifty friends, you'll always have a place to call home in Syracuse. From full-service national hotels to quaint B&Bs, you'll find just what you're looking for.

Syracuse , Safety:
9/10

Crime rate is a bit higher than average but it is a pretty safe city.