Discovery Series Ornament – Philadelphia

While chasing the AC ornament, I made a quick drive to Philly to pick up the Discovery Series Ornament – Philadelphia as well. I have to admit, the color choice for the title on this mini mug isn’t ideal, as it blends into the dark green circle common to all ornaments in the Discovery Series. That said, it does look better in person.

Philadelphia has been at the heart of American history since before the country was born. Founded in 1682 by William Penn, the city quickly became a center of politics, commerce, and ideas. It was the meeting place for the First and Second Continental Congresses, and the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. For a time, it even served as the temporary capital of the United States. Its name – Greek for “brotherly love” – reflects the city’s founding Quaker values. Over time, Philadelphia became a melting pot of immigrants and industries, from shipbuilding to textiles. Today, it blends its revolutionary roots with a modern identity, full of grit, culture, and pride.

– No visit to Philly is complete without a cheesesteak. Thin-sliced beef, melted cheese (often Cheez Whiz), and a hoagie roll – simple but iconic. You can grab one at tourist spots like Pat’s or Geno’s, or go where locals go: Dalessandro’s, John’s Roast Pork, or Ishkabibble’s. It’s greasy, messy, and totally worth it.

– Rocky Balboa may be fictional, but his impact on the city is real. The Rocky Statue near the Philadelphia Museum of Art draws fans from around the world. Just like in the movie, people still run up the museum steps and throw their fists in the air. It’s a rare case of a film character becoming a civic legend.

– The Benjamin Franklin Bridge connects Philadelphia to Camden, New Jersey, spanning the Delaware River. Opened in 1926, it was once the world’s longest suspension bridge. Today, it’s a striking part of the skyline, especially at night when its lights reflect off the water. You can walk or bike across it for incredible views of the city.

– One of the best places to see Philadelphia’s skyline with the water in front is from the Camden waterfront in New Jersey. From spots like Wiggins Park or the area around the Adventure Aquarium, you get a clear, wide-angle view of the city across the Delaware River. The buildings line up perfectly, and at night, the reflections in the water make it even more striking. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, especially during sunset or city events.

– The back of the ornament shows a kite, and it’s probably related to Benjamin Franklin’s famous experiment. In 1752, he flew a kite during a thunderstorm to prove that lightning was a form of electricity. It’s one of the most well-known stories in American science, even if parts of it are more myth than fact.