Sports enthusiasts look for places where they can not only watch their favorite games but also participate in the local sporting culture.
Philadelphia is one of those cities.
Known as the ‘City of Brotherly Love’, Philadelphia has a reputation as a sports city. The city has a unique blend of history, culture, and energy, irrespective of the sport: baseball, football, basketball, or hockey.
Sports travel has to be planned in advance, so it’s good to keep all the important things in mind. For example, a traveler from Australia visiting Lebanon after the US will need to discover if Australians require insurance in Lebanon. The same goes for any country you are going to visit.
If you are planning to visit Philadelphia, here is why it should be the number one place on a sports-inspired trip to the States.
1) Philadelphia and the World Sports Market
Philadelphia is not like the other American Cities, and it is not simply because it has sports franchises. It is because of the bond and relationship the people of the city have with the sports franchises. The people of the city don’t just watch a game. They are part of it. Watching and celebrating a game is a family and a community event that is handed down for generations.
Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field, and Wells Fargo Center are indeed important parts of the city’s landscape. Whether it’s tailgating at the football parking lots or at a buzzing hockey match, the whole city seems like one big party.
Watching a game here gives overseas visitors the feeling of being at a huge public event. The noise and passion of the crowd, and even the friendly disputes between rival teams, present the best of American sporting traditions.
2) The Sports Heritage of Philadelphia
Like the city’s historic buildings and delicious food, Philadelphia’s sports history is also important to the city. Sports are a big part of the city’s identity, and you’ll learn that when visiting from abroad.
Important milestones in its legacy:
- Baseball and the Phillies. Established in 1883, the Phillies are the oldest, continuously active one-name, one-city franchise in all of Major League Baseball. Their 2008 World Series victory is one of the most memorable moments, and a trip to Citizens Bank Park allows fans to experience over a century of baseball history.
- Football and the Eagles. The Eagles’ Super Bowl victory in 2018 was more than a title. It was a testament to the city’s tenacity and determination, and it was celebrated with over a million people at a parade on Broad Street.
- Basketball and the 76ers. The Sixers are a staple of the local basketball history and pride, and they’ve impacted many generations with the likes of Julius Erving and Allen Iverson, as well as numerous current players.
- Hockey and the Flyers. The Flyers changed the game and influenced generations of fans with their teamwork and toughness during the 1970s, especially in the “Broad Street Bullies” era.
These are some of the stories these cities can share with international tourists. The countless celebrations, chants, and treasured moments are present in the statues and monuments, and every game has a history of triumphs and defeats.
3) Important Sites Every Supporter Should Visit
You cannot finish a sports journey in Philadelphia without visiting its magnificent arenas. Each one has a unique culture and value, and different fans’ perspectives and experiences.
Citizens Bank Park (Baseball)
- Has a reputation for its open layout and views of Philadelphia’s skyline. People enjoy its family-friendly atmosphere and being able to relax.
- Tip: Grab a cheesesteak or crab fries to enjoy while watching. Arrive early to see batting practice to maximize your fun.
Lincoln Financial Field (Football)
- Home of the Philadelphia Eagles.
- Gets very popular in the winter for matches and has an incredible atmosphere for fans.
- Tip: Buy your tickets early and experience the legendary tailgating in the parking lots.
Wells Fargo Center (Basketball & Hockey)
- Home to the 76ers and the Flyers. Primarily for sport, however, it has concerts and special events in the arena.
- Tip: Look at the schedule before planning your visit. You can watch a basketball game one day and a hockey game the next.
These places are part of Philadelphia culture. United by the spirit of the city, they include songs in the stands, and giant pretzels and other snacks.
4) Fan Culture in Philadelphia
If people love or even fear them, Philadelphia fans are known for being unforgettable. They are known all over the world, and for good reason. Joining fans at Philadelphia games feels like joining a big and passionate family that refuses to sit quietly.
What makes fans in Philadelphia unique:
- Tailgating – Before games even start, fans set up outdoor picnic-style Tailgating. They set up their cars in the parking lots, where they grill food, play music, and celebrate in large social gatherings.
- Chants and songs – Singing the ‘E-A-G-L-E-S’ cheer at a Philadelphia football game, hockey fans become a part of a united and single voice in a chant.
- Rivalry – Philadelphia fans get really excited for games, especially the rival games. The greatest rival games in all of the United States are the games Philadelphia fans play against New York and Dallas. Rivalry games are unforgettable for international fans and increase the enjoyment for all the Philadelphia fans.
When a sports fan travels, the experience and culture are just as important as the scoreboard. Participating in sports, chants, and tailgating, and sharing food as they celebrate, is a unique experience.
5) Tips for Travelers Coming From Overseas
Philadelphia is a friendly city. However, a little homework can make your visit even better.
Here are the most important things for overseas sports fans to know.
- Entering the country – Almost all overseas travelers need a visa or ESTA approval. Make sure to check your country’s visa and travel requirements early to avoid last-minute issues.
- Getting around – Parts of the city are very walkable, and public transport is available. You can take the SEPTA trains and buses to the games, and rideshares are easy to get.
- Where to stay – Center City has a good mix of sports venues and cultural sites. If you are looking for a hotel, be sure to do it early because the demand increases in the playoffs and major events.
Because of the demand, sports fans will often build a multi-country itinerary to visit other countries. However, if your next stop is Philadelphia and you are going to the Middle East, it is worth it to check travel requirements to save time at the airport. For example, Australians need to check if they need travel insurance when going to Lebanon. This type of travel planning helps prevent your sports trip from having issues when moving from one place to the next.
6) Food, Culture, and Entertainment Around the Games
Between the matches, there is a lot to see, do, and eat.
There are lots of things to enjoy in Philadelphia.
- Don’t forget to eat a Philly cheesesteak. There are lots of great and rival cheesesteak shops, including Pat’s and Geno’s.
- Check out the cultural districts to appreciate the attractions and sites. You can see the Old City for some history, Fishtown for arts, and South Street for cool and eclectic shops and food.
You can go get a cheesesteak and then go to a baseball game. In the morning, you can get a cheesesteak, go to the historic district, and then go to the Wells Fargo Center to see a basketball game.
7) Why Every Sports Fan Needs to Visit Philadelphia
For international sports fans, Philadelphia is no longer just a stopover. It is worth visiting.
This is because:
- It has one of the best sporting cultures in the world.
- The city has a rich history, boasting great teams and players.
- The city boasts new, fan-friendly stadiums rich in history.
- The city’s food, cultures, and attractions spice up any visit.
All of these make the city unique. It feels like you are part of something larger. Standing among thousands of fans, you realize you are not just seeing a game but are part of a great Philadelphia tradition.
For the sports fan, Philadelphia is beyond a visit; it is a city that will stay with you forever.
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