Philadelphia is a city that wears its history proudly, but it is far from a place stuck in the past. Walking through the streets of Center City, you are just as likely to stumble upon a revolutionary-era landmark as you are a contemporary art installation or a buzzing, chef-driven restaurant. It is this dynamic tension between the old and the new that makes exploring the city so endlessly rewarding.
The layout of Philadelphia makes it surprisingly accessible for visitors. William Penn’s original grid design places many of the most iconic sights within a walkable radius, allowing you to pack a diverse range of experiences into a single day. You can stand in the room where a nation was born in the morning and, by afternoon, climb the steps of a world-class museum without ever needing to hail a cab.
History is undeniably the city’s backbone, drawing millions of visitors eager to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. However, to limit your visit to these famous bricks and mortar would be to miss the vibrant soul of the modern city. The surrounding neighborhoods pulse with public markets, lush parks, and a food scene that consistently ranks among the best in the country.
This guide aims to balance the essential historical pilgrimages with the local haunts that give Philadelphia its unique character. We have compiled a list of attractions that cater to families, solo travelers, art lovers, and foodies alike. Whether you have a long weekend or a full week, these destinations provide the perfect framework for an unforgettable itinerary.
By focusing on places that offer both historical significance and modern-day relevance, you will get a true sense of what it means to live in and love this city. You will find that Philadelphia is not just a place to observe history, but a place to experience a living, breathing culture.
From the cobblestone alleys of Old City to the tree-lined paths of the Schuylkill River Trail, there is a rhythm to this town that invites you to slow down and look closer. Here are the best attractions in Philadelphia that should top your travel list.
Philadelphia Zoo
| Address | 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 243-1100 |
Great day at the zoo.most animals were out today and staff was very friendly and most willing to help .Explored indoor reptiles, birds ect. All in all clean and didnt experience any unwanted smells. Most enjoyable day . I would recommend for ages 0-100. Seamed accessible for strollers and wheelchairs .
This zoo is an amazing very family friendly so much to do. They had a good balance of indoor and outdoors animals and activities for the kids. We have been there dozens of times. We are never disappointed. You can tell the graininess really care deeply about the animals they care for.
The staff and volunteers were really friendly. Giraffe feeding was fun. Miss Joy was a whole experience for the train ride and her name suits her. Hadn’t realized you could buy a $25 all fun pass until the end. Which I guess you might as well, overall the park felt like it could need maintenance. Just fyi $7 for an icey ice cream. $5-7 for a small bottle of water. Parking was $22
Quite a few animals weren’t out of maybe they were empty, didn’t see big cats, penguins, orangutans, rhinos, flamingos. All the glass was dirty and smudged. The daily pricing seems to change for each day so buy in advance at a lower price. Sun. $33/adult $28/child
Such an amazing experience visiting out of town . The Zoo is massive , so much to see , the exhibits are all so beautiful . The animals all look so happy and enjoying their spaces . We paid for the giraffe feeding experience . It was only $8 and it was the coolest thing ever . The Zoo employees were so knowledgeable and taught us so much about the Giraffes and even took a few family pictures for us feeding them . I really appreciated how kind and friendly they were it actually made our experience a 10/10 . There was also plenty of places to eat and indoor exhibits to cool down on a hot day . This zoo definitly need to be on your must visit list !
Philadelphia Zoo was a great experience! There were so many different animals to see, and it wasn’t crowded, which made it easy to take our time and enjoy everything. Seeing the flamingos, orangutans, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and rhino was especially amazing. The whole visit was enjoyable from start to finish. Definitely worth visiting!
Independence National Historical Park
| Address | Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (215) 965-2305 |
I had a truly memorable visit to this national park. It has so much to offer for everyone, whether you are a complete history geek or just a casual visitor. I thoroughly enjoyed strolling among all the beautiful historical buildings. Highly recommended for a day trip!
This is a very old (from the 1700s) church building and it is amazing. It's beautiful and still in use every Sunday. The history is amazing for this old building, which is in remarkably good shape with people buried on the grounds. Philadelphia is a remarkable city!
