Experienced and first-time travelers alike rely on Fodor's Gold Guides for rich, reliable coverage the world over.  Smart travel tips and important contact info make planning your trip a breeze and detailed coverage of sights, accommodations, and restaurants give you the info you need to make your experience enriching and hassle-free.  If you only have room for one guide, this is the one for you.The best guide to the area, packed with essentials11 city walking tours, with Independence Hall, Society Hill and the riverfront, Fairmount Park, and South PhiladelphiaArt treasures, kid-pleasing museums, top shops, and jazz clubs Side trips to Bucks County getaways, the scenic Brandywine Valley, and Amish villages and markets in Lancaster County                Where to stay and eat, no matter what your budgetGracious luxury hotels, best convention choices, good-value lodgings around town, historic inns, and cozy B&Bs Great French and Italian restaurants, trendy American eateries, seafood houses, diners and delis, and ethnic favoritesFresh, thorough, practical--off and on the beaten pathCosts, hours, descriptions, and tips by the thousands All reviews based on visits by savvy writer-residents19 pages of maps, 9 vacation itineraries, and moreImportant contacts Smart travel tips Fodor's ChoiceWhat's Where Pleasures & Pastimes, the don't-miss activities New & Noteworthy Festivals Background essay and further reading Complete index