Philadelphia Is Home to the Birthplace of American Democracy — and You Can Stand in the Room Where It Happened
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The best things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania include running up the iconic Rocky steps and seeing the origins of the US standing inside Independence Hall, or diving into a classic Philly cheesesteak.
With over 25 million visitors each year, the City of Brotherly Love is one of the top destinations in the US. Explore the Museum of the American Revolution and walk through Old City, where America’s founding fathers debated independence on the historic grounds where the US was founded.
To make our list of top experiences, we factored in local recommendations, traveler reviews, and our personal favorites. We also factored in Google reviews to guarantee the best experiences. Below are the top 12 things to see and do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Highlights at a Glance
Run Up the Rocky Steps
In the movie Rocky, the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa runs up 72 stairs to train to become the greatest boxer in history. Since the movie came out in 1976, the steps have become a must-see destination.
To get to the steps, visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You can’t miss the giant flights of stairs leading to the entrance.
Run up the stairs and grab a few selfies in front of the Rocky statue. Visit in the early morning to miss the crowds of tourists who frequent this destination.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the US
Admire the Liberty Bell
The Liberty Bell is one of the city’s top attractions and a must-see. It originally rang over Independence Hall in the 18th century. It signaled the townspeople and called lawmakers to their meetings.
No one knows where the famous crack originated. However, it became an emblematic marking most tourists enjoy taking selfies with.
“Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof,” is inscribed on the side. This became a rallying call to end slavery in the nation. Today, it’s still a symbolic piece of American history you can see in Philly.
Read also: US Cities Where History Comes Alive
Visit Independence Hall
Independence Hall is where the famous Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. This agreement between legislatures in various states catapulted the US to independence.
You’ll see the spaces where the original Founding Fathers discussed the revolution and their freedom. From interactive exhibits to artifacts, each section is full of things to learn.
Today, Independence Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit early to avoid the crowds and take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.
Read also: Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the US
Eat in Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is the city’s number one stop for sampling local cuisine. You’ll find everything from cheesesteaks to locally grown produce.
The market was built in 1893 as the newest indoor market in the growing city. It’s laid out in a grid pattern, similar to famous European markets. It became the central grocer of much of downtown Philly.
When you visit, you’ll have tons of merchants and eateries to choose from. Check out local bread and exquisite handmade desserts. Come early to get the freshest items before they sell out.
Read also: US Cities That Are Perfect for Foodies
Try a Philly Cheesesteak
The cheesesteak is a Philadelphia creation you can’t miss. It’s probably the least healthy food option in the city—possibly over 1.2 million calories per bite.
All jokes aside, it’s worth trying at least once. Order yours with onions and extra cheese for the ultimate local experience. Hear the words, provolone wit, or American without, thrown around with expert precision.
There are several top places to try these iconic sandwiches, such as Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s. Do yourself a favor and try as many as you can.
Read also: Most Beautiful Neighborhoods in the US
Enjoy Nature in Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is a mesmerizing green space. It has over 1,000 acres to explore. You’ll pass through over 40 spaces, each with a unique ecosystem of plants.
Enjoy indoor gardens dedicated to tropical and desert plant life. You’ll see rare orchids and cacti, as well as species you never thought could grow in Philly.
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Outside gardens include native plants and European gardens. Schedule your visit with events such as concerts and flower shows. Everyone from Ladysmith Black Mambazo to Grammy award-winning quartets plays the gardens, so don’t miss it.
Read also: Greenest Cities in the US
Go Sculpture Hunting
Philly is famous for its outdoor sculptures. None are more famous than the LOVE sculpture in John F. Kennedy Plaza.
It was built by Robert Indiana in 1976 and has become a symbol of the City of Brotherly Love. When you visit, take a selfie and admire the crowds of people enjoying it.
Besides the LOVE sculpture, you’ll find hundreds of unique sculptures around the city. There’s everything from the Rocky Balboa statue to a few Benjamin Franklin statues standing around.
Read also: Must-Visit US Locations for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Stroll Along Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Modeled after Paris’ Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the parkway is a circular roundabout and park downtown. It’s full of lush gardens and historical fountains.
Surrounding it are some of the city’s top destinations. Meriwether Lewis, of the Lewis and Clark expedition, deposited his findings and prepared for his journey nearby.
Come to the parkway to see the surrounding destinations or have a picnic. Stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful green space in between sightseeing.
Read also: US National Parks
Explore the Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is an interactive museum dedicated to all things science. No matter what age you are, you’ll be in awe of the interactive exhibits.
See the celestial objects and planets in full detail. Or, come face to face with lifesize human bodies. You can even explore the human brain through a maze of tunnels and lights.
Visit the institute and take a tour with staff scientists. Bring your curiosity to learn as much as you can. Of course, there’s the massive Benjamin Franklin National Memorial in front.
Read also: Unique US Museums
Enjoy Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is an interactive art space like nowhere else. It was created in 2008 by artist Isaiah Zagar to display diverse mosaics.
You’ll walk through a historical house full of exquisite art. You’ll be surrounded by reflective tiles, multi-layered walls, and intricate designs.
Before it was created, the space was cleaned up by Zagar and other local artists. They turned the once-abandoned building into the perfect canvas for their art. When you visit, plan on spending hours inside this mind-bending art display.
Read also: American Cities With a Unique Art Scene
Walk Along the Waterfront
Philadephia’s waterfront is full of paths, museums, and historic places. Check out Race Street Pier, one of the city’s best green spaces. In the summer, locals come here to picnic and soak in the sun.
Afterward, walk along the Delaware trail along the riverfront. You’ll see the city’s busy seaport in action and enjoy local art vendors and performers.
After walking, head into the Independence Seaport Museum. This beautiful museum contains relics, artifacts, and photos documenting Philly’s maritime history.
Read also: American Cities That Offer the Best Quality of Life
Gaze at the Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia City Hall is an iconic landmark that’s one of the most popular destinations in the city. It’s home to over 250 statues, priceless art, and beautiful architecture.
Until 1908, it was the tallest building in the world. It was built with over 88 million bricks.
When you visit, tour its incredible architecture and travel to the top of the structure for views of the city. Don’t miss the guided tours where you’ll learn about the hidden history of the monument.
Read also: American Cities with a Unique Architectural Charm
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