Choose from 77 Fun Things to Do in Pennsylvania
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 77 listings.
Penn Station
New York City is no stranger to the everyday hustle and bustle, and Penn Station, the city’s largest intercity train station, is no exception. Constructed in the early 20th century, it was designed in a Beaux-Arts style inspired by the Gare d’Orsay in Paris. It was once considered one of the most important architectural sites in New York. Unfortunately due to low utilization it was demolished in the 1950s. It was restored and reconstructed to its current station in 1969.
Today it is operated by Amtrak and serves more than 600,000 passengers daily — that’s more than any other transit station in North America. It brings in daily commuters from the surrounding areas of Long Island and New Jersey and is well-connected with the New York City Subway system. Often crowded, the multi-level underground station is one of the busiest spots in Manhattan.
Practical Info
Penn Station is situated in Midtown Manhattan, not far from Madison Square Garden (just above,) Herald Square, and the Empire State Building. It connects New York to major cities such as Boston, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia. Subway stops here are the 34th Street/Penn Station stops. Luggage storage and parking facilities are available. The station is completely underground.
Address: 390 7th Ave, New York City, New York, USA, USA
Hours: Ticket office open 24 hours
From $ 329
One Liberty Observation Deck
Enjoy the view from the top at Philadelphia's One Liberty Observation Deck. Located on the 57th floor of One Liberty Place, the observation deck features sweeping 360-degree views of the city from 883 feet (269 meters) above street level. Interactive touch screen technology lets you zoom in for a closer look at the city below.
The Basics
Your observation deck experience begins on the ground floor when you hear the stories of Philadelphia and its place in the nation’s history. Learn about famous historical figures and their Philadelphia connections, before ascending up to the enclosed viewing platform, where an enormous bust of Benjamin Franklin greets you the moment you step off the elevator. Enjoy views of the whole city from a different vantage point.
For those looking to save money, entry to the observation deck is included with many hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours. There’s also a popular 48-hour Sun and Stars Pass good for two visits, so you can see the daytime panoramic view and the city lights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buy your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line at the ticket counter.
- Expect to spend about an hour taking in views of “Philly from the top.”
- The observation deck is accessible to wheelchairs, strollers, and scooters, and offers restrooms and a gift shop.
- Guided tours are free with paid admission to One Liberty Observation Deck.
- There are numerous parking garages within walking distance of the tower.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach One Liberty Observation Deck, located at 1650 Market Street in Center City (Philly’s walkable downtown). Most visitors arrive as part of a hop-on hop-off city sightseeing tour or by public transport—Trolley Works, Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours, Big Bus, Philly Phlash, and SEPTA all stop within easy walking distance of the observation deck.
When to Get There
One Liberty Observation Deck is open 365 days a year from 10am to 9pm (8pm during fall/winter and holidays), and there isn’t really a bad time to visit. For an entirely different Philly perspective, come at night when millions of lights illuminate the city below.
Center City Highlights
After taking in unforgettable top-down views from the observation deck, visit Love Park, City Hall, Rittenhouse Square, and Reading Terminal Market—all just a short walk away. Other must-see Center City highlights include Old City, Society Hill, South Street, and Chinatown. Visitors who want to avoid the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation can opt for a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour of Philadelphia.
Address: 1650 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 14
Philadelphia Old City
Old City is a neighborhood in Central City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, known for its antiquated charm and many historic sites important to the birth of the United States. Wander down its narrow cobblestone streets and you'll feel like you're stepping through a time warp into 18th-century colonial America.
The Basics
The neighborhood is a must-see for travelers who want to walk in the footsteps of the founding fathers. Highlights include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, the Betsy Ross House, Christ Church, and Carpenters' Hall. Elfreth's Alley is one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the country, lined with centuries-old homes.
Bus tours, many via open-top, double-decker buses, skirt the boundaries of Old City, but some of the landmarks are on narrow streets or in courtyards best accessible on a walking tour. Tour guides fill visitors in on the life and times of Philly's most famous resident, Benjamin Franklin, while stopping at city landmarks. Horse-drawn carriage tours are another popular option, allowing visitors to travel like their historic compatriots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old City is a don’t-miss for colonial history buffs and first-time Philly visitors.
