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NSBA 2019 Tips: 5 Must-Dos in Philadelphia

NSBA 2019 is finally here!

We can’t wait to meet school board members and district leaders from across the country at this weekend’s annual conference in Philadelphia. NSBA is always a great opportunity to learn about the challenges and opportunities school leaders see in their districts.

Throughout the conference, the K12 Insight team is excited to highlight the work of K-12 Customer Experience Superheroes. Stop by booth #807 to learn more about how we’re helping schools improve their culture and climate–with a focus on customer experience. And see if you have what it takes to earn your cape!

If you’re coming into town this weekend, you’ll actually be visiting my neck of the woods. I live not too far from the city.

I hope that between the important sessions you attend this weekend, you’ll get a chance to step outside the convention hall to visit some of the many important historical and cultural landmarks Philly has to offer.

To help, I put together this quick list of must-dos while you’re in town.

Have a great time at this year’s NSBA conference. We can’t wait to meet you and learn more about what’s happening in your district.

1. Run the Rocky steps–and visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

We all know the iconic scene from the movie Rocky. When Rocky Balboa charges to the top of the city’s most famous staircase, and throws his hands in the air, ready for the fight of his life. What you might not know is that those steps lead to the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art–a world-renowned collection of multi-genre art from all over the world. Nearby, don’t miss the bronze statue of the boxer featured in Rocky III!

2. Get an authentic Philly cheesesteak

Nothing sums up Philadelphia better than its most famous sandwich. Check out Pat’s or Geno’s. Located on opposite street corners, the two joints have been engaged in a battle for cheesesteak supremacy for years! Before you visit, understand the rules of ordering. Start with the cheese you want, then say “wit” or “witout” to indicate whether you want to include onions. “Whiz wit,” for example, means you want a cheesesteak with cheesewhiz and onions. “Prov witout” means you want provolone cheese and no onions.

3. Walk off those cheesesteaks on South Street

Pat’s and Geno’s are located on South Street, known for its ethnically diverse mix of restaurants, fun bars, creative art spaces and galleries, and eclectic shopping. What better way to burn off those cheesesteak calories than taking a walk down one of the city’s most lively streets?

4. Take in the colors of Longwood Gardens

So, technically Longwood Gardens isn’t in Philadelphia. But it’s well worth a ride outside the bustle of the city to visit this expansive botanical garden. This weekend, you’re lucky to witness the kickoff of the spring blooming season! Check their schedule for exclusive musical performances and educational programs.

5. Walk the path of our founding fathers

Philadelphia’s historic role as the location of the signing of the Declaration of Independence is well known. But hearing about historical events and visiting where they actually happened make for two very different experiences. While in Philly, don’t miss the chance to visit Independence Hall, the site of the signing of the Declaration and the U.S Constitution. Take a short stroll to see the Liberty Bell. And, if you want an even better picture of Philadelphia during revolutionary times, walk a few blocks to Elfreth’s Alley, known for its preserved historical buildings and cobblestone street.  

I hope you have a great time in Philadelphia. Don’t forget to visit us at booth #807 and check out our great sessions at NSBA ‘19! See you there!

NSBA sessions