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Scoop: Philly apologizes for 100 Steps paint job that drew backlash

Now the Parker administration is rushing to undo it.

News

Philadelphia officials are apologizing for a mix-up that led a city worker to paint over the historic 100 Steps granite stairwell in Roxborough.Why it matters: Residents quickly blasted the paint job <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="online" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/21/phillys-highway-graffiti-cleanup-enters-new-phase" data-vars-content-id="609d9b7b-50ca-4657-9b05-bc5a7079216f" data-vars-headline="Scoop: Philly apologizes for 100 Steps paint job that drew backlash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/21/phillys-highway-graffiti-cleanup-enters-new-phase" target="_self">online</a>, saying the local landmark should be preserved — not painted over. Now the Parker administration is rushing to undo it.

Chris Rabb wins heated Dem primary for Philly congressional seat

His victory notches a major win for Philly progressives in a competitive contest that's drawn national attention.

Election

Pennsylvania Rep. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Chris Rabb" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/15/primary-election-philadelphia-guide-2026" data-vars-content-id="aaad3285-703a-4bd4-b3b7-94f24dee5186" data-vars-headline="Chris Rabb wins heated Dem primary for Philly congressional seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/15/primary-election-philadelphia-guide-2026" target="_self">Chris Rabb</a> won the Democratic primary for the state&#x27;s 3rd Congressional District on Tuesday, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AP reports" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/projects/elections-2026/pennsylvania-primary-results-us-house/#3" data-vars-content-id="aaad3285-703a-4bd4-b3b7-94f24dee5186" data-vars-headline="Chris Rabb wins heated Dem primary for Philly congressional seat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/projects/elections-2026/pennsylvania-primary-results-us-house/#3" target="_blank">AP reports</a>.Why it matters: His victory notches a major win for Philly progressives in a competitive contest that&#x27;s drawn national attention as a battle for the future of the Democratic Party.

Graffiti removal ramps up on Philly highways ahead of World Cup summer

The cleanup is timed to reduce the chances those corridors are retagged before the international spotlight turns to Philly.

PennDOT is getting started this week on removing graffiti from Philadelphia&#x27;s gateways ahead of this summer&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="packed lineup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" data-vars-content-id="8662ee26-121c-45a7-9cd9-1db2e580b2e5" data-vars-headline="Graffiti removal ramps up on Philly highways ahead of World Cup summer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" target="_self">packed lineup</a> of events. Why it matters: State and city officials are completing an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$11.5 million project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.phila.gov/2026-01-09-mayor-cherelle-parker-city-and-state-officials-announce-the-gateways-to-philadelphia-anti-graffiti-highway-beautification-project-on-interstate-76/" data-vars-content-id="8662ee26-121c-45a7-9cd9-1db2e580b2e5" data-vars-headline="Graffiti removal ramps up on Philly highways ahead of World Cup summer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.phila.gov/2026-01-09-mayor-cherelle-parker-city-and-state-officials-announce-the-gateways-to-philadelphia-anti-graffiti-highway-beautification-project-on-interstate-76/" target="_blank">$11.5 million project</a> to beautify Philly — and shake its &quot;Filthadelphia&quot; reputation — before thousands of visitors arrive.

Philadelphia primary results: Shapiro, Garrity and other top races

The primary featured a handful of notable races statewide and in the Philly region.

Tuesday&#x27;s primary made it official: Gov. <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Josh Shapiro" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/03/josh-shapiro-gop-candidate-2024" data-vars-content-id="4cfe7970-1791-405d-83a5-5f431ed7a410" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia primary results: Shapiro, Garrity and other top races" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/03/josh-shapiro-gop-candidate-2024" target="_self">Josh Shapiro</a> will take on state Treasurer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Stacy Garrity" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/18/stacy-garrity-enters-pennsylvania-governor-race" data-vars-content-id="4cfe7970-1791-405d-83a5-5f431ed7a410" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia primary results: Shapiro, Garrity and other top races" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/08/18/stacy-garrity-enters-pennsylvania-governor-race" target="_self">Stacy Garrity</a> in the November gubernatorial election. Why it matters: Shapiro faces a major test for reelection this year that could sink or boost any potential <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="presidential ambitions in 2028" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/07/shapiro-pennsylvania-strategy-midterms-2028" data-vars-content-id="4cfe7970-1791-405d-83a5-5f431ed7a410" data-vars-headline="Philadelphia primary results: Shapiro, Garrity and other top races" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/07/shapiro-pennsylvania-strategy-midterms-2028" target="_self">presidential ambitions in 2028</a>.

Philly may be a cheaper World Cup base for international fans

For many international fans, attending the tournament could require spending several months' wages — or taking on debt.

Philadelphia may be one of the more affordable World Cup host cities for international fans facing soaring ticket and travel costs.Why it matters: For travelers from some of the world&#x27;s most soccer-obsessed nations, attending the tournament could require spending several months&#x27; wages — or taking on debt — to watch their teams play.