- Visitors can skip the (often long) line for the Liberty Bell and view the famous national symbol through the Independence Visitor Center side window.
- The historic cobblestone streets can make the area difficult to access for strollers and wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Old City occupies the blocks between Front and Sixth streets, bounded by Florist Street to the north and Walnut Street to the south. It is easily accessible via SEPTA (bus and rail), but street parking in the area is notoriously difficult.
When to Get There
By day, the area is thick with travelers on sightseeing tours, so visit early to avoid the crowds. Expect long lines at the top attractions (especially the Liberty Bell). Nighttime ghost tours are available for those in search of a creepy thrill, and neighborhood nightlife features top-notch restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Arts and Fashion
Today’s Old City is also a hub for Philadelphia's fashion, arts, and design scene. The neighborhood has more than 30 art galleries and home furnishing outlets, and boutiques showcase collections by local fashion designers.
Address: USA
From $ 33
President's House
In the early days of the nation, Philadelphia served as the capital of the United States, and the Philadelphia mansion at 6th and Market streets was the first President’s House. Here George Washington served his entire presidency, and John Adams served three years, until June of 1800 when he moved to the newly completed White House in the District of Columbia. Today, much of the original house is gone—only the side walls and foundation remain. Visitors can walk through the historic site, exploring the footprint of the building. There’s also a a commemorative exhibition called "The President's House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation" located on the grounds.
Practical Info
The President’s House is located within Independence Mall, just steps from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. As an open-air exhibit, it is free and open to the public, every day.
Address: Philadelphia, PA, USA 19106, USA
From $ 20
Penn's Landing
Sandwiched between Columbus Boulevard and the Delaware River on the east side of Philadelphia, Penn's Landing is skinny in shape but important in stature. The waterfront area served as the 1682 landing spot for William Penn, founder of the Pennsylvania colony, making it a must-see spot for any American history buff.
The Basics
Today Penn's Landing is a vibrant neighborhood marked by art and culture. Most tours of historic Philadelphia include a stop at Penn's Landing. Hop-on hop-off bus tours allow visitors to disembark at Penn's Landing and spend as much time as they like exploring the riverfront. Here you’ll find the Independence Seaport Museum, a maritime history site with a floating restaurant and ships to explore, including a World War II–era submarine and a Spanish-American War–era cruiser.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s an ADA-compliant ramp leading from Market Street down to Penn's Landing for those in wheelchairs.
- Restrooms are located below the Chestnut Mall and the Pagoda, just south of the stage on the Great Plaza.
- All events at the Great Plaza are held rain or shine; they’re also wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
- Visitors can bring chairs and blankets to any events or concerts at the Great Plaza.
How to Get There
Penn's Landing is located about two miles (3.2 kilometers) from the city center, just off Exit 20 on I-95. You can also take public transit; multiple SEPTA bus routes serve the area, as does the SEPTA rail (take the Blue Line to the Second Street Stop). Parking at Penn's Landing is scarce along Columbus Boulevard; there are paid lots, but they tend to be pricey.
When to Get There
Although some events in Penn’s Landing are seasonal, the Independence Seaport Museum is open year-round, as is the Delaware River walkway, which offers views of New Jersey across the water. In winter, the Blue Cross Riverrink Winterfest has ice skating, fire pits, cozy cabins, and a kids lodge. In summer, events are held at Spruce Street Harbor Park and Race Street Pier. Festival Pier and the Great Plaza, a concrete labyrinth along the river, both host festivals and events.
Visiting Nearby Old City
Old City, one of Philadelphia’s most exciting neighborhoods, is set just across Columbus Boulevard from Penn’s Landing. You’ll find plenty of great restaurants, shops, and historical landmarks, including the Liberty Bell and the Betsy Ross House.
Address: Philadelphia, USA
From $ 30
National Liberty Museum
This popular museum showcases the captivating stories of freedom fighters, movement leaders, and politicians through interactive exhibits and contemporary art pieces. One of the museum’s main mediums is glass—a reminder that freedom is as fragile as this delicate material. It’s a theme that’s woven throughout the entire museum.
