Arrive in Philadelphia, PA where you enjoy a two-night stay.  This evening, stroll through the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn, an open-air wonderland of lights, topiaries and rustic décor.

Shop the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market, where more than 40 local vendors sell handmade trinkets, treats and crafts.  Enjoy some mulled wine from the on-site Chaddsford Winery kiosk and see the Deck the Hall Light Show animate City Hall with synchronized to sound effects and played at the top of every hour from 5 to 9 p.m. daily.  Dinner is on your own this evening.

This morning, tour Independence Hall.  In 1776, the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence here.  Eleven years later, in the same room, delegates to the Constitutional Convention created and signed an enduring framework of government – the United States Constitution.  Although known today as Independence Hall, the building was constructed to be the Pennsylvania State House.  It once housed all three branches of Pennsylvania’s colonial government.

Next, visit the Liberty Bell.  Easily recognizable because of its crack, the Liberty Bell remains significant today for its message of liberty.  Abolitionists, women’s suffrage activists, civil rights leaders and others have used this bell as their symbol in the fight for equality.

Then enjoy an afternoon at the Christmas Village in LOVE Park, an open-air European wonderland with more than 110 different vendors.  Browse local and international gifts such as Käthe Wohlfahrt ornaments, accessories and wintry apparel, along with raclette sandwiches, spiced wine, apple cider, strudels and more seasonal treats.  Across the street on the north apron of City Hall and in the City Hall courtyard, a double-decker Christmas Village Carousel, Ferris Wheel and Kids Train await for those in between shopping and eating stints.

Included is a German lunch (Bratwurst with a crispy roll and Sauerkraut), a cup of hot chocolate with topping, a cup of hot Gluhwine (mulled wine – non-alcoholic alternatives), a cone of fresh frosted almonds and a Christmas Village souvenir mug to take home.

Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant followed by an evening Holiday show or attraction.  Add the Philadelphia Ballet’s The Nutcracker, or a holiday event like the Tinseltown Holiday Spectacular at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, LumiNature at the Philadelphia Zoo, or the drive-through Holiday Light Show at Shady Brook Farm. (B,L,D)

After breakfast, visit nearby Longwood Gardens.  The Conservatory will be filled with magnificently decorated trees, thousands of poinsettias, and fragrant flowers transforming the Conservatory into a holiday wonderland.  Depart for home after your visit. (B)