Washington Square & Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Views within Washington Square.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Just across the southwest corner of Independence Hall is Washington Square Park wherein is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Managed by the National Park Service it is another attraction in the Independence National Historical Park.

Learning about the history of this 6.5 acres of land, the square is more of a memorial park. The square was used to bury the poor and used by the African American community to bury their members in the 18th century. Citizens and troops from the Colonial army who perished in the Revolutionary War are also buried here. Victims of the city's yellow fever outbreak after the Revolutionary War were interred here.

The 19th century brought about improvements. Walks, benches, lamps and an ornamental fence were added to the park as an affluent and fashionable neighborhood moved in around it. Originally called Southeast Square, the park was renamed in tribute to George Washington. Today the centerpiece of the square is a memorial to Washington and unknown soldiers of the American Revolution.

The shaded park is quiet this Friday morning fitting its solemn past. But in warmer months the park is probably bustling with residents and visitors enjoying its open spaces.

Located near the northeast entrance is Philadelphia's Moon Tree. The seed of a sycamore tree was carried on one of the Apollo missions and planted in 1975. Since taking ownership of the park from the City of Philadelphia, the NPS has cared for the tree. There are now plans to replace the ailing tree with a clone grown by the University of Pennsylvania.

Visit nps.gov for more information about Washington Square Park and the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and memorial statue of George Washington. 

State and colonial flags lead to the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.

Plaque at Moon Tree.
(photo: wallyg/flickr)

Independence National Historical Park

Independence Mall facing south. Independence Mall is in the distance
and building at right houses the Liberty Bell.

Gardens with trees, flowering bushes and trees along the east perimeter
of  Independence Mall. (photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Independence National Historical Park covers over 55 acres on 20 city blocks within Philadelphia and is nicknamed "America's most historic square mile" due to the many important sites associated with the establishment of the United States within its borders.

The National Park Service, which administers the park, lists over thirty sites to explore within its boundaries. Many visitors like myself would have to pare down this list to a number that will fit within the time of a stay in the city.

The primary attractions are Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were adopted, and the Liberty Bell. Other points of interest include National Constitution Center (not operated by the NPS), President's House Site (the first "White House"), Washington Square (site of Tomb of the Unknown Solider), Second Bank of the United States (housing the Portrait Gallery) and Merchant's Exchange Building.

The broad plaza bookended by Independence Hall in the South and the National Constitution Center on the north with the Independence Visitor Center and Liberty Bell Center in between is Independence Mall. The mall was created in the 1950s to bring more open space to this historic district of the Philadelphia.

Along the east perimeter of the mall is a park like area complete with trees, bushes and benches. During this time in October, it is still pretty with with leaves and flowers and provides a quiet respite from the large tourist crowds visiting the area sites. Visit nps.gov for a list of all the historical attractions and additional information.

Trees at the Liberty Bell Center 

Other buildings in the are blend in with the historical sites of the
Independence National Historical Park.

Map of Independence National Historical Park.

Click on the map to view a larger version.

The President's House Site: An Archaeological Find

(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Across Market Street from the Independence Visitor Center is the President's House Sit: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of New Nation. Above ground is an open-air installation of the long since demolished building that served as the "White House" from 1790 to 1800. Above ground is a composition of newly constructed walls and window and door silhouettes.

The long panels tell of some historical themes, including the slaves who worked in White House, but they are presented in an uninteresting way in dark tones and not friendly to read while standing in the chilly weather. The video screen on the site were either out of service or simply not turned on. Perhaps one day someone will build a miniature of the house as well of its interiors which would make a far more interesting exhibit.

Only George Washington and John Adams, the first two presidents of the United States, lived and worked in the mansion. The house was built in 1767 and served various purposes before becoming the "White House" for six years beginning in 1790. The last remains of the house was demolished in 1951 in the creation of Independence Mall.

