Yesterday, the boys and I needed a little daycation…you know, like a vacation that happens all in one day? Dave went to work even though he had the day off (wah woh), and I decided to head up to Philadelphia for some good food and fun. But mainly food. The boys were super stars on the 3 hour drive. We stopped once to stretch/nurse the baby, and once on the side of the road for Milo to avoid an accident (which reminded me of a funny time I was on a road trip with a friend and asked to pull over on the freeway so I could squat–my friend and her family were MORTIFIED! I guess I’m raising my children up redneck, just like their mama:)
Our first stop was Jim’s for a classic cheesesteak. Mmm. Steak, cheese wiz and onion topped with a little salt and pepper then washed down with cream soda…What’s not to love? Milo and I shared one and we took one home to Dave to eat for dinner. Turns out they are great even reheated in the oven 7 hours later!
Next quick stop was at LOVE park for a photo op. That statue is way smaller than I imagined it. Still cool, though. Here’s the proof that Eliot and I were there with Milo. This was the first time I’ve used my real camera (read: not iphone) in a while, and Eliot was always strapped to my front, so he stayed behind the lens as well! It was refreshing to ask a passerby to take the photo and have it turn out centered and with everyone in it (if not smiling:)
After the LOVE photo (literally in and out of the car) we enjoyed the sunshine on a walk along Boathouse Row. The boathouses are beautifully built and preserved. Milo loved collecting sticks to throw in the water, and we admired all of the racks of boats beside the docks.
When we had run and played out some energy, we were ready for some Philly Flavors. This one is just a few blocks from the boathouses, and it was a refreshing treat. We got a great recommendation from Cassi to go with Strawberry Ice and Vanilla Gelato. We give it six thumbs up!
Our last stop was Reading Terminal Market. I adore this place, and could easily spend an entire day (and a lot of money) wandering the booths looking at the amazing food. Luckily, we were on a mision for a Miller’s Twist, and were able to get back on task when we were sidetracked by the live lobsters, anatomical heart-shaped chocolate, and mountains of cheese.
We bought a pretzel for Dave, but it mysteriously disappeared during the 3 (turned 5 by holiday traffic) hour drive home. The crazy thing? It felt like a bonafide vacation! Even just being away from our home turf for an afternoon, we got a taste of a new city and were able to relax. I loved it, and can’t wait to plan some more daycations. I’m thinking 4 hours is probably my max drive time to location…but that leaves a ton of great options for me back here in the East!
How about you? Have you done a daycation you loved? Do you have any recommendations in the DC area for me? I’d love to hear.
