A Guide to Philadelphia: A Tourist Map

Philadelphia is a city with a rich history and deep cultural roots. Founded in 1682 by William Penn as the capital of his newly formed Pennsylvania colony, the city is now the fifth-largest city in the United States. With a population of 1.5 million people, Philly is a city of lifelong locals, students from nearby universities, and visitors from around the world. A unique combination of colonial-era history and modern amenities, Philly is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the East Coast.

From the iconic Liberty Bell to modern attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this city has something for everyone. Whether you’re in town for a few days or a few weeks, this guide will help you get to know this special city and show you some of its best attractions.

History of Philadelphia

Philadelphia was founded by William Penn in 1682 and quickly became a bustling hub of commerce, trade, and culture. Its location between the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers made it an ideal spot for the Pennsylvania colony to build its capital and develop its infrastructure. In the centuries since its founding, Philadelphia has grown in size and importance and today it is a major financial, educational, and cultural center for the Northeast region of the U.S.

Philadelphia is home to many important historical sites, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. These sites were crucial in the development of the country’s founding documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The city also served as the nation’s capital for several years before Washington D.C. was established in 1790.

Things to Do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city of endless possibilities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll through one of its many parks or an action-packed day of sightseeing and exploration, Philadelphia has something to offer every type of traveler. Here are just some of the activities that visitors can enjoy while in Philadelphia:

Museums

Philadelphia is home to an array of museums that are sure to delight any history buff or art lover. The most famous museum in Philly is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which houses a vast collection of artwork from around the world. Other noteworthy museums include the National Constitution Center, which offers interactive exhibits about American history and government; the Mütter Museum, which features an interesting collection of medical oddities; and the Franklin Institute, a science museum that features hands-on exhibits and interactive activities.

Sports

Sports are a big part of Philadelphia culture, and locals love to show their support for their favorite teams. The city is home to several professional sports teams, including the Phillies (baseball), Eagles (football), Flyers (hockey), and 76ers (basketball). Visiting fans can also enjoy some minor league baseball games during the summer months.

Parks

Philadelphia is also home to some beautiful parks that offer plenty of activities for visitors. Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country and is an excellent spot for biking, hiking, and picnicking. Valley Forge National Historical Park is another popular destination for outdoor activities like camping, biking, and horseback riding.

Popular Tours

Philadelphia offers a variety of tours that offer visitors an up-close look at many of its most popular attractions. Here are two popular tours that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience while in Philly:

Guided Tour of Historic Philadelphia

Discover Philly’s historic sights on this guided tour of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour will take visitors on an educational journey through time as they explore sites like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and more. Learn about the city’s important role in America’s founding as you walk through its streets and hear stories about its past from your guide. You can book this tour from Viator for an immersive look at Philadelphia’s history.

Philadelphia Night Tour

Experience Philly after dark on this night tour of some of its most popular attractions. Led by an experienced guide, this tour will take you through some of its top sights, including City Hall and Penn’s Landing. Visit some local bars and restaurants along the way for some delicious food and drinks before making your way back to your hotel. You can book this tour from GetYourGuide for an unforgettable evening in Philadelphia.

Conclusion

Philadelphia is a unique city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. From its iconic landmarks to its bustling parks and museums, Philly offers something for everyone—whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks. With a variety of tours available, visitors can get up close and personal with some of the city’s most popular attractions while learning about its past and present. No matter what you’re looking for in your trip to Philly, you’re sure to find something that will make your visit unforgettable.