Travelers can explore the numerous galleries, which include Liberty Hall, Heroes from Around the World, Coming to America and the Inspiration Exhibit. Interactive displays and colorful works of art convey the stories of famous fighters and encourage civic responsibility, leadership and integrity in all those who visit. The National Liberty Museum is an ideal stop for history lovers and travelers with families and children, since many of the exhibits cater to the younger set.
Visitors can explore the comprehensive and expansive museum on its own, or enjoy it in conjunction with other nearby attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
Practical Info
The museum is located at 321 Chestnut Street, two blocks from the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
Address: 321 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Hours: 10am-5pm daily
Admission: $7 for adults, $6 for students and $2 for children ages 5 to 17
From $ 7
Reading Terminal Market
Dating from the 1860s, Philadelphia’s largest covered food market is one of its most beloved local landmarks and popular tourist attractions. It’s set adjacent to the Convention Center and a SEPTA regional rail station, as well as the city’s main Greyhound bus station.
Home to a wide array of food vendors, the Market also features flowers, cookware and locally made gifts. Restaurants here range from Middle Eastern cuisine to traditional Cantonese to fresh-made donuts. Some of its most distinctive vendors are Pennsylvania Dutch bakers, farmers and craftspeople, which only do business here from Wednesday through Saturday.
If you’re a fan of cannoli, Termini Brothers Bakery makes the best in the city; for cupcakes, try Flying Monkey. Be sure to seek out Philbert, a bronze statue of pig that serves as the Market’s mascot and a unique “piggy” bank; coins donated here go to programs that support healthy eating habits.
Address: 51 N 12th Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-6pm; Sun 9am-5pm
From $ 32
Please Touch Museum
Families visiting Philadelphia with kids won’t want to skip the Please Touch Museum, which has been the children’s museum of Philadelphia since 1976. The guiding principle of the museum is teaching through play, and it offers a multitude of engaging hands-on activities for young people. The 157,000-square-foot site has six unique zones over two floors, like Wonderland, where kids can have a tea party with the Mad Hatter, and Flight Fantasy, where kids learn about historic and futuristic flying machines. They can even play George Washington, sailing a boat on a mini Delaware River. There are also four areas designated specially for children under 3 years old, making the Please Touch Museum a spot for kids of any age.
Practical Info
The Please Touch Museum is located in historic Memorial Hall, about 15 minutes’ drive from downtown Philadelphia in Fairmount Park. The best time to visit is in the afternoons, or on Mondays, when school groups won’t be around. The site is open seven days a week and is only closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. On-site parking is available.
Address: 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, USA 19131, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 11am-5pm
Admission: $17
From $ 32
Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the country’s largest art museums -- the third largest, to be exact -- the Philadelphia Museum of Art encompasses 10 acres (4 hectares) with more than 300,000 works spanning over 2,000 years. Impressive collections in Renaissance, American, Impressionist and Modern art abound, as well as pieces from cultures around the world and different time periods. In fact, the second floor of the museum holds over 80 period-themed rooms to explore.
While the entire museum is interesting, there are some highlights not to miss. Check out their collection of arms and armor, the second largest in the United States. Explore architecture by visiting a reconstructed Japanese tea house or a Muromachi period Buddhist temple. For some local art culture, peruse the room dedicated to Philadelphia local Thomas Eakins. Outside, the Anne d’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden features one acre (0.4 hectares) of well-manicured gardens littered with rotating sculptures. Before visiting, check the Philadelphia Museum of Art calendar for current and upcoming exhibitions.
Rocky Balboa fans will also love taking a jog up the museum’s front steps, as this is the same grand staircase Sylvester Stallone ran up in the movie Rocky. Outside the museum are numerous vendors selling Rocky memorabilia, as the steps are commonly referred to as “The Rocky Steps.” Before leaving, have your photo taken next to the two-ton (4,409-pound),10-foot (three-meter) tall bronze Rocky statue.
