Are you planning a trip to Philadelphia and wondering about the must-see attractions and things to do in the city of brotherly love? Look no further, as we have compiled a comprehensive list of the top experiences Philadelphia has to offer. From historical landmarks to delicious food and art museums, this city has something for everyone. Join us on a journey to explore the best that Philadelphia has to offer.
The 13 Best Fun Activities to Do in Philadelphia
- Philadelphia Beer Band Brewery Beer Garden Tour
- Philadelphia Explorer Pass for Top Attractions
- Hop on Hop Off and Philly by Night Tour Combo
- Legoland Discovery Center Philadelphia Admission Ticket
- Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off City Tour
- Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour
- Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
- Philadelphia 1 2 3 or 5 Day City Pass
- Philadelphia Museum of Illusions Timed Entrance Ticket
- Philadelphia 15 Hour Historic District Walking Tour
- The Philadelphia All Inclusive Pass
- City Sightseeing Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Tour
- Philadelphia 15 Hour Historic Walking Tour
The 13 Best Fun Activities to Do in Philadelphia
1. Philadelphia Beer Band Brewery Beer Garden Tour
Explore the best of Philly’s brewery scene on a lively and entertaining beer garden and brewery tour. This bar crawl takes you to some of the top-rated local breweries and beer gardens in Philadelphia. Meet your designated driver and guide at Betsy Ross House and hop aboard Philadelphia’s only BYOB trolley, where you can bring your drinks on board to enjoy while you ride.
While riding, be entertained by the live performances of the best local musicians. Each tour includes a stop at one of Philadelphia’s most popular local breweries, bars or beer gardens, from which you can sample the best beers the city has to offer.
After the brewery stop, hop back on the Tipsy Trolley for another fun ride and musical performance, then enjoy a refreshing beer amidst friends at one of Philly’s lovely parks before heading back to end an exciting tour having become acquainted with the sights and landmarks of Philadelphia.
2. Philadelphia Explorer Pass for Top Attractions
The Philadelphia Explorer Pass for Top Attractions is the perfect way to get the most out of your visit to Philadelphia. With the pass, you can choose from 30 of the best attractions and tours in the city and enjoy great savings compared to buying individual tickets. Tailor your visit to your interests and choose from 3, 4, 5, or 7 attractions. The pass is valid for 60 days from your first attraction visit, giving you plenty of time to explore. The pass also comes with a free digital guide to help you plan your trip. Popular attractions included are the Eastern State Penitentiary, Franklin Institute Science Museum, and many more. Simply show your digital pass at the entrance of your chosen attractions and you’re in. Get your Explorer Pass today and discover the best of what Philadelphia has to offer!
3. Hop on Hop Off and Philly by Night Tour Combo
Explore the best of Philadelphia with this Hop on Hop Off and Philly by Night Tour Combo. This 1.5-hour loop takes you to 27 of the city’s top attractions, featuring sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Choose between a 1- or 2-day pass and start the tour at any of the 27 stops. With live on-board commentary, you’ll learn all about the city and its fascinating landmarks. After dinner (at your own expense), the ‘Philly by Night Tour’ will take you through the city as it’s illuminated for the evening. Pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels, making this an ideal excursion for the entire family. Your package includes the local guide, hop-on hop-off tour, Philly by Night tour, and gratuities. Boarding starts at 8:00 PM. Discover the wonders of Philadelphia with this convenient and affordable tour.
4. Legoland Discovery Center Philadelphia Admission Ticket
Experience a day of fun and creativity at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia with this admission ticket. Book your tickets in advance for a seamless visiting experience and plan your own day out, exploring the exhibits that interest you most. Admission includes access to all rides, entertainment, and play areas, where kids can get creative, build their own models, explore exhibits, and more. Be sure to bring your own Mini-figures from home or build one onsite and you can trade them with staff members to build up your own personal collection! Food and drinks are available for purchase. Book your tickets now for a stress-free family day out.
5. Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off City Tour
Philadelphia is a city bursting with history and culture. To make the most of your time in the city, consider taking the Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off City Tour. This tour allows you to visit Philadelphia’s top attractions, like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, at your own pace. With a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass, you can board the open-top double-decker bus at any of the stops and enjoy live onboard commentary while you take in the sights. The tour also includes a route map and a courtesy shuttle from Center City hotels. Don’t miss this fun and scenic way to explore the city!
6. Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour
Experience Philadelphia like never before with this nighttime sightseeing tour on a double-decker bus. Marvel at the beauty of the City of Brotherly Love as it glows in the dark while passing through 27 of Philly’s top attractions for 90 minutes. Discover the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Penn’s Landing, and the iconic Rocky Steps at the entrance to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, among many others. Listen to the on-board commentary and learn interesting facts about each site from the tour escort/host. Food and drinks are not included, but hotel pickup and drop-off are available. The meeting point is at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. Don’t miss the chance to witness the city’s beauty at night on this fantastic tour.
7. Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Explore the origins of America on a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Philadelphia. Discover the city where America’s Founding Fathers first declared independence and ratified the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. Hop on and off at the 28 stops along the 16 mile journey to visit the Liberty Bell and Betsy Ross House, climb the 72 stone steps that Rocky once climbed, and take in stunning views of historic landmarks including the Christ Church Burial Grounds, Elfreth’s Alley, and Independence Hall. Begin your tour at the Bourse Building, across from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Enjoy the multilingual audio commentary as you soak up the views from the open-top deck. Hop off to explore the various museums along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, including the world-famous Philadelphia Museum of Art. Experience Philadelphia’s architecture and history up close on this unforgettable sightseeing adventure.
8. Philadelphia 1 2 3 or 5 Day City Pass
Enjoy all that Philadelphia has to offer with the Philadelphia 123 or 5 Day City Pass! With this pass, you can visit as many attractions as you like over 1, 2, 3, or 5 days. A free digital guide is included with your pass to help you plan your trip. This pass allows you to enjoy tours, cruises, activities, and more in Philadelphia at a discounted rate, saving up to 45% compared to buying separate attraction tickets.
Activate your pass by visiting your first attraction, and then use it on consecutive calendar days. With the Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass, you’ll have access to 30 Philadelphia attractions and tours. Some of the highlights include the Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Philadelphia Tour, Eastern State Penitentiary, Franklin Institute Science Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, National Constitution Center, Betsy Ross House, Adventure Aquarium, and Phi. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore Philadelphia and see all of the top attractions with ease!
9. Philadelphia Museum of Illusions Timed Entrance Ticket
Experience the impossible with a timed entrance ticket to the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia, one of the best things to do in Philadelphia. Immerse yourself in a world where your eyes will be challenged by your brain with over 60 optical illusions. Learn about vision perception, the human brain, and more while having fun with your family. Challenge your mind with memory and cognition puzzles in the Smart Playroom, and take advantage of the many off-the-wall photo-ops that will amaze your friends. The entrance ticket includes admission to all exhibitions as well as local taxes and fees. Food and drinks are not included. Come and enjoy an unforgettable experience at the incredible Philadelphia Museum of Illusions.
10. Philadelphia 15 Hour Historic District Walking Tour
Visit the birthplace of American democracy and the home of the American Revolution on this 15 hour historical walking tour through Philadelphia. Admire the testimonies of American history in one of the most historic places in the United States. See the famous Liberty Bell and learn all about its role in various liberation movements such as anti-slavery, women’s suffrage, and civil rights. Stop outside the Independence Hall, the birthplace of the nation, where discussions on political and personal freedom began, and where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the constitution was written. See the Betsy Ross House, the alleged birthplace of the first American flag, and learn about the most important figures of the 18th century. Book now and discover the history and origin of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall!
11. The Philadelphia All Inclusive Pass
The Philadelphia All Inclusive Pass is the perfect option for those looking to explore the city of brotherly love. This pass offers one to five days of unlimited sightseeing, covering more than 35 of Philadelphia’s top tourist attractions and tours. You can join Hop-On Hop-Off Franklin Footsteps or Grim Philly Twilight Tours that are included in your pass. Plus, it’s the most economical option for sightseeing which means you can see plenty of sights while earning big savings. The pass can be easily downloaded to your mobile device, so you can skip the complicated vouchers and start exploring right away. Please note that all passes are valid for two years from the purchase date, and only become activated with your first attraction visit. After activation, your pass will be valid for the number of days purchased. Choose the Philadelphia All Inclusive Pass and enjoy the extra flexibility in case your travel plans need to change.
12. City Sightseeing Philadelphia Hop on Hop Off Tour
If you’re planning a trip to Philadelphia, a City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Tour is a must. With two routes and multiple stops, you’ll have the opportunity to see all the top sights at your own pace. Enjoy the live onboard commentary and learn about important attractions such as the National Constitution Center, Rodin Museum, and Chinatown. With your choice of a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass, you can explore everything the City of Brotherly Love has to offer. Don’t miss out on this reliable and convenient way to sightsee in Philadelphia.
13. Philadelphia 15 Hour Historic Walking Tour
Explore the historic city of Philadelphia on a 15-hour walking tour. Visit Independence Hall and see the original Declaration of Independence while discovering interesting facts on its history and importance. Stroll through the garden of the Betsy Ross House, see the Liberty Bell, and learn more about the founding of the USA. Discover the New Hall Military Museum, Merchants Exchange, Franklin Court, and Christ Church as you learn all about the most important figures of the 18th century like William Penn and Benjamin Franklin. This historical tour is perfect for those wanting to admire the testimonies of American history in one of the most historic places in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions About Philadelphia
If you are planning to visit Philadelphia, you may have some common questions about the city. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Philadelphia, including its history, food, attractions, and more.1. What is the history of Philadelphia?
