Best Things to Do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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What Are the Best Things to Do in Philadelphia? A Historian’s Guide to the City

Amy French the Roaming Historian

What Are the Best Things to Do in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is one of the best cities in the United States for travelers who enjoy history, museums, architecture, food, and walkable neighborhoods. Home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and countless Revolutionary-era sites, Philadelphia offers far more than the story of American independence.

As a historian, I especially enjoy the way the city’s history is woven into its streets, churches, cemeteries, markets, and neighborhoods. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, this guide will help you discover the best things to see, eat, and experience in Philadelphia.

Short on time? For a first visit to Philadelphia, don’t miss Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the historic district, Reading Terminal Market, and at least one of the city’s excellent museums. If you have more time, add Elfreth’s Alley, Franklin Court, the Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary, or Philadelphia’s waterfront. Viator and GetYourGuide offer a lot of opportunities to efficiently see the city while maximizing your fun.

The Best Things to Do in Philadelphia at a Glance

If you’re wondering what to do in Philadelphia, start with these attractions and experiences. They include the city’s essential historic sites as well as several places I think deserve more attention from visitors.

1. Explore Independence Hall and Independence National Historical Park

Philadelphia’s historic core is the essential starting point for a first visit. Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted, where the Articles of Confederation were adopted, and where the U.S. Constitution was drafted. Nearby, you can see the Liberty Bell, the site of the former presidential mansion occupied by George Washington and John Adams, Congress Hall, Old City Hall, and other sites connected to the early history of the United States. As you walk through Old City, look for Once Upon a Nation programs, which bring Philadelphia’s history to life through free storytelling, historical interpreters, readings, and other activities.

Don’t miss: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, President’s House Site, Congress Hall, Old City Hall, American Philosophical Society, and the Great Essentials Exhibit. Slightly outside the park is Carpenter’s Hall; this is a really important piece of history as it hosted the First Continental Congress and also gives insight into early working guilds.

2. Visit Christ Church and Christ Church Burial Ground

Christ Church was an important place of worship for many prominent Philadelphians during the colonial and Revolutionary eras. Nearby Christ Church Burial Ground is the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and four other signers of the Declaration of Independence. Look for the pennies visitors leave on Franklin’s grave—a nod to his famous saying, “A penny saved is a penny earned.”

3. Walk Elfreth’s Alley

Elfreth’s Alley is one of Philadelphia’s most charming historic streets and dates to the early eighteenth century. Its narrow lane and surviving row houses provide a glimpse into the lives of ordinary Philadelphians who lived and worked in the city during its colonial and early national periods. Don’t just admire the houses from the street. If the historic houses are open, take the tour. The stories about the people who lived here are what make Elfreth’s Alley particularly interesting.

4. Explore Penn’s Landing and Philadelphia’s Waterfront

Philadelphia’s relationship with the Delaware River is an important part of the city’s history. Today, Penn’s Landing and the surrounding waterfront provide opportunities to enjoy the river, explore Cherry Street Pier, visit the Independence Seaport Museum, and take a cruise on the Delaware.

5. See the National Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank of the United States

The Second Bank of the United States is easy to overlook while exploring Philadelphia’s historic district, but it shouldn’t be. The impressive Greek Revival building houses a remarkable collection of portraits (National Portrait Gallery), including many works by Charles Willson Peale. The building also provides another opportunity to consider Philadelphia’s importance during the nation’s early years, when the young United States was establishing its financial and governmental institutions.

6. Explore Franklin Court

Benjamin Franklin’s presence is everywhere in Philadelphia, but Franklin Court offers one of the most interesting opportunities to explore his life and legacy. The complex includes the Benjamin Franklin Museum, the site of Franklin’s former home (the “Fragments of Franklin Court” offers a really cool look into the archaeological underpinnings of the house), the B Free Franklin Post Office (a working post office), Franklin’s Printing Office, and other remnants of the world in which Franklin lived and worked.

7. See LOVE Park and Philadelphia City Hall

The LOVE sculpture has become one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable landmarks, making LOVE Park a popular stop for visitors. The sculpture was created by artist Robert Indiana and installed in the park in 1976 as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebrations. Today, it is one of those quintessential Philadelphia photo opportunities. From there, walk toward City Hall to admire one of the country’s great nineteenth-century municipal buildings. The enormous Second Empire building is topped by a statue of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania.For an especially good view of Philadelphia, consider visiting the City Hall observation deck when tickets are available.

