Top 10 things to do in the city with the Eagles out of the playoffs

By Taylor-Lynn Capaldo
Collegian Staff
January 24, 2007

End of the Eagles’ season got you down? Have you found yourself sad, depressed and without a thing to do on Sunday afternoons and evenings instead of getting together to watch the game? Unsure of what to do with yourself during these next few weeks before the Phillies start Spring Training? Fear not, loyal sports fans—there are plenty of things to do on a Sunday afternoon while still remaining a die-hard Philadelphian.

10. Reading Terminal Market—This historic Philadelphia produce market is located in Center City and can provide entertainment for people of all sorts. Whether you’re in it for the food, the groceries or the people watching, Reading Terminal is definitely a great way to get a taste of Philly. With Sunday hours added only recently, it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon downtown.

9. Pennsylvania Convention Center—While you’re in the area, head over to the Convention Center to check out some of the events that they have to offer. Most conventions run through Sundays, making them a great way to make use of the down time. Upcoming shows include the Philadelphia Home Show, the Philadelphia International Auto Show, the Philadelphia Flower Show and a variety of different job and/or career fairs for the ambitious student.

8. Chinatown—Sick of eating Chinese delivery food in your dorm room? Maybe it’s time for a change of pace. Philadelphia has an excellent Chinatown section conveniently located right off of the Broad Street SEPTA subway line. Head downtown for some noodles at a Noodle House, bubble tea and a little bit of culture.

7. South Philly’s Italian Market— Located on 9th Street in South Philadelphia, the market is open from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays. Yet another one of Philly’s historical markets, this one is the oldest and largest outdoor market in the United States. If you’re hankering for some genuine Italian food, mostly from right around the area, this is a great place to find meats, cheeses, pasta.

6. Philadelphia Race Track and Casino—For those of you who are 21 and over, maybe an afternoon at the race track is a better way to spend your Sunday. Open Saturdays through Mondays, visitors can take in a horse race or gamble at the brand new casino, featuring over 2,000 slot machines. This is Southeastern Pennsylvania’s first slot machine parlor, so it’s worth checking out.

5. Avenue of the Arts—Maybe after weeks of football, you need a bit of a change of pace. What better way to switch it up than with an afternoon at the theater? Sunday matinees are a great way to get a bit of culture and relaxation in all at once. Upcoming performances include Annie at the Academy of Music, Enemies, A Love Story at the Wilma Theater and All Shook Up at the Merriam Theater all located on Broad Street on the Avenue of the Arts.

4. Rittenhouse Row—Tired of wearing that same Westbrook jersey every week? Sounds like you could use a shopping trip. For a little bit of class and sass, head down to the shops at Walnut and Chestnut Streets and Rittenhouse Row. Here you will find a variety of designer shops and boutiques. Too cold for you? Grab a cup of coffee or cocoa at one of the many coffee shops and cafés in the area.

3. South Street—If you’re looking for a way to spend most of the afternoon, but you want a touch of everything, South Street is the place to go. For the shop-a-holic, there are plenty of designer stores to shop at. For the hipster, there is a wide selection of thrift stores and record shops. If you’re into music, check out some of various concert venues, and if you’re into food- you’ve definitely come to the right place.Take a day to shop, eat and people watch on one of the most unique streets of Philly.

2. Philadelphia Tours—Even if you are a born and raised Philadelphian, there’s always something about this city that you didn’t know. Taking a tour of the city is an awesome way to catch up on your Philly trivia, and there are tons of ways to do it. Spend a Sunday afternoon viewing your city in a way you never have before— whether it’s a Duck Tour, a horse and carriage ride, a double decker bus or a ghost tour. You’re bound to find out something you can use to impress your friends.

capaldot1@lasalle.edu