The worst times to travel from Philly for Memorial Day weekend

When to hit the roads and other pro tips.

Travel

Today kicks off the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Memorial Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/23/memorial-day-weekend-2025-federal-holiday-meaning" data-vars-content-id="b1acfd43-85c7-45b3-830c-bc2739d73e1f" data-vars-headline="The worst times to travel from Philly for Memorial Day weekend" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/05/23/memorial-day-weekend-2025-federal-holiday-meaning" target="_self">Memorial Day</a> weekend travel rush.Why it matters: Your future self will thank you if you plan to avoid the traffic.

Philadelphia airport braces for heavy summer travel

The airport is forecast to see 9.4 million travelers from June through August — a 6.3% bump from summer 2025.

Philadelphia International Airport is poised for one of the busiest summer travel seasons in its history.Why it matters: The airport is going all out over the coming months with new flight destinations, shops and activities for travelers.

ICE isn't expected at Philly's World Cup, but activists are ready

One business group has helped organize legal seminars so owners know their rights and can protect customers.

Sports

Philadelphia immigration activists are preparing for possible federal immigration enforcement during the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/13/world-cup-parking-restrictions-lemon-hill-fan-festival" data-vars-content-id="748a102a-3712-479e-bbad-d411d307e8e7" data-vars-headline="ICE isn&#x27;t expected at Philly&#x27;s World Cup, but activists are ready" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/05/13/world-cup-parking-restrictions-lemon-hill-fan-festival" target="_self">World Cup</a> amid uncertainty over ICE&#x27;s role at the tournament.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mixed messaging" data-vars-click-url="https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2026/05/08/trump-officials-confusion-ice-world-cup/" data-vars-content-id="748a102a-3712-479e-bbad-d411d307e8e7" data-vars-headline="ICE isn&#x27;t expected at Philly&#x27;s World Cup, but activists are ready" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2026/05/08/trump-officials-confusion-ice-world-cup/" target="_blank">Mixed messaging</a> from the Trump administration has fueled confusion over whether and how ICE could operate during the competition, which kicks off next month in Philadelphia and 10 other host cities.

International tourists to flock to Philadelphia this year

Philly is abuzz with improvements, upgrades and activity as businesses and the city get ready for big crowds.

Philadelphia&#x27;s tourism and hotel industries should bank on a rebound year fueled by the FIFA <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/04/01/world-cup-tickets-philly-fifa-final-sale" data-vars-content-id="205fd58c-0bab-4ea6-bde1-25f67c85f87c" data-vars-headline="International tourists to flock to Philadelphia this year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/04/01/world-cup-tickets-philly-fifa-final-sale" target="_self">World Cup</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="other events" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" data-vars-content-id="205fd58c-0bab-4ea6-bde1-25f67c85f87c" data-vars-headline="International tourists to flock to Philadelphia this year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/07/evemts-2026-america-250-museums-world-cup-sports" target="_self">other events</a> coming to the region, per a new analysis.Why it matters: Philly is abuzz with improvements, upgrades and activity as businesses and the city get ready for the big crowds.

Looking to get to Philly for the World Cup? Swap homes, not cash

HomeExchange still has more than 150 Philly homes available for Philadelphia's World Cup matches.

If you&#x27;re looking to barter your way into one of this year&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" data-vars-content-id="dcce6719-cec2-4ce8-82eb-07bb62033e9d" data-vars-headline="Looking to get to Philly for the World Cup? Swap homes, not cash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/12/08/fifa-world-cup-philadelphia-schedule-lincoln-financial-field" target="_self">World Cup</a> host cities, there&#x27;s an easier route than opening your wallet: open up your home.Why it matters: Some travelers chasing a bucket-list experience without the astronomical price tag are turning to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="HomeExchange" data-vars-click-url="https://tracking.us.nylas.com/l/d55a34e0507c49bbadbf2a7601414326/0/6bc44d247643464b96e1a1be81640f2f0209e34218e0cb79c70dd9337ca976c4?cache_buster=1774962281" data-vars-content-id="dcce6719-cec2-4ce8-82eb-07bb62033e9d" data-vars-headline="Looking to get to Philly for the World Cup? Swap homes, not cash" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tracking.us.nylas.com/l/d55a34e0507c49bbadbf2a7601414326/0/6bc44d247643464b96e1a1be81640f2f0209e34218e0cb79c70dd9337ca976c4?cache_buster=1774962281" target="_blank">HomeExchange</a>, a subscription-based platform that lets people around the world swap homes.