8. Climb the Rocky Steps

Even if you have never seen a Rocky movie, the steps leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art are one of the city’s most recognizable sights. The famous staircase offers a great view down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway toward City Hall. And yes, you should probably take the obligatory photo with the Rocky statue. This ticket combo from GetYourGuide includes the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum, which are a fabulous way to immerse yourself in Philly’s art scene…after taking a pic with Rocky, of course.

9. Marvel at the Masonic Temple

The Masonic Temple is one of my favorite Philadelphia recommendations for travelers who like discovering places that don’t always make the standard tourist itinerary. Constructed in 1873, this enormous building on North Broad Street is considered one of the great wonders of the Masonic world. Its elaborate interiors are dramatically different from the city’s colonial-era buildings, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in architecture, history, or unusual Philadelphia attractions. I consider the Masonic Temple an underrated Philadelphia gem. If you’ve already seen the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall and are looking for something a little different, put this one on your list.

10. Explore Eastern State Penitentiary

Opened in 1829, Eastern State Penitentiary was revolutionary in the history of incarceration. Its radial design influenced prison architecture around the world, and its imposing ruins provide a fascinating look at the history of punishment and rehabilitation. It is also one of Philadelphia’s most unusual attractions and a good choice for travelers looking for something beyond the traditional historic sites.

11. Eat Your Way Through Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market has been a Philadelphia institution since the nineteenth century. Today, its many vendors offer everything from Pennsylvania Dutch specialties and baked goods to prepared meals, meats, cheeses, and classic Philadelphia foods. Come hungry. This is one of the best places in Philadelphia to sample the city’s food traditions in one location.

Reading Terminal Market tour, Philadelphia

12. Visit the Museum of the American Revolution

If Independence Hall introduces you to the American Revolution, the Museum of the American Revolution helps you understand the larger story. Its exhibits explore the people, events, ideas, and experiences that shaped the Revolution and its aftermath.

For travelers interested in American history, this is one of the Philadelphia museums I would prioritize.

You can visit many of these using my Philadelphia Historical Sites Walking Tour or pick a guided walking tour, which I highly recommend, from Viator or GetYourGuide.

Visiting Philadelphia for the First Time? Start Here

If this is your first visit to Philadelphia, start with Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, then spend some time exploring the surrounding historic district. From there, head to Reading Terminal Market and choose at least one museum or attraction that matches your interests. If you have more time, add Elfreth’s Alley, Franklin Court, the Rocky Steps and Philadelphia Museum of Art, Eastern State Penitentiary, or the Masonic Temple. Philadelphia has enough to keep you busy for days, so don’t feel like you need to see everything on your first trip. You should definitely consider taking a tour (or several) of the city to get your bearings and learn from a local. I recommend Viator or GetYourGuide.

My Top Priorities for a First Visit to Philadelphia

If you only have a day or two, I would prioritize:

  1. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
  2. A walk through Philadelphia’s historic district
  3. Reading Terminal Market
  4. At least one Philadelphia museum
  5. The Rocky Steps and Philadelphia Museum of Art area
  6. One additional experience based on your interests, whether that’s Eastern State Penitentiary, Elfreth’s Alley, the Masonic Temple, the waterfront, or another museum

More Things to Do in Philadelphia

The attractions above are my top recommendations, but they are far from the only things worth seeing in Philly. Philadelphia’s historic district and surrounding neighborhoods are filled with additional museums, historic buildings, public spaces, and unexpected discoveries. Among the other places worth considering are:

Historic Philadelphia: Betsy Ross House, Signers Garden, Merchant’s Exchange, Bishop White House, First Bank of the United States, New Hall Military Museum, City Tavern Garden, Arch Street Meeting House, Free Quaker Meeting House, Graff House aka Declaration House (you can enjoy the exterior only at this time), and United States Mint.

Museums and cultural attractions: National Constitution Center, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Mütter Museum, Rodin Museum and Garden, Franklin Institute, Free Library of Philadelphia, Money in Motion museum at the Federal Reserve Bank (this makes economics really fun for kids), and Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

Parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces: Rittenhouse Square, Italian Market, and Philadelphia’s Chinatown (look for Chinatown Friendship Arch).

Waterfront attractions: Penn’s Landing, Cherry Street Pier, Independence Seaport Museum, and Delaware River cruises.

Other cool sites: Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier and other sites throughout the city’s historic core.

One of the great pleasures of Philadelphia is that you don’t have to visit every attraction to have a worthwhile trip. Pick the places that interest you most, leave some time to wander, and allow the city to surprise you.