Of more interest is a transparent wall that gives visitors a view of the archeological dig of the remnants of the original house. A New York Times article was highly critical of the $10.5 million exhibit which opened in 2010. Visit nps.gov for more information. There is no admission to visit the attraction.

National Constitution Center on Independence Mall

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

I stopped by the National Constitution Center to see if it may be a worthwhile attraction. However the center has an admission of $14.50 and the staff at the ticket desk said that I should allow two hours to visit. I had less than an hour to spare before my timed entry to Independence Hall so I opted to skip a visit to the center. The price of admission is likely why this attraction had no line unlike its neighbors the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall.

The center which opened in 2003 is a stunning piece of modern architecture along the Independence Mall. Seen from a distance and etched into the facade is the preamble from the U.S. Bill of Rights. By the way avoid the gift shop if you don't like being hounded by salespeople who act like you're planning to shoplift.

Visit constitutioncenter.org for more info. Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30am-5pm; Sat 9:30am-6pm; Sun 12pm-5pm. Admission: Adults $14.50; Seniors (65+) $13; Students (with ID) $13; Children (ages 4-12) $8. Active military with ID and children under three are admitted for free. Tickets also available online.

Independence Visitor Center: Official Visitor Center for the Greater Philadelphia Region

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

One of your first stops to the historical center of Philadelphia must include a visit to the Independence Visitor Center. This is where guests pick-up free tickets for timed entry to visit Independence Hall. The center also offers personalized service on what to see and do in the area. Just ask one of the uniformed National Park Service rangers or the concierge staff at the information desk.

If you want immediate and early entry into Independence Hall you must arrive early. But if your ticket gives you some time to spare, stop by the exhibit in the center, the cafe or gift shop. Just north of the center is the National Constitution Center. In the between the center and Independence Hall is the Liberty Bell Center and the President's House Site. Definitely and highly recommended is to pick up a National Park Service map to find the many sights within the few blocks around the center. I would suggest shopping at the gift shop for official souvenirs (below is a photo of the shop's decorative plate) after you've visited the nearby attractions.

The Independence Visitor Center is located at 6th and Market Streets in Philadelphia. Opens daily from 8:30am-6pm; from Memorial Day to Labor Day 8:30am-7pm. Visit independencevisitorcenter.com for more info.

Miller's Twist: More Than Pretzels at Reading Terminal Market

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Reading Terminal Market is conveniently located across the street along 12th Avenue from the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. Making use of that convenience I returned to the market this morning to greg breakfast beginning my first full day in the city.

As usual the word "bacon" caught my attention. Miller's Twist sells pretzel logs filled with bacon, egg & cheese for $3 or two for $5.50. Other fillings include egg whites & mozzarella; egg & cheese; and turkey, egg & cheese. In addition to their signature pretzels, the shop sells pretzel dogs, pretzel cheesesteaks and Lancaster ice cream. A cup of coffee completed my simple meal.

The pretzel log is lightly coated sesame and is crispy and buttery on the outside. The bread beneath the crust is warm and wholesome. It tastes like a stuffed soft pretzel once some mustard is added to each bite. I should have bought two. The service was fast and friendly.

Miller's Twist is open Mon-Tues 9:30am-4pm; Wed 8am-3:30pm and Thu-Sat 8am-5pm.

Review: 'Aspects of Love' Blooms at the Walnut Street Theatre

'Aspects of Love': The opening scene of Act 2.
(production photos: Mark Garvin)

‘Aspects of Love’ by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber is swathed in romantic melodies encompassing a love story that entwines the lives of five people in various amorous entanglements in Europe over the span of twenty years. The musical is currently at the tail end of a run at the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia.

