Philadelphia offers rich history, but it is also a food lover’s dream and a cultural cornucopia. While visiting for the ACEP Scientific Assembly, you will have the chance to attend some of the best educational sessions in emergency medicine in a city that offers unique, diverse experiences. This guide will help you take advantage of all the City of Brotherly Love has to offer. 

ACEP is hosting its ACEP23 Flash Sale this weekend! Save $75 on registration through Aug. 20.

ASpire: No Limits © 2016 City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program / Ernel Martinez. 21st and Ellsworth Streets. Photo by Steve

Weinik.

Day 1 

The conference highlights kick off with the opening general session at 9 a.m., where we’ll geek out about the science of how our own brains process information, learning how to notice and prevent the mental shortcuts that shortchange our decision making. If you can find time during the morning rush, make sure to visit Cafe Lift, a happening brunch spot with amazing homemade hot sauce. Grab lunch and go hang with the cool kids at Middle Child. This local favorite is known for its creative sandwich combinations. Personally, I recommend the Surfer or Shopsin Club. The Phoagie is also a “phavorite” for those who don’t eat meat. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the Convention Center for EM:RAP Live! at 2:30 p.m. featuring emergency medicine’s favorite educators. Once afternoon sessions are over, visit The Hayes for a drink and some upscale bar snacks before heading back to the Convention Center for the speakeasy-themed Kickoff Party, held in the old Reading Terminal. 

Day 2 

As the sun rises over the Schuylkill River, grab a coffee at one of Philly’s great local shops. There are several must-visit spots to satisfy caffeine cravings. Bower boasts a great cup of coffee in a cool atmosphere containing a podcasting studio. You may be able to check out a live show before you walk over to the convention center. With many good lectures to choose from, I am looking forward to “Lytes Out! Electrolytes Gone Wrong” with Zachary Repanshek, MD. For the health policy-minded, check out “M-V-P! M-V-P! Are You Ready for MIPS Value Pathways in 2023?” with Michael A. Granovsky, MD, FACEP. After a stimulating morning, one of the best options for a mid-conference bite is the Reading Terminal Market, a bustling food hall that will leave any craving satisfied. From the savory roasted pork at DiNic’s to the irresistible donuts at Beiler’s, your taste buds will thank you. If you grab something to go, you’ll have the chance to view some local street art before the afternoon sessions; Philadelphia is renowned for its vibrant murals. A self-guided tour designed by Mural Arts Philadelphia allows you to experience stunning canvases adorning a variety of buildings and showcasing the city’s diverse artistic talent and culture. Visit muralarts.org/tours to download convenient maps.  

Day 3 

Jumpstart your third day in Philly with an invigorating visit to Cogito Coffee. Their selection of single-origin brews in a relaxing ambiance are just what you need prior to strolling over to the conference to check out “Dermatology Jeopardy” with ACEP Now’s Associate Editor Dr. Catherine A. Marco, MD, FACEP. Afterward, you’ll be itching (pun intended) to get back outside. No day would be complete for emergency physicians without outdoor adventure opportunities. For those seeking some exercise, rent a bike or throw on your sneakers and head to Kelly Drive. This picturesque trail winds along the Schuylkill River and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. As you make your way through the scenic route, make a stop at the Philadelphia Museum of Art to sprint up the art-museum steps ,Rocky style, and enjoy a great view of the city. Farther out of the city, head into Fairmont Park and check out the Forbidden Drive Trail.  

After such an adventurous day, head to East Passyunk Avenue, home to a plethora of amazing restaurants including River Twice, Ember and Ash, and Gabriella’s. End your night by grabbing some ice cream at Milk Jawn or D’Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats, and sit outside at the singing fountain for great people-watching.  

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA downtown skyline. SeanPavonePhoto

Day 4 

Today’s morning joe comes from Elixir, a city favorite using locally sourced ingredients. Back at the conference with coffee in hand, check out “Fixing Faces Painlessly: Facial Anesthesia, Regional Blocks” with Lauren M. Westafer, DO, FACEP.  For an afternoon lunch, the heart of Chinatown is just a couple of blocks’ walk. Dim Sum Garden is a popular choice for authentic dim sum, while Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodles serves up freshly made noodles. While the food itself is delicious, the experience of watching chefs hand stretch the noodles will mesmerize even those of us who have seen everything in our line of work. Walk off the culinary masterpieces by strolling to the historic district. Here you can step into the past, where I encourage you to visit Independence Hall. You’ll find other landmarks across the street such as the Liberty Bell, the African American Museum, Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, and the National Constitution Center. Grab some popcorn for the ACEP23 Closing Session, where EM leaders and a healthcare economist are going to dive into some of the hot-button issues affecting our specialty, including private equity and corporatization. Luckily, there’s a cash bar and a space for conversation after this dicey session. 

Philadelphia offers a multitude of activities, attractions, and culinary experiences to complement your attendance at ACEP Scientific Assembly. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant street art, enjoying a bike ride along urban greenspaces, or indulging in the diverse food scene, Philadelphia has something for everyone. 

DR. RISLER (@zrisler) is an emergency medicine physician at Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia. He currently serves as the Director of Ultrasound for the department and a contributor to the Ultrasound G.E.L Podcast.