Explore Philadelphia’s Revolutionary History

Philadelphia is where the Declaration of Independence was adopted, the U.S. Constitution was drafted, and the new American government began taking shape. Many of the city’s most important historic sites are within easy walking distance, making Old City one of the best places in the country to experience American history. Consider taking a Revolutionary History walking tour to bring the past alive.

Explore Philadelphia’s Historic District on Foot

One of the best things about Philadelphia is how much history you can experience simply by walking. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Franklin Court, Christ Church, the burial ground, Elfreth’s Alley, and many other historic sites are all within a relatively compact area. Don’t rush from one attraction to the next. Look at the buildings between the famous sites. Read the plaques. Notice the architecture. Let the city tell you some of its stories. If you’d like someone to connect the sites and stories as you walk, my Roaming Historian Philadelphia Walking Tour offers a historian’s perspective on Philadelphia’s historic district.

If you’d rather have a guide along the way, you can turn your self-guided exploration into a guided experience. A local guide can add context, answer questions, and help you notice details you might otherwise walk right past. I recommend checking the Philadelphia walking tours available through my trusted tour partners. You can choose from small-group and private experiences depending on how you like to travel. Explore Philadelphia Tours with Viator or GetYourGuide.

Viator Philadelphia Experiences: https://www.viator.com/Philadelphia/d906-ttd?pid=P00161535&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector

GetYourGuide Philadelphia Experiences: https://www.getyourguide.com/philadelphia-l60/?adults=1&searchSource=7&partner_id=CMSFGKK&utm_medium=online_publisher

Philadelphia’s Best Museums

Philadelphia has excellent museums covering American history, art, science, medicine, and more. Rather than trying to see them all, choose the ones that best match your interests.

Museum of the American Revolution One of my top choices for history lovers and an excellent complement to Independence Hall.

National Constitution Center A good choice for anyone interested in the Constitution and its continuing role in American life.

Philadelphia Museum of Art A world-class collection—and, of course, home to the famous Rocky Steps. You can get a ticket combo to combine the art museum with the nearby Rodin Museum.

Mütter Museum A fascinating and unusual choice for anyone interested in medical history.

Franklin Institute Philadelphia’s major science museum and an especially good option for families.

Rodin Museum An excellent smaller museum featuring one of the largest collections of Rodin’s work outside France.

More Philadelphia Museums/Cultural Institutions to Consider

If you have additional time, consider the Barnes Foundation, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, African American Museum in Philadelphia, National Museum of American Jewish History, Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Free Library of Philadelphia, or the Independence Seaport Museum.

Some of Philadelphia’s most popular attractions can get busy, particularly during peak travel periods. If you know which museums and historic sites you want to visit, it’s worth checking ticket options before you arrive. I use Viator or GetYourGuide to find tours, attraction tickets, and experiences when I travel. Both offer a variety of Philadelphia options, so you can compare what’s available and choose what works best for your trip.

Browse Philadelphia Tours & Tickets on Viator → https://www.viator.com/Philadelphia/d906-ttd?pid=P00161535&mcid=42383&medium=link&medium_version=selector

Browse Philadelphia Tours & Tickets on GetYourGuide → https://www.getyourguide.com/philadelphia-l60/?adults=1&searchSource=7&partner_id=CMSFGKK&utm_medium=online_publisher

Foods to Eat in Philadelphia

What food is Philadelphia famous for?

Philadelphia’s food traditions go far beyond its famous steak sandwich. When you visit Philadelphia, look for roast pork sandwiches, hoagies, soft pretzels, tomato pie, water ice, and scrapple. Philadelphia’s Italian-American community has also had a major influence on the city’s food culture, so a traditional pasta dinner with red sauce belongs on your Philadelphia food itinerary, too. One of the best things about eating in Philadelphia is that many of these foods aren’t simply dishes—they are part of the city’s history and culture.

Philly Cheesesteak: Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sometimes onions on a long roll make this Philadelphia classic a must-try—just don’t spend your whole trip arguing about where to find the best one.

Roast Pork Sandwich: Often overlooked by visitors, this Philadelphia favorite combines roasted pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe on an Italian roll.

Hoagies: A Philadelphia institution, the classic Italian hoagie is piled with meats, cheese, vegetables, and toppings like oil, vinegar, and seasonings.

