Cool Things To Do In Philly

Philadelphia is one of the most vibrant and unique cities in the United States. Nicknamed the “City of Brotherly Love”, Philadelphia has been the backdrop for some of the most important events in American history. From the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the birth of the United States Constitution, Philadelphia has a storied past that continues to draw visitors from all over the world today.

If you’re planning a visit to Philadelphia, you’ll find plenty of things to do and sights to see. With its rich history, world-class art and culture, and delicious food, you’ll find something for everyone in Philly. From the iconic Liberty Bell to the famous cheesesteaks, there is no shortage of cool things to do in Philadelphia.

Overview

Philadelphia, commonly known as “Philly”, is a major city in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous city in the United States. The city was founded by William Penn in 1682 and served as the nation’s capital from 1790 to 1800. Philadelphia played a crucial role in the American Revolution and was home to several founding fathers of the United States, including Benjamin Franklin and George Washington.

Today, Philadelphia is known as a cultural and educational hub, with an impressive network of universities, museums, and cultural institutions. The city is home to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Zoo and Academy of Natural Sciences, as well as many other popular attractions and landmarks. The city is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food scene, boasting some of the best restaurants in the country. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, Philly has something for everyone.

Philadelphia History

From its founding by William Penn in 1682 to its role as a major center of commerce and industry during the Industrial Revolution, Philadelphia has a long and storied history. The city was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans before William Penn founded it as a place of religious freedom. Since then, Philadelphia has grown into a bustling metropolis with a population of over 1.5 million people.

The city played an important role in the American Revolution, serving as a meeting place for the Founding Fathers and hosting events such as the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the writing of the United States Constitution. It was also home to several signers of these important documents, including Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and James Madison.

In the 19th century, Philadelphia became a major center of industry, fueled by its convenient location between New York City and Washington D.C., as well as its thriving shipping industry. The city was home to several big industries such as textiles, ironworks, and manufacturing, as well as numerous banks and financial institutions. During this period of industrialization, Philadelphia saw an influx of immigrants from other parts of Europe and the world.

Things To Do In Philadelphia

With its vibrant mix of culture, history, and entertainment, Philadelphia has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for educational experiences or exciting nightlife, there are plenty of cool things to do in Philly. Here are just some of the attractions you won’t want to miss:

Independence Hall

One of the most iconic sights in Philadelphia is Independence Hall. Located on Chestnut Street in Old City, this National Historic Landmark is where some of America’s most important documents were signed: the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. A guided tour is available from Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:15 pm, but tickets must be purchased in advance.

Liberty Bell Center

The Liberty Bell Center is another must-see attraction in Philadelphia. The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American freedom and was originally used to summon lawmakers to legislative sessions at Independence Hall. The bell has been on display at the Liberty Bell Center since 2003, where visitors can learn about its history and significance. The Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and admission is free.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

One of the largest art museums in the United States, the Philadelphia Museum of Art houses over 227,000 works from all over the world. From Impressionist paintings to ancient sculptures, visitors can explore an impressive collection of art spanning centuries and cultures. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and admission is free for children 12 and under.

Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary was once one of the most infamous prisons in America, housing some of the country’s most notorious criminals such as Al Capone and “Slick Willie” Sutton. Today it serves as a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into prison life in the 1800s. There are guided tours available year-round from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and admission is free for children 12 and under.

Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo is one of America’s oldest zoos, dating back to 1874. With over 1,300 animals representing more than 300 species, visitors can explore a diverse array of animals from all over the world. The zoo is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and admission is free for children under 2 years old.

Franklin Square

Franklin Square is a popular park located in Center City Philadelphia that features a picturesque carousel ride and mini golf course. At night, visitors can enjoy nightly light shows set against a backdrop of colorful landscaping. Franklin Square is open daily from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm and admission is free on weekdays from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm (excluding holidays).

Reading Terminal Market

The Reading Terminal Market is one of America’s oldest public markets and has been operating since 1892. Located in downtown Philadelphia, this bustling food hall offers visitors a wide selection of fresh produce, artisanal foods, prepared meals, and more. The market is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and admission is free.

Tours in Philadelphia

For those looking for an immersive experience in Philadelphia’s history and culture, there are several tours available that offer an inside look at some of the city’s most famous attractions. Here are two popular tours you won’t want to miss:

Philadelphia Historical Tour

This three-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through Philadelphia’s rich history and cultural heritage. From Old City to South Street, this tour provides an up-close look at some of the city’s most iconic attractions such as Independence Hall and Liberty Bell Center. Along the way, guests will learn about Philadelphia’s role in American history and explore some of its unique neighborhoods and local landmarks. This tour includes complimentary transportation between sites and an expert guide to answer questions along the way. Book a historical tour here.

Philadelphia Ghost Tour

This tour offers visitors an exciting look at some of Philadelphia’s spookiest attractions and creepy legends. Guests will explore some of the city’s haunted sites such as Eastern State Penitentiary and Carpenters’ Hall while learning about its eerie past along the way. This tour includes complimentary transportation between sites and an experienced guide who will spin tales about Philadelphia’s dark history. Book a ghost tour here.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is one of America’s most vibrant cities with plenty of things to see and do for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for educational experiences or exciting nightlife activities, you won’t run out of things to do in Philly anytime soon! From historical landmarks like Independence Hall and Liberty Bell Center to lively attractions like Franklin Square and Reading Terminal Market, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. And if you’re looking for a unique tour experience, you can book one of the city’s many guided tours to truly immerse yourself in Philly’s history and culture. So grab your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable experience—because Philly awaits!