Known as the birthplace of the United States, Philadelphia is packed with history, delicious food, museums, cultural sites, and more. The city is only made better by great company! If you haven’t visited Philadelphia yet, I highly recommend visiting the city that is also known as the City of Brotherly Love. During the day, walk on cobblestone streets through 300 years of history and explore the distinct neighborhoods, and at night, experience amazing dining options and the fun nightlife. Check out the top 15 things to do in Philadelphia!
1. Tour Independence Hall
Independence Hall is one of the most significant sites in America as the Founding Fathers met, discussed, and debated to form a new country in this very building. Both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were ratified and adopted on these grounds. Independence Hall is free to visit, however it requires a timed ticket from March through December. Admission is by tour only, and you can obtain same-day tickets at the Independence Visitor Center on the day of your visit. Tours are typically every 20 – 30 minutes, and a ranger takes you through the first floor of Independence Hall.
Tip: Go to the Independence Visitor Center first the morning of your visit to get your timed ticket and then explore the rest of Independence National Historical Park while you wait.
2. See the Liberty Bell
The Liberty Bell is a significant symbol of American freedom and independence. It has drawn inspiration for several important movements in U.S. history including abolitionism, women’s suffrage with the famous inscription on the bell: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof“. The Liberty Bell sits on display at the Liberty Bell Center, which is also a part of the Independence National Historical Park. Visit the Liberty Bell Center to see and learn about this important artifact as there is more to the bell than its iconic crack! Admission is free, and no tickets are required as it is on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Walk on the oldest residential street in America
Dating back to 1703, Elfreth’s Alley is known as the oldest residential street in America! This narrow street is lined by 32 houses that were built between 1703 and 1836. Today, this street is designated as a National Historic Landmark, and there is even a museum where you can learn about the residents who once lived here and dress up in colonial clothing. Come take a walk on these cobblestone streets and see 300 years of history.
4. Get a Philly Cheesesteak
If you’re in Philadelphia, you have to get a Philly cheesesteak! Served sizzling hot, cheesesteaks are to Philadelphia what slices of thin crust pizza are to New York.
This popular street food has its roots in Philly. According to the story told, Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia, invented the cheesesteak in 1930. One day he decided to grill some beef and put it on an Italian roll when a cab driver caught a whiff and asked for a steak sandwich. Word of the delicious sandwich spread, and soon people around Philly came to Olivieri demanding steak sandwiches. Eventually, he added cheese to the recipe.
Try the “original” at Pat’s King’s of Steaks, which is still owned and operated by the Olivieri family, or try its direct competitor, Geno’s Steaks, whose founder, Joey Vento, claimed it was he, not Pat Olivieri, who first added cheese to the cheesesteak.
5. Admire the impressive Philadelphia City Hall
In the heart of the city of Philadelphia sits the Philadelphia City Hall. It’s hard to miss this impressive building as it is the largest municipal building in America. You can join guided tours to learn about the building’s history and view the city from above from the open-air observation deck or you could just walk around the grounds and simply admire this imposing structure.
6. Strike a pose in Love Park
Adjacent to the Philadelphia City Hall, Love Park got its name from the iconic sculpture that sits in the plaza. Head to Love Park and strike a pose in front of the well-known Love sculpture. The park also features a geyser-like fountain and plenty of seating. While I was there, there was a cart offering board game rentals so I rented Candy Land and played with my friends!
7. Pay your respects to Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was one of the Founding Fathers and a true renaissance man. As a writer, philosopher, postmaster, scientist, inventor, activist, statesman, and diplomat, he made significant contributions to society and to the city of Philadelphia. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence and the U.S Constitution, negotiated the 1783 Treaty of Paris which ended the Revolutionary War, published Poor Richard’s Almanack, invented bifocal glasses, and had other pursuits in electricity, mathematics, and mapmaking.
Today, you can pay your respects to Benjamin Franklin at his final resting place at Christ Church. The burial ground is open from March through November during the following times: Monday through Saturday from 10 AM – 4 PM, and on Sunday from 12 PM – 4 PM. Admission is $3 for adults.
