Top 10 Things to Do in Philadelphia
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is a city that offers a rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you are looking for historical landmarks, world-class museums, or delicious cuisine, you will find something to suit your taste in the City of Brotherly Love. Here are some of the top 10 things to do in Philadelphia that you should not miss.
Liberty Bell Center
What is it?
A modern building that houses the famous Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence and freedom. The Liberty Bell was originally cast in 1752 and hung in the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall. It was rung to announce important events, such as the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Why should you go?
Learn about one of the most recognizable symbols of American history and culture. The bell has inspired generations of Americans and people around the world who cherish liberty and justice. The bell is displayed in a glass chamber with a view of Independence Hall in the background. You can also explore the exhibits that tell the story of the bell's origins, history, and meaning. The Liberty Bell Center is free and open to the public, but you may have to pass through a security screening before entering.
A modern building that houses the famous Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence and freedom. The Liberty Bell was originally cast in 1752 and hung in the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall. It was rung to announce important events, such as the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Why should you go?
Learn about one of the most recognizable symbols of American history and culture. The bell has inspired generations of Americans and people around the world who cherish liberty and justice. The bell is displayed in a glass chamber with a view of Independence Hall in the background. You can also explore the exhibits that tell the story of the bell's origins, history, and meaning. The Liberty Bell Center is free and open to the public, but you may have to pass through a security screening before entering.
Independence Hall
What is it?
A historic building where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted by America's Founding Fathers in the late 18th century. Independence Hall served as the meeting place of the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1783 and the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It was also the site of many other important events, such as the ratification of the Bill of Rights in 1791.
Why should you go?
Witness the birthplace of America and its democracy. See the original rooms where the Founding Fathers debated and signed the founding documents that shaped the nation's history and government. Admire the architecture and furnishings of the Georgian-style building that reflect the colonial era.
A historic building where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted by America's Founding Fathers in the late 18th century. Independence Hall served as the meeting place of the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1783 and the Constitutional Convention in 1787. It was also the site of many other important events, such as the ratification of the Bill of Rights in 1791.
Why should you go?
Witness the birthplace of America and its democracy. See the original rooms where the Founding Fathers debated and signed the founding documents that shaped the nation's history and government. Admire the architecture and furnishings of the Georgian-style building that reflect the colonial era.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
What is it?
An art museum of international renown located on Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. The museum's collection consists of approximately 240,000 objects that span all periods and cultures of art history, from ancient to contemporary. The museum is especially strong in American, European, Asian, and African art.
Why should you go?
Experience one of the largest and most diverse art collections in America. You can explore thousands of artworks from different times, places, and genres that showcase human creativity and expression. Some highlights of the Philadelphia Museum of Art include paintings by Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso, sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore, and decorative arts by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Marcel Duchamp.
You can also enjoy stunning views of the city skyline from the museum's steps, which are famously known as the Rocky Steps after being featured in several Rocky movies starring Sylvester Stallone.
An art museum of international renown located on Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. The museum's collection consists of approximately 240,000 objects that span all periods and cultures of art history, from ancient to contemporary. The museum is especially strong in American, European, Asian, and African art.
Why should you go?
Experience one of the largest and most diverse art collections in America. You can explore thousands of artworks from different times, places, and genres that showcase human creativity and expression. Some highlights of the Philadelphia Museum of Art include paintings by Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso, sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore, and decorative arts by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Marcel Duchamp.
You can also enjoy stunning views of the city skyline from the museum's steps, which are famously known as the Rocky Steps after being featured in several Rocky movies starring Sylvester Stallone.
Independence National Historical Park
What is it?
A federally protected historic district in Philadelphia that preserves several sites associated with the American Revolution and the nation's founding history. Some of the park's most visited locations include Franklin Court, where Benjamin Franklin's home once stood, and the National Constitution Center. The park also contains other historic buildings, such as the First Bank of the United States, Carpenters' Hall, and City Tavern.
Why should you go?
Learn about the nation's founding ideals and the people who shaped them. See and touch the places where history was made and where democracy was born. Discover the stories and personalities of the men and women who participated in or witnessed the events that led to American independence and nationhood.
You can also enjoy the beauty and charm of the colonial architecture and landscape that reflect 18th-century Philadelphia. Most of the sites in the park are free and open to the public, but some require tickets or reservations.
A federally protected historic district in Philadelphia that preserves several sites associated with the American Revolution and the nation's founding history. Some of the park's most visited locations include Franklin Court, where Benjamin Franklin's home once stood, and the National Constitution Center. The park also contains other historic buildings, such as the First Bank of the United States, Carpenters' Hall, and City Tavern.
Why should you go?
Learn about the nation's founding ideals and the people who shaped them. See and touch the places where history was made and where democracy was born. Discover the stories and personalities of the men and women who participated in or witnessed the events that led to American independence and nationhood.