Founded in 1682 by William Penn, Philadelphia has a long and interesting history. It was the birthplace of American democracy, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and the US Constitution was drafted in 1787. Philadelphia played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War and was once the largest city in the country during the 18th century.2. What are some must-visit attractions in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is home to many historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Philadelphia include:Independence National Historical Park
This park features many important historical sites, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the National Constitution Center.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country, with an extensive collection of European, American, and Asian art.
Reading Terminal Market
The Reading Terminal Market is a popular indoor farmer’s market featuring a variety of local food vendors and restaurants.
Eastern State Penitentiary
This former prison is now a museum and National Historic Landmark, known for its unique and innovative design.
3. What is the food scene like in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is famous for its local cuisine, including its cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies. The city has a booming food scene and is home to many world-renowned restaurants and chefs. In addition to its traditional dishes, Philadelphia also offers a variety of international cuisine, from Italian to Vietnamese.4. What is the best way to get around Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trolleys. The city also offers bike-sharing programs and has many bike lanes and trails. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.5. What is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
The best time to visit Philadelphia depends on your preferences. In general, the city is most crowded in the summer months, when the weather is warm and many tourists come to visit. Spring and fall are also popular times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter can be cold and snowy, but the city is still worth visiting during the holiday season for its festive events and light displays.6. What are some free things to do in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia offers many free attractions and activities for visitors, including:Independence National Historical Park
This park offers free tours of Independence Hall and other historical sites.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
This scenic boulevard features many notable landmarks, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum.
South Street
This quirky street offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is a city rich in American history, from the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, and is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for tourists to know where to start. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of how to spend your time as a tourist in Philadelphia.1. Visit the Liberty Bell
The iconic Liberty Bell is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Philadelphia. Located in Independence National Historical Park, the bell is a symbol of American independence and freedom. Admission to see the Liberty Bell is free, and visitors can learn about its history through exhibits at the park.
2. Explore Independence National Historical Park
In addition to the Liberty Bell, Independence National Historical Park is home to many other historic sites, including Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and explore exhibits that showcase America’s founding history. Admission to the park is free, but tickets are required for some sites.
3. Walk the Philadelphia Museum Mile
The Philadelphia Museum Mile is a stretch of museums along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, offering a variety of art and culture experiences. The museums include the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, and the Rodin Museum. Visitors can purchase a pass to access all the museums, or choose to visit just one.
4. Visit the Reading Terminal Market
The Reading Terminal Market is a bustling indoor food market with over 80 vendors selling everything from Philly cheesesteaks to gourmet chocolates. Visitors can sample local cuisine, grab a bite to eat, and shop for souvenirs. The market is open daily and is always busy, so be prepared for crowds.
5. Take a Walk Through Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is a beautiful public park in the heart of Philadelphia, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It’s a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or people-watch. During the summer months, the park hosts free music concerts and outdoor movie screenings.
6. Visit the Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is a great attraction for visitors of all ages, with over 1,300 animals from around the world. The zoo offers a wide range of exhibits, including Big Cat Falls, the PECO Primate Reserve, and Zoo360, a network of animal exploration trails that allow visitors to see animals up close in their natural habitats.
7. Experience Philly’s Art Scene
Philadelphia has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many galleries, theaters, and performance spaces. Visitors can check out the Franklin Institute Science Museum, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, or the famous Mural Arts Program, which features over 4,000 murals throughout the city.
8. Take a Stroll Through South Street
South Street is a lively shopping and dining district that’s popular with locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore, as well as street performers and local artists selling their work. It’s a great place to soak up the city’s energetic vibe.
9. Visit the Eastern State Penitentiary
The Eastern State Penitentiary is a historic prison that once housed some of America’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone. Today, visitors can take a self-guided audio tour through the prison and learn about the history of the Pennsylvania prison system.
10. Catch a Game at Citizen Bank Park or Lincoln Financial Field
Sports fans won’t want to miss catching a game at Citizen Bank Park, home of the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team, or Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles football team. Both stadiums offer great views of the city skyline and a fun, lively atmosphere on game days.
Book Your Tour Now
Philadelphia is a city full of history, culture, and fun attractions for tourists of all ages. By following this guide, visitors can make the most of their time in Philadelphia and experience everything the city has to offer. From historic landmarks to world-class museums, there’s something for everyone in the City of Brotherly Love.Table of Contents