Soft Pretzels: With roots in the city’s German and Pennsylvania Dutch communities, Philadelphia soft pretzels are an inexpensive and portable snack best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Tomato Pie: This local specialty features a thick, rectangular crust topped primarily with tomato sauce and a sprinkling of grated cheese, usually served at room temperature.

Water Ice: Similar to Italian ice, this frozen treat is a Philadelphia favorite on warm days and comes in plenty of flavors.

Scrapple: A breakfast food with Pennsylvania Dutch roots, scrapple is made from pork, cornmeal, and seasonings, formed into a loaf, sliced, and fried.

A Philadelphia Italian-American Pasta Dinner: Philadelphia’s Italian-American communities have shaped the city’s food culture, making a traditional pasta dinner with red sauce, meatballs, and sausage worth adding to your culinary itinerary.

Where Should You Go to Try Philadelphia’s Famous Foods?

If you want to sample several of Philadelphia’s famous foods in one place, Reading Terminal Market is an excellent stop. The market has been part of Philadelphia’s food scene since 1893, and today its vendors offer everything from Pennsylvania Dutch specialties and baked goods to meats, cheeses, prepared meals, and classic Philly foods. It is busy, noisy, crowded, and full of people eating, shopping, and going about their daily business. You aren’t simply looking at Philadelphia’s food culture—you are experiencing it. This is a good place to try foods that you might not otherwise encounter. And because Reading Terminal can be a little overwhelming on a first visit, a food tour can be a fun way to make sense of the market and Philadelphia’s broader food traditions. A knowledgeable guide can introduce you to foods you might otherwise walk right past—and explain the history behind them.

Explore Philadelphia Beyond Historic District

Philadelphia grew along the Delaware River, so the waterfront is an important part of the city’s history and identity. Penn’s Landing is the traditional starting point. The name refers to the area where William Penn is traditionally associated with landing in Philadelphia in 1682. Today, the waterfront hosts events and provides access to the Delaware River. Nearby Cherry Street Pier occupies a former shipping pier and now combines public space, art, food, and events. It’s a good place to see a more contemporary side of Philadelphia. History buffs may want to visit the Independence Seaport Museum, which explores Philadelphia’s maritime history and its relationship with the Delaware River. You can also get out on the river. Cruises, including sightseeing, lunch, and dinner cruises, offer a different perspective of the city.

Philadelphia’s neighborhoods offer a chance to see how the city’s history and culture continue to evolve. Rittenhouse Square is one of the city’s most elegant neighborhoods, with a beautiful historic square surrounded by restaurants, shops, hotels, and residences. It’s an excellent place to take a break from sightseeing. The Italian Market in South Philadelphia is another worthwhile stop, particularly if you’re interested in food. The market and surrounding neighborhood reflect generations of Italian-American history while also showing how Philadelphia’s immigrant communities continue to shape the city. Philadelphia’s Chinatown offers another perspective on the city’s diverse history and culture. Look for the colorful Friendship Arch at the entrance to the neighborhood. You don’t need a particular attraction in mind to enjoy Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. Sometimes the best way to experience them is simply to walk, browse, and see where you end up.

One of my favorite things about Philadelphia is that you can set out for one historic site and discover three others along the way. There’s a lot of hidden history around Philadelphia. If you have an extra hour, don’t necessarily add another ticketed attraction to your itinerary. Walk another block. Turn down a side street. Look at the historic buildings. Read the plaques. You may find that the unexpected discoveries become some of your favorite Philadelphia memories.

I recommend taking a golf cart tour to get around the city or Hop On/Hop Off buses run routes to further out spaces.

Final Thoughts

Philadelphia is a city with interesting placards and signs around every bend in the city center. You can come for the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall and leave having discovered a centuries-old street, a remarkable museum, a neighborhood restaurant, or a bit of history you never knew existed. That’s what keeps me coming back to Philadelphia—and why I think it deserves more than a quick checklist of tourist attractions.

Happy travels! Amy

Philadelphia Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Philadelphia? Philadelphia’s must-see attractions include Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, but the city offers much more. Other highlights include Christ Church and Burial Ground, Elfreth’s Alley, Franklin Court, Reading Terminal Market, the Museum of the American Revolution, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary, and the city’s waterfront. Consider taking a tour through Viator or GetYourGuide to maximize your time in Philadelphia.

What are the best free things to do in Philadelphia? Philadelphia has a surprising number of free attractions, particularly in the historic district. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, many outdoor historic sites, Signers Garden, and several other historic locations can be visited without an admission fee. Your options also include the United States Mint and the Money in Motion exhibit at the Federal Reserve, both of which I included in my original Philadelphia research as free diversions from the main sightseeing route. Check current admission policies before your trip because hours, fees, and access can change.

