Tis Me Michelle

You know, it’s funny when you live somewhere you never even think about doing the ‘touristy’ things. Or you did it way-back-when on some field trip and never felt the need to go back. Or you only go if someone comes in from out of town and you are like oh wait… I never actually did that before. This was basically me the whole time I lived in Pennsylvania. I was there for 23 years, and still go back all the time.

Being right outside of Philly, I’m sure I had a field trip to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall at some point. The only other time I remember going was when I first started college and my cousins came to visit from out of town. I’d say a good 10-15 years a part from one trip to the next. Experiencing the city as an adult is much different then on a field trip! You can wander and explore with so much more freedom. And you are actually interested in the history that you are taking in.

There are so many more parts of Philly I wish I got to experience. I’ve done a good portion of the main highlights. Of course, I’ve done the Art Museum. More for the Art and less for Rocky, but hey it’s a 2-for-1 deal. I’ve also had a chance to walk around a lot of the city during college and do a few other museums. Oh, and let’s not forget to mention, I am sure there are so many amazing restaurants and coffee shops I have yet to experience.

When I go back to visit now I am usually with my friends and family and we tend to stay pretty local. I was lucky to live near such an amazing city like Philadelphia, but the only other larger city I’ve gone to in PA is Lancaster. Of course it was a field trip where we went to learn about the Amish. All I remember is that we made candles and had shoe-fly pie. As an adult I’ve gone back to the huge outlet shopping area they have there. Totally different experiences.

I’ve heard great things about Pittsburg, but have never been. I’ve wanted to go to the Poconos as an adult… I feel like there was a field trip there too. I mean, there are so many places to see within a drive of my hometown. Whether it’s a day trip or a long weekend. So much more to see then that place called home!

Have you explored the state you grew up in?! What’s your favorite local spot in town?