Summary

The article recounts a transformative day trip to Philadelphia, highlighting three significant locations that left a lasting impression on the author.

Abstract

The author, reflecting on a life change at 35, shares insights from a day trip to Philadelphia, which led to a deeper appreciation for the city's cultural and historical landmarks. The visit to the statue of Octavius Catto at Center Square underscores the importance of perseverance and recognition of civil rights contributions. A stroll down the Ben Franklin Parkway offers a sense of global unity and tranquility amidst the bustle of city life. Finally, the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, famously known from the movie "Rocky," provide a moment of presence and reflection, emphasizing the beauty of personal growth and the unexpected charm of Philadelphia.

Opinions

The author acknowledges the challenge of leaving behind the familiarity of New York City for new experiences and growth.
There is an expressed admiration for Octavius Catto's legacy, emphasizing that success is not immediate and requires patience and sacrifice.
The Ben Franklin Parkway is appreciated for its international representation and the peaceful atmosphere it offers to locals and visitors alike.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art steps serve not just as a tourist attraction but as a symbol of overcoming challenges and the importance of staying present.
The author expresses a newfound affection for Philadelphia, suggesting that the city offers valuable lessons and experiences beyond initial expectations.

3 Worthy Sights For A Philly Day Trip

I’m figuring it out just like everyone else is…

At 35, I made one of the biggest decisions of my life, I moved out of NYC in search of something else. I decided to start over!

Leaving a cultural mecca, amazing food, and endless opportunities, was tough but it's not life if you are not living it, right? It was the chance to step back and do things differently; un-learn old ideas to re-learn new ones. Even living a life that friends and family don’t understand yet.

A recent day trip to the city of “Brotherly Love” left an impression that I will remember forever.

Keep reading to find out which three Philly locations had the greatest impact on me. I promise it's worth visiting!

Everything is in the Location

Octavious Catto

The south end of City Hall (Philadelphia, PA)

I have a confession to make. I didn’t know who Octavious Catto was before my day trip. Seeing his 1 statue on the south side of City hall commonly known as Center Square was intriguing.

A quick google search later and this is what I learned:

Octavious Catto was a Civil rights leader in post-Civil War Philadelphia.
He was a teacher, athlete, and well respected in his community.
Some of his accomplishments were desegregating Philadelphia trolley cars, increasing voting, and educational opportunities for African Americans.
He was murdered in 1877 by two men passing by him.
He is Philly’s first solo African American to be recognized 140 years after his death.

My biggest takeaway is a success isn’t built overnight. Never has and it never will. I don’t care how many Facebook ads or guides you read promising quick results and followings.

Octavious had to wait 140 years to be recognized for his contributions to civil liberties. Today, it’s not going to take you 140 years to see the fruits of your labor but set realistic expectations and understand sacrifices will be made.

Focus on achieving your goals daily and see how quickly you progress!

Ben Franklin Parkway

The Ben Franklin Parkway is a mile-long road that runs from Philly’s City Hall around Logan Circle (Be sure to check out The Swan Memorial Fountain) and ends right before the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

With flags representing all the countries in the world running along “Museum Mile” I felt like royalty.

Coming from an overly populated city it's nice to walk around freely. There’s peace on Museum Mile. Locals are out with their dogs enjoying the day. Others are in groups laughing and creating memories. Showing me that it is possible for us to get along.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Who didn’t want to be like Rocky Balboa the “Heavy Weight Champion” of the world!?

Running up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art as the triumphant underdog has been crossed off my bucket list! LOL

Once I was satisfied with my reenactment I found what I was really looking for…the view.

What I soaked in from this view was to remain present. Often times we are consumed with what’s next and overlook what already is. Appreciate the space you are in, it’s not always going to be comfortable but there is beauty in growth.

I’ll always be from NYC but I have a new fondness for Philadelphia, PA.

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