Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love and Beyond

Philadelphia is a city steeped in history, culture, and entertainment. It is known as the birthplace of America and home to the Liberty Bell and the Declaration of Independence. It’s also the fifth most populous city in the United States, home to more than 1.5 million people.

Philadelphia is known for its iconic historical attractions, vibrant arts and culture, and exciting nightlife. But beyond the city’s top tourist attractions, it has so much more to offer. From outdoor activities to world-class museums and galleries, there’s something for everyone in The City of Brotherly Love.

A Brief History of Philadelphia

Philadelphia was founded by William Penn in 1682 as a place of religious freedom. It was the first city in the United States to be designated as a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 2015. Throughout its long history, Philadelphia has been a major hub for business, culture, politics, and entertainment.

Philadelphia was the nation’s capital from 1790 to 1800, during which time it served as a center for the Revolutionary War and the Constitutional Convention. Over the years, Philadelphia has been home to some of America’s most influential leaders, such as Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. The city is also known for its important role in the development of American democracy and its commitment to civil rights and social justice.

Today, Philadelphia is a modern, vibrant city with a diverse population and thriving economy. It is home to some of the nation’s top universities and medical institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. The city also boasts a thriving restaurant, music, sports, and performing arts scene.

What To Do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia has no shortage of attractions, activities, and things to do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new, there’s something for everyone in this exciting city. Here are some of the top things to do in Philadelphia:

Explore the Historic Sites

Philadelphia is rich with history, making it the perfect destination for history buffs. Some of the city’s most popular historic sites include Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed; the Liberty Bell Center, home to the iconic Liberty Bell; and the Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology, where Benjamin Franklin himself used to teach.

Visit Museums and Galleries

Philadelphia is home to some of the world’s best museums and galleries. The Philadelphia Museum of Art houses a collection of artwork from around the world, while the Penn Museum features artifacts from ancient civilizations. Other popular museums include the National Constitution Center, which focuses on the founding of America, and the Mütter Museum, which explores medical history through its collection of specimens.

Attend a Sporting Event

Philadelphia is home to several professional sports teams, including the Phillies (baseball), Flyers (hockey), Eagles (football), 76ers (basketball), and Union (soccer). Sports fans will have no shortage of opportunities to catch a game or attend an event at one of Philadelphia’s stadiums or arenas.

Experience Nightlife and Entertainment

Philadelphia offers something for everyone when it comes to nightlife and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for live music, comedy shows, or theater performances, you’ll find it in this vibrant city. Popular venues include The Fillmore Philadelphia, Electric Factory, Theatre of Living Arts (TLA), and The Trocadero Theatre.

Visit Parks and Outdoor Attractions

Philadelphia is home to many parks and outdoor attractions where you can spend a day exploring nature. Some popular parks include Fairmount Park, which offers stunning views of the city skyline; Pennypack Park, which features miles of trails; and Valley Forge National Historical Park, where you can learn about America’s Revolutionary War history.

Sample Delicious Cuisine

Philadelphia is well known for its delicious cuisine. From famous cheesesteaks to Italian hoagies, there’s something for everyone in this foodie paradise. Popular restaurants include Reading Terminal Market, a historic food hall with more than 80 vendors; Tony Luke’s Cheesesteaks; DiBruno Brothers Italian Market; and Amada Tapas Bar & Restaurant.

Popular Tours

In addition to all that Philadelphia has to offer on its own, there are several popular tours that you can take to explore this amazing city. Here are two popular tours that you can book:

Old City Walking Tour

Explore Philadelphia’s historic Old City neighborhoods on this two-hour walking tour. See some of Philly’s most iconic landmarks, including Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin’s grave site, Elfreth’s Alley (the oldest residential street in America), Betsy Ross House, and more! This tour also includes stops at several local pubs for a taste of authentic Philly craft beer. You will be able to book this Old City Walking Tour from Viator.

Mural Arts Tour

Discover Philadelphia’s vibrant street art scene on this two-hour walking tour. Led by an expert guide, you will explore some of Philly’s most impressive murals while learning about their history and significance to the city. You will also visit several galleries and studios featuring local artists and learn about their work. You will be able to book this Mural Arts Tour from GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

Whether you’re visiting Philadelphia for the first time or you’re a local looking for something new to do, this city has something for everyone! From historic sites to outdoor activities and world-class cultural attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in The City of Brotherly Love. Consider taking one of the popular tours mentioned above or explore some of Philly’s other attractions on your own!