While the entire museum is interesting, there are some highlights not to miss. Check out their collection of arms and armor, the second largest in the United States. Explore architecture by visiting a reconstructed Japanese tea house or a Muromachi period Buddhist temple. For some local art culture, peruse the room dedicated to Philadelphia local Thomas Eakins. Outside, the Anne d’Harnoncourt Sculpture Garden features one acre (0.4 hectares) of well-manicured gardens littered with rotating sculptures. Before visiting, check the Philadelphia Museum of Art calendar for current and upcoming exhibitions.
Rocky Balboa fans will also love taking a jog up the museum’s front steps, as this is the same grand staircase Sylvester Stallone ran up in the movie Rocky. Outside the museum are numerous vendors selling Rocky memorabilia, as the steps are commonly referred to as “The Rocky Steps.” Before leaving, have your photo taken next to the two-ton (4,409-pound),10-foot (three-meter) tall bronze Rocky statue.
Practical Info
Hours of operation for the Main Building are Tuesday through Sunday 10am
to 5pm, with Wednesday through Friday having extended hours until
8:45pm. Admission tickets are good for two consecutive days and include
access to the Main Building, Perelman Building, Rodin Museum, and
Historic House Mount Pleasant. Prices are $20 for adults; $18 for
seniors 65 and over; $14 for students and youth aged 13 to 18; and free
for children 12 and under and museum members. During the first Sunday of
the month and Wednesdays after 5pm you can pay what you wish.
Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
Hours: Main and Perelman Building Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, Closed Mondays. Rodin Museum Wed-Mon 10am-5pm, Closed Tuesdays.
Admission: Adults: $20; Seniors: $18; Students: $14; Youth (13–18): $14; Child: Free
From $ 20
Mt Washington
Aside from being one of the most visited neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, Mount Washington offers some of the best views of the city skyline, having been named one of the most beautiful vistas in America. Rows of charming homes and Shiloh Street, the main district of shops, bars, restaurants, and boutiques also draw many to the area. Several of the restaurants offer an upscale ambiance with incredible views of the city and the three surrounding countryside and rivers. It is one of the premier neighborhoods in Pittsburg.
The mountain was once the home of many various coal mines, earning it the nickname of “Coal Mountain.” Grandview Avenue runs the length of the hill with four outlook decks in between homes and restaurants. At the edge of the mountain you’ll find the bronze statue of George Washington and Seneca leader Guyasuta staring at one another, marking the area’s history. Also be sure to check out the library and the city’s newest park, Emerald View, which feels worlds away from the city.
Practical Info
Mount Washington is located directly across the Monongahela River from downtown Pittsburg. It has an overlook 450 feet above the city. Many visitors take the Duquesne Incline to the top of the mountain to access the viewpoint. To get there by driving, take the PJ McArdle Roadway from the south end of the Liberty Bridge.
Address: Mt Washington, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, USA
From $ 75
Philadelphia Fairmount Park
In the midst of Philadelphia's steel and concrete urban setting lies acres of beautiful green parkland. While relaxing on a beautiful park bench beneath the shade of a tree, you can thank the Fairmount Park for providing you with such a serene sense of nature in a big city.
Fairmount Park is Philadelphia's Park System. With over 9,200 acres (3,723 hectares), it claims 10% of the land in Philadelphia and is comprised of 63 regional and neighborhood parks. The largest of these parks are East and West Parks, Franklin D. Roosevelt Park, Pennypack Park, Poquessing Park, Tacony Creek Park and Wissahickon Valley Park.
Fairmount Park is Philadelphia's Park System. With over 9,200 acres (3,723 hectares), it claims 10% of the land in Philadelphia and is comprised of 63 regional and neighborhood parks. The largest of these parks are East and West Parks, Franklin D. Roosevelt Park, Pennypack Park, Poquessing Park, Tacony Creek Park and Wissahickon Valley Park.
Practical Info
The many parks are scattered throughout Philadelphia, so you are sure to pass by one as you are working along the city streets.
Address: Philadelphia, USA
From $ 14
New Hall Military Museum
The New Hall Military Museum is a recreation of the home where Secretary of War Henry Knox operated in the early days of the Revolutionary War, and the origin point of America’s Army and Navy. Today the small building—Knox shared it with the Carpenters Company—houses exhibits about the founding of the United States Marine Corps and about the history of the Army and Navy, starting with the American Revolution until the late 18th century. The original building was built in 1791, but it was torn down and rebuilt in the 1950s as part of the Independence National Historical Park renovations.