Spring travel season kicks off in Philly with plenty of worries

It's one of the busiest times of the year at Philadelphia International Airport.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="spring travel season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/travel-delays-shutdown-security-airfare-prices" data-vars-content-id="d2f5f47d-2609-42a9-a6e2-d53e51cf42d8" data-vars-headline="Spring travel season kicks off in Philly with plenty of worries" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/23/travel-delays-shutdown-security-airfare-prices" target="_self">spring travel season</a> is here, and air travelers are confronting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="skyrocketing prices" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/20/iran-war-flight-prices-air-travel-tips-cheaper" data-vars-content-id="d2f5f47d-2609-42a9-a6e2-d53e51cf42d8" data-vars-headline="Spring travel season kicks off in Philly with plenty of worries" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/20/iran-war-flight-prices-air-travel-tips-cheaper" target="_self">skyrocketing prices</a>, concerns over <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="security lines" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/21/musk-trump-tsa-ice-airports" data-vars-content-id="d2f5f47d-2609-42a9-a6e2-d53e51cf42d8" data-vars-headline="Spring travel season kicks off in Philly with plenty of worries" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/21/musk-trump-tsa-ice-airports" target="_self">security lines</a>, ICE agents in airports, and safety worries after another <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fatal incident" data-vars-click-url="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-laguardia-airport-air-canada-collision-6a3cbabbeed76125fa5f7aed32679fd8" data-vars-content-id="d2f5f47d-2609-42a9-a6e2-d53e51cf42d8" data-vars-headline="Spring travel season kicks off in Philly with plenty of worries" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-laguardia-airport-air-canada-collision-6a3cbabbeed76125fa5f7aed32679fd8" target="_blank">fatal incident</a>.Why it matters: Spring break is next week for the Philly school district&#x27;s nearly 114,000 students. It&#x27;s one of the busiest times of the year at Philadelphia International Airport.

ICE agents expected to arrive at Philadelphia airport

Several security checkpoints at Philadelphia International Airport remained closed due to staffing shortages on Monday morning.

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="814e534f-25fa-4a2d-8819-f34f67b7c10d" data-vars-headline="ICE agents expected to arrive at Philadelphia airport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> says he&#x27;s sending <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="ICE agents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/13/dhs-government-shutdown-ice-funding" data-vars-content-id="814e534f-25fa-4a2d-8819-f34f67b7c10d" data-vars-headline="ICE agents expected to arrive at Philadelphia airport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/02/13/dhs-government-shutdown-ice-funding" target="_self">ICE agents</a> to several <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S. airports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/22/trump-ice-agents-airports-tsa-dhs-shutdown" data-vars-content-id="814e534f-25fa-4a2d-8819-f34f67b7c10d" data-vars-headline="ICE agents expected to arrive at Philadelphia airport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/22/trump-ice-agents-airports-tsa-dhs-shutdown" target="_self">U.S. airports</a> Monday to assist <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="TSA officers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/21/musk-trump-tsa-ice-airports" data-vars-content-id="814e534f-25fa-4a2d-8819-f34f67b7c10d" data-vars-headline="ICE agents expected to arrive at Philadelphia airport" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/21/musk-trump-tsa-ice-airports" target="_self">TSA officers</a>. Philly is reportedly among those airports.Why it matters: Philadelphia International Airport has closed several security checkpoints amid a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown, during which TSA agents have gone more than five weeks without pay.

What World Cup fans may pay for an Airbnb in Philadelphia region

Airbnb said last month that demand for stays is surging during the World Cup in host cities.

The FIFA <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/28/world-cup-philly-intel" data-vars-content-id="d49a71cc-4a80-442f-a353-727cd879df6a" data-vars-headline="What World Cup fans may pay for an Airbnb in Philadelphia region" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2026/01/28/world-cup-philly-intel" target="_self">World Cup</a> is less than three months away, and the Philadelphia region will receive an influx of tourists this summer who need a place to stay.Why it matters: Short-term rental hosts could make some extra cash.<ul><li>Yes, but: Philly proper&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tough industry regulations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/01/09/philadelphia-airbnb-vacation-rental-rules" data-vars-content-id="d49a71cc-4a80-442f-a353-727cd879df6a" data-vars-headline="What World Cup fans may pay for an Airbnb in Philadelphia region" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/philadelphia/2023/01/09/philadelphia-airbnb-vacation-rental-rules" target="_self">tough industry regulations</a> could discourage some would-be hosts.</li></ul>

How to explore the best of the Carolina coast

Dive into epic watersports, scenic shores, a historic riverfront city and so much more in Wilmington, NC & Island Beaches.

Partners

Beach vacations were the most popular type of trip through 2025, and experts anticipate demand for sunny getaways won&#x27;t let up this year.<ul><li>But scroll through your feed in July and it&#x27;s the same snapshot over and over again — one stretch of sand, one seafood shack, one boardwalk. 🥱</li></ul>What you need to know: Wilmington, NC &amp; Island Beaches offers something different.Three distinct beaches— each with its own history and personality — sit just minutes from a historic riverfront city, creating a coastal experience tailored to your distinct vacation vibe.