Things to do in Philadelphia

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Cityscape view of Philadelphia showcasing autumn foliage and municipal architecture near a fountain
Philadelphia showing a city and a square or plaza
View of Philadelphia's skyline with trees displaying autumn colors and the historic city hall in the background
Philadelphia featuring a city
Iconic Rocky statue stands proudly outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art surrounded by lush greenery

Philadelphia Attractions

Between the historic Liberty Bell and world-famous cheese steaks, Philly has what you might call a diverse appeal. No one can argue that the list of things to see in Philadelphia is anything but impressive. People come to this eastern Pennsylvania city to eat their way through a palate-pleasing tour of food carts, fine restaurants, and cafes. Of course, they also head to town to check out the rich history in America’s first capital city. As if that wasn’t enough, Philadelphia is full of enviable urban parkland that comes alive during the summertime. From Franklin Square to Fairmount Park, there are lots of fun things to do in Philadelphia that involve enjoying mother nature right in the midst of a metropolis.


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What to do in Philadelphia

Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

Some say the best things in life are free. Discover the following around Philadelphia:

Fabric Workshop and Museum - Take the whole family and go on a journey through history with one another.

Francisville Playground - Spoil the kids with a good time or release your own inner child — this attraction just screams fun.

University of the Sciences in Philadelphia - Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy admiring the modern design of this landmark.

Free Library of Philadelphia - Roam around this historic place and find out some secrets from days gone by.

Rittenhouse Square - This is a thriving location where you can soak up the ambiance and appreciate local life.

Reading Terminal Market - Plan a visit and discover the significance of this place to the community.

St. Mark's Church - Do a bit of quiet contemplation and discover a few things about this site's religious importance.

Schuylkill River Trail - Relax and let the natural surrounds restore your mind.

Washington Square Park - Renew your mind, body and soul by spending time in nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city of many personalities. Not only does it host an Ivy League school and loads of art and culture, but you can still get your hands dirty with a greasy sandwich prepared on a street cart. The variety of neighborhoods in this East Coast city reflect its diverse nature and will leave any type of traveler satiated.

Fishtown — For art and culture in spades, head to Fishtown in north Philadelphia. Galleries, studios, and music venues have set up shop in this neighborhood, largely as the result of the effort put forward by its young, hip residents.

Logan Square — This neighborhood boasts a namesake circle replete with an impressive fountain. It also bookends the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on one side.

Chinatown — The Chinese Friendship Gate on 10th and Arch Street opens up a world of culture, dim sum, and Asian art workshops. Like any Chinatown worth its salt, this area of Philadelphia also hosts festivals and art shows throughout the year.

Germantown — This district was founded by German settlers hundreds of years ago, and it still thrives as a source of patriotic pride and historical significance. More than a dozen historical attractions in Philadelphia still call Germantown home, and it’s been dubbed the longest National Historic District in the nation.

Things to See in Philadelphia

History buffs will feel right at home in the City of Brotherly Love. Things to do in Philadelphia include visiting the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall. Since Independence Hall is considered the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, it’s no surprise that you’ll have lots of company when you visit this attraction. Still, these historical stops are worth the photo opportunity. Other things to see in Philly include the Philadelphia Orchestra and Opera Philadelphia in Rittenhouse Square.

Sightseeing in Philadelphia

When you’re ready to put on your walking shoes, there are lots of things to do in Philadelphia. Historical sites worth an in-person tour include the Betsy Ross House and the Independence Seaport Museum. Walk through the Shofuso gardens when the fragrant floral displays are in bloom, or hit the links at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Golf Course. When the sun goes down, plenty of bars and clubs welcome you to join the party until closing time. Of course, if you’re having a hard time narrowing down which sites deserve a spot on your itinerary, Philadelphia tours by bus or trolley take you around to the most important spots. If you’re also after a calorie burn, some of the best Philadelphia walking tours keep you active while you see important landmarks and stop off for fine cuisine to keep you fueled.

Things to Do in Philadelphia with Kids

Philadelphia is a superb destination for a family escape. Take the kids along and enjoy these fun family friendly experiences together:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Philadelphia

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Philadelphia

Liberty Bell Center featuring heritage architecture, a monument and a city

Center City

4.5/5(6,262 area reviews)

Boasting a dense downtown area, Center City offers a plethora of restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions like Kimmel Center and Academy of Music. Explore Penn's Landing, Old City, or the medical Mütter Museum, and enjoy convenient transport options.

Center City
Bella Vista which includes street scenes and markets

South Philadelphia

3/5(488 area reviews)

Discover Columbus Commons for shopping, indulge in cheesesteaks at Geno's or Pat's, and catch a game at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. Explore the American Swedish Historical Museum or unwind at revitalized Passyunk Avenue's cafes and bars.

South Philadelphia
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University City

4.5/5(408 area reviews)

Home to prestigious universities like Penn and Drexel, this vibrant area offers cultural experiences at the Penn Museum and Institute of Contemporary Art. Enjoy shopping at the 40th Street retail corridor and easy access to various transportation options.

University City
Fairmount Park showing heritage architecture, a lake or waterhole and skyline

West Philadelphia

4/5(329 area reviews)

Home to universities like University of Pennsylvania and Drexel, this area boasts cultural venues such as Mann Music Center and Bushfire Theater. Explore Lancaster Avenue's shops and restaurants, or visit the historic Philadelphia Zoo.

West Philadelphia
Eastern State Penitentiary featuring interior views

North Philadelphia

4/5(66 area reviews)

North Philadelphia is a destination travelers like for its historic sites, and you might hop aboard the metro at North Philadelphia BSL Station or Allegheny Station to explore sights like The Liacouras Center.

North Philadelphia
Philadelphia showing heritage architecture, a monument and a memorial

Rittenhouse Square

While you're in Rittenhouse Square, take in top sights like Walnut Street or Rittenhouse Row, and hop on the metro to see more the city at 15th-16th & Locust Station or 19th St Station.

Rittenhouse Square

 

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Popular day trips from Philadelphia

Frequently asked questions

Is Philadelphia worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Philadelphia is visit Philadelphia Museum of Art. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of the area's dining and history.
How do I spend a day in Philadelphia?
Kick your day off with a visit to Philadelphia Zoo and Adventure Aquarium. Then, check out other areas of Philadelphia for tasty eats and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the top tourist attractions in Philadelphia and should be high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Philadelphia?
Three days in Philadelphia is more than enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia Zoo and Adventure Aquarium are highly rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots like Mount Laurel.
Is Philadelphia a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Philadelphia, like Philadelphia Museum of Art and Philadelphia Zoo, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.4 miles from central Philadelphia is Center City and Center City East is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Philadelphia with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Philadelphia with kids.

What to do in Philadelphia for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Philadelphia, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Wells Fargo Center or Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Are there free things to do in Philadelphia?
From checking out parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Philadelphia. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Rocky Steps is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.