Practical Info
The New Hall Military Museum sits on the east side of Independence Mall, right behind the First Bank of the United States. It is open only Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Address: 320 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA, USA 19106, USA
Hours: Sat & Sun 10am-5pm
From $ 19
National Museum of American Jewish History
For history buffs, a sojourn in Philadelphia isn’t complete without a stop at the National Museum of American Jewish History (NMAJH). Learn about Jewish heritage while browsing the vast exhibits, curated to showcase culture and traditions of Jews in America.
The Smithsonian-affiliated museum hosts special events and houses an extensive collection of 30,000 artifacts detailing themes that include American-Jewish immigration, art, charity, sports, and religion. Because of its’ convenient location across from Independence Mall and near the Liberty Bell, NMAJH is included in many tours of Philadelphia’s historic district.
Practical Info
The National Museum of American Jewish History is located near the intersection of Fifth and Market Street, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Visiting hours at NMAJH are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Check the museum’s schedule for holiday and special event hours. Admission costs $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and youth — children, active military and members can attend for free.
Address: 3003 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, USA 19106, USA
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Admission: $12 adults, $11 seniors & youth, free for children, active military & members
From $ 13
Philadelphia Chinatown
Originally settled in the mid-19th century by Cantonese immigrants, Philadelphia's Chinatown is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its fresh-food markets, authentic restaurants, and diverse crowds. Its streets and alleyways are jam-packed with shops, including those selling gifts and souvenirs, novelty items, and artisan crafts.
The Basics
The colorful, 40-foot-high (12-meter-high) Friendship Gate at 10th and Arch streets marks the entrance to Philadelphia’s Chinatown. In addition to exploring the neighborhood, spanning from Arch to Vine streets and from 8th to 11th streets, hungry travelers can sample savory and sweet cuisine from one of Chinatown’s more than 50 restaurants, making it the ideal destination for enjoying authentic Chinese dim sum, noodles, and other delights.
Visit Chinatown independently or as part of a sightseeing tour of Philly. It’s included on most hop-on hop-off tours, and there’s also a popular BYOB trolley tour to consider.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chinatown is ideal for those looking for a meal and/or souvenirs and other goods.
- It’s a great choice for a night out, with karaoke bars, comedy clubs, and live music venues on almost every corner.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- There are numerous parking garages within walking distance of the neighborhood.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Philadelphia’s Chinatown, located in Center City. Most visitors arrive as part of a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour or by public transport—the Market–Frankford subway line stops close by. Travelers can make their way to Philly’s Chinatown from other major East Coast cities using inexpensive Chinatown buses.
When to Get There
As with all of Center City, Chinatown’s streets are busy year-round. Summer is Philly’s peak tourist season, whereas other times of year are less crowded. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between comfortable weather and manageable crowds.
Asian Arts Initiative
While in Chinatown, set aside some time to check out the Asian Arts Initiative on Vine Street in the Callowhill/Chinatown North area. This community-based arts center is home to artist studios, a gallery and exhibition space, and a small theater. It also frequently hosts workshops and special events for those looking to learn more about Asian culture and traditions.
Address: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA
From $ 32
Old City Hall
Old City Hall was used by the first US Supreme Court from 1791 to 1800, when Philadelphia was briefly the nation’s capital. After the federal government moved to Washington DC, the building was occupied by Philadelphia’s city hall and mayor’s office. Today it’s maintained as a historic site, and visitors can see the restored courtroom.
The Basics
Old City Hall sits in the heart of Philadelphia’s Historic District, surrounded by the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Congress Hall. It was built in the Federal style, with distinctive red brick and a clock tower, which visitors can still see today. Most of the furnishings inside the old courtroom are from the time period, but not original to the room. Portraits of the first five Supreme Court justices can be seen in the Second Bank portrait gallery.
