As the largest indoor flower show in the world — attracting more than 250,000 attendees annually — the Philadelphia Flower Show brings a botanical wonderland to the Pennsylvania Convention Center every March. Produced by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the weeklong exhibition centers on a new theme each year and showcases botanical brilliance from around the world. This year’s event is dedicated to the natural beauty and creative ingenuity of Great Britain.
With its innovative, distinct design, it’s hard to miss this new addition to the
Philadelphia cultural scene. The Barnes Foundation’s Philadelphia campus is home to world-class art, including works by Matisse and Cezanne, as well as to the elegant sit-down Garden Restaurant. Currently, the foundation’s exhibit highlights the story of Albert C. Barnes and the history of his vast collection. Visitors can take a docent-guided tour or explore the avant-garde on their own.
With breathtaking, open-air spaces such as the riverside veranda, outdoor pavilion, and elegant
breezeway, the Water Works Restaurant and Lounge provides the ideal dining experience. Overlooking the Schuylkill River, Water Works serves everything from grilled octopus and Scottish salmon to a unique lobster BLT. Perfect for elegant private parties, Water Works has hosted everyone from Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter to actor Sylvester Stallone.
This 268-room boutique hotel offers more than just a place to stay
— such as 13,000 square feet of private meeting space, including the 3,327-square- foot Lafayette Ballroom. At the Hotel Monaco, just steps away from Independence Hall, delegates can enjoy comfort food at the Red Owl Tavern or a specialty cocktail at the Stratus Rooftop Bar & Lounge, overlooking the Liberty Bell Center.
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The African American Museum in Philadelphia aampmuseum.org
Founded in 1976, the African American Museum in Philadelphia is the first
museum of its kind to be funded and built by a major municipality. The institution’s exhibits are dedicated to preserving the heritage and history of African Americans. This month, the museum is featuring the exhibit “Come See About Me,” highlighting the tumultuous and inspiring journey of legendary Motown singing group the Supremes.
JANUARY 2013 PCMA CONVENE 35
PHOTOGRAPH ON LEFT BY KAIT PRIVITERA / ILLUSTRATION BY MARIKO JESSE