Things to Do in Philadelphia
Plan your days in Philadelphia, your way
Start in Old City with the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, then let Elfreth's Alley slow you down for a few cobblestone minutes.
Reading Terminal Market handles lunch with a little of everything — cheesesteak, dumplings, a slice of shoofly pie for later.
Climb the Art Museum steps for the view down the Ben Franklin Parkway, then wander into the galleries if the mood holds.
Rittenhouse Square in the evening is where the city exhales — cafes, street musicians, dogs off leash.
One good rooftop, one good dinner, and you'll leave with a real sense of the place, not just its highlights.
Top attractions and places to eat in Philadelphia
Independence Hall
The UNESCO-listed building where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. A must-see for its central role in American founding history.
attraction · 4.5 rating
Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the largest art museums in the United States, renowned for its encyclopedic collections and its landmark neoclassical building. Travelers come for masterpieces and the famous exterior steps.
attraction · 4.7 rating · $30
Eastern State Penitentiary
A historic former prison known for its striking castle-like architecture and crumbling cellblocks, now a museum and one of Philadelphia's most famous attractions. Travelers explore its haunting halls and learn about its role in prison reform.
attraction · 4.6 rating · $21
Barnes Foundation
A renowned art museum housing an extraordinary collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings displayed in a distinctive ensemble arrangement. Travelers visit to see masterpieces by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso.
attraction · 4.7 rating · $30
Liberty Bell Center
The purpose-built glass pavilion housing the Liberty Bell along with exhibits on its history and symbolism. Travelers come to view the bell and learn its story through interpretive displays.
attraction · 4.3 rating
Reading Terminal Market
Historic market featuring over 80 food and shopping concessions.
market · 4.6 rating
Rocky Statue
A bronze statue of the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa near the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps. Travelers come to pose for photos and recreate the iconic film moment.
attraction · 4.2 rating
The Franklin Institute
A renowned science museum honoring Benjamin Franklin, featuring hands-on exhibits, a giant walk-through heart, and a planetarium. One of Philadelphia's top attractions for families and science lovers.
attraction · 4.3 rating · $29
Independence National Historical Park
A national park encompassing key sites of American independence, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Travelers explore its cluster of historic buildings and open spaces.
park · 4.6 rating
The Mütter Museum at The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
A medical museum famous for its collection of anatomical specimens, pathological samples, and antique medical instruments. Travelers visit for its fascinating and often macabre history of medicine.
attraction · 4.3 rating
Museum of the American Revolution
A history museum in Old City presenting the story of the American Revolution through artifacts, immersive galleries, and George Washington's war tent. Travelers visit to deeply explore the founding era of the United States.
attraction · 4.6 rating · $27
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
An immersive mosaic art environment created by artist Isaiah Zagar, featuring labyrinthine indoor and outdoor spaces covered in tile, glass, and found objects. Travelers come to experience one of the city's most distinctive works of folk art.
garden · 4.5 rating
Sabrina's Cafe
A popular Philadelphia brunch spot known for hearty breakfast dishes and stuffed French toast. Travelers go for a casual, comfort-food-focused morning meal.
cafe
Royal Boucherie
A French-inspired brasserie in Old City serving charcuterie, oysters, and seasonal fare. Travelers come for a lively bistro dining and drinking experience.
bar
Dilworth Park
A revitalized public plaza on the west side of City Hall featuring a café, seasonal fountains, and a winter ice rink, a lively downtown gathering spot.
park