Visit Old City Hall independently or as part of a sightseeing tour of Philadelphia—on foot or by trolley. No admission fee is required, and park rangers are available to answer questions, though it’s worth taking a guided walking tour of the district to learn all of the history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Philadelphia’s Old City Hall is a must-see for history buffs.
- It’s located in Independence National Historic Park, and admission is free.
- Get there early to beat the crowds and avoid waiting in line.
- The building is accessible to wheelchairs through the west door.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Old City Hall, located at 5th and Chestnut streets in Philadelphia’s Historic District. Most visitors arrive as part of a sightseeing tour or by public transport—the Market–Frankford line and the Philly Phlash downtown loop stop nearby.
When to Get There
Old City Hall is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and there isn’t really a bad time to visit. Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds and avoid waiting in line, as entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. Old City Hall is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Philadelphia’s Historic District
While at Old City Hall, set aside some time to explore Philadelphia’s Old City Historic District, spanning from Front to 7th streets and from Vine to Lombard streets. Visit highlights such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Franklin Square, and Carpenters’ Hall. See beautifully restored 18th-century homes and take a stroll down Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street and a National Historic Landmark.
Address: 501 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, USA
From $ 19
Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia City Hall, in the middle of Center City at the intersection of Broad and Market streets, is visible from all over town. For nearly 100 years, it remained the tallest structure in the city. Though it no longer bears the accolade, City Hall remains one of the city’s most recognizable historic buildings.
The Basics
Officially the largest municipal building in the US, City Hall is a highlight on a number of Philadelphia walking, minivan, and bus tours. City Hall is also a stop on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing double-decker bus.
Casual passersby can admire the building, especially its Second Empire edifice bearing impressive sculptures by Alexander Milne Calder, creator of the William Penn statue on its spire. Dilworth Park, located at the building’s base and added during a 2014 renovation, is a pleasant place to pause and catch your breath. Tours of the building’s interior are also available; tickets are based on 15-minute timed intervals and can be purchased online or at the venue. It’s also possible to book a guided tower tour and ascend to the observation deck located just below the William Penn statue.
Things to Know Before You Go
- City Hall’s viewing platform, the highest open-air observation deck in Philadelphia, offers panoramic views of the city at 548 feet (167 meters).
- Follow in the footsteps of your favorite actors: Philadelphia City Hall served as a filming location in classic movies ranging from Rocky to Philadelphia.
- While you can book tickets on the day, it’s wise to purchase them online and secure your admission slot in advance.
- One of the best perspectives of City Hall comes from the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps—it's visible directly down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
How to Get There
Philadelphia City Hall stands at what was once Center Square, a landmark still very accessible on foot. There are also a number of public transportation options for visiting City Hall, including SEPTA Regional Rail (use either Suburban and Jefferson stations), SEPTA Market-Frankford and Broad Street lines, SEPTA trolleys, SEPTA buses, and NJ Transit buses.
When to Get There
Philadelphia City Hall is open Monday–Friday and on select Saturdays year-round; it’s closed during public holidays. December is an exciting time to visit: That’s when Dilworth Park hosts the lively Rothman Ice Rink and companion Christmas market.
What's Inside Philadelphia City Hall?
While the tower tour is often considered the highlight of a City Hall visit, don't discount the interior splendors of this architectural treasure. The enormous building contains more than 600 rooms, including the opulent City Council Chamber, the wood-paneled Supreme Court Room, and the chandelier-lit Conversation Hall.
Address: Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106, USA
From $ 14
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Founded in 1805, this is the oldest art museum and art school in America. The result of a financial and ideological collaboration between painter Charles Wilson Peale, sculptor William Rush and other artists and business leaders, the Academy spent six decades shuffling amongst different locations before finally settling into its present home in 1876.
Housed in the distinctive castle-like Furness-Hewitt Building and opened as part of Philadelphia’s Centennial celebrations, the Academy continues to feature a curriculum designed in the late 19th century by realist painter, photographer and sculptor (and former Academy student) Thomas Eakins. Now affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, the Academy’s faculty has included famous artists like illustrator Alphonse Mucha, and the student body once included painter Maxfield Parrish and film director David Lynch.
