Since its founding in 1682, Philadelphia has been the cradle of American democracy, a manufacturing center and an innovator: it was home to the country's first lending library, hospital, art museum, zoo and computer. Today, visitors enjoy a rich history, beautiful setting and approachable, human-scaled urban landscape that combine to make the Quaker City a thoroughly engaging destination.
Join Preservation Houston in Philadelphia from September 17-21, 2025, as we launch PH Travels, a new program that will offer curated visits to historic sites and preservation projects beyond the Bayou City. Each PH Travels trip will include accommodations, meals, special behind-the-scenes access and personalized tours that will help you see your favorite places in a whole new light. We're happy to have PH member and veteran trip planner Lynn Kelly helping us get this exciting program off the ground.
During our five days in Philadelphia, we’ll enjoy a guided walk through the city’s Colonial heart; exclusive tours of the famed Barnes Foundation and Philadelphia Museum of Art; a look inside one of America’s first modern skyscrapers and the country’s largest city hall; introductions to the work of renowned architects such as Horace Trumbauer, Julian Abele, Paul Cret and Louis Kahn; and private receptions that will take us from a South Philly rooftop to one of the city's most architecturally notable homes.
Preservation Houston Programs Director Jim Parsons and tour coordinator Lynn Kelly will guide you through charming neighborhoods, introduce you to local preservationists, and explore how approaches to history and preservation have evolved through the years. (And yes, there will be plenty of cheesesteaks and soft pretzels — not to mention a Rocky photo op.)
The trip includes:
Four nights’ accommodation at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar (located in the 1929 Architects Building, an Art Deco tower designed by Paul Cret)
Pre-tour educational information and a pre-tour reception in Houston, plus a welcome reception and additional private events in Philadelphia
Excursions, activities, sightseeing and site visits led by local specialists and highly qualified guides
Two lunches, one brunch and three dinners
Transportation in Philadelphia
Learn more and register for this unforgettable experience today!