The musical, based on the novella by David Garnett, begins in 1942 when Alex Dilingham (Charles Hagerty), a 17-year-old soldier, is smitten with struggling French actress Rose Vibert (Jennifer Hope Wills). They spend a tryst at the country villa of Alex’s Uncle George Dillingham (Paul Schoeffler). George receives word of Alex’s fling while in Venice with his mistress Giulietta Trapani (Danielle G. Herbert). George returns to France to confront his nephew where Rose is enchanted by Alex’s suave uncle. Rose and George are evenutally married much to the surprise of Alex, who is fulfilling his call-up, but not before George, Rose and Giulietta share a bed in Venice.

Years later George and Rose have a daughter named Jenny (Jenna Brooke Scannelli). Alex returns from his service and sees a performance by the now famous actress Rose. She invites him to see his uncle at the country villa. It is there that Alex and Jenny begin a caring relationship that alarms George and Rose.

The opening number and the show’s most famous song “Love Changes Everything” is no longer a solo for Alex that opens play. Instead it becomes a duet and then an ensemble number. It may serve as a pre-cursor to highlight the main players in the musical but it robs Alex of his only solo song in the musical.

Charles Hagerty and Jennifer Hope Wills

Hagerty takes on the impetuous behavior of youth in act one but appears more comfortable in the role as the character ages all the while still retaining a boyish charm. He may not have a soaring tenor but his singing of the sung-though score is pleasant even if his English accent flows and ebbs during the evening. Wills is radiant in the role of Rose. The operatic tones of her voice fully rounds out the melodramatic character. She doesn’t sound very French but carries the role well from mistress to wife to mother. Her plea in “Anything But Lonely” is shattering.

Danielle G. Herbert and Paul Schoeffler

In the role George, Schoeffler portrays the character more of a playboy and he appears to be having fun on stage as if entertaining Rose, Giuletta and his on-stage daughter. Herbert affecting an unusual accent is earthy and lusty as Giulietta. Wearing some sexy and revealing costumes she tackles with aplomb the song “Hand Me the Wine and the Dice” which is one of the most difficult songs to sing that Lloyd Webber has ever composed. It’s quite a vocal workout for the actress.

The supporting players bring in their unique talents to the musical. Laurent Giroux is quite sly as Rose’s manager Marcel. Two actresses portray George and Rose’s daughter: a beguiling Scannelli as the fifteen-year-old Jenny and a poised Claire Norden as young version of the character (note: Norden and Arin Edelstein alternate in the role).

Charles Hagerty and Jenna Brooke Scannelli

Scenic designer John Farrell solves the swift scene changes (almost thirty of them) with the use of a revolve stage and a projection backdrops while members of the ensemble, plainly dressed in white, smoothly slide sheer curtains across the stage and move props into place. Costume designer Colleen Grady has emphasized the women’s figures in their costumes. However George seems to wearing the same pieces of clothing throughout the evening and the costumes for Alex seems could be a better fit for the actor.

The music remains lush and full under the musical direction of Douglass G. Lutz even if some of the numbers such as “Seeing Is Believing” and “Love Changes Everything” and its many reprises appear to have the final notes cut short. Director Bruce Lumpkin reigns in the sprawling material that keeps the show moving at a fluid pace.

Although this version of ‘Aspects of Love’ is short of being flawless, at least this rarely performed show as produced at the Walnut for their season opener is lovely to see and hear on its stage. It contains some of Lloyd Webber’s most beautiful music and for that reason this show is a must see. No doubt this story of tangled romantic relationships will definitely give the audience something to talk about.

'Aspects of Love' is presented on the main stage of the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. Performances run September 6, 2011 to October 23, 2011; 8pm Tues-Sat, 7pm Sun; 2pm Wed & Sat. Tickets: $10-$95; Limited premium seats available which include a $65 donation. Visit walnutstreettheatre.org for more information and to purchase tickets online. Click HERE for premium seats.

