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Philadelphia, United States
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Philadelphia, United States
1. Independence Hall
Where the Declaration and Constitution were debated and signed. Guided 30-minute tours take you into the Assembly Room and original courtroom.
2. Liberty Bell Center
See the original cracked bell that helped shape American history. Stand close behind the glass, watch a short film and explore museum exhibits.
3. Philadelphia Museum of Art
Major American art museum with iconic steps and wide-ranging collections. Explore European and American masterpieces, sculpture, and rotating exhibitions.
Book a FREE walking tour in Philadelphia, United States
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Reading Terminal Market
Amish baked goods, roast pork, and global stalls pack bold Philly flavor into one lively hall. Sample fresh pastries, sandwiches, and produce while wandering the busy food stalls.
5. The Franklin Institute
Hands-on experiments, an immersive planetarium and interactive galleries reward curious minds. Expect live demos, towering exhibits and kid-friendly labs.
6. Eastern State Penitentiary
Explore a dramatic 19th-century prison that reshaped modern corrections. Walk vaulted cellblocks, hear survivor stories, and see solitary cells frozen in time.
7. Philadelphia City Hall
Grand Second Empire landmark anchoring Center City. Ride to the tower for sweeping skyline views and ornate interior sculptures.
8. Rittenhouse Square
A leafy urban oasis in the heart of Philadelphia, surrounded by art and cafés. Stroll tree-lined paths, watch locals, and relax by the fountain.
9. Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
A vibrant mosaic environment by Isaiah Zagar celebrates recycled art and community creativity. Wander mosaicked courtyards and dense indoor galleries of tile, glass, and found objects.
10. Fairmount Park
Vast urban park with river trails, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Stroll scenic paths, snap Boathouse Row photos, and picnic by the Schuylkill.
Additional popular things to do in Philadelphia, United States
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Tastykake
Founded in Philadelphia in 1914, Tastykake's individually wrapped snack cakes like Kandy Kakes and Krimpets are a regional institution loved across the city for generations.
Water Ice
Called water ice in Philadelphia and rooted in the city's Italian-American neighborhoods, this shaved-flavored ice is a summertime staple often enjoyed in lemon or cherry.
Goldenberg's Peanut Chews
Created in Philadelphia in 1917, Goldenberg's Peanut Chews are a beloved chocolate and peanut candy that became a wartime favorite and a longtime local classic.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Philadelphia Cheesesteak
Invented in South Philadelphia in the 1930s, the cheesesteak of thinly sliced beef and melted cheese on a long roll is the city's most famous culinary export.
Soft Pretzel
Soft pretzels are a ubiquitous Philly street snack with German roots, sold at bakeries, sports games, and corner stores throughout the city for over a century.
Hoagie
The hoagie, a loaded Italian-style sandwich originating from Philadelphia's Italian immigrant community, is the local name for a deli sub piled high with cold cuts, cheese, and toppings.
Traditional Beverages
Yards Philadelphia Pale Ale
Brewed by Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia, this pale ale highlights the city's modern craft beer scene while drawing on a long local brewing tradition.
Birch Beer
Popular in Pennsylvania and found in many Philly soda fountains and markets, birch beer is a sweet, root-like soda with deep regional roots in Pennsylvania Dutch culture.
Bluecoat American Dry Gin
Produced by Philadelphia Distilling, Bluecoat Gin helped put the city on the craft spirits map and is widely used by local bars and mixologists in classic cocktails.
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Day trips
New York City, NY
World-class museums, Broadway, and Times Square.
Google MapsLancaster, PA (Amish Country)
Amish farms, farmers markets, scenic countryside tours.
Google MapsAtlantic City, NJ
Boardwalk, casinos, beaches and seaside dining.
Google MapsComments (8)
Stayed three days and felt rushed, two neighborhoods were amazing, the rest felt kind of ordinary.
Weather killed half our plans, rainy and chilly even in late May, lots of construction too.
Nice museums and cheap eats, but expect crowds downtown on weekends and foggy mornings in spring.
Friendly people, cheap public transit, great late night food stalls, would come back in autumn.
Buy a SEPTA Key card at airport machines and reload online, it saves cash and is cheaper than paper fares.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Amtrak Northeast Corridor, Keystone Service, SEPTA Regional Rail
SEPTA Regional Rail, regional connections
From PHL take the SEPTA Airport Line to 30th Street Station, about 25 minutes; taxis and rideshares available.
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