OT: The Visitors' Guide to Philadelphia (Pt. 2), recommendations, etc.; Flyers' books, DVDs

Ruck Over

When the revolution comes, pants will do you no gd
Apr 19, 2016
4,197
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Philadelphia, Pa
Parents want to pay for it and they are both retired, we arent the type that would opt for an upscale place...would be about 20 people. No preference on Food.
That kinda sounds like the group I had for my rehearsal in the same neighborhood. I went to Nodding Heads (which is now defunct), but I would lead you in the direction of a restaurant/bar.

Speak to a manager, and they should be able to carve space out for you pretty easily or give you a private room, pending on the day and time you are looking. McGillan's Old Ale House has an upstairs that would fit well. Smoking Betty's is a nice spot, have had work-office lunch events there, a retirement party (up stairs). On the more casual-scale, the Field House has both an adjacent side room, and an upstairs area for a party of that size. Given the address of 12th & Market, you're likely at either the Marriott or the Loews, both of which could accommodate. A bit further walk down 12th (Pine) is Mixto, a very fun restaurant with an upstairs that could be group reserved.

For a good meal, some space between your party and everyone else, and very local to 12th & Market, these are decent rec's. Would probably list in my personal desire as McGillan's, Mixto, Smoking Betty's, Field House (location/space, not cuisine). If you are a bit more adventurous, there are plenty of options in Chinatown as well. However, I'm unfamiliar with those venues to recommend.
 
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Danko

You have no marbles
Jul 28, 2004
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That kinda sounds like the group I had for my rehearsal in the same neighborhood. I went to Nodding Heads (which is now defunct), but I would lead you in the direction of a restaurant/bar.

Speak to a manager, and they should be able to carve space out for you pretty easily or give you a private room, pending on the day and time you are looking. McGillan's Old Ale House has an upstairs that would fit well. Smoking Betty's is a nice spot, have had work-office lunch events there, a retirement party (up stairs). On the more casual-scale, the Field House has both an adjacent side room, and an upstairs area for a party of that size. Given the address of 12th & Market, you're likely at either the Marriott or the Loews, both of which could accommodate. A bit further walk down 12th (Pine) is Mixto, a very fun restaurant with an upstairs that could be group reserved.

For a good meal, some space between your party and everyone else, and very local to 12th & Market, these are decent rec's. Would probably list in my personal desire as McGillan's, Mixto, Smoking Betty's, Field House (location/space, not cuisine). If you are a bit more adventurous, there are plenty of options in Chinatown as well. However, I'm unfamiliar with those venues to recommend.
Yep we are at the Loews on market for the block. I've been to Nodding Head before and loved it, wasn't aware it closed. I was looking at pictures of McGillans earlier and it seems like our style. I'll check out the other ones you mentioned.

We are also looking for a bar we can go to directly after the reception that is close to the hotel, i've heard about Milkboy and see they are only a block or two away.
 

Ruck Over

When the revolution comes, pants will do you no gd
Apr 19, 2016
4,197
3,323
Philadelphia, Pa
Yep we are at the Loews on market for the block. I've been to Nodding Head before and loved it, wasn't aware it closed. I was looking at pictures of McGillans earlier and it seems like our style. I'll check out the other ones you mentioned.

We are also looking for a bar we can go to directly after the reception that is close to the hotel, i've heard about Milkboy and see they are only a block or two away.

So we had our reception at the Loews, it is a FANTASTIC venue. Ask now about getting on the roof top for picks in front of the sign. It's hella windy, might be brisk, if you're allowed, have your photographer bring a wide angle lense.

After the reception, we just went down to the hotel bar. Bride and I didn't follow-up anywhere else, maybe other folks did. There are so many bars in the area to go to.

Personal favorites - Bru Craft & Wurst, Strangelove's, Opa (has an outdoor patio next to McGillan's), Milk Boy (can get a tad crowded), Fergie's, Irish Pub. It's really just gonna be hit or miss, you're in the heart of the CC bar district.

Congrats(?) on the upcoming wedding.
 
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Danko

You have no marbles
Jul 28, 2004
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So we are thinking of doing just like a place where we can get pizza and beers with a group of 20 people for the rehearsal dinner, any recommendations?
 

Hivemind

We're Touched
Oct 8, 2010
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Philadelphia
Probably worth an edit to the OP to include the updated name of the SEPTA stop outside of Wells Fargo/Sports Complex. It's now NRG Station.
 

