Top Things To Do In Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the United States. Founded in 1682 by William Penn, the city played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and is home to many iconic sites such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. With a population of over 1.5 million, Philadelphia is the sixth-largest city in the United States and is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the city has plenty of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From historic sites to outdoor activities to nightlife, here are the top things to do in Philadelphia.

Explore Historic Sites

Philadelphia is home to many iconic sites from the American Revolution and the birth of the nation. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Benjamin Franklin Museum are all must-see destinations for visitors. The Liberty Bell is located at Liberty Bell Center and is an iconic symbol of independence. The bell was used to summon lawmakers to legislative sessions, and it’s famous for its inscription “Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Benjamin Franklin Museum houses artifacts and interactive displays that tell the story of the founding father’s life and legacy.

Shop at Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest and largest public markets in the United States. Located in Center City, the market houses over 80 vendors selling a variety of food items from around the world. The market offers everything from produce to meats to specialty items like Pennsylvania Dutch specialties and Amish baked goods. The market is also home to many local restaurants and cafes serving up delicious fare from all over the world.

Take a Walk Along Boathouse Row

Located along the Schuylkill River, Boathouse Row is a popular spot for visitors to take a stroll along the water. Spanning 1.5 miles, the walk offers spectacular views of the river and city skyline. Along the walk, you’ll find several boathouses housing rowing clubs, as well as sculptures honoring Philadelphia’s rowing history. The walk is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beauty of the city.

Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the United States. Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the museum houses over 227,000 works of art from around the world including masterpieces from Monet, Rembrandt, van Gogh, and more. The collection spans from ancient times to modern art, and there are also several rotating special exhibitions throughout the year.

Take a Stroll Through Old City

Old City is one of Philadelphia’s oldest neighborhoods, and it’s home to many historic sites and attractions. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and 19th-century architecture, offering visitors a glimpse into what life was like in early America. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore while walking around Old City.

Experience Nightlife in Fishtown

Fishtown is one of Philadelphia’s trendiest neighborhoods and it’s home to some of the best bars, clubs, and music venues in the city. The area has become popular with young professionals looking for an exciting night out on the town, with plenty of places to grab drinks or dance into the early hours of morning.

Visit East Passyunk Avenue

East Passyunk Avenue is one of Philadelphia’s most vibrant neighborhoods and it’s known for its great restaurants, shops, and bars. The area has become popular with locals looking for a great night out on the town or a leisurely stroll down the avenue browsing through all of its unique shops. From trendy boutiques to traditional Italian restaurants, East Passyunk has something for everyone.

Indulge in a Sweet Treat at Franklin Fountain

Franklin Fountain is an old-fashioned ice cream shop serving up some of Philadelphia’s best ice cream treats. Located in Old City, Franklin Fountain has been around since 1904 and it’s known for its classic ice creams made with only natural ingredients. From sundaes to banana splits to hand-dipped ice cream cones, Franklin Fountain is a great place to indulge in a sweet treat.

Explore Fairmount Park

Fairmount Park is Philadelphia’s largest park spanning over 9,200 acres and it’s home to many attractions such as museums, historical sites, and outdoor activities. The park offers plenty of activities for visitors including hiking trails, bike paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more. Fairmount Park is also home to many festivals throughout the year such as summer concerts and art shows.

Take a Tour of Philadelphia

One of the best ways to explore Philadelphia is by taking a tour. From walking tours to bus tours to bike tours, there are plenty of options for visitors to choose from that will give them an in-depth look at the city’s history, culture, and sights. One popular tour that is offered by Viator is their “Old City & Historic District Tour” which provides an immersive look at Philadelphia’s rich history with stops at iconic landmarks such as Independence Hall, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church Burial Ground and more. Book Old City & Historic District Tour here.

Another popular tour that is offered by GetYourGuide is their “Philadelphia Sightseeing Tour” which takes visitors on a two-hour bus ride around town to discover some of Philadelphia’s most iconic sights such as Logan Square, Love Park, City Hall and more. Book Philadelphia Sightseeing Tour here. This tour also includes stops at various points throughout town so that visitors can explore each neighborhood on their own or take part in optional activities such as visiting museums or taking part in guided walking tours.

Conclusion

Philadelphia has plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy regardless of their interests or budget. From historic sites to outdoor activities to nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Philadelphia that are sure to keep you entertained during your stay. Whether you’re looking for an immersive look at America’s past or just want to have some fun and explore what this vibrant city has to offer, there’s something for everyone in Philadelphia.