Independence Hall and Independence National Historical Park were absolutely incredible to visit. Standing in the very place where the Founding Fathers debated independence from England and shaped the future of the country gives you a real sense of history that is hard to describe. It’s one of those places every American should see at least once.
The grounds themselves are beautiful, and there’s a great park area across the street where you can sit, relax, and take everything in. The visitor center was well done with a nice café, good gift shop, and very helpful staff and docents who added a lot to the experience.
One recommendation: buy your tickets for Independence Hall online ahead of time. The day we visited was completely sold out, so we only got to explore the exterior. Even so, it was still worth the trip. The Liberty Bell is free to visit, and I highly recommend talking with the docents there. They share a lot of deeper history and context that make you realize the bell is much more than just a famous symbol.
If you have extra time, the Museum of the American Revolution is only a short walk away and pairs perfectly with the experience.
Most places are free but a couple places require timed or reserved tickets. Also the cost of some museums are a bit high of looking for affordability. This is a great historical and educational experience and recommend for families and enthusiasts of American history. I also recommend taking a few days to explore, as it takes a bit of time to read and explore.
Independence National Historical Park was a nice place to visit and learn a little more about Philadelphia’s history. We enjoyed walking around the area, seeing the historic buildings, and taking in the atmosphere. It was easy to explore at a relaxed pace, even with other visitors around. Overall, it was a simple but meaningful stop during our time in the city.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
| Address | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:45 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
Simply among the best in the world! Get you walking shoes ready & be prepared to maximize your step count because there is so much to see. I thought Detroit’s DIA was amazing, yet Philly’s was much larger in scope. This might be the best art museum in the US. I felt it competed in a much higher league, such as Berlin’s Pergamon or London’s British Museum. For the most part most major museums maintain quality collections, however Philly’s stands out to me because of the immersion factor and large scale. I’ve travelled all over the world and have patroned large & small. The only negatives is the entrance cost is steep ($30 for an adult) and the halls are brimming with people and it can feel like being sardine in some areas.
Over the weekend, I visited the Philadelphia Museum of Art in downtown Philadelphia. The neoclassical building itself is a work of art, looking from a distance like a majestic ancient Greek temple.
The collection is extraordinarily rich, with over 300,000 pieces spanning from ancient sculpture to modern masterpieces. The Impressionist gallery is one of the finest in the country. Seeing van Gogh's Sunflowers in person was overwhelming—the intensity of the colors far exceeded anything I'd imagined. Picasso's Three Musicians was equally delightful. The Asian art section was also a pleasant surprise, even featuring a complete Ming Dynasty hall from China.
The museum's famous "Rocky Steps" at the entrance are a must-visit photo spot, and from the top you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Philadelphia skyline. Adult tickets are $30, and I'd recommend setting aside at least three hours for your visit. On Friday evenings, the museum stays open until 8:45 PM and often hosts special events. An unmissable art treasure in Philadelphia!
The Philadelphia Museum of Art has a beautiful collection and is definitely worth visiting if you’re in the city. I’ve been to both this museum and the MET, and while I personally think the MET has a larger and more impressive collection, I still really enjoyed my visit here. The exhibits are well curated, and it’s a great place to spend a few hours appreciating art. If you’re already in Philadelphia, I’d definitely recommend adding it to your itinerary.
Beautiful musuem with alot of famous and intricate paintings. Blew my mind on how many things were on display as well as the range from paintings and pots to whole ruins you can walk through. As well as a nice gift shop with very cute trinkets. Would love to go again
An incredible museum with a world-class collection! The galleries are spacious, beautifully curated, and offer something for everyone. Running up the iconic steps for the view of the city skyline is the perfect bonus. Highly recommended!
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
| Address | 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 733-0390 |
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a very unique and creative place, and I can see why many people find it interesting. The mosaic work is detailed, colorful, and definitely different from a typical museum or attraction.
That said, for me personally, it was a bit underwhelming. The photos online looked more impressive than the actual experience, and the space felt smaller than I expected. We walked through it fairly quickly and didn’t feel there was a lot to explore beyond taking a few pictures.
I’m glad I saw it once, but I probably would not consider it a must-see attraction in Philadelphia. It may be more enjoyable for people who are especially interested in mosaic art, folk art, or unusual urban art spaces.
