Guest Columnist | A summer in the City of Brotherly Love

The Penn students currently on campus probably have some idea of what this summer has in store.

But for everyone else - those here on campus for the first time taking summer session courses, doing internships or working (and, of course, the eventual throngs of high schoolers who will crowd campus come late June) - the City of Brotherly Love could seem a little intimidating.

It shouldn't. The city blocks surrounding us to the north, south, east and west offer a surprising amount of variety, with plenty to do for people of all tastes and interests.

So, this summer, make sure to take advantage of the myriad places and personalities of the Next Great American City. Here's how:

n West Philadelphia. Despite an oft-held stigma of being unsafe, West Philadelphia contains all number of reasons to hike past 40th Street.

Koch's Deli (4309 Locust St.): It's won enough awards and garnered enough praise over the years that resting on its laurels would be easy enough. But no - Koch's still makes enormous sandwiches (plenty for two meals) that put other so-called sandwiches to shame. Plus they carve up meats and cheeses to pass around to customers in line. Just go.

Makkah Market (4249 Walnut St.): Specializing in Halal meat and prepared foods, you can also get a haircut for under $10 and purchase groceries. It's open 24 hours a day, with low prices and delicious, cheap Middle Eastern fare.

Clark Park (43rd Street and Baltimore Avenue): Between its nine acres and its statue of Charles Dickens, Clark Park is a great place to get away from city life, if just for a moment. And with frequent concerts and flea markets, there's almost always a reason to make the trip.

n Arts. There's plenty to do throughout the week in Philadelphia. Try these options:

Movies: Although the Bridge: Cinema de Lux is right by campus, those looking for art-house fare would be wise to check out the Ritz Theatres. With three different locations (all relatively close to 2nd and Walnut streets), and with movies like Killer of Sheep and The Valet now playing, there's plenty to watch.

Music: Local R5 Productions hosts a number of all-ages shows at various venues around town, from the First Unitarian Church (right across the Schuylkill on Chestnut Street) to the Starlight Ballroom (460 N. 9th St., near Chinatown). For larger-capacity shows, the Trocadero (1003 Arch St.), the Electric Factory (421 N. 7th St.), the Fillmore at the TLA (334 South St.) and the Tower Theater (19 S. 69th St.) are all great bets for lesser-known acts.

First Fridays: On the first Friday of each month (hence the name), staples of Philadelphia's art scene open their doors to the public in the early evening. A great chance to carouse Old City galleries and a great excuse for a night out.

n Food. You've probably heard of Stephen Starr, but he's not the only big name in town. Dinner and a movie never tasted so good.

Vetri (1312 Spruce St.): It's been called "probably the best Italian restaurant in America," the sort of high praise typically reserved only for Philadelphia institutions like Le Bec Fin. Tables fill up quickly, though, so persistence is required in booking a reservation. Good luck.

BYOs: One of the hallmarks of Philadelphia cuisine, scores of "bring your own" restaurants forgo liquor licenses and expect diners to come with their own alcohol. Most such establishments are intimate, (relatively) inexpensive and delicious, representing all sorts of cuisines. Try La Viola (253 S. 16th St.), Marigold Kitchen (501 S. 45th St.) or Django 526 S. 4th St.).

n Neighborhoods. Philadelphia is a big city, and there're plenty of places to wander.

Rittenhouse Square: Right across the river is one of the most upscale neighborhoods in Center City. With Walnut Street shopping right nearby, restaurants all around and a lush green square right in the middle, it's the perfect destination for a short walk.

South Street: Some have decried the "gentrification" of the area (there's a Gap!), but between the sex stores, shoe shops and a "Magic Garden" mosaic maze, there's plenty of unique and offbeat locales down this stretch of road.

Manayunk: A haul from Penn's campus, Manayunk has enough shopping and dining to make the trip worthwhile. Bike the 28 miles through Fairmount Park from Center City if you're really adventurous.

Of course, there's much more to Philadelphia than a short column can explain. So do some exploring of your own, and make your summer in the City of Brotherly Love the best it can be.

Jeremy Baron is a College junior from New London, N.H., and is editorial page editor of 'The Summer Pennsylvanian.' His e-mail address is jeremycb@sas.upenn.edu

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