Peter Sidorkiewicz

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Oct 22, 2002
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Hi, i'm travelling down from NY on Amtrak to catch a Flyers game. I have 2 hours to kill before game starts in the evening.

Any recommendations? Is there much to do around the arena?
 

MiamiScreamingEagles

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Jan 17, 2004
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Starat327

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Hi, i'm travelling down from NY on Amtrak to catch a Flyers game. I have 2 hours to kill before game starts in the evening.

Any recommendations? Is there much to do around the arena?

Depends on your mobility and interests, to be honest. Xfinity Live is a decent place to pre game at - though maybe not the best for 'visiting' fans. If youre gonna be outwardly projecting your NY fandom, id recommend not doing it here.

Are you staying in town for the night, or just coming in for the game and then heading back? where to point you will largely depend on where you are going to be, and for how long.
 

Peter Sidorkiewicz

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Oct 22, 2002
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Depends on your mobility and interests, to be honest. Xfinity Live is a decent place to pre game at - though maybe not the best for 'visiting' fans. If youre gonna be outwardly projecting your NY fandom, id recommend not doing it here.

Are you staying in town for the night, or just coming in for the game and then heading back? where to point you will largely depend on where you are going to be, and for how long.
Just for the game then heading back at midnight. Am mobile so I don't mind walking or taking the train.
 

Starat327

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May 8, 2011
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Just for the game then heading back at midnight. Am mobile so I don't mind walking or taking the train.

Assuming you're hopping off at 30th, there's a place called Butcher Bar a short walk from the station (21st and Chestnut iirc) that has good food and good drinks if you're looking for somewhere to eat.

There's an Irish bar right across the street from the station - Slainte - if you're looking for just typical food and drink. I never really hung out in University City area other than Landmark (sports bar) or New deck (old style pub).

If you let me know what you're looking for in particular ( craft beer, better food, certain type of food, etc) I can probably hone in a little better for ya.
 
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Powinkle

Registered User
Mar 25, 2016
481
175
Chico
Hey all, I might be moving to Easton, PA for work. I was wondering if there is any chance I could get some of your opinions on the area. I would greatly appreciate it!

Edit: I don't know if this is the appropriate place to ask something like that, just thought I'd give it a shot.
 
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MiamiScreamingEagles

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Jan 17, 2004
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Hey all, I might be moving to Easton, PA for work. I was wondering if there is any chance I could get some of your opinions on the area. I would greatly appreciate it!

Edit: I don't know if this is the appropriate place to ask something like that, just thought I'd give it a shot.

It is permitted and the proper place. I am sure locals with knowledge and experience will reply.

I asked a couple of regulars to get involved if they have any knowledge, to expedite the matter.
 
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PHILOUDELPHIA

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Feb 29, 2012
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It is permitted and the proper place. I am sure locals with knowledge and experience will reply.

I asked a couple of regulars to get involved if they have any knowledge, to expedite the matter.

Easton PA, is a great place. I'm a Truck Driver and we have a Terminal in Bethlehem. Easton, is basically part of the Allentown area, it is a Truck / warehouse Hub for Philly / NYC area, a lot of trucks , freight will move daily even at night in the area. I'm not sure what line of work you will be in, but your basically in the middle between Philly and NYC. The winter's can be harsh at times, but it's a fine town.

As far as fun, there are minor league teams in all the sports, the Sands Casino is also a big area to relax and there is a mall there to shop. Sports Betting is now legal, which will also drive more business.

Are you going to buy a house or rent a house or apartment? I'm not sure on the taxes or rates in the area, you may want to ask a realtor in the area
 

MiamiScreamingEagles

Global Moderator
Jan 17, 2004
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^ I figured you would have some input. Thanks for the reply.

Hey all, I might be moving to Easton, PA for work. I was wondering if there is any chance I could get some of your opinions on the area. I would greatly appreciate it!

Edit: I don't know if this is the appropriate place to ask something like that, just thought I'd give it a shot.

You received a first reply. Thanks Lou.
 
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Powinkle

Registered User
Mar 25, 2016
481
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Chico
Easton PA, is a great place. I'm a Truck Driver and we have a Terminal in Bethlehem. Easton, is basically part of the Allentown area, it is a Truck / warehouse Hub for Philly / NYC area, a lot of trucks , freight will move daily even at night in the area. I'm not sure what line of work you will be in, but your basically in the middle between Philly and NYC. The winter's can be harsh at times, but it's a fine town.

