New to Philadelphia’s Old City: History and Hoecakes

It seems only fitting that Philadelphia, a city nicknamed “the birthplace of America,” should have a museum dedicated to the history of the American Revolution. The Museum of the American Revolution opens in Old City on Wednesday, April 19. On this notable day, The Battles of Lexington and Concord ignited the war 242 years ago in 1775.

The Museum of the American Revolution takes you further than the conflict between the King and the Colonies. Art displays, manuscripts, weapons, and even one of George Washington’s headquarter tents allow visitors a glimpse back in time. Almost 3,000 artifacts have been collected to create four interactive exhibits.

Photo credit: Museum of The American Revolution

Explore a historical journey through the exhibits that highlight different time periods of the revolution: “Road to Independence,” “The Darkest Hour,” “A Revolutionary War,” and “A New Nation.” Take a broader look at those who participated in the war, either by choice or by circumstance, like the Iroquois tribes. Letters from Abigail Adams are read aloud, where she urges her husband to include the rights of women in the newly penned Declaration of Independence.

Several years in the making, the Museum of the American Revolution is no doubt a historic can’t-miss Philadelphia site. Whether you’re coming from out of town or just across town, the museum offers an unforgettable and unique look into how America was created.

While in Old City, there’s no shortage of historic activities and dining options. Across from the new Museum of the American Revolution, The Little Lion recently made an exciting reveal, for breakfast-lovers and museum-goers alike. In conjunction with its new museum neighbor, this charming Old City restaurant made its weekday breakfast and cafe debut.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on Monday, April 17, diners can choose from both à la carte or continental buffet menus for sweet and savory options to start the day on a delicious note. Sit back with a draft coffee or a shrub-based cocktail in the inviting ambiance of high ceilings and bright red chairs… and most importantly, the mouthwatering menu.

Standouts from the à la carte menu are the Smoked Salmon Benny, with decadently  creamy hollandaise and poached eggs, and Cornbread Hoecakes, somewhere between pancakes and cornbread with flavors of honey and maple. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t skip out on the indulgent Red Velvet Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast!

The continental menu is perfect if you want a little bit of everything. Mini versions of the hoecakes, omelets, bagels, and pastries whet the palette. Go “simple” with some cheddar scrambled eggs, house-cured bacon, and breakfast potatoes with peppadew peppers and onions. Or indulge in the Short Rib Hash that includes an IPA cheese sauce and a poached egg.

No matter what you order, The Little Lion has something for everyone before starting a day of sightseeing in Old City. Want to make your visit to the Museum of the American Revolution’s opening day even sweeter? The Little Lion will be offering a special benefit dish, an exclusive giveaway for all ticket holders, and even a discount for museum members!

Hours for the Museum of the American Revolution are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except for major holidays. Extended summer hours run from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and visitors are encouraged to book their tickets online beforehand. Adults tickets are $19, Youth (6-18) $12, Children (5 and under), and members are free.

For the latest updates, follow Museum of the American Revolution on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For drool-worthy updates, follow The Little Lion on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.