Things to do · Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US

Things to Do in Philadelphia

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Getting there
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) sits roughly 11 km (about a 20‑minute taxi ride) from downtown, making it the primary gateway for most visitors. Travelers from the Northeast often arrive by Amtrak, with the Northeast Corridor delivering a 1½‑hour ride from New York City, while I‑95 and I‑76 provide the main road links for drivers.
Who goes
The city welcomes around 42 million tourists each year, drawing history enthusiasts, food lovers, and families seeking a mix of museums and lively neighborhoods. Peak periods cluster in the summer months and around major holidays, when crowds swell; the quieter lull tends to fall in the colder winter weeks.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly 80–120 USD (about $80–$120) per day on lodging, meals, and transit, while a more comfortable pace might run closer to 150–250 USD. Accommodation and dining typically dominate the budget, and opting for the SEPTA transit pass and street‑food options can shave a noticeable amount off the total. Estimate →

  1. Independence Hall

    attraction · 4.5 rating · Free

    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.

  2. Philadelphia Museum of Art

    attraction · 4.7 rating · $30

    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.

  3. Eastern State Penitentiary

    attraction · 4.6 rating · $21

    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.

  4. Barnes Foundation

    attraction · 4.7 rating · $30

    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.

  5. Liberty Bell Center

    attraction · 4.3 rating · Free

    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.

  6. Reading Terminal Market

    market · 4.6 rating · Free

    Historic market featuring over 80 food and shopping concessions.

  7. Rocky Statue

    attraction · 4.2 rating · Free

    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.

  8. The Franklin Institute

    attraction · 4.3 rating · $29

    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.

  9. Independence National Historical Park

    park · 4.6 rating · Free

    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.

  10. The Mütter Museum at The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

    attraction · 4.3 rating · Free

    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.

  11. Museum of the American Revolution

    attraction · 4.6 rating · $27

    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.

  12. Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

    garden · 4.5 rating · $15

    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.

  13. “The Bond” Bronze Statues

    attraction · Free

    A public bronze sculpture installation in Philadelphia depicting figures, offering a quick artistic stop for passersby. Travelers visit to appreciate the outdoor public art.

  14. 3rd Street Gallery

    gallery · Free

    An artist-run cooperative gallery in Philadelphia showcasing contemporary works. Travelers visit to view rotating exhibitions of local and regional art.

  15. Abraham Lincoln Monument

    attraction · Free

    A monument in Philadelphia honoring President Abraham Lincoln, featuring a seated bronze figure. Travelers stop to view the historic commemorative sculpture.

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