As the fifth-largest city in the United States, Philadelphia has a reputation for historical charm, a prime East Coast location, and a small town feel built into a large, thriving cultural metropolis. But long-time residents living in Philadelphia are also familiar with many other, less well-known attributes that make the city a great place to live and work. Why do Philadelphians love their hometown? Here are just five of the many reasons.

1. Art and Culture Abound

In Travel and Leisure‘s most recent list of favorite cities for theater and performance art, Philadelphia ranked second only to New York City‘s Broadway lights. Nightly shows range from hit musicals to comedy performances and classical music concerts in performing arts venues such as the Kimmel Center, the Academy of Music and the Forrest Theater. Philadelphia is also considered to have one of the widest displays of public art. Sculptures and murals are showcased throughout the city for residents’ and tourists’ enjoyment.

2. If You Like Sports, You’ll Love Philly

After watching movies like Rocky, Silver Linings Playbook, and Invincible, it’s easy to see why Philly also ranked #1 in Travel and Leisure‘s poll of most passionate sports fans. For the ultimate in sports entertainment, Philadelphia fan flock to the state-of-the-art Lincoln Financial Field (home to the Eagles) and Citizens Bank Park for Phillies’ games.

In addition to Philadelphia’s four major sports teams, the city and surrounding suburbs host a number of minor league hockey and baseball teams. Soccer fans can watch the Philadelphia Union play at PPL Park in Chester, Pennsylvania. No matter where you are in Philadelphia, there’s always a game happening for fans to enjoy.

3. Casual Dining

With over 200 BYOBs, Philly is a great place to grab a casual meal. The Reading Terminal Market, a self-described urban farmers market, was recently named one of 10 Great Public Spaces by the American Planning Association. Besides casual sit-down dining, food choices in the city run the gamut, from food trucks to fine dining restaurants featuring Iron Chefs like Morimoto and Jose Garces. And those seeking a true taste of Philly won’t have to look far to find its world-renowned cheesesteak and soft pretzels at establishments all over the city.

4. A City Made for Walking and Biking

Philadelphia’s grid pattern makes getting around easy and convenient. If you’re looking for tourist attractions such as historical buildings or museums, the city has everything marked for you, thanks to Walk! Philadelphia, the largest comprehensive pedestrian sign system in North America. Philadelphia also ranks high in the bike score index and is scheduled to begin rolling out a new bike share program to increase this form of transportation in the city.

5. An Amazing Park System

Living in Philadelphia doesn’t mean that you’ll miss seeing green every day. The city has an amazing park system, beginning with Fairmount Park, one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, with hiking, biking, and running trails. Seasonal “pop-up” parks like the Spruce Street Harbor Park provide residents opportunities to relax and enjoy the warm weather. And the new Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk offers another great location to bike, kayak, fish, and picnic along the river.

Philadelphians take pride in their home town, but don’t just take our word for it. If you’re searching for a new home in Philadelphia, take the time to learn about the unique characteristics of the city.

Image Source: Flickr

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