Pre-Trip Fun for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

"Rocky" -- Most of this movie was filmed in Los Angeles, but the steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art are famously featured as Rocky's urban training ground. (School Age and Up)

"In Her Shoes" -- Features scenes in the historic Italian Market, the DiBruno Brothers cheese shop, Rittenhouse Square, and Wachovia Center for a 76ers game. (Teens)

"The Happiest Millionaire" -- The eccentric world of Anthony Biddle, who boxed his daughters dates and raised alligators, and his family comes out in glorious song and dance thorugh the songs of the Sherman Brothers. (School Age and Up)

Cheese Steak Subs -- Philly Cheese Steaks practically define the city, though exact ingredients depend on whom you ask. Try this, then compare when you're there.

"Philadelphia Chickens" by Sandra Boynton -- Songs and silly illustrations from the famed cartoonist (Ages 4-8)

"Good Night, Philadelphia" by Adam Gamble -- As much a lullabye to Philly's great sites as to little ones at bedtime (Ages 4-8)

"The Liberty Bell" by Lloyd G. Douglas -- All about the famed landmark that has come to symbolize American freedom. (Ages 4-8)

"P is for Philadelphia" by Susan Korman -- Local elementary students illustrated this alphabetic tour of the city. (Ages 9-12)

"Betsy Ross: Patriot of Philadelphia" by Judith St. George -- For kids who wonder, Where did our flag come from? (Ages 9-12)

"Fever 1793" by Laurie Halse Anderson -- This one puts "sick day" in perspective. Suspenseful historical fiction based on the real-life epidemic that wiped out 5,000 people in Philadelphia. (Ages 9-12)

"Taking Liberty: The Story of Oney Judge, George Washington's Runaway Slave" by Ann Rinaldi -- Compelling tale of a servant to Martha Washington who struggles to understand freedom and her own humanity. (Ages 9-12)

Quill Pen and Place Cards -- Kids can imagine signing the Declaration of Independence with their own signature flair.

Family Flag -- Design and make a flag for the family, just as Betsy Ross did for our country.