Celebrate America’s 250th Like a Local
While the city may be swarming with tourists — both for the semiquincentennial and the ongoing FIFA World Cup games — we’ve got a shopping guide for the best places to feel like a local and dive deep into Philadelphia’s history.
Humphrys Flag Company (Old City)
On one wall of Humphrys Flag Company sits a wrinkled, slightly dirty flag with 38 stars on it — the American flag of 1876, created when Colorado joined the Union. Old and new flags of all sizes cover every inch of space inside the store, the origins of which date back to 1805 (the company was founded in New York and moved to Philadelphia in 1864). Inside, you’ll find flags for every country, every state, every Philly sports team, as well as patches, buttons, and flag accessories.
Open House Home & Gift (The Gayborhood)
If you’re looking for Philly-centric gifts, home goods, apparel or art, Open House Home & Gift on South 13th Street might have exactly what you need. Yes, they have all the cute sports apparel and merch you could want, but they also stock uniquely Philly items like this cosmic SEPTA print I’m obsessed with and fun Philadelphia icons dish towels.
Philadelphia Independents (Old City)
What’s more Philly than supporting fellow Philadelphians? At Philadelphia Independents, you’ll find local makers’ handmade items, including jewelry, artwork, candles, home decor, baby gifts, accessories, and greeting cards.
Art Mart (Society Hill)
South Street’s Art Mart is the heartbeat of Philly’s art scene. It’s home to over 200 Philly-area artists and makers and has a huge community following. Originally intended as a holiday pop-up, Philadelphians loved it so much that they helped Art Mart create a permanent storefront on Philly’s iconic South Street.
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