Philadelphia is where America was born. Its many attractions speak to the country’s history. Known for its arts, history, culture, and cuisine, the city attracts millions of tourists every year. Are you planning to visit this lively and beautiful city? Here are the top 15 things to do in Philadelphia.
Top Things to Do in Philadelphia
1. Take a Tour of the Independence National Historic Park
This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the framework for the US Constitution was laid. There is so much to explore at the Independence National Historic Park including the Liberty Bell Center, the Benjamin Franklin Museum, Congress Hall, Visitor Center, National Constitution Center, etc. Click a selfie before the Liberty Bell, which proclaims liberty throughout the land. See the place where Abraham Lincoln stood and raised the flag in 1861. Be amazed by the 18th-century style of printing.
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2. Enjoy Diverse Experiences in Longwood Gardens
This sprawling botanical garden is a horticultural wonder, showcasing about 10,000 species of plants. It is a delight to explore the 200 acres of lush gardens bursting with colorful blooms. The gardens are divided into six districts: Conservatory District, Main Fountain Garden District, Lakes District, Chimes Tower District, House and Theater District, and Meadow and Forest District. In the spring, enjoy the beauty of the blooming daffodils, magnolias, and cherries, and explore the glasshouses in the winter. The musical fountains attract people of all ages. Let your kids learn about nature in the children’s garden. Take leisurely walks with your loved ones.
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3. Learn About the History of the US Constitution at the National Constitution Center
The 160,000-square-foot National Constitution Center celebrates the US Constitution. The interesting interactive exhibits, educational programs, and live performances bring the Constitution to life. Watch the story of ‘We the People’ projected on a 360° screen at the 350-seat Kimmel Theater. Pose before the bronze statues of the founding fathers of the constitution in the Signers’ Hall and click photographs. Delve into the history of the country at the National Constitution Center.
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4. Have fun at the Delaware River Waterfront Park
It is a great spot to enjoy a variety of vibrant activities. At the Delaware River Waterfront Park, you can play, eat, listen to live music, drink, and explore. You can also go on boat tours, bike tours, or walks. Visit the Adventure Aquarium, which displays several thousand marine animals. Explore the Children’s Museum with your kids, and let them learn science, technology, and math, as well as develop their creative minds. It is an excellent place for foodies with several eateries.
5. Go on a Walking Tour at the Old City
With charming cobblestone streets, trendy boutiques, stunning art galleries, and a vibrant old community, the Old City bursts into life. Take a walking tour to step into the past and trace the footsteps of the founding fathers of the US Constitution. It can be an unforgettable experience for the history buffs. Learn about the rich history of the country, exploring important landmarks such as Christ Church, Betsy Ross House, etc.
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6. Rediscover the American Revolution at the Museum of the American Revolution
Take a guided tour of the 118,000-square-foot museum. You will be awe-struck by the collection of art, artifacts, manuscripts, weapons used in battle, personal diaries, and printed works. Explore the stories of the enslaved, the natives, and the free Americans. The displays are arranged in chronological order from the 1760s to the creation of the nation. It is a treat for the history buffs with General Washington’s Tent and many more.
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7. Enjoy With Your Family at the Philadelphia Zoo
Philadelphia Zoo, the first zoo in America, is home to more than 1300 animals and hundreds of plants, including many endangered and rare species. Observe tigers, orangutans, jaguars, leopards, lemurs, etc. above your heads through mesh trails. Little kids will love the KidZoou, a barnyard with sheep, goats, chickens, and ducks. Enjoy the thrilling aerial adventure, climbing ropes, and crossing bridges. The park is open all year round. Book tickets online to avoid the crowds at the counter.
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8. Visit the Philadelphia Fairmount Park
With several acres of rolling hills, walking trails, shaded woods, and beautiful waterfronts, there is a lot to do in the park. Stroll in the 17th-century Japanese Garden and admire the waterfalls, ponds, and blooming flowers. The park features miles and miles of trails including the Boxer’s Trail, Trolley Trail, etc. Have a picnic and fly kites with your little ones and create unforgettable memories.
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9. Sample a Variety of International Foods at the Italian Market
It is the oldest and largest open-air market in America and runs along ten city blocks of Ninth Street. You will be amazed to see the wide array of products available in the market. The Italian heritage is visible in the shops and the neighborhoods of the Italian Market. However, it is also home to many mouthwatering restaurants where you can try Mexican, Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, Thai, and other Asian dishes.
10. Appreciate Medical Wonders at the Mutter Museum
The museum displays several thousand body parts preserved in fluids. The collections also include medical instruments, models, pharmaceuticals, non-human biological materials, and other memorabilia. The real wet and dry specimens have an eerie look. As most of the collection is human remains, children below the age of 10 are not allowed in the museum.
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11. Relax at the Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is one of the popular destinations in Philadelphia for shopping, dining, and relaxing. Take a stroll among the lush greenery and the sparkling fountains of Rittenhouse Square Park, or just relax sitting on one of the benches observing people. Visit one of the spas and refresh yourself. Watch live shows and other entertainment in the theaters.
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12. Soak in the Vibrant Atmosphere of the Reading Terminal Market
It was opened in 1893 and is one of the oldest public markets in the USA. The market is vibrant, and bustling with local restaurants serving foods prepared with fresh and rare ingredients. You can try fresh seafood, exotic meats, sushi, pretzels, dairy products, cannolis, sandwiches, cheesesteaks, and many more. The endless row of vendors and restaurants will leave you shocked.
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13. Witness Live Science Demos at the Franklin Institute
With three floors of hands-on science exhibits, live science programs, interesting interactive exhibits, and science exhibitions, Franklin Institute is an ideal place to learn science in a fun way. Let your children explore the wondrous space, take a journey through the human body and brain, find out how sports are connected to the human body, test their piloting skills, and experience the thrill of watching live science demonstrations.
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14. Explore Art Collections at the Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation has one of the largest collections of 19th and 20th-century French artworks and paintings of renowned artists, including Van Gogh, Picasso, Renoir, etc. It is a Mecca for art lovers, students, history lovers, and collectors. The special temporary exhibitions have something new and exciting every time you visit.
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15. Wander Through Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
This is a mosaic wonderland constructed from glass bottles, bike wheels, and mirror fragments by the mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar, who believed one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. The indoor space is fully tiled with two galleries of ever-changing temporary exhibitions and the outdoor area is a sculptured garden.
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Concluding Words
Philadelphia is a great city to visit. Its historic landmarks, culinary delights, and cultural attractions make it a top destination to travel alone and with friends and family. Plan your next vacation to the City of Brotherly Love.
