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Philadelphia, a city with a rich historical background, attracts a large number of visitors in the United States. It holds significant importance as the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed in Independence Hall. Benjamin Franklin, a versatile figure, once resided in this city. Although Philadelphia is no longer the country’s capital since Washington, D.C. took over, it has embraced its present with open arms. Today, Philly boasts renowned museums, vibrant nightlife, beloved sports teams, and a thriving restaurant scene that goes beyond the famous cheesesteaks. If you’re unsure where to begin your visit, consider joining a guided tour where a local can provide you with an insider’s perspective.
Philadelphia offers different experiences throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from March to May. During this period, the city emerges from the cold winter, and you can find affordable hotel rates. Additionally, you’ll be treated to the sight of beautiful cherry blossoms in various locations around Philadelphia, perfect for capturing memorable photos. If you prefer colder weather and lower costs, fall and winter are the seasons to consider. However, it’s worth noting that snowstorms can occur during these months, so having travel insurance might be a good idea. Keep in mind that summer is the peak tourist season, with high numbers of visitors exploring popular attractions like Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Zoo.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in Philadelphia. Take your pick!
Located in Camden, New Jersey, the Adventure Aquarium is just a stone’s throw away from Philadelphia. Its close proximity, being less than 5 miles to the east, makes it a popular choice for visitors exploring the city. Renowned as one of the top …
The Barnes Foundation is a must-visit for art lovers who are drawn to French impressionist, post-impressionist, and early modernist art. This museum houses a remarkable permanent collection that includes paintings by renowned artists such as Renoir, …
Betsy Ross is often given credit for sewing the first American flag, but it has never been definitively proven. Her former residence, now transformed into a small museum, is believed to be the place where she may have sewn the initial stars and …
Nestled in Philadelphia, Boathouse Row is renowned for its picturesque beauty. While the Lloyd Hall Recreation Center stands as the sole attraction open to visitors, it offers a range of amenities such as bike rentals, a visitor center, cafe, public …
You can grab tickets to catch a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park, their home field located in South Philly. Even if you’re not really into baseball or sports, it’s still enjoyable to take a stroll around the stadium and explore the diverse food …
Dilworth Park, a public outdoor space in Philadelphia, is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. Its advantageous location near City Hall, above Suburban Station (a major transportation hub), and its close proximity to the popular LOVE …
Step back in time to explore Philadelphia’s captivating Eastern State Penitentiary, a truly remarkable historic landmark. Constructed in 1829, this castle-like prison stands as a testament to the Quaker philosophy of prisoner rehabilitation. Unlike …
Elfreth’s Alley Museum Philadelphia’s Elfreth’s Alley is a delightful walkway that holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Its undeniable charm makes it a favorite spot for photography …
Fairmount Park, an urban oasis spanning over 2,000 acres, takes the title as the largest landscaped park in the world. Surpassing the size of New York City’s Central Park, it offers endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy …
Philadelphia, envisioned by William Penn, was designed to have five open-square parks. Among them is Franklin Square, situated within Independence Hall National Historical Park. The other four parks are Rittenhouse Square, Logan Square, Washington …
Looking for a fun and festive activity to enjoy during the Christmas season in Philadelphia? Why not try ice skating at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink? Located on the beautiful Delaware River Waterfront, this ice rink is perfect for all ages. You …
In Philadelphia, there is a historic red-brick building designed in the Georgian style. This remarkable place is where our forefathers debated, drafted, and signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. When you visit …
Philly locals and tourists alike consider a trip to the Italian Market on South Ninth Street an absolute must for food enthusiasts. Renowned as one of the oldest open-air markets in the country, the Italian Market is a treasure trove of culinary …
Johnny Brenda’s Philadelphia boasts a variety of live music venues that cater to different tastes. Among these are the Kimmel Center, World Cafe Live, and the renowned Theatre of the Living Arts. However, if you’re looking for a place with genuine …
The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is a must-see attraction, regardless of your interests or reasons for visiting. This historic artifact, weighing 2,080 pounds, was originally housed in the belfry of Independence Hall. It played a significant role in …
Located in Philadelphia, LOVE Park is a beloved destination that boasts various attractions and recreational opportunities. This iconic park was skillfully designed by Edmond Bacon, a renowned city planner and the father of actor Kevin Bacon. A …
The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia has been a popular attraction since its opening in 2017. It stands out as the only museum of its kind, offering interactive exhibits that bring the story of this significant historical event to …
Discover the wonders of the human body at the Mütter Museum, located in a beautiful 19th century building within The College of Physicians of Philadelphia. This unique museum showcases fascinating exhibits using various items such as wet specimens …
The National Constitution Center is situated in the Old City neighborhood, a convenient distance of less than half a mile from both the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall. This center offers fascinating exhibits that focus on significant …
The Penn Museum in Philadelphia is a fascinating museum that showcases the human experience through a vast collection of over a million artifacts. The museum features artifacts from various regions including Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the …
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a renowned building in Philadelphia that draws inspiration from the Parthenon in Athens. It offers a captivating collection of artworks by prominent artists like Matisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Cézanne. As you reach …
The Philadelphia Zoo holds the distinction of being the first and oldest zoo in the United States. It was established in 1859 and officially opened its doors to the public in 1874. The zoo serves multiple roles as an animal care organization, an …
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens When you’re in Philadelphia, don’t miss the chance to visit this amazing art museum located on South Street. It’s a place that combines different art forms and is definitely worth exploring. The museum features two indoor …
The Please Touch Museum is highly regarded as one of the top children’s museums in the United States. It provides interactive and engaging activities for children as young as 1 year old. At the museum, your kids can explore Alice’s Wonderland, play …
Philadelphia is transforming unused rail lines into a 3-mile trail called the Rail Park. This project aims to connect 10 neighborhoods and provide the public with a range of locally inspired art installations and amenities for their enjoyment. The …
Tasting your way through Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia is an incredibly enjoyable and mouthwatering experience. This vibrant market, situated beneath the historic Reading Railroad’s 1891 train station in Center City, is a true gem. With …
In Philadelphia, you’ll find a posh neighborhood that offers excellent options for dining and shopping. It’s known for its top-rated restaurants, upscale shops, and trendy nightlife spots. Additionally, this area is home to some of the finest hotels …
At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, you can find the Rocky Statue. This iconic statue was originally created for a scene in the movie “Rocky III.” It is situated at the base of the famous “Rocky Steps,” where the fictional boxer trained in the first …
With nearly 150 bronzes, marbles, and plasters, the Rodin Museum is a treasure trove of Auguste Rodin’s artistic creations. It houses one of the largest public collections of his works outside of Paris. The museum showcases pieces from all stages of …
South Street, a beloved neighborhood in Philadelphia, is full of unique charm and character. It stretches for approximately 14 blocks, though the actual length may vary depending on who you ask. What makes South Street truly special is its diverse …
Philadelphia’s Spruce Street Harbor Park is a beloved summer destination. Offering a delightful array of amenities, it provides the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and fun. Along the picturesque Delaware River, visitors can enjoy hammocks, a beer …
The Franklin Institute, influenced by Benjamin Franklin, offers an enjoyable experience for people of all ages. It goes beyond being just a place for kids. The institute features interactive displays like “SportsZone,” which uses simulators to …
The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is dedicated to inspiring individuals from all walks of life to value and understand the rich diversity of the American Jewish heritage. Spanning three floors, the museum takes you on a journey …
You don’t need to drive all the way to the mountains if you want to go hiking near Philadelphia. There’s a great option just 5 miles northwest of downtown called Wissahickon Valley Park. It spans across 1,800 acres and offers more than 50 miles of …