Explore Philly With Pascual Guerrero
By Leona Scott
For Pascual Guerrero, DPT, ATC, CSCS, Philadelphia is more than the city where he works. Over the past decade, it has become a place he has come to appreciate through its neighborhoods, passionate sports culture, memorable food scene and unmistakable pride.
Now in his 10th year with the Philadelphia 76ers organization, Guerrero sees Philadelphia from a perspective few experience – inside one of the city’s most visible professional sports franchises. Yet when asked what visitors attending the 77th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo June 29-July 2 should know, his advice is simple: get out, walk the city, eat well and experience its energy. He believes Philadelphia rewards curiosity and offers something memorable around nearly every corner.
A City Fueled by Passion
Philadelphia’s identity is closely tied to sports.
“People in South Philly live and die by these sports,” Guerrero said. “Whether it’s the Phillies, Eagles, us, Flyers and even the Union.”
That passion is something he has grown to appreciate while working in professional sports.
“I have an appreciation for the passion the fans have in this city for their sports teams and the sports culture that is this town,” he said.
Even visitors who aren’t sports fans will notice the pride Philadelphians have in their teams and city. That energy often creates a fun atmosphere throughout restaurants, neighborhoods and downtown gathering places.
Visit South Philadelphia
If Guerrero had one recommendation for convention attendees, it would be exploring South Philadelphia’s sports complex.
The district includes Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field and Xfinity Mobile Arena, all within walking distance of one another.
“Just experiencing the whole setup down there with the arenas that are close to each other across the blocks from each other,” Guerrero said.
Even on non-game days, the area offers restaurants, gathering spots and a glimpse into how deeply sports are woven into the city’s culture. Visitors may also enjoy seeing murals, fan gear shops and the unmistakable hometown pride found throughout the area.
Come Hungry
Guerrero is quick to recommend Philadelphia’s food scene.
Traveling between Center City and South Philly, he suggests attendees explore places such as the Italian Market or spend time near Rittenhouse Square.
“Sports and food kind of go hand in hand, and Philly is a great, great food town,” Guerrero said.
Whether visitors prefer neighborhood favorites, upscale dining or casual spots to gather with colleagues after sessions, the city offers plenty of options. From classic cheesesteaks to chef-driven restaurants, there is something for nearly every taste and budget.
“Catching a ball game and having some good food on the way definitely makes for a good night out,” he said.
A Walkable Convention Experience
For attendees with limited free time, Guerrero recommends one of the easiest ways to experience Philadelphia: walking.
“The thing is, I find Philly so walkable,” he said.
He recalls living near South Street and being able to walk into Center City for dinner, drinks or a workout class. That accessibility makes it easy for visitors to experience multiple sides of the city in a short amount of time.
“I don’t think you can go wrong with going anywhere in the city with its different pockets and getting into the culture or neighborhood it represents,” he said.
A Special Summer for Philadelphia
This year’s NATA convention arrives during a notable moment as Philadelphia celebrates America’s 250th anniversary. For Guerrero, who describes himself as a history enthusiast, that timing adds another reason to visit.
“I think the city will be quite a special place to experience all summer long,” he said.
Philadelphia already offers iconic destinations such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and anniversary celebrations are expected to bring additional energy to the city throughout the summer. For first-time visitors, it may be an especially memorable year to explore one of America’s most historic destinations.