Charles Hagerty, Paul Schoeffler and Jennifer Hope Wills

"Hand Me The Wine and the Dice": The ensemble

Beck's Cajun Cafe at Reading Terminal Market

My dinner at Beck's Cajun Cafe: Fried Shrimp Po Boy, Sweet Potato
Fries and Ginger Ale. See below for close-up photos.
(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

I didn't have much time to take a quick rest, unpack, shower, grab dinner and allow time to walk to the theatre for an 8pm curtain time of a performance that I had booked for my first night's entertainment. Since my flight was delayed by three hours I didn't' finally get into my room at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown until after 4:30pm. I like to be organized for trips even short ones and rushing isn't the way to start things off.

Being this was my first visit to Philadelphia and this hotel, I had no idea how close the Reading Terminal Market was to the hotel. My taxi driver remarked that it is a great place to find all kinds of food. So I quickly checked into my room, dropped my bags and headed for an early dinner. I didn't each lunch and I was hungry.

The taxi driver was right. The market had lots of choices and the menu at Beck's Cajun Cafe really whet my appetite. I never ate a 'po boy' sandwich and decided on the one with fried shrimp ($8.50; New Orleans sandwich served on French bread with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and creole mayo). It really hit the spot. The fried shrimp were cooked perfectly and were hot and crispy. Maybe I wasn't eating it correctly but I had an issue with some of the shrimp falling out of my sandwich. It didn't matter I finished those felled pieces as well.

Beck's sweet potato fries was a complimentary side ($3.25). I would have preferred them to be bit more crispy but it appears these fries aren't prepared that way. They were not overly spicy and I actually wasn't able to finish them. I took the extra back to my hotel to snack while unpacking. I washed down both items with a ginger ale (total for the meal was about $14.50).

I found the servers helpful and my wait was short. But it appears this was a slow time as closing time for the eatery was near. The menu also includes gumbos, jambalaya, beignets and complete lunch platters. Because of Reading Terminal Market's location I would likely be returning to visit more eateries.

Visit beckscajuncafe.com for more info. Click HERE to view their menu. Located in the Reading Terminal Market (12th and Arch Streets) in Philadelphia. Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm; Sun 9am-5pm.

Phildelphia, Here I Come!

Arrived in Phildelphia, Pennsylvania today for a three-night visit. Getting here should have been smooth and started well with the departure yesterday on an overnight flight from Honolulu (HNL) to Dallas-Ft Worth (DFW). It was at DFW this morning where boarding took unusually long due to the number carry-on bags brought on board and both passengers and flight attendants finding places for them to be stowed. After the American Airlines jet left the gate, the plane was left waiting on the tarmac for almost an hour.

Behold new rules regarding waiting on the tarmac took affect when it appeared we would not be able to take-off within the half hour. Rather than risking a financial penalty for the airline the pilot took the jet back to the gate and all the passengers and our belongings deplaned. After waiting for another half-hour the routine began again.

The whole ordeal delayed the flight by almost three hours. When arriving in Philadelphia (PHL) at 4pm rather than 1:30pm, passengers at the airport were crowding the gate who were obviously waiting for the plane for their flight out of PHL.

Thankfully everything went smoothly after this. My checked bag quickly appeared on the carousel. Even though I'm here for only three nights I just didn't want to make the effort to condense what I needed. Since it was going to be cold, the coat I packed was going to take a good deal of space in either bag. My checked bag was actually a carry-on roller and carry-on bag was a computer bag.

The taxi was a flat rate of $25 to downtown Philly and the driver quickly got me to my hotel. So here we go. The following set of posts will cover this visit to Philadelphia. As for picking up a primary travel guide, I depended on the Eyewitness Travel Guide for Philadelphia which I found would be handy will lots of pictures and handy map

A Random Hour along Front Street in Lahaina, Hawaii

Walking north along Front Street.

The neighbor island of Lanai can be viewed from Front Street in Lahaina.
Whale watching is popular here.

