Follow a Founding Father In Philadelphia

If you need advice about an upcoming visit to Philadelphia, you could ask a travel agent or research online, or you could consult a true expert: Ben Franklin himself. Well, maybe not himself—the inventor of bifocals and the lightning rod strolled Philly’s streets during colonial times, after all—but the next best thing: Robert DeVitis, a Ben Franklin impersonator living in The City of Brotherly Love.

In the impersonation game for the better part of a decade, DeVitis knows a thing or two about Ben Franklin and, of course, Philadelphia attractions. Here, the self-dubbed “young and witty Ben Franklin” reveals his insider tips for tourists, from where to snap a selfie to where to find the best cheesesteak in Philly. (Spoiler alert: It’s a tie!)

What’s the best time of year to visit Philadelphia? We’re guessing that between Ben Franklin’s coat and cravat, Philly’s summer months aren’t your personal favorite.

Ride through Philadelphia on a carriage—you might just spot Ben Franklin. Photo Credit: jrwFranklin.

Summer is always the busiest time with the most tourists, but I prefer the fall. You can visit the sites of Philly’s Historic District without having to wait in long lines and then enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride throughout Old City. And it’s not too hot!

Philly could keep a history buff busy for days. Aside from the Ben Franklin Museum, if you had to choose just one or two must-see sites, what would they be?

Definitely Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall—where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed—and the Liberty Bell Center. Fun fact: The Liberty Bell was once sold for scrap, but the sale was reversed because the person who bought it couldn’t afford to move it! (I share lesser-known facts like this during my walking tours.)

Any tips for exploring Philly on the cheap?

See all the historic sites! Since the Historic District only encompasses one square mile, you can walk to all of them, and they’re free to tour. If you have a few bucks to spend, be sure to have lunch at City Tavern, a colonial-themed restaurant with a history that stretches all the way back to 1773.

Where else would you recommend a first-timer eat while in the city?

Try McGillin’s Olde Ale House, which is one of the oldest taverns in the country. For Italian food, you can’t beat any of the restaurants in South Philly, home to the Italian Market. Reading Terminal Market is also a must; be sure to stop for a cone at Bassetts Ice Cream! Finally, try Bistro Romano, an Italian restaurant in Society Hill. They have a candlelit dinner for two in the wine cellar that’s very romantic.

Where should every visitor snap a selfie?

When in Philadelphia, it’s a given you’ll take a cue from Rocky and head to the top of the Philadelphia Art Museum stairs.

That’s easy: next to the Rocky statue at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Also, at the top of the art museum steps.

That leads us to our next question: Who would win in a boxing match? Ben Franklin or Rocky?

My good friend Rocky, of course, but Ben would win a chess match.

Beyond the Historic District, what are your favorite Philadelphia attractions?

I’d have to go with the One Liberty Observation Deck in Center City, where you can take in a 360-degree view of Philly from 57 stories up!

What are good activities for families with children?

I’d suggest the Franklin Institute, a tour on a double-decker bus and, again, the observation deck at the Liberty One building.

What’s one common misconception that many visitors have about Ben Franklin?

Many people think it’s Ben Franklin who’s perched atop City Hall. It’s not; the statue is of William Penn. Also, I’m frequently asked if I’m George Washington!

Which place has the better cheesesteak: Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks?

Pat’s on Friday and Geno’s on Saturday! I like both. I don’t want to pick just one, and I never will!

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