Free Things To Do In Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city of immense culture and history, with a vast array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Its roots date back to the Revolutionary War, when it was the first capital of the United States of America. Today, the city is a thriving metropolis with a population of 1.6 million people, making it the fifth-largest city in the US. Philadelphia is famous for its historical sites, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, as well as its vibrant culture and local cuisine.

When you visit Philadelphia, you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy the city’s offerings. In fact, there are countless free things to do in Philadelphia that will give you an unforgettable experience of this great city. From tours of historic sites to outdoor activities and free festivals, Philadelphia has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we’ll give you an extensive guide to all the best free things to do in Philadelphia.

Historical Sites

Philadelphia is steeped in history and there are numerous historic sites that can be explored for free. One such site is the Liberty Bell Center, where visitors can get an up-close look at the iconic Liberty Bell and learn more about its significance in American history. Additionally, visitors can take a self-guided tour of Independence Hall, where the founding fathers drafted the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. The center also offers guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about the history of the hall.

Also not to be missed is the National Constitution Center, which houses an interactive museum and gallery dedicated to the US Constitution. The museum is full of interactive exhibits and displays that show how the constitution has been interpreted over time and how it has shaped American culture and law. Visitors can also take part in educational programs such as lectures and debates.

Outdoor Activities

Philadelphia is a great city for outdoor activities, with plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. One of the most popular parks is Fairmount Park, which spans 2,000 acres and features a variety of trails for walking and cycling. Visitors can also explore a range of historic sites such as Valley Forge, which was home to George Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War.

The Schuylkill River Trail is another popular outdoor spot, with a 27-mile trail that runs along the banks of the river. It’s perfect for jogging, biking and taking in views of the river and its surrounding landscapes. Another great spot for outdoor activities is Bartram’s Garden, which is America’s oldest living botanical garden. Visitors can explore more than 40 acres of gardens, trails and river shorelines.

Museums & Galleries

Philadelphia is home to a vast array of museums and galleries, many of which are free to visit. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and it houses an impressive collection of art from around the world. Visitors can explore works from artists such as Picasso, Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh. The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year as well as educational programs for all ages.

The Please Touch Museum is another great museum that is geared towards children but is fun for visitors of all ages. The interactive exhibits and activities help kids learn through play and exploration. Other notable museums include the National Liberty Museum, where visitors can explore stories of freedom and justice throughout history, and the Mütter Museum, which houses a collection of medical oddities and artifacts.

Festivals & Events

Philadelphia hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year that are free to attend. One of the most popular events is the Philly Free Streets event, which takes place on the first Saturday of each month from April to October. During this event, certain streets in the city are closed to traffic allowing pedestrians to explore on foot and take part in activities such as walking tours and fitness classes.

Other popular events include the Arts on South Street Festival, which takes place every summer and features live music, art installations and food vendors. Additionally, visitors can attend various cultural festivals such as the Chinese New Year Festival or the Summer Solstice Festival at Franklin Square Park. There are also markets such as the Headhouse Farmers’ Market where visitors can shop for local produce and craft items.

Book a Tour: Old City Food Tour

One way to get an immersive experience of Philadelphia’s culture is by taking a food tour through Old City, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. The tour will take visitors through cobblestone streets and alleyways as they explore some of Philadelphia’s most iconic restaurants and eateries. Guests will get an in-depth look at some of Old City’s most famous dishes including Philly cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and Italian water ice. Visitors will also have the chance to learn more about Philadelphia’s culinary culture from their knowledgeable guide. The tour includes stops at five different restaurants and lasts around three hours so visitors will have plenty of time to sample some delicious dishes. Book this tour now to get an exclusive look into one of Philadelphia’s oldest neighborhoods.

Book a Tour: Mural Arts Tour

Philadelphia is home to a vibrant street art scene with more than 3,000 murals scattered throughout the city. Visitors can learn more about this unique form of expression by taking a tour through some of Philadelphia’s most iconic murals with Mural Arts Tours. On this two-hour walking tour, guests will discover how street art has become an integral part of Philadelphia’s culture and learn about some of its most iconic murals from their knowledgeable tour guide. The tour will also include stops at some of Philadelphia’s most popular murals such as Love Letter Mural, The Porch Light Project Mural and I Love You Mural. Book this tour now to experience some of Philadelphia’s most iconic artworks in person!

Book a Tour: Historical Pub Crawl

For those looking for a unique way to explore Philadelphia’s history, a historical pub crawl through Old City is a must-do activity. On this two-hour tour guests will visit some of Old City’s oldest pubs while learning about Philadelphia’s rich history from their knowledgeable guide. Guests will get an intimate look at some of Old City’s most iconic pubs while exploring their unique decor and atmosphere. The tour includes stops at five different pubs in Old City as well as samples of some classic Philadelphia beers such as Yards Brewing Company’s Brawler or Victory Brewing Company’s Prima Pilsner. Book this tour now to get an exclusive look into one of Philadelphia’s oldest neighborhoods while enjoying some delicious local beers!