It's a magical world of an artist with mosaics of ordinary objects interspersed with artistic pieces with lots of symbolism. Although you can spend a long time looking at the different pieces, I'd recommend an hour. You need to buy the time slot in advance and the timeslot we wanted was sold out. We ended up going a half hour later. If you are visiting from elsewhere I'd buy tickets day of. It's like walking in someone's daydream. It was $15 for admission, and they got a scavenger hunt you can play. The art is everywhere on the stairs, walls and inbetween. I liked how they had some chairs and different things to look at. It opens at 11 and I think closes at 6pm.
Such a beautiful spot, right in the middle of the city..!! Staff are very friendly and helpful. I had to reschedule my ticket and was able to do so without any hassle. I did visit during a weekday, so the place wasn't too crowded and I was able to get some really good photos. I guess it might be more tricky during weekends.
Definitely worth a visit..!
Went to Philadelphia's Magic Gardens on a weekday in the summer. It was during the FIFA World Cup games so there were a lot of tourists that day. Great place for families and pictures. Beautiful eclectic folk art mosaic art garden. I spent about 40 minutes there. There is an indoor gallery and a gift shop with handmade stuff. Good destination if you are doing a South St. jawnt along with the thrift stores and good lunch spots nearby. I did not take a tour just a self-guided walk. The outside garden has narrow pathways and stairs, no good for wheelchairs. Staff was nice.
This was such a fun side quest experience. I definitely recommend checking it out. I suggest you get tickets in advance so you can secure a time slot. I got the first time slot (11am) on a Monday and they were busy when I got there. Stairs are STEEP so be careful and they have a scavenger hunt if you're into that type of addition to your adventure.
Liberty Bell
| Address | 526 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 965-2305 |
Visiting the Liberty Bell was a memorable experience. Seeing one of America’s most iconic symbols of freedom and independence in person was truly inspiring. Despite the crowds, the visit was well organized, and the exhibits provided fascinating insights into the Bell’s history and its enduring message of liberty, justice, and equality.
What impressed me most was that admission is free, making it accessible to everyone. While the Bell itself isn’t very large, its historical significance is immense. If you’re visiting Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell is a must-see landmark that offers a meaningful glimpse into the nation’s past.
Being so close to the Liberty Bell and what it represents, in addition to reading about its history, was a truly extraordinary experience. It really helps me understand the history and the foundations the country was built, as well as the value of what we can enjoy and have here today. Makes me feel more proud and grateful for it.
This is an amazing piece of history to see. The pictures don't do it justice. You can feel the history. Reading all the various details throughout the exhibit is very informative. Don't forget to look at the ones outside the exhibit as well.
Definitely a must see. There is no charge to visit but they do rely on donations so bring a couple dollars with you to help out
Despite the heat and crowds, it was an incredible historical experience! It's conveniently located in downtown Philadelphia, and while parking can be a bit challenging, there's a nearby garage with direct access to the Visitor Center. The staff and tour guides were super helpful, and I'd definitely recommend bringing water. The gift shop had some great souvenirs too! 🏛️🔔🇺🇸 #History #Philadelphia #Landmarks #Travel
The Liberty Bell is one of those places you have to experience when visiting Philadelphia. Seeing this iconic symbol of American history up close is a powerful moment, especially knowing how much meaning it has carried throughout our country’s history.
The exhibit does a great job explaining the story behind the bell, its famous crack, and its connection to freedom and independence. It’s a quick stop, but one filled with history and significance. The viewing area is well organized, and getting a photo with the Liberty Bell is a must.
The Franklin Institute
| Address | 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 448-1200 |
Been here before and it is always changing, seems to be different again this time with my granddaughter! We all enjoyed the visit. 3 floors of exploring to do. Each different and exciting! The walk through heart is still a staple remember it from my childhood! The planetarium has a great narrator with a good show.
