Things To Do in Philadelphia For Adults

Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is one of the most vibrant, cultured and historical cities in the United States. From its revolutionary heritage to its cutting-edge culture, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast or a music lover, you’ll find endless ways to explore and experience this vibrant city. With its diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, delicious cuisine and lively nightlife, Philadelphia is an ideal destination for adults looking for an exciting vacation.

A Brief History of Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded by William Penn in 1682. It quickly became a political and commercial center for the newly formed United States in the late 18th century. The city was recognized as the temporary capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800, during which time it hosted the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the Constitutional Convention in 1787. Today, it is home to over 1.5 million people and is the sixth-most populous city in the country.

Philadelphia’s history has had a profound impact on its culture. The city is home to a number of iconic landmarks and monuments, telling the story of its rich past. From the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall and the Benjamin Franklin Museum, visitors can explore the city’s colonial heritage and gain insight into its political and social history. Other historical sites include Elfreth’s Alley, which is the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the United States; Christ Church Burial Ground, which is the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin; and Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison which once held notorious criminals such as Al Capone.

In more recent years, Philadelphia has become known for its thriving arts and culture scene. The city boasts some of the best museums in the country, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which houses a world-renowned collection of Impressionist paintings, and the Franklin Institute Science Museum, which features interactive exhibits on science and technology. The city also boasts many live music venues, art galleries and independent theaters.

Explore Philadelphia’s Neighborhoods

Philadelphia is home to a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Take a stroll through Center City and explore its iconic sites such as City Hall, Reading Terminal Market and Rittenhouse Square. Head to Old City for a glimpse of Philly’s colonial past. Here you’ll find popular attractions such as Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center.

For a taste of Philly’s nightlife head to South Street. This lively street is lined with bars, restaurants and clubs offering live music, comedy shows and more. For an upscale experience head to Rittenhouse Square or the historic district of Society Hill. You’ll find chic restaurants, sophisticated bars and boutique shopping here.

Not far from Center City lies West Philadelphia. Here you’ll find neighborhoods like University City and Powelton Village, home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. The area is also known for its vibrant street art scene.

Finally head to Northern Liberties for a dose of hipster culture. This neighborhood is home to some of Philly’s hippest bars, restaurants and clothing stores as well as vibrant street art.

Experience Philadelphia’s Culture

Philadelphia is home to some of the country’s best museums and cultural institutions. Start with a visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection of Impressionist paintings and works by great masters such as Monet, Renoir, van Gogh and Rembrandt. The Barnes Foundation is another must-see, which features an impressive collection of Impressionist and Modernist works.

The Franklin Institute Science Museum is another popular destination for adults looking to learn more about science and technology. Here you’ll find interactive exhibits on astronomy, engineering and robotics as well as a planetarium show. The Mütter Museum is also worth a visit for its unique collection of medical oddities such as preserved human organs and medical specimens. Finally make sure to check out The Academy of Natural Sciences which features interactive exhibits on dinosaurs, insects and plants as well as an observatory which offers spectacular views of the night sky.

Taste Philly’s Delicious Cuisine

Philadelphia is known as one of America’s great food cities. From classic Philly cheesesteaks to gourmet restaurants serving up delectable dishes, this city has something for everyone’s taste buds. Start with a visit to Reading Terminal Market where you can find everything from local produce to freshly made sandwiches and desserts. Then head to South Street for some classic eats such as cheesesteaks and hoagies.

If you’re looking for something fancier head to Rittenhouse Square or Society Hill for upscale restaurants serving up gourmet dishes. Fishtown is another great spot for delicious food with its mix of gastropubs, hip eateries and trendy restaurants. No matter what you’re craving you’ll find something delicious in Philadelphia.

Experience Philly’s Nightlife

Philadelphia’s nightlife scene offers something for everyone from cocktail bars to live music venues and nightclubs. Start with a stroll through Old City for chic bars such as Time or Stratus Lounge. South Street is another great spot for nightlife with its bars, clubs and live music venues such as The TLA or World Café Live where you can catch local bands playing everything from rock to jazz.

If you’re looking for something more hipster head to Northern Liberties where you’ll find dive bars such as Doobies Bar or Ortlieb’s Lounge. If you want to experience some of Philly’s best DJs head over to Fishtown where you can find popular clubs such as Franky Bradley’s or Kung Fu Necktie. No matter what your taste you’ll find something that suits your style in Philadelphia.

Take A Tour Of Philadelphia

Take your Philadelphia experience to the next level with a tour of its iconic sites and neighborhoods. One popular tour is the “Philadelphia Historical Tour” which takes guests on a journey through time as they explore some of the city’s most notable landmarks such as Independence Hall, Elfreth’s Alley and Christ Church Burial Ground. This tour includes stops at some of Philly’s most iconic sights as well as stories about its rich history from knowledgeable local guides. Book a Philadelphia Historical Tour here, and experience the city in a new way!

Another popular tour is the “Philadelphia Craft Beer Tour” which takes guests on a journey through some of Philly’s best craft breweries such as Yards Brewing Company and Dock Street Brewery. Guests can sample some of the city’s best beer while learning about beer-making from knowledgeable guides who give an in-depth look into Philly’s craft beer culture. Book a Philadelphia Craft Beer Tour here, and explore Philly through beer!

Finally there is the “Philadelphia Mural Arts Tour” which takes guests on a journey through some of Philly’s most vibrant street art. This tour includes stops at some of the city’s best murals such as Love Letter by Steve Powers and Monument Lab by Mural Arts Philadelphia. Guests can learn about these incredible works of art from knowledgeable local guides who give an in-depth look into Philly’s vibrant street art scene. Book a Philadelphia Mural Arts Tour here, and explore Philly through art!