Location: Philadelphia
Top Things to do in Philadelphia
Things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PA): The Best Sights & Landmarks
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. Liberty Bell Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,738 reviews
Though it can no longer be rung, the bell remains a lasting American symbol of freedom.
Reviewed By Southjp - London, United Kingdom
A must do!!! Visit very emotional and educational about the iconic symbol of American independence, set in the ruins of the colonial house.
2. Independence Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8,956 reviews
Both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed in this historic building.
Reviewed By jdc8mbc
This is a must-see attraction which requires a timed entry ticket which should be reserved way in advance, especially during holidays, spring break, and summer. We went in October and could not get tickets for our first-choice date, so we re-juggled our planned itinerary around the date for which we could get tickets to Independence Hall. It seems to us the first place to visit in Philadelphia is Independence Hall for people interested in American history. (If you're an art aficionado, then the Barnes would be the first stop in Philly.) The park ranger provided an informative overview and history of Independence Hall, after which we were allowed to roam and explore the Independence Square buildings. To get or pick-up reserved tickets, go to the modern Independence Visitor Center which across the street from the entrance to Independence Hall.
3. Christ Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 956 reviews
This church's congregation has included Ben Franklin, George Washington and Betsy Ross.
Reviewed By antoinettel389
Where else can you visit one building and find history about religion, politics, social events, presidents, founding fathers, Betsy Ross, the Penn family, see a letter written by George Washington, see the tallest building in the colonies for 56 years, the 600 year old baptisimal font used to baptise William Penn, sit in The Presidents Pew .....and much, much more. All the church historians are knowledgeable and friendly. They are always willing to take time to answer questions. As a tour guide in Historic Philadelphia for the past 20 years I have the opportunity to vist with our guest from throughout the world and for many it is the highlight of their tour. They most often mention the passion of the guides which brings the church history alive. A trip to Historic Philadelphia is incomplete without a visit to Christ Church.
4. City Hall Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,387 reviews
Located in the true center of Philadelphia, the City Hall Visitor Center allows visitors to experience one of the City’s most iconic buildings. Our knowledgeable Visitor Services Representatives offer visitor essentials including maps, brochures, souvenirs and trip itineraries. Interior and Tower Tours of this architectural treasure are available.
Reviewed By WuzA-Fergie - Bethlehem, United States
I’ve always admired the architectural beauty of this building, and I’ve wanted to do the “Building Tour” (which includes the Tower tour) for a long time. Our tour guide was Walker, and he was very knowledgeable about the history of the building. He took us outside to see statues, the courtyard, and different historical vantage points of the building. Inside, there are many murals depicting events relevant to the history of Philadelphia, as well as beautiful meeting rooms . It was a gorgeous day to visit the Tower, and the views were spectacular! A word of warning though- the elevator to the top is extremely small, and an only fit 4 people at a time. I’d highly recommend this trip!
5. 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.
6. Elfreth's Alley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,121 reviews
America's oldest residential street was built in 1702 and is now designated a National Historic Landmark.
Reviewed By stacywanderlust - Nashville, United States
This alley is representative of an era of history preserved in a single area and is the oldest residential street in the U.S. I took the best photos of my entire trip here. Private citizens occupy the houses, so I tried to be respectful of privacy and kept quiet. Elfreth's Alley is a must-see in Philly. I only wish the museum had been open the day I visited.
7. Rittenhouse Square
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 840 reviews
People-watching is the favorite pastime at this busting park, with loads of benches to accommodate weary pedestrians.
Reviewed By David-KevinB - Washington DC, United States
Planned by William Penn himself, Rittenhouse Square is a fantastic park in the heart of downtown. Surrounded by apartments, hotels, restaurants and shops, the green space is a great respite and more often than not, features a musician or two near its entrances. #rittenhousesquare
8. National Museum of American Jewish History
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,113 reviews
Visit the National Museum of American Jewish History, right on Independence Mall. Explore our collection of interactive exhibitions highlighting the journey of American immigrants and their stories that have helped shape America into the country we know and love. Reserve your tickets now!
Reviewed By flo220 - New York City, United States
A part of the Smithsonian (so all but special exhibits are free) this very interesting and informative museum covers life of Jews in the United State. It has a nice mix of exhibits with historical information (including immigration facts and figures), artifacts, interactive exhibits and film/tv clips. Informative and enjoyable. Worth a trip to Philadelphia for.
9. University of Pennsylvania
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 555 reviews
This Ivy League institution counts, among its founders, Ben Franklin.
Reviewed By TV2451
Class of '73, and my how it has changed, all for the better. Now a beautiful big city campus, safe and green with some incredible architecture and some important cultural institutions, many of which are open to the public.
10. Independence National Historical Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,953 reviews
One of the most famous square miles in the United States, the park is home to the Liberty Bell, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Independence Hall.
Reviewed By 907blaked - Tampa, United States
Our day 1 involved an afternoon visit to the National Constitution Center and to the Christ Church Burial Grounds to see Ben Franklin's grave. Our day 2 was a Sunday in November: Breakfast at Colombe Coffee Roasters; Liberty Bell (right when it opened at 9am); Independence Hall 10:20am tour (tickets reserved in advance, picked up at visitors center at 8:30am); Supreme Court Chamber in Old City Hall; American Philosophical Society Museum; West Wing; Congress Hall tour; Benjamin Franklin Museum; Franklin Court Printing Office; Lunch at National Mechanics; and Museum of the American Revolution.
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