Today we donned our grey sweats and put the hoods up in preparation of our run up the steps used in the film `Rocky`!
Firstly though, we did want to also check out the other great sites that Philly has to offer, from the Independence Hall to the Liberty Bell. The visitor information in Philadelphia was incredible, especially for the budget traveller. Why? 
They offer FREE tours of Independence Hall. This is especially great if you’re not from the United States and didn’t participate in American History class.
The tour was led from the typical, over enthusiastic tour guide complete with Park Ranger hat. We began in a classroom (which isn’t always the best start, especially when you really just want to see the good stuff!) This actually proved very interesting and as mentioned above, gave us a great refresher into dates, important people, and of course the Declaration of Independence in general.
We`ll be honest, some of it did go over our heads, but we also learnt lots, including the fact the Declaration of Independence was actually signed on August 2nd – despite Americans Celebrating on July 4th, as this was the day it was read publically. The tour entered the Courtroom on the East wing of the building, before finishing in the hall where the Declaration was signed all those years ago. It really was the birth place to the USA!
Next up was Liberty Bell, famous for the crack which runs down the side. Once again steeped with so much history that covered the walls on entry to the exhibit (once again FREE, Thanks Philly!) Even though you knew what was coming up at the end of the hall – it was still quite exciting to see the Bell in person, even if it was also being swarmed with fellow tourists, generating more camera flashes than a celebrity would.
Soon enough it was time for us to chuck back our 6 blended raw eggs (or make that another trip to the Reading Terminal Market to indulge in some delicious Lasagne) and head down Franklin Drive to the Philadelphia Art Institute, or as its more famously known, the `Rocky Steps`. The run was easier than we thought, and the steps not that long. I’m sure in the movie, Rocky looked tired at the top, which made us think that we must have been the same calibre as Sly Stallone? We must admit that it was a nice feeling making it to the top and throwing your arms in the air – and certainly not as awkward as you’d imagine, as you were joined by dozens of fellow tourists were doing exactly the same!
