With Super Bowl LII just a few days away, the entire country has their eyes on just two cities: Philadelphia vs. Boston. As we approach the big game, the rivalry between the Eagles and the Patriots is at an all time high.
But Philly and Boston aren’t all that different, in the end. These colonial cities have their preferences, but have ended up with just as many similarities.
Order a cheesesteak “whiz wit” in Boston, and you’ll get some strange looks. But in Philly, everyone will nod knowingly. Meanwhile, lobstah is always the catch of the day in New England. Either way, these towns are steadfast believers in the foods they revolutionized.
Whether you’re rooting for UPenn or Harvard, both Philadelphia and Boston are split by rivers, making them perfect centers for crew teams. Throughout the summer, it’s hard to get a look at the Schuylkill or Charles without seeing rowers making their way downstream.
Steve Greer // Lumberton, NJ
Amazon recently narrowed their list of potential homes for a new HQ down to just 20 cities, and with their distinct skylines and capable workforce, it’s no wonder both Philadelphia and Boston made the cut.
Left: Gene Smirnov // Abington, PA
Right: Josh Andrus // Boston, MA
Both cities have roots that reach deep into the history of the United States. The Boston Public Library dates back to 1852, and the Free Library in Philadelphia began in 1891. Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts is a cultural landmark, as is the iconic Franklin Institue in Philadelphia.
Left: Bruce T. Martin // Natick, MA
Right: Jeffrey Totaro // Gladwyne, PA
Boston has a reputation as a college town, but the Big 5 universities in Philly also attract their fair share of college students. From Northeastern to Drexel, Boston College to Temple University, there’s no argument that these are some well-educated towns.
Craig Orsini // Boston, MA
Philly and Boston have a lot of things in common, but perhaps the most important (and timely) similarity to remember is the loyalty of their sports fans. It’s not just football– the fans come out whether they’re supporting the Red Sox, the Flyers, the Celtics or the Sixers.
Left: Aaron Ricketts // Philadelphia, PA
Right: Doug Levy // Ayer, MA
Whether you’re looking for a place to pahk ya cah, or heading to a jawn with friends, one thing is for certain: Philadelphia and Boston are in for an exciting Sunday night. Until then, check out our photographers from these Super Bowl cities, and ask who’s team they’re on.
Left: Aaron Ricketts // Philadelphia, PA
Right: Josh Andrus // Boston, MA
P.S. On behalf all of us here in the Philly area, FLY EAGLES FLY!