Phildadon, I was born and raised about a mile from Veteran's Stadium in South Philadelphia. I grew up there and have spent my entire life in the area. I have also visited cities all across the globe (my favorites outside of my hometown are Boston, San Fran, Savannah, Rome, Florence, and London). I can tell you that the attitude you arrive on the plane with will shade your entire experience of any city. One of the reasons why Philadelphia gets such a bad rap is because of the behavior of their sports fans (probably rightly so, although entirely undeserved when reflected on the city as a whole, in my opinion). It shades people's attitudes before they even have a chance to experience all that the city has to offer.
Philadelphia is not much different than any other major city - there are pockets of undesirable areas and people, as well as amazing cultural experiences. However, it is unique in that this entire experiment in freedom which we call America had its birthplace in this city. As a result, when you walk around the center of the city (called "Center City" strangely enough), you are surrounded by landmarks and reminders of where all this began. It is truly an enchanting environment if you are any type of history buff.
In addition to the suggestions already presented, you may want to take some time to visit the Constitution Center - it is a truly moving museum. You probably won't get a chance to visit Valley Forge National Park (a half hour drive from where you are staying), but it is also a really inspiring tour which leaves you in awe of how our Revolutionary Soldiers suffered through a horrendous winter on their way to the ultimate miraculous military victory.
Enough nostalgia. Down to brass tacks. You will be staying in my old neighborhood.
I know the tourist-y hype about the cheesesteak revolves around Pat's versus Geno's. If you really want to hit cheesesteak nirvana, either go to John's Roast Pork on Snyder Avenue near Columbus Avenue (I went to grade school with the owner - he consistently gets voted on as serving the top cheesesteak in the city) or Steaks on South, my personal favorite, especially if you plan on walking South Street (which still has a lot of cool, eclectic shops and restaurants, even though it is no longer one of the top hot spots in the city). John's is in South Philly (near your hotel) and Steaks on South is closer to Center City, but if you really want a one-of-a-kind sandwich that you will be dreaming of on the plane back to Canada (and you may even still have the intoxicating aroma lingering on your fingers), do yourself a favor and go to Nick's Roast Beef on 20th and Jackson Streets, about a mile from your hotel. It is a dive bar inhabited by hard core, blue collar locals, but nothing to fear - they are harmless, if not colorful. They have a Spartan dining room in the back of the bar. Sit down and order a Roast Beef Combo (combo means with provolone cheese), overboard (which means dripping with pan juices). It is served on a Kaiser roll, and is probably one of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten. Chicago brags about their "Italian Beef" sandwiches, but they cannot hold a candle to Nick's Roast Beef.
If you want Italian food, and want to stay in South Philly (near your hotel), take a quick ride to Scannicchio's at Broad and Porter Streets. It will give you a taste of authentic, Italian-American cuisine ... the kind the local neighbors grew up on since moving to the city from the old country back in the day. The menu is simple, but consistently good.
One last tip. If you do find yourself in Center City (which is LOADED with amazing, 5-star restaurants), and are walking through the Reading Terminal, or anywhere else in the area, if you want to get into the Christmas Spirit, stop into Macy's right near City Hall at Broad and Juniper Streets. They have a light show that is very nostalgic and will definitely bring a smile. It plays every hour (I think).
Despite the negative press in here, try to keep an open mind and positive attitude. Travel safely and enjoy the city where it all started.