Spread over 11 different galleries, the museum features a large array of rotating exhibits, mostly focused on the work of contemporary American artists. The museum’s permanent collection of works by a wide range of American artists dates from the 1760s onward, and is displayed in chronological and thematic order. Be sure not to miss The Landsdowne Portrait, a famous 1796 oil painting of George Washington.
Address: 118-128 N Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, USA
Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 11am-5pm; closed Mon
From $ 49
National Constitution Center
Set within Independence Mall, this enormous, state-of-the-art museum is dedicated to the history, significance and spirit of the United States Constitution. Visitors are introduced to the Center via a 17-minute multimedia stage show called Freedom Rising, and permanent exhibits include the black robe of Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the first woman on the Supreme Court, and a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation.
The most unusual attraction here is the Signer’s Hall, a room full of 42 life-size bronze statues of the Founding Fathers, the men who signed the Constitution into law. Visitors are allowed to take photos with these statues, so be sure to seek out your favorite father and plan that Fourth of July card you’ve always imagined.
The big-ticket draw, though, is the original copy of the first public printing of the Constitution, published in a local Philadelphia newspaper in 1787. There are 24 other copies of this printing around the world, though only a few are on public display; the Center’s copy is occasionally stored to give it a rest from light exposure, and is briefly replaced with a high-resolution reproduction. The original copy of the Constitution itself is on display at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
Address: 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106, USA
Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 9:30am-6pm; Sun 12-5pm
From $ 19
Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial
This much-loved memorial honoring Vietnam veterans from the city of Philadelphia was born in the 1980s and exists—most appropriately—above the busy Veterans Highway (I-95). Travelers to this somber and patriotic site will find the names of more than 600 soldiers from the City of Brotherly Love etched into black granite slabs. Visitors who wander along the historic waterfront will likely find themselves at this beautiful reminder of sacrifice and honor. Local guides will share details about the list of names from the monument in Washington, D.C. that exists inside one of the stones and travelers looking for a full war memorial experience can also head to the nearby Korean Veterans Memorial that’s adjacent to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Practical Info
The memorial is located on Spruce Street and Front Street, just south of the Independence Seaport Museum, near Penn’s Landing.
Address: Spruce St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA 19147, USA
From $ 32
Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is perfect for families with kids looking for a break from the historical sites, though it has some historical significance as well—it was the nation’s first zoo. It’s home to over 1,300 different animals, many of them rare and endangered, and renowned for successfully breeding animals that are difficult to breed in captivity.
The Basics
The Philadelphia Zoo has activities for the whole family. With exhibits like Outback Outpost, African Plains, Big Cat Falls, Penguin Point, and Monkey Junction, the zoo offers a closer look at rare and endangered animals that you may not see anywhere else. There’s also a children’s zoo with interactive exhibits and opportunities for hands-on learning. Save money with a discounted multiattraction pass that includes zoo admission.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Philadelphia Zoo is a must-do for animal lovers and families with kids.
- Buy your tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in line at the box office.
- Expect to spend a full day exploring the zoo’s animal exhibits and attractions.
- The zoo is accessible to wheelchairs, strollers, and scooters, and offers restrooms, an ATM, and on-site parking.
- There are plenty of shops and dining options inside, and guests are permitted to bring their own food and nonalcoholic drinks.
How to Get There
The Philadelphia Zoo sits on the corner of 34th Street and Girard Avenue in northern Philadelphia, just a short drive from other attractions. Most visitors arrive as part of a hop-on hop-off tour or by public transport—SEPTA’s route 15 trolley and the Philly Phlash stop right outside. If you’re driving, take I-76 to the Girard Avenue exit and follow the signs.
When to Get There
The Philadelphia Zoo is open daily, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. It’s busiest in summer; other times of year are less crowded. Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, avoid the long lines, and see the animals at their liveliest.
Zoo Rides and Attractions
In addition to the many great animal exhibits, the Philadelphia Zoo also offers several rides and attractions. Young kids will love the zoo’s custom-built carousel featuring endangered species from the Amazon rainforest and the PZ Express kiddie train, while visitors of all ages can fly above the zoo in a hot-air balloon or paddle around the lake in a swan boat.
Address: 3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia 19104, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 30