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When it comes to summer activities, the warm weather always brings out the best in us. So for 15 straight days, we're going to be dropping City Guides telling you the best concerts to see, outdoor activities to do, and places to eat, shop and stay with a summer focus. Next up, Philadelphia. With that, here's our Summer 2013 essentials in the City of Brotherly Love.
Roots Picnic
When The Roots throw a party, it’s only customary that you attend. And for the sixth year in a row, the Roots Picnic (June 1) will kick off the summer on Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing.
Website: okayplayer.com/rootspicnic
Made In America
30 performances. 3 stages. 1 weekend. All curated by Jay-Z. With a concept so simple, why did it take Made In America so long to come to fruition. This Labor Day Weekend, the only place you should be is Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Website: madeinamericafest.com
Federal Donuts
Holding down South Philly and Center City, Federal Donuts is more than your average donut shop. They also serve fried chicken. Thank us later.
Website: federaldonuts.com
Pub & Kitchen
After brief renovations, Pub & Kitchen is back open with a new look, new chef and new menu. There might not be any place better to eat outside in the whole city.
Website: thepubandkitchen.com
Hot Diggity
No longer is the hot dog just relegated to the ballpark. Thanks to Hot Diggity, it’s back in the big house. Piled high with specially chosen toppings, each dog tells a story. Choose wisely.
Website: thehotdiggity.com
Schuylkill Banks Movie Series
Schuylkill Banks, the city’s new 1.2-mile-long waterfront trail, has expanded their summer movie series to 10 nights this year, every Thursday starting June 13 and running through August 22. Don’t forget your blanket, and make sure you arrive early for free snacks.
Website: schuylkillbanks.org
Manayunk Arts Festival
More than 300 artists from around the country take part in the Manayunk Arts Festival (June 22-23), while nearly 200,000 visitors descend upon Main Street to join in.
Website: manayunk.com
2nd Street Festival
When the city comes together, events like the 2nd Street Festival (August 4) come to fruition. Created to bring positive awareness to the Northern Liberties neighborhood, this year will be the fifth annual block party and its biggest to date.
Website: 2ndstfestival.org
Mitchell & Ness
If you’re into authentic sports gear, chances are you have at least one thing from Mitchell & Ness in your closet. But have you been to their flagship? Prepare to take a trip down memory lane.
Website: mitchellandness.com
UBIQ
Synonymous with street culture in Philadelphia and around the globe, UBIQ has been holding it down for the past 12 years. Most sneakerheads roll through at least once a week.
Website: ubiqlife.com
Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
Right near Independence Hall, Hotel Monaco Philadelphia is perfect for the independent traveler. Whatever you do though, don’t stay under the name Ben Franklin.
Website: monaco-philadelphia.com
Hotel Palomar Philadelphia
Fans of Art Deco design and eco-friendly accommodations will love the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. Where else can you stay in a landmark 1929 building that has been restored to its original grandeur?
Website: hotelpalomar-philadelphia.com