I was on the island of Maui last month for business and had a meeting in the town of Lahaina. Since I had an hour to kill I decided to explore part of Front Street which is the main road running through town that offers lots of shopping, restaurants and some historical sights all within steps from the ocean. Lahaina is located in West Maui and can only be reached via a long two-lane road that winds along the mountainside. Visitors driving along Honoapiilani Highway heading toward the resort area of Kaanapali will pass by Lahaina.

At one time Lahaina was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii until it was moved to Honolulu. Lahaina was the center of the whaling industry in the 19th century. One of the striking attractions is that along the waterfront visitors can clearly see the neighbor island of Lahaina across the bay.

Here are a couple of links for information about this historical Hawaii town:
Lahaina Restoration Foundation
Front Street Lahaina - Maui's Unofficial Shopping and Dining Mall

Walking south along Front Street.

On stretch of Front Street runs right along the ocean.

The Wo Hing Museum. Built in 1912, the temple was used by the Wo Hing
Society where the Chinese community maintained social and political ties
with their ancestral homes.

The weather on the west side of each island is often dry and warm. Today
was particularly hot. Picked up some coconut juice at the ABC Store
on Front Street to help quench my thirst and cool down.

Eat the Street Kakaako: Where Your Eat Meets the Street

Whoever came up with the idea of bringing lunch wagons/food trucks together in one central location had a stroke of genius. Most of us in Hawaii find these trucks to find at their regular street stops or by accident during lunch. By having them in one place is like having a mobile food court and is the perfect place to find some late afternoon "grinds" after work or pick up some dinner on the way home.

What probably started as an experiment is now a monthly event taking place on the last Friday of each month at locations to be announced. I attended the Eat the Street that took place on September 30th in a parking lot in the Kakaako area between downtown Honolulu and the Ala Moana shopping district.

Themed "Eat Local, Drink Local" the 39 food trucks and vendors offered at least one dish that included a locally grown or raised ingredient. Attracting local food enthusiasts and visitors alike, last month's event attracted a crowd of over 5,000. The only issue is that deepening on the location and the time when you plan to visit, parking can be limited. The event runs from 4pm-9pm.

The ETS event included food trucks and vendors as varied as Koi 808, Elena's Restaurant, Extreme Tacos, Ono Pops, Simply Ono, Chimney Cakes and Soul Patrol. Visit streetgrindz.com for more info about upcoming ETS events. As much as I wanted to try as many dishes as possible, the portions offered are not tasting sized so I was full by the time I hit my third food truck. That's not a bad thing. In Hawaii the more food the better. Keeping the event hopping is live music to entertain the crowds. One tented section of the parking lot was exclusively set up with tables and chairs for diners.

Eat the Street is brought for your eating pleasure in partnership with Kamehameha Schools and Nonstop Honolulu. Streetgrindz.com is a resource to Hawaii residents and visitors who are looking for an alternative to the colorful and eclectic food scene in the islands that promotes Hawaii's mobile food industry as an untapped dining experience. Prices can top at $10 for a full plate meal or around $5 for single serve dishes. Just bring lots of cash if you bring an empty stomach.

From Inferno's Wood Fire Pizza: Guava smoked pork slice. Served hot
 and juicy and full  flavor. (photos: TheHopefulTraveler).

Zsolie's Chimney Cake Hawaii: These twisting funnel treat in various sweet
flavors (mine had cinnamon and sugar) actually would be better with a cup
of coffee, hot chocolate or milk. Eat it while it's hot.

Soul Patrol: It's hard not to go wrong with bacon mac and cheese. Delicious.

Before heading home, stopped by the Liquid Pleasure truck to pick up a
 refreshing banana smoothie.

A parking lot that takes up an entire city block was taken over by
Eat the Street on September 30, 2011.

If you head out early you'll likely find good parking but the afternoon
sun was still beating down on diners. 

Lines and decision making. One of the commons sights at Eat the Street.

The tent under which were tables and chairs filled fast. Cocktail tables
set up nearby were open.

These lucky trucks and foodies had the shade of a nearby condominium
to keep them cool.