Israel is famously known for her destinations, like the Western Wall, the Dead Sea and Masada, but there are so many hidden gems throughout the country waiting to be explored. Whether you have never traveled to Israel or have been there more times than you can count, there are plenty of gems to be discovered.
From remote shops to scenic lookouts, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, which invests in the Jewish homeland and her safety, put together a list of Israel’s 12 best kept secrets.
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Located in the North of Israel on the Mediterranean Coastline, the Grottoes offer stunning views and unique caves and cliffs that are made from chalk rock formed from sea activity. Take a cable car to see the grottoes and enjoy a unique walk through the sea caverns. |
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Jaffa holds one of the oldest hummus restaurants in Israel. Abu Hassan has frequently been rated the best hummus in Israel. |
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Credit: Yad LaKashish |
Located in Jerusalem, Yad LaKashish is a non-profit organization, a partner of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, which helps to enrich the lives of older adults’ through creative work. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the facility and shop the handmade art. The proceeds from the store help to provide for the program’s participants. |
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Hidden within the shops of Old City is a treasure trove of handmade jewelry, art pieces and antiques. In addition to the beautiful treasures that visitors can find in the store, Sinjlawi also has one of the oldest wells located in the Old City, dating back almost 2,000 years.
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 Credit: Sinjlawi |
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Israel’s first single malt whiskey distillery can be found in Tel Aviv, where visitors can enjoy tours and whiskey tastings. |
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Visitors can enjoy swimming in a spring water pool that remains a constant 82.4 degrees fahrenheit (28 degrees celsius) all year round. In addition to the pools, visitors can enjoy a water powered flour mill, the remains of an ancient stockade and the Museum of Regional and Mediterranean Archaeology.
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 Credit: National Parks |
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Bell Ofri Farm and Ein Nashut Winery Located in the Kidmat Tzvi, visitors can enjoy wine and food as they hear about the winery’s history. The farm also has their own zoo, where injured animals are taken in for rehabilitation. |
Sheva Chaya Glass Blowing Gallery Renowned glass blower and painter Sheva Chaya’s gallery can be found in Tzfat’s Artist Quarter. Working in a medium of borosilicate glass and watercolor paint, visitors can enjoy workshops, explore the gallery and purchase beautiful artwork. |
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Credit: The Peres Center for Peace & Innovation |
Peres Center for Peace and Innovation Located in Jaffa, this interactive experience showcases Israeli innovation and peace between Israel and her neighbors. Founded in 1996 by the late President of Israel, Shimon Peres, the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation works to advance his vision to promote a peaceful and prosperous Israel and middle east. |
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Beit Guvrin National Park holds the remains of the ancient city of Tel Maresh. Approximately 800 caves can be found throughout the park, some of which include underground tunnels. |
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Credit: Tmol Shilshom Cafe |
Tmol Shilshom is a small restaurant with bookshelves and artwork lining the walls. Located in Jerusalem, this restaurant has become a center for literary and musical events that are frequently attended by locals. |
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At the entrance of the Carmel Market is a local beauty founded by the Front family in Warsaw, Poland in 1879. Shoppers can discover spices, unique flavors, odor extracts, a variety of tea brands and infusions. |
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Want to celebrate your love of Israel? The Jewish Federation is hosting four events to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Israel. From Mitzvah opportunities to Shabbat dinners, an all out food festival with Michael Solomonov to a unique travel experience to visit Israel, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia will be bringing out the blue and white pride. Click here to learn more about the celebrations.