Voting Open For Inaugural 'The Liberty Bells' Awards

PHILADELPHIA — The first-ever awards from Visit Philadelphia has its finalists, and voting is open to the public now through March 14.

The Liberty Bells is the "inaugural celebration of civic pride honoring the people, places and attractions beloved by both visitors and residents," according to Visit Philadelphia, the region’s official leisure tourism marketing agency.

More than 1,200 submissions for the awards were received as the public and Visit Philadelphia partners had the chance to nominate their favorite spots across 10 categories, including "Best Historic Attraction" and "Philly’s Best-Kept Secret." A full list of categories and finalists is below.

Voting for each category is open now online here. Results will be revealed on Visit Philly’s social media channels on Monday, March 18.

Visit Philadelphia created The Liberty Bells to coincide with awards season (the Academy Awards, Grammys, etc.) and promote a sense of pride and enthusiasm among everyone who lives or travels here. This initiative highlights the diverse assortment of attractions, neighborhoods and cultural landmarks found within the region.

"Philadelphians are our best tourism advocates," Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia, said. "We all have our favorite places to eat, visit and explore. The Liberty Bells offer a chance to leverage our residents' insider expertise, highlighting beloved local haunts, businesses, neighborhoods and attractions."

Liberty Bell Awards Categories

Public Art Piece You Wouldn’t Mind Passing Daily
Awarded to public artwork visible to everyone.

• The Rocky Statue
• Swann Memorial Fountain
• The Thinker
• LOVE Sculpture

Most Iconic Museum or Attraction Entrance
Awarded to an iconic attraction or museum entryway.

• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• The Franklin Institute
• Masonic Temple

The “In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union” Award
Awarded to the person or group that embodies Philadelphia's spirit as a premier welcoming, inclusive and respectful destination in the U.S.

• Jason and Kylie Kelce
• Mayor Cherelle Parker
• Harriett's Bookshop
• @Photolope

Best Historic Attraction
Awarded to the most iconic of Philly’s many historic attractions.

• Independence Hall
• Liberty Bell
• The Franklin Institute

Swoon-Worthy Dish in Your Insta Feed
Awarded to the picturesque dish first spotted in a news feed, the one that instantly captivates the viewer and prompts them to follow the creator or restaurant.

• Lamb shoulder at Zahav
• Garlic butter chicken at Honeygrow
• French toast at The Wayward

The Sandwich Worth Waiting in Line For
Given to the sandwich (and restaurant) that merits enduring a 30-minute wait, even in the rain.

• Any sandwich at Middle Child Clubhouse
• Cheesesteak at Angelo's Pizzeria South Philly
• Roast pork at DiNic’s Roast Pork

Outstanding View from a Hotel Window
Awarded to the hotel view that captivates visitors, prompting them to inquire, "How can I book that room?"

• Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center
• The Notary Hotel, Philadelphia, Autograph Collection
• Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia

Neighborhood with the Biggest Personality
Awarded to the neighborhood that has it all: a cast of characters, culinary scene, amazing public art and everything else that embodies what Philadelphia is all about.

• Fishtown
• Old City
• East Passyunk

Philly’s Best-Kept Secret
Awarded to a place that one may prefer to keep to themselves, but it's too amazing not to share.

• Masonic Temple, Library & Museum
• Science History Institute
• Fishtown Choir
• Curtis Institute of Music
• PingPod

Outstanding Achievement in the Philly Region
Awarded to the museum or attraction that is a must-visit in Philly’s four surrounding counties: Bucks, Chester, Delaware or Montgomery.

• Longwood Gardens
• Fonthill Castle
• Brandywine Museum of Art