You can also enjoy the beauty and charm of the colonial architecture and landscape that reflect 18th-century Philadelphia. Most of the sites in the park are free and open to the public, but some require tickets or reservations.
Self-Guided Audio Tour
Philadelphia: Discovering the Past of America's Birthplace in its Present
$9
Rocky Statue
What is it?
A bronze sculpture that depicts Rocky Balboa, the fictional heavyweight champion played by Sylvester Stallone in the Rocky film series. The statue was used in Rocky III and later donated to the city of Philadelphia by Stallone. It is located at the bottom of the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, also known as the Rocky Steps because they were featured in several scenes where Rocky trained by running up and down them.
Why should you go?
The Rocky Statue is a must-see if you are a fan of the Rocky movies or want to take a picture with one of the most recognizable pop culture icons. The statue also reminds of Philadelphia's role as a backdrop for many memorable scenes in the film series, such as Rocky's proposal to Adrian at the Philadelphia Zoo, his fight with Apollo Creed at the Spectrum Arena, or his victory over Ivan Drago at City Hall. You can recreate Rocky's famous pose by raising your arms in triumph or running up the museum's steps like he did in his training montage. The statue is free and accessible at any time, but you may have to wait in line to get your photo taken with it.
A bronze sculpture that depicts Rocky Balboa, the fictional heavyweight champion played by Sylvester Stallone in the Rocky film series. The statue was used in Rocky III and later donated to the city of Philadelphia by Stallone. It is located at the bottom of the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, also known as the Rocky Steps because they were featured in several scenes where Rocky trained by running up and down them.
Why should you go?
The Rocky Statue is a must-see if you are a fan of the Rocky movies or want to take a picture with one of the most recognizable pop culture icons. The statue also reminds of Philadelphia's role as a backdrop for many memorable scenes in the film series, such as Rocky's proposal to Adrian at the Philadelphia Zoo, his fight with Apollo Creed at the Spectrum Arena, or his victory over Ivan Drago at City Hall. You can recreate Rocky's famous pose by raising your arms in triumph or running up the museum's steps like he did in his training montage. The statue is free and accessible at any time, but you may have to wait in line to get your photo taken with it.
Barnes Foundation
What is it?
An art museum and educational institution that showcases the remarkable collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes, a Philadelphia-born chemist, businessman, and philanthropist. The museum houses over 4,000 artworks, including masterpieces by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Van Gogh, as well as African sculptures, Native American ceramics, metalwork, and furniture.
Why should you go?
Explore one of the world's most unique and personal art collections. The museum displays the artworks that reflect Dr. Barnes's aesthetic vision and educational philosophy. Learn about the history and context of the Barnes Foundation collection through interactive exhibits, audio guides, and docent tours. You can also enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the museum's 12-acre arboretum with rare plants and trees.
An art museum and educational institution that showcases the remarkable collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes, a Philadelphia-born chemist, businessman, and philanthropist. The museum houses over 4,000 artworks, including masterpieces by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Van Gogh, as well as African sculptures, Native American ceramics, metalwork, and furniture.
Why should you go?
Explore one of the world's most unique and personal art collections. The museum displays the artworks that reflect Dr. Barnes's aesthetic vision and educational philosophy. Learn about the history and context of the Barnes Foundation collection through interactive exhibits, audio guides, and docent tours. You can also enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the museum's 12-acre arboretum with rare plants and trees.
Eastern State Penitentiary
What is it?
A National Historic Landmark and a former prison that was once the most famous and expensive in the world. It was designed to implement the "Pennsylvania system" of solitary confinement, which aimed to reform criminals through isolation and reflection. The prison housed many notorious inmates, such as Al Capone and Willie Sutton, and witnessed many escapes, riots, and reforms.
Why should you go?
The Eastern State Penitentiary is the perfect destination for true crime fans and everyone interested in the American history of criminal justice. Explore the prison's cell blocks, towers, and tunnels and see how the inmates lived and worked. You can also learn about the prison's impact on American culture and the justice system through audio guides narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, films, artifacts, and interactive displays. You can also experience special programs, such as "Terror Behind the Walls," a haunted attraction that runs in the fall, or "The Searchlight Series," a discussion series that examines contemporary issues related to mass incarceration.
A National Historic Landmark and a former prison that was once the most famous and expensive in the world. It was designed to implement the "Pennsylvania system" of solitary confinement, which aimed to reform criminals through isolation and reflection. The prison housed many notorious inmates, such as Al Capone and Willie Sutton, and witnessed many escapes, riots, and reforms.
Why should you go?
