Best Places To Visit Near Philadelphia

Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth most populous city in the United States, is one of the oldest cities in the country and is home to many historic sites, cultural attractions and amazing places to visit. As a major hub for culture, art, cuisine and history, there are plenty of things to see and do in and around Philadelphia. If you are planning a trip to Philadelphia, here are some of the best places to visit near Philadelphia.

Historical Sites

Philadelphia is known for its deep historical roots and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. Start your trip to Philadelphia by visiting the Liberty Bell, the iconic symbol of America’s independence and a must-see in Philadelphia. After that, make your way to Independence National Historical Park, the birthplace of American democracy. Here you can find the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the National Constitution Center and much more.

Museums

Philadelphia is home to a number of museums, many of which are dedicated to the history, culture and art of the city. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most iconic museums in the city and is home to an extensive collection of art from around the world. The Rodin Museum, located in the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is home to some of Auguste Rodin’s most famous sculptures. Other museums include the Barnes Foundation, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Mütter Museum and many more.

Shopping and Dining

Philadelphia is a great place to shop and dine, with a variety of stores and restaurants located throughout the city. The Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the United States, and is a great place to find fresh produce and local specialties. The Italian Market, located in South Philly, is an iconic stretch of stores and restaurants specializing in Italian food. For upscale shopping, head to the Avenue of the Arts where you can find designer stores and high-end boutiques.

Parks and Gardens

Philadelphia is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, including Fairmount Park, the largest urban park in the United States. Here you can find a number of trails and gardens, as well as a variety of attractions including the Philadelphia Zoo and the Please Touch Museum. The Schuylkill River Trail is a popular spot for walking and cycling, and is a great way to see the city. The Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park is home to a variety of plants, as well as a greenhouse and a butterfly house.

Cultural Attractions

Philadelphia is an amazing city for culture and entertainment, with a variety of cultural attractions to explore. The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is a great place to catch a show, and hosts a variety of performances from Broadway shows to classical music. The Philadelphia Orchestra performs at the Kimmel Center and is the oldest orchestra in the United States. For a more unique experience, visit the Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison that is now open as a museum.

Sports and Recreation

Philadelphia is a great city for sports and recreation, with a variety of professional sports teams and recreational activities to enjoy. Watching a Philadelphia Eagles football game at Lincoln Financial Field or a Philadelphia Phillies baseball game at Citizens Bank Park is a great way to experience the city’s culture and excitement. The city is also home to the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers, the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers, and the MLS’ Philadelphia Union. For outdoor activities, the Schuylkill River Trail offers plenty of opportunities for biking, walking, and running, while the Wissahickon Valley Park is a great spot for hiking.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is an amazing city with a rich history and culture, and plenty of things to do and see. Whether you are looking for historic sites, museums, shopping and dining, parks and gardens, cultural attractions, or sports and recreation, Philadelphia has something for everyone. From the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Eastern State Penitentiary, there are plenty of amazing places to visit near Philadelphia.

An Insider’s Guide to Philadelphia: Best Places to Visit

As one of the most historic and vibrant cities in the United States, Philadelphia has plenty of amazing attractions and experiences to offer. However, if you want to dive deeper into the local culture and discover hidden gems, you’ll need an insider’s perspective. Here are some of the best places to visit in Philadelphia that may not be on the usual tourist trail.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While you can’t miss iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell or the Philadelphia Museum of Art, there are many less-famous attractions that are worth a visit. For instance, if you’re a fan of street art, check out the colorful murals in the South Philadelphia neighborhood. The Magic Garden, a folk art-inspired maze of mosaics, is also a must-see.

If you’re looking for some greenery, skip the crowded Rittenhouse Square and opt for the smaller and quieter Washington Square, where you can also pay homage to the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier. For a truly unique experience, head to Reading Terminal Market and explore the bustling market packed with vendors selling delicious local treats.

Dining Spots: Where to Satisfy Your Tastebuds

Philadelphia is known for its food, and its signature dish, the Philly cheesesteak. However, the city has much more to offer than just that. For instance, if you love pizza, try Pizzeria Beddia, which was named the best pizza in America by Bon Appétit. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, check out the famous Beiler’s Bakery for their handmade donuts and pastries.

Philly also has a thriving food truck culture, and some favorites include The Cow and The Curd, which serves Wisconsin cheese curds that are fried to crispy perfection, and The Tot Cart, which specializes in all things tater tots. And if you’re a beer lover, you can’t miss the dozens of local breweries and craft beer spots, including Evil Genius, Yards, and Dock Street.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, Festivals, and More

Philadelphia has a rich cultural scene, with world-class museums, theaters, and galleries. The Museum of the American Revolution offers a captivating look at the birth of the United States, while the Barnes Foundation is home to one of the world’s most important collections of impressionist and post-impressionist art.

If you’re interested in music, check out the vibrant music scene at venues like Johnny Brenda’s or Union Transfer. Lastly, Philadelphia boasts amazing festivals throughout the year, such as Philadelphia Flower Show, Wawa Welcome America, and the Made in America music festival. Attend one of these events and immerse yourself in the culture of the city.

Local History: Stories That Give Soul to the City

Philadelphia has a fascinating history that goes beyond the usual tales of the Founding Fathers. For example, did you know that Philadelphia was the first city to have a zoo in the United States? Or that the city was once the nation’s capital and housed the U.S. Treasury Department and the Mint?

Learn more about Philadelphia’s unique history by visiting places like the Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison that once held Al Capone and offered prisoners solitary confinement, or the Historic District, where you can take a walking tour and learn about the city’s colonial past.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Unforgettable Memories

Want to experience something truly unique during your visit? One suggestion is to take a hike along the Wissahickon Valley Park, a beautiful and peaceful wilderness area hidden in the city. You can also visit the Mutter Museum, a world-renowned collection of medical oddities and curiosities.

Another idea is to explore the city’s underground. Join the Philadelphia Magic Gardens for a tour of the abandoned subway tunnels or go on a ghost hunt in the supposedly haunted Eastern State Penitentiary.

Explore beyond the usual tourist haunts and create unforgettable memories that you’ll cherish forever.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is a city with something for everyone. From hidden gems to world-famous attractions, from culinary experiences to cultural events, from fascinating history to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Use this insider’s guide to create a trip that is uniquely yours and fall in love with the city of Philadelphia.