Feel the Love in Philly

From art to cinema, and from spas to breweries, this is how to feel the love in Philadelphia.
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From art to cinema, and from spas to breweries, this is how to feel the love in Philadelphia.

By Jessica Lopez, Philadelphia editor for Where

From dramatic shows and majestic murals, to romantic dinners and seasonal brews, there's something for everyone to love about Philadelphia, whether you're in town for Valentine's Day or any day. Put these hot destinations on your short list:

1. Hop Aboard: Step up to the elevated train for the guided Mural Arts Program Love Letter Train Tour and explore the 50 love-themed murals in West Philadelphia by artist Stephen Powers. Tickets: $20.

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Love train: A special tour aboard the elevated train will take you past Philly's love-themed murals.

2. Raise a Pint: Philly's own Yards Brewing Company recently released Rye, a seasonal IPA with intense notes of citrus and pine. Free tours are offered at the brewery weekends noon to 4 p.m.

3. See a Show: The Idiopathic Ridiculopathy Consortium theatre company performs playwright Jean Giraudox's Ondine, a play about a sea sprite who falls in love with a handsome knight-errant. The show runs through March 2.

4. Dinner on the Waterfront: Docked on the Delaware River, the grand Moshulu is a four-masted sailing ship converted into a must-visit dining destination with sweeping views of the city. Make reservations early for the four-course Valentine's Day dinner offered Feb. 14-15.

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Romantic dining with a twist? Try the Moshulu, a luxury liner now docked as a ship-shape, fine-dining restaurant with amazing city views.

5. Discover Public Art: Learn the history and stories behind Philadelphia's public art, including Robert Indiana's iconic "LOVE" statue, on the Museum Without Walls audio tour right from your smartphone. Android and iPhone users can download the app for free.

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Long-standing love: Robert Indiana's iconic statue in John F. Kennedy Plaza.

6. Meet Some Lovebirds: Make it a date or bring the whole family to the Philadelphia Zoo for the "Wild At Heart" weekend Feb. 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Take the self-guided "Love Tour" and meet some of the famous couples of the zoo including hyacinth macaws, titi monkeys and red pandas. Indulge at candy stations throughout the zoo and watch zookeepers offer Valentine treats to the animals.

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Wild at heart: These hyacinth macaws are one of the famously cute couples at the Philadelphia Zoo.

7. Take A Sweet Tour: Take in local city sites and satisfy your sweet tooth with Philadelphia Chocolate Tours. Visit Philadelphia's top chocolatiers including Marcie Blaine Artisanal Chocolates, John & Kira's Chocolates and Chocolate By Mueller. Sample a treat at each location, and learn about the history and health benefits of cocoa.

8. Relax and Renew: Let the mind and body soothing begin at these spas. Be sure to book a treatment for two. For a total-sensory, mood-altering experience, book a treatment at LUSH Spa. The hot stone treatment is a standout service at Rescue Rittenhouse. Any massage can be performed simultaneously as a couple massage at either location.

9. Take A Day Trip: Longwood Gardens, located about 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, has more than 1,000 acres of horticultural displays. Take a leisurely stroll through the Mediterranean Garden or immerse yourself in the beautiful blooms in the Camellia House.

Find hundreds more great ideas for things to do in Philadelphia -- and around the world -- at www.wheretraveler.com.

Photo credits: Mural: ©Adam Wallacavage; ship: Courtesy Moshulu; birds: Courtesy Philadelphia Zoo; LOVE statue: ©Marco Rubino/Shutterstock.

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