8. Explore Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a sight to be seen with intricate mosaic tile-work covering an entire block of street. The artist, Isaiah Zagar, used handmade tiles, bottles, bicycle wheels, and mirror to express himself. He draws much of his inspiration from international folk art. The gardens include a large outdoor labyrinth and indoor galleries. I highly recommend visiting the Magic Gardens and seeing the intricate work for yourself. Tickets must be reserved in advance, and admission is $15 for adults.
9. Run up the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
If you’ve ever seen the movie Rocky, you will recognize the iconic steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The 72 stone steps leading up to the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art have become known as the “Rocky Steps” as a result of a scene from the film. In the movie, those steps represent underdogs rising to the challenge, and today, many visitors mimic the same climb.
Rise to the challenge yourself and run up these steps! Once you reach the top, you’ll get an incredible view of the Philadelphia skyline. But be sure to stick around afterwards – it is quite amusing to see other tourists attempting to recreate the scene 🙂
If you’re an avid Rocky fan, make sure to get a photo with the Rocky statue at the base of the steps!
10. Stroll through Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is the largest park in Philadelphia, and strolling through the urban park is a great way to spend an afternoon. You can access the park from multiple spots, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The trails offer an escape from the city and provide relaxing views of the waterfront. Some must-see spots in the park include Boathouse Row, Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Historic Strawberry Mansion, and Fairmount Water Works.
11. Experience sensory overload at Reading Terminal Market
One of the oldest and largest public markets in America is found right here in Philadelphia! Founded in 1893, Reading Terminal Market is an enclosed public market that is home to over 80 merchants. There are a variety of shops inside including local restaurants, artisan markets, flower shops, food stalls, coffee shops, bakeries, and more! The vendor list even includes Pennsylvania Dutch (Amish) merchants selling goods such as candy, produce, meats, and pastries.
Take your time and experience all that Reading Terminal Market has to offer. You’ll find an assortment of ethnic cuisines including Caribbean, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Indian, Latin American, Cajun, and Italian. Plus, there are specialties such as cannolis, soft pretzels, honey, cheesesteaks, cheese, crepes, and donuts. The hardest part about visiting? Deciding on what to eat.
12. Head to Spruce Street Harbor Park and walk along the Delaware River
Spruce Street Harbor Park is a great place to go on a warm and sunny day! I actually randomly stumbled upon it while walking along the Delaware River waterfront. It was certainly a great surprise! This park is seasonal (open spring through fall) and features specialty food stands and an urban beach. You can lounge on colorful hammocks, enjoy drinks at the beer garden, rent boats (kayak and swan boats), eat and drink at the abundant dining options on the boardwalk, and play games such as bocce, shuffleboard and giant Jenga.
13. Watch the sunset from Race Street Pier
The Race Street Pier is just a few blocks north of Spruce Street Harbor Park, and it is a great spot to watch the sunset. This waterfront promenade offers views of the bridges towering over the Delaware River.
14. Enjoy panoramic views from Bok Bar
Bok Bar offers an unparalleled view of the Philadelphia skyline. It is a rooftop bar that is located on the terrace of a historic Bok building which was once a high school. It offers a simple menu of beer and wine selections (no liquor).
New in 2020: You will need to make a reservation in advance to visit.
15. Delight your tastebuds at incredible dining establishments
Last but not least, I would be remiss if I did not mention the incredible dining options in Philadelphia. I am someone who enjoys good food and also remembers good food – and I still think about the incredible restaurants I ate at. This article is not sponsored, so I am giving my honest opinion here.
- El Vez: One of the best Mexican restaurants I’ve ever eaten at – and I’ve had a lot of Mexican food. Their guacamole was what made this place so memorable, and the tacos were also delicious! I ordered a combination of the crispy Mahi-Mahi, chicken, and shrimp tacos. Plus, the interior is beautiful!
- Sampan: This trendy spot is across from El Vez and serves contemporary Asian cuisine. You can choose from a variety of small plates, but I recommend doing the tasting menu! The seven-course tasting meal was what made this establishment so memorable, and I thoroughly enjoyed each course. Tucked in the back of the restaurant is Graffiti Bar, which is a great option for happy hour!
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