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Explore Philadelphia

Explore Philadelphia with Tips from Our Local Conference Committee

Gear up for AOTA INSPIRE 2025 with more than just great sessions! Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is alive with history, culture, and delicious food—making it the perfect destination to inspire your experience. Our Local Conference Committee has shared their favorite must-visit spots, hidden gems, and activities to make your time in Philly unforgettable.

The LCC will be the key source of information and support when you come to AOTA INSPIRE 2025 in Philadelphia!

Occupational therapy practitioners know a thing or two about working towards independence … and so does Philly.

We can’t wait for the occupational therapy energy to come to Philadelphia!

Conference planning tip: Always get approval from the highest authority. Gritty seems on board!

It’s a Philly thing!

We can’t wait to welcome you to Philadelphia in 2025!

Life. Liberty. Cheesesteaks and pretzels. See you in Philly!

Philly—the city of brotherly love and sisterly affection. Let’s show Philadelphia how occupational therapy practitioners love our profession!

Favorite Restaurants in Philadelphia

Royal Tavern, Giuseppe & Sons, anything in Midtown Village
Sampan, Goldies, Mighty Bread
Giorgio on Pine, Harp & Crown, Zahav (James Beard Award winner)
Buddakan, Amina’s, South
Ralph’s Italian Restaurant, El Vez, White Dog Cafe
Dandelion, Sabrina’s Cafe, Suraya
Ocean Prime, Buddakan, Liberty Pointe

Must-Visit Attractions in Philadelphia

Passyunk Ave and 9th St Italian Market
Eastern State Penitentiary (Steven Buscemi audio guide, prison reform history)
Art Museum (iconic Rocky steps)
Franklin Institute (interactive displays for all ages)
Penn’s Landing, Independence Hall, Liberty Bell

Top Things to Do in Philadelphia

Explore parks and squares (Rittenhouse, Love Park, Independence Mall)
Reading Terminal Market (local food culture)
Walking or running along the Schuylkill Trail
Mural Arts Love Letters Tour
Seasonal attractions like Winterfest/Summerfest and ice skating/roller rink

Hidden Gems & Surprising Facts About Philadelphia

Surprising Fact: Philadelphia is home to the first zoo and hospital in the U.S.
Hidden Gem: Samurai Japanese BYO Sushi near the Academy of Music
Magic Gardens (mosaic art by Isaiah Zagar)
The Wissahickon (natural beauty)

Best Places for Arts and Culture

Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Met, Chris’s Jazz Cafe
Barnes Foundation, Woodmere Art Museum, Kimmel Center
Shofuso House, Mutter Museum, Franklin Institute, Wilma Theater
World Cafe Live, Magic Gardens

Reading Terminal Market Favorites

Bassett’s Ice Cream, Beiler’s Doughnuts, Saami Somi (Georgian food)
Kismet Bialys, The Head Nut, Termini Brothers Bakery
Donuts, roast beef/pork sandwiches, Chinese food
Down Home Diner, Luvn Vegan Deli, Amazulu Jewelry

Dining and Attractions Near the Convention Center

Iron Hill Brewery, City Winery, Chinatown for Pho/Ramen
Live Band Karaoke at Fergie’s, Barbuzzo, Charlie Was a Sinner
El Vez (margaritas and guacamole), Dilworth Plaza
Bud & Marilyn’s, Penang, Talula’s Garden

Other Fun Facts and Tips About Philadelphia

Philadelphia is the “Mural Capital of the World.”
Public transit is great, but walking is often better.
There is always something to do—Philadelphia offers something for everyone!

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Bethesda, MD 20814-6519

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About AOTA

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is the national professional association established in 1917 to represent the interests and concerns of occupational therapy practitioners and students of occupational therapy and to improve the quality of occupational therapy services.

© 2024 AOTA INSPIRE

2025 Annual Conference & Expo

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