Fun Things To Do In Philadelphia Pa

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of America’s most historic cities, and it’s full of activities and attractions that make it a great place to visit. With its rich Revolutionary and Colonial heritage, beautiful architecture, and endless entertainment options, Philadelphia has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking for some of the city’s most popular attractions or a seasoned traveler in search of off-the-beaten-path sights and experiences, Philadelphia has plenty to offer.

History of Philadelphia

Founded in 1682 by William Penn, Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States and the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It’s often referred to as the “Cradle of Liberty” because of its role in American history. The city’s importance in the struggle for independence is remembered in its many historic sites, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, and the National Constitution Center.

Today, Philadelphia is home to more than 1.5 million people and is the fifth-largest city in the United States. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in the country, with a large African American population and large communities of immigrants from South and Central America, Asia, and Europe.

Must-See Attractions

Philadelphia is full of popular attractions that are great for first-time visitors. Start your exploration of the city with a trip to Independence National Historical Park, home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks and historical sites. Here, you can tour Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed; visit the Liberty Bell Center to see the famous bell; or explore the National Constitution Center, which houses exhibits on the history of the Constitution as well as interactive displays and educational programs.

The nearby Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts is also a must-see attraction. Founded in 1805, this museum showcases a diverse collection of American art from the colonial era to contemporary works. It’s also home to a sculpture garden and a number of special exhibitions throughout the year.

Also, don’t miss out on a visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the United States. Here, you can explore more than 200 galleries featuring art from around the world. Be sure to take a photo on the steps outside—they were made famous by Sylvester Stallone in the movie Rocky.

Entertainment

Philadelphia is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. No matter what type of entertainment you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Philly.

For live music and performances, head to one of Philly’s many theaters and music venues. The Kimmel Center for Performing Arts is one of the city’s premier venues for classical music, opera, and other performances. The Tower Theater is a great place to catch rock and pop acts from around the world. And for comedy shows and cabaret performances, there’s no better place than The Punch Line Philly.

The city is also home to several renowned comedy clubs, such as Helium Comedy Club and Good Good Comedy Theatre. And if you’re looking for an evening out on the town, check out one of Philly’s many bars, pubs, and clubs.

Outdoor Activities

Philadelphia is a great city for outdoor lovers. One of the best ways to explore the city is by bike—it’s easy to rent a bike from one of the many bike share programs throughout town. Or if you prefer to explore on foot, stroll through Fairmount Park or enjoy a leisurely walk along the Schuylkill River Trail.

If you want to get out on the water, take a boat ride on the Delaware River or rent a kayak or canoe from one of the many companies that offer guided tours and rentals. Or take a scenic drive along one of Philly’s winding country roads for some breathtaking views of the countryside.

Food & Drink

No visit to Philadelphia would be complete without trying some of its famous eats. The city is known for its cheesesteaks—head to Geno’s Steaks or Pat’s King of Steaks for an authentic Philly experience—as well as its iconic soft pretzels. The Italian Market in South Philadelphia is also a great place to find traditional Italian favorites like pizza, pasta, and cannoli.

If you’re looking for an indulgent food experience, head to Reading Terminal Market where you can find everything from fresh produce to homemade baked goods. Or check out one of Philly’s many craft breweries—Yards Brewing Company is a popular spot for beer lovers—or sample some local wines at Chaddsford Winery in nearby West Chester.

Popular Tours

Philadelphia Landmarks Tour

Visit some of Philadelphia’s most famous sites on a guided tour that takes you through historic neighborhoods like Old City and Society Hill. See iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, and more as your guide shares stories about Philadelphia’s history and culture. Learn about William Penn’s plans for Philadelphia and discover why it was once known as “The Most American City in America.” On this tour, you’ll also visit some lesser-known attractions like Franklin Square and Penn’s Landing for a truly unique experience. Book a Philadelphia Landmarks Tour here.

Philadelphia Food Tour

Experience some of Philadelphia’s best eats on this guided tour that takes you through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Sample classic dishes like cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, hoagies, and more at famous spots like Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks in South Philly’s Italian Market. You’ll also get to sample food from local vendors at Reading Terminal Market and enjoy tasty treats from up-and-coming restaurants in Northern Liberties and Fishtown. Learn about Philadelphia’s rich culinary history from your guide as you taste your way through some of the city’s most beloved dishes. Book a Philadelphia Food Tour here.

Mural Arts Tour

Discover one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant art scenes on this guided tour of some of the city’s most famous murals. From breathtaking large-scale works in North Philly to smaller works tucked away in alleyways throughout South Philly, this tour takes you on a journey through some of Philly’s most iconic artwork. Along the way, your guide will share stories about how these murals came to be and what they mean to those who created them as well as those who view them every day. This tour is a great way to learn about Philadelphia’s art scene and discover some hidden gems along the way. Book a Mural Arts Tour here.

Philadelphia has something for everyone—whether you’re looking for historical sites, world-class entertainment options, outdoor activities, or delicious food—it has it all! Take some time to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer—you won’t regret it!