What is Philadelphia best known for? Philadelphia is best known for its role in American history, particularly the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The city is also famous for cheesesteaks, its art and museum collections, the Liberty Bell, the Rocky Steps, and its distinctive neighborhoods and food traditions.

Is Philadelphia worth visiting? Absolutely. Philadelphia combines major American historic sites with excellent museums, distinctive architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and a strong food culture. Its compact historic district also makes it relatively easy to explore on foot.

How many days do you need in Philadelphia? Two days is a good starting point for a first visit, while three days gives you more time to explore beyond the historic district. With one day, concentrate on the historic center (ideally a historic walking tour) and choose one or two additional attractions. With two days, you can add museums, Reading Terminal Market, and some of the city’s iconic sights. Three or more days allows you to slow down and explore neighborhoods, the waterfront, and attractions farther from the historic core.

Should you buy tickets in advance? For some of Philadelphia’s most popular attractions, yes. In particular, check ticket requirements and availability for Independence Hall, the City Hall observation deck, museums, and any guided tours you plan to take. If you know what you want to see, booking ahead can save you from discovering that an attraction is sold out when you arrive.

Is Philadelphia walkable? Yes, particularly in the historic district and Center City. Many major attractions are within walking distance of one another. The area around Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Christ Church, Franklin Court, Elfreth’s Alley, and many other historic sites is compact enough that you can visit several attractions in one outing. With a historic walking tour you can see many of the top sites in less than two hours. Wear comfortable shoes, though. Philadelphia’s historic streets and sidewalks can be uneven, and you’re likely to walk farther than you expect. Philadelphia also has public transportation and PHLASH for reaching attractions farther from the historic core.

How do you get around Philadelphia? Walking is my first choice for exploring the historic district, but you don’t have to walk everywhere. PHLASH, Philadelphia’s visitor-oriented bus service, connects many popular attractions, including the historic district, Reading Terminal Market, LOVE Park and City Hall, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Eastern State Penitentiary, and Penn’s Landing. Routes and schedules change, so check the current schedule when planning your trip. Philadelphia also has public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services if you need to cover longer distances or don’t want to walk.

What food is Philadelphia famous for? Philadelphia is famous for cheesesteaks, but don’t stop there. Roast pork sandwiches, hoagies, soft pretzels, tomato pie, water ice, scrapple, and Italian-American dishes are all part of the city’s food culture. Reading Terminal Market is an excellent place to explore Philadelphia’s culinary traditions.

What should I not miss in Philadelphia? For a first visit, I would prioritize Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the historic district, Reading Terminal Market, and at least one of Philadelphia’s major museums. If you have additional time, add Elfreth’s Alley, Franklin Court, the Rocky Steps, Eastern State Penitentiary, and the waterfront. I highly recommend a historic walking tour to have a local expert bring the city alive.

What are some unusual things to do in Philadelphia? Philadelphia has plenty of attractions beyond the traditional historic sites. Visit the Masonic Temple, explore Eastern State Penitentiary, see the unusual collections at the Mütter Museum, wander through Elfreth’s Alley, or explore Cherry Street Pier.

Can you visit Philadelphia without a car? Yes. If you stay in or near Center City, you can walk to many major attractions and use public transportation or rideshare services when needed. PHLASH can also be useful for connecting major tourist attractions.

What is the best area to stay in Philadelphia? For a first visit, Center City or the historic district can be particularly convenient because you’ll be close to many attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. Your best location ultimately depends on whether your priority is history, museums, nightlife, restaurants, or a particular neighborhood.

Is Philadelphia good for a weekend trip? Yes. A weekend gives you enough time to experience Philadelphia’s historic core, visit a museum or two, sample some of the city’s famous foods, and explore one of its neighborhoods. If you have longer, you can slow down and venture farther afield.

Should I get travel insurance? Yes! It is a worthy expense to protect a much larger investment. We use Travel Insurance dot com to protect our vacations. This awesome travel site provides quotes from numerous travel insurance agencies and allows you to purchase them with no added increase to you: https://www.travelinsurance.com/?utm_source=pap&a_aid=65590b3a60c44

Amy French, Ph.D., is the voice behind Roaming Historian. A professional historian and seasoned traveler, she shares stories that blend history and travel to give readers a deeper understanding of the places they explore.

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