Location: City Center West
Top Things to do in City Center West
Things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PA): The Best Sacred & Religious Sites
One of the most historic cities in America, Philadelphia is an ideal place to spend a weekend - preferably a long one. Be sure to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed. Both are part of Independence National Historic Park. Philadelphia also boasts some outstanding art museums, including the Rodin Museum. The Franklin Institute Science Museum is one of many area attractions honoring the life and work of Benjamin Franklin, the city's most famous ambassador. After digesting all of that history, be sure you save room for a classic Philly cheese steak sandwich.
Restaurants in Philadelphia
1. First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
2. Masonic Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 629 reviews
"The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania" is an example of elegant architecture. Inside, the lodge is adorned with lovely artwork.
Reviewed By PMahdis
We had run out of things to do and decided to give a tour here a shot. It was 1 hour long. If you expected to be treated like a tourist customer entitled to prod and demand things, maybe this is not the tour for you. I read some of the "terrible" ratings and things like not answering questions about the masons is maybe to be expected otherwise it would not be a secret society. 14 Presidents were Masons. This is an impressive building built by masons for masons. They allow the public in under watch by a tour guide. It is one of the strongest memory forming things I did in Philly.
3. Arch Street United Methodist Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
4. St. Mark's Church
5. Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 959 reviews
The head church of Philadelphia's Catholic Archdiocese is on the National Registrar of Historic Places. Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass here in 1979.
Reviewed By katsusanna - Raleigh, United States
The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul is a gorgeous church, filled with beautiful artwork and stunning architecture. It can be appreciated by both religious and non-religious individuals. There is no cost to enter the church, and we wandered in one afternoon when we were visiting Philadelphia. There was not a religious service going on, but there was a choir practicing for a concert that was going to be held there that evening, and their voices were exceptionally beautiful, setting just the right tone for enjoying the ambience of such an awe-inspiring place. There were volunteers/docents stationed just inside the sanctuary. They were very welcoming and were happy to answer all of our questions about the church's history, artwork, architecture, etc. (They also recommended some good restaurants! Recommendations from locals are the best!) The church is huge and reminiscent of the finest cathedrals in Europe. The decor is impressive and ornate, but not overbearing or gaudy. It is very lovely. There are side-altars and small chapels around the perimeter of the sanctuary, oftentimes adorned with beautiful paintings and statues. In a back corner is the tomb of Saint Katherine Drexel, one of the few American saints. There is a huge mosaic above her tomb -- very interesting and very different from the other artwork, because it is modern in appearance. Visitors are free to wander around, take photos, ask questions, admire the artwork (and also pray or contemplate if you wish). It is a wonderfully peaceful oasis in the midst of a bustling city. You definitely don't have to be Catholic or even religious to enjoy and appreciate this gem. It is open to everyone, and I felt that the volunteer docents there genuinely wanted everyone to feel welcome. A visit to the Basilica is highly recommended when you're in Philadelphia. You will be glad you did!
7. First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
8. Leyv Ha-Ir
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