As far as fun, there are minor league teams in all the sports, the Sands Casino is also a big area to relax and there is a mall there to shop. Sports Betting is now legal, which will also drive more business.

Are you going to buy a house or rent a house or apartment? I'm not sure on the taxes or rates in the area, you may want to ask a realtor in the area
Thank you so much for your response! I would be moving in order to work in a new warehouse that is located in the Palmer area (the exact location I don't know). If I did go I likely would be renting. I was looking at renting in all the surrounding cities (Allentown, Nazareth, and Easton). I am in my mid twenties and believe Allentown might be the best fit for me (coming from a city of 90k people), but I have not been able to visit and will not be able to before I relocate, so I am unsure if that is the right choice. I love the idea of being close to a minor league team and currently an active nightlife is something that is important to me.
 

PHILOUDELPHIA

Registered User
Feb 29, 2012
9,243
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South Jersey NJ
Thank you so much for your response! I would be moving in order to work in a new warehouse that is located in the Palmer area (the exact location I don't know). If I did go I likely would be renting. I was looking at renting in all the surrounding cities (Allentown, Nazareth, and Easton). I am in my mid-twenties and believe Allentown might be the best fit for me (coming from a city of 90k people), but I have not been able to visit and will not be able to before I relocate, so I am unsure if that is the right choice. I love the idea of being close to a minor league team and currently, an active nightlife is something that is important to me.

I wouldn't choose Allentown as far as the city, there is a little crime in that section.

Palmer is between us 22 and Tatamy going up and down PA 33. I noticed they built some new big warehouses. Also, the Crayola Factory and headquarters is there.

Palmer is more close to Easton and Bethlehem then Allentown.
 
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CHIP72

Registered User
Mar 16, 2013
738
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Silver Spring, MD
Thank you so much for your response! I would be moving in order to work in a new warehouse that is located in the Palmer area (the exact location I don't know). If I did go I likely would be renting. I was looking at renting in all the surrounding cities (Allentown, Nazareth, and Easton). I am in my mid twenties and believe Allentown might be the best fit for me (coming from a city of 90k people), but I have not been able to visit and will not be able to before I relocate, so I am unsure if that is the right choice. I love the idea of being close to a minor league team and currently an active nightlife is something that is important to me.

I'm not into nightlife, but my guess is your best location for that kind of thing would be downtown Bethlehem or on the south side of Bethlehem near Lehigh University. The area in downtown Allentown near the PPL Center is also improving. Bethlehem would also put you a little closer to where you'll be working, which I'm guessing is near the PA 33/PA 248 interchange. A lot of warehouses are being built in that area; perhaps the most notable one already there is the one for Majestic Athletic, the apparel (especially MLB) manufacturer.

Teams-wise, the regional teams in the area include the AHL Lehigh Valley Phantoms (downtown Allentown), MiLB AAA Lehigh Valley IronPigs (east side of Allentown a little south of the airport), Lehigh Mountain Hawks (Division I basketball and FCS/DI-AA football; the sports facilities are located south of South Mountain near I-78 not far from Hellertown), and Lafayette Leopards (Division I basketball and FCS/DI-AA football; it is located on College Hill on the north side of Easton). There are also a few other lower level college and pro teams. Depending where you live, both Philadelphia and north Jersey will be within 1 1/2 hours and New York will be within 2 hours.
 

CHIP72

Registered User
Mar 16, 2013
738
123
Silver Spring, MD
Just for the game then heading back at midnight. Am mobile so I don't mind walking or taking the train.

I would head over to Center City and go to one of the restaurants somewhere between Broad and about 18th Street on either Walnut or Chestnut Street (southwest of Philadelphia City Hall, and southeast of and across the Schuylkill River from 30th Street Station). Incidentally, there are some fairly good sandwich places at 30th Street Station too.

EDIT: Oops, just realized the quoted post was from right before Christmas 2018.
 

Powinkle

Registered User
Mar 25, 2016
481
175
Chico
Thanks for the info everyone! It is official and I am moving there. Luckily, the company I am working for is going to put me up for a month while I look for long-term housing. Giving me a chance to check out your suggestions. I hope you all don't mind me popping into your GDT's when I move and start watching more flyers games! Cheers!
 
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