ISTE is a dynamic, exciting, and most importantly fun convention. You could spend all day learning cool new teaching strategies and still not have seen everything the convention has to offer! As amazing as ISTE 2019 will be, make sure to build in time to enjoy the dazzling city of Philadelphia! This doesn’t just mean after convention hours either. As I stated, ISTE is large and in charge, which is cool, but can also be very overwhelming. Building in some time during the day to take a break from the crowds will enhance your experience and create memories you will never forget. With that in mind, we wanted to give you a list of must see places, and delicious dining spots, to add your itinerary.
Visit Philadelphia’s Historic District & Storytelling Benches
Visiting Philadelphia’s Historic District is a must-do on your list to see sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, as well as world class shopping and dining. One secret you may not know is that the area houses the Once Upon a Nation storytelling benches. These benches are scattered across the historic district, and have professional storytellers ready to bring to life the area’s rich history in three to five minute stories.
Get a bite to eat at Reading Terminal Market
Right next to the Convention center is an amazing food venue with a rich history much like the rest of the city. Bringing together new and old, this market celebrated its 125th birthday just last year and features blocks of delicious groceries and restaurants convenient to the ISTE happenings. This area can get busy so maybe time your stop for a late breakfast or afternoon treat.
Eat a Philly Cheesesteak
You can’t say you went to Philadelphia and didn’t have a Philly Cheesesteak! Here are some suggestions for delicious cheesesteak spots:
- Sonny’s Famous Cheesesteaks: Named “Best Cheesesteak in Philly’ by publications like GQ and US News and World Report, this classic stop is located in the heart of historic Philadelphia.
- Geno’s Steaks: A tourist attraction, and Philly Cheesesteak institution, people flock here for an experience!
- Steve’s Prince of Steaks: Close to the convention center, a delicious cheesesteak spot that offers delivery and curbside pick up for your convenience!
Take a photo with Hipi in the Hapara Booth
Make sure to stop by the Hapara booth (#2430) and take a photo with Hipi for your Instagram! Chat with our amazing Hapara team, and grab some SWAG on the way out!
Belt one out at EdTech Karaoke
Do not miss out on your chance to rock out at one of the best parties ISTE has to offer. Watch your fellow educators show off their singing chops, or this maybe your chance to shine on the stage! Make sure to click on the link and RSVP soon to ensure your spot because tickets go fast!
Take a walk in Franklin Square
A beautiful park just blocks from the convention center that features a fountain, carousel, and even mini golf! During the convention, the park will feature the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival where the park glows at night with handmade lanterns. A great way to end a long day at the convention!
Run up the Rocky steps
If you are an avid runner, you may want to take your morning jog over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and run up those famous steps to pose victoriously at the top or next to the Rocky Statue. Not a bad way to start your day at ISTE!
Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Don’t just stop at those famous steps, but come back during the afternoon for a quiet break to explore one of the largest museums in the United States. Tours are offered free with admission.
Check out Mural Arts Philadelphia
Philadelphia is the “Mural Capital of the World” with many of the works housed right around the convention center. Visit the Mural Arts site to learn more about maps and tours to see the city as a canvas, and maybe plan your route to the convention around these beautiful works of art.
Snap a selfie at LOVE Park
Make sure you fill up your Instagram with beautiful pictures, and one of the best spots is JFK plaza and the LOVE statue. Get your edtech crew together and take a selfie to remember!
What are your plans in Philly? Let us know in the comments!
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