I'm back from my east-coast-swing.

Thank you everyone for the advice on getting around, places to stay, and good-grub hang outs.

The trip went off better than I could have expected.
Into DCA and ultimately out of PHL.

Into the city and navigating around on the Metro was not only easy but likely the most desirable way to travel...no worries of car rental, parking spaces, parking expenses. Overall DC has a really decent public trans system.
We then jumped, as recommeneded the Camden Line from Union. A quick cab ride from the hotel to Union was easy enough....and headed over to Baltimore-Camden Yards.
Baltimore light-rail was great to use but sweet holy - don't get on a bus there. . . . ok, just kidding, its not THAT bad. We were right outside Oriole Park / Camden Yards and wandered only as far as our appetite or thirst would allow. A bit rainy but still what a great park.....and besides, our seats ended up being 4rows up and a brick wall away from the great Ripken Jr.
We then split Penn for Philly. - tons of construction around the hotel we stayed but it was right off the metro line for easy access to Citizens Bank Park.
After being assaulted for wearing my Atlanta Braves gear....I felt it necessary to only represent my team....during gametime - not at night while wandering around trying to find food/beer. (not joking, Philly Phans are Phreaking dedicated). On the metro, on Mothers Day, I gave up my seat to a lady and her daughter that just boarded....she did say thank you with a smile but then threw in....."that is pretty nice for a Braves fan".
I was laughing (inside).

Also, I can't say I can tell which cheesesteaks are the best....I loved them all. We hit TonyLukes, Geno's, Campo's, Jims, and another one in the Reading Terminal (not sure whose place that is...there were plenty around).
So, I loved them all - but have a problem - I was so set on comparing original WhizWit that, even after 5 cheesesteaks I've only had WhizWit and love provolone soooo, I have to return before long)

Anyway - rant over - trip over - great time - much to the credit of this swell forum !