The Eastern State Penitentiary is the perfect destination for true crime fans and everyone interested in the American history of criminal justice. Explore the prison's cell blocks, towers, and tunnels and see how the inmates lived and worked. You can also learn about the prison's impact on American culture and the justice system through audio guides narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, films, artifacts, and interactive displays. You can also experience special programs, such as "Terror Behind the Walls," a haunted attraction that runs in the fall, or "The Searchlight Series," a discussion series that examines contemporary issues related to mass incarceration.
Longwood Gardens
What is it?
A botanical garden that covers over 1,000 acres of land and features more than 11,000 types of plants, ranging from rare orchids to towering trees. It also boasts a conservatory with 20 indoor gardens, a meadow garden with native wildflowers, a water garden with fountains and waterfalls, and a children's garden with interactive elements.
Why should you go?
Experience the beauty and diversity of Longwood Gardens. Stroll through the gardens at your own pace or join guided tours led by knowledgeable staff or volunteers. You can also enjoy live music performances in various venues, such as the Open Air Theatre or the Ballroom Organ, or marvel at the spectacular fountain shows that combine water, light, music, and fire.
A botanical garden that covers over 1,000 acres of land and features more than 11,000 types of plants, ranging from rare orchids to towering trees. It also boasts a conservatory with 20 indoor gardens, a meadow garden with native wildflowers, a water garden with fountains and waterfalls, and a children's garden with interactive elements.
Why should you go?
Experience the beauty and diversity of Longwood Gardens. Stroll through the gardens at your own pace or join guided tours led by knowledgeable staff or volunteers. You can also enjoy live music performances in various venues, such as the Open Air Theatre or the Ballroom Organ, or marvel at the spectacular fountain shows that combine water, light, music, and fire.
Reading Terminal Market
What is it?
An enclosed public market located at 12th and Arch Streets in Center City, Philadelphia. It was founded in 1892 as part of the Reading Railroad terminal complex and has been operating continuously ever since. The market offers an incredible selection of locally grown and exotic produce from over 80 merchants representing various cuisines and cultures. You can also find crafts, books, flowers, souvenirs, and other specialty items.
Why should you go?
Head to Reading Terminal Market if you are hungry for a delicious meal or snack or looking for a unique shopping experience in a historic setting. You can sample the famous Philadelphia specialties, such as cheesesteaks, hoagies, pretzels, and scrapple, or try something new and exotic, such as Cajun, Middle Eastern, or Caribbean dishes. You can also browse the stalls and shops for fresh ingredients, artisanal products, or gifts for yourself or your loved ones.
An enclosed public market located at 12th and Arch Streets in Center City, Philadelphia. It was founded in 1892 as part of the Reading Railroad terminal complex and has been operating continuously ever since. The market offers an incredible selection of locally grown and exotic produce from over 80 merchants representing various cuisines and cultures. You can also find crafts, books, flowers, souvenirs, and other specialty items.
Why should you go?
Head to Reading Terminal Market if you are hungry for a delicious meal or snack or looking for a unique shopping experience in a historic setting. You can sample the famous Philadelphia specialties, such as cheesesteaks, hoagies, pretzels, and scrapple, or try something new and exotic, such as Cajun, Middle Eastern, or Caribbean dishes. You can also browse the stalls and shops for fresh ingredients, artisanal products, or gifts for yourself or your loved ones.
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
What is it?
A Smithsonian-affiliated museum located on Independence Mall at Market Street in Philadelphia. Founded in 1976, the museum aims to explore and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of American Jews to the nation's history and culture. The museum's collection consists of over 30,000 objects spanning over three centuries, from colonial times to the present day.
Why should you go?
If you are curious about the stories and achievements of American Jews and their impact on American society, make sure to check out the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. You can see and learn about artifacts that illustrate the challenges and opportunities faced by Jewish immigrants and their descendants, such as a Torah scroll that survived the Holocaust, a letter from George Washington to a Jewish congregation, or a pair of shoes designed by Stuart Weitzman. You can also discover the diversity and richness of American Jewish culture through music, art, literature, sports, politics, and more.
A Smithsonian-affiliated museum located on Independence Mall at Market Street in Philadelphia. Founded in 1976, the museum aims to explore and celebrate the diverse experiences and contributions of American Jews to the nation's history and culture. The museum's collection consists of over 30,000 objects spanning over three centuries, from colonial times to the present day.
Why should you go?
If you are curious about the stories and achievements of American Jews and their impact on American society, make sure to check out the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. You can see and learn about artifacts that illustrate the challenges and opportunities faced by Jewish immigrants and their descendants, such as a Torah scroll that survived the Holocaust, a letter from George Washington to a Jewish congregation, or a pair of shoes designed by Stuart Weitzman. You can also discover the diversity and richness of American Jewish culture through music, art, literature, sports, politics, and more.