Avoid the Drive and Fly to Philly This Summer

The City of Brotherly Love truly offers something for everyone. Rich American history, a vibrant art scene, delicious local food and, while certainly not Pittsburgh’s black and gold, competitive sports teams.

And now, travel between Pennsylvania’s two biggest cities has just gotten easier.

Beginning May 16, Frontier Airlines will offer two daily flights between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Frontier joins American Airlines in offering nonstop service and makes it easier than ever to visit the other side of the state to catch up with friends and relatives or explore all that the city has to offer over a long weekend.

What to See

Often referred to as the birthplace of the United States, Philadelphia is steeped in history, boasting a rich tapestry of iconic landmarks and historical sites. At the heart of the city stands Independence National Historical Park, a hallowed ground that preserves the birthplace of American freedom.

Explore the renowned Liberty Bell, an enduring symbol of independence, and Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and adopted.

Next to Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most celebrated seamstresses. Ross is said to have crafted the first American flag in this historic dwelling. Now restored to reflect its 18th-century charm, visitors can explore the rooms where Ross lived and worked, making an intimate connection to the early days of the nation.

Before entering the Philadelphia Museum of Art, be sure to relive the well-known scene in Rocky, running (or walking) up the stone steps and taking a selfie with the statue of the cinematic boxer in the museum’s courtyard. Inside, enjoy more than 12,000 paintings, sculptures and other artworks.

If the Phillies are in town, enjoy an afternoon or evening baseball game at Citizens Bank Park and catch three-time Silver Slugger Award winner Bryce Harper. While the Pirates play the Phillies in April before Frontier’s flights begin, the 2023 World Series Champion Texas Rangers are in town for a three-game series May 21-23.

Where to Eat

Of course, no trip to Philadelphia is complete without a world-renowned cheesesteak. Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are two of the most famous and have a heated rivalry. (Your author is agnostic but recommends subbing out the Cheez Whiz for provolone.) Pat Olivieri, the founder and namesake of Pat’s, is credited with being the creator of the cheesesteak about a century ago. Geno’s was founded a few decades later in the 1960s. Both are within walking distance of each other on Ninth Street in South Philly.

Next, stop by Philadelphia’s Chinatown neighborhood in the Center City district. A cultural and commercial hub for the city’s Chinese-American community, it attracts visitors year after year with its delicious cuisine. Try the lobster fried rice at Sang Kee Peking Duck House, then wash it down with a “Flaming Volcano” cocktail at Vietnam Restaurant only a block away.

If you’re celebrating something special or just looking for an elevated dining experience, Philadelphia is home to several James Beard-nominated restaurants, including High Street Philly, specializing in artisan pizzas and handmade pastas.

Are you a fan of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia? Consider stopping by Paddy’s Pub Old City (228 Race St.) or Mac’s Tavern (226 Market St.), the latter co-owned by some of the show’s cast members, including Rob McElhenney and Kaitlin Olson.

How to Get Around

If you’d prefer to skip the rental car counter once you land, Philadelphia has a robust and accessible public transportation system that makes it easy to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods and historic sites.

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates an integrated network of buses, trolleys, subways and regional rail services, providing residents and visitors with an affordable way to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. SEPTA offers train service between the airport and Center City every 30 minutes on weekdays, with hourly service provided on weekends.

With new service on Frontier beginning in May – and existing flights on American – ditch the long drive to Philadelphia this summer and enjoy a convenient and affordable nonstop flight.

Last month, Frontier signed on to be a signatory airline to the airport’s master lease, signaling a long-term commitment to the Pittsburgh market.