The Franklin Inst. had many new, refreshing exhibits since the last time I was there which was about 20 years ago. Don't laugh. I know. I must be old. It's not so much new exhibits as it is a restored and updated museum now. It is worth it to browse around on your own. Or take them kids, the grandkids. Everyone will enjoy it on their level. For ex: from historical backgrounds of the times on "display" to gymnasium, interactive type areas for younger generations to run & explore. It is a fun museum. Try to book your day when you can also schedule a "Planetarium" movie (an upcharge) and then Universal Studios Area (another upcharge). I didn't get into the Planetarium, but I do intend to visit again.
The Franklin Institute has finally been checked off our list! We’d wanted to get here for a while, but I wasn’t sure how we’d do with my littles (five and under) , turns out we had a great time. We spent three hours there and the time flew by so fast. Honestly, you could easily make this an entire day; there’s so much to see and engage with, and I love that it’s educational too. If you’re on the fence about going, let this be your sign.
Plus, right now they have Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition going on, and that’s definitely worth checking out as well , it runs through September 7, 2026, and it’s included with general admission.
What Else We Explored
• SportsZone
• Body Odyssey (home of the Giant Heart)
• Your Brain
• The Train Factory
• Sir Isaac’s Loft
• Amazing Machine
• Changing Earth
• Space Command
• The Franklin Air Show
By the three-hour mark we’d made it through nearly everything ,the only thing we didn’t get to was the Fels Planetarium, so that’s on the list for next time.
I loved it. I'm a father and science teacher so for me and my family this was absolutely awesome. My daughter told me she wants to be an astronaut here so yeah I maybe was holding back tears. Lol. Thanks Ben Franklin. The planetarium and the Baldwin locomotive were great!
This is a huge win when looking for a museum.
We loved all the sections and were excited to see the special exhibition for the Universal Studios showcase.
We spent about five hours here and were worried we wouldn't be able to see it all.
And if lunch is on your mind, they have a great cafeteria with great food. We paid for two tenders, a fry, and a cheesteak for only $32.
Highly recommend.
Eastern State Penitentiary
| Address | 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 236-3300 |
Buy tickets online for $2 discount, college discount available. Street parking is available, plus paid lots. No dedicated eastern state parking lot.
As a true crime junkie, 100% recommend the self guided tour. The audio is interesting, engaging, and well done (the narrators are great and add to the ambiance!). There are always staff nearby to answer your questions and they are knowledgeable! I did not get to hear every audio file, but I wish I did :(. The prison itself is eerie and fascinating.
On a weekday afternoon, it was not busy and quiet. So my friends and I had time to fully immerse ourselves in the experience.
Real people suffered here so it is important to keep in mind while inside. With the audio tour and observing your surroundings, you truly understand the terrors the prisoners experienced. Plus the detriments of solidarity confinement. I left with additional knowledge, empathy, and understanding after the tour.
Excellent experience. Tons of information and things to see. The workers randomly spread out makes it easy to get answers. There are air conditioned rooms to explore on the hotter days. It is quite a bit of walking if you see everything. It is cheaper to buy the tickets online.
Great Experience!
We purchased tickets online and did the tour with the provided playback unit and earset. Some interesting facts come out of with Ben Franklin involved, why it came into being. A sobering view of seeing a cell and built in it, a cell from Guantanamo Bay, like Edgar Allen Poe could've written of it. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, clothes for the outside temperature as well. Have to the take the Halloween tour!
We finally went inside to take a tour today and it did not disappoint. Highly recommend for a day date. A great place for photography some really good restaurants nearby as well.
Very interesting. If you love architecture then you need to come here! It was not cared for for a few decades, was "cleaned up" of plants, trash, etc but otherwise left alone! Broken walls and toilets, beds and chairs left in place. Beautiful, interesting decay. Everyone gets a headset and as you walk around there are numbers posted, put the number into the little player thing you have and actor Steve Buscemi will tell you about what youre looking at. I would definitely go again. My 6 year old has told multiple people that she loves going to the penitentiary. Lol. There is a parking lot next door and I think it was like $16. Negatives were that the bathrooms would barely flush and we're head to move around in... they are the nicer porta potty trailers. I understand that they dont have plumbing or a spot for bathrooms but you had to walk up steep steps and then it barely flushed. Also some displays were left leaning which doesnt seem appropriate for a place i paid to get in as a museum. Some stastics are skewed and not fully explained to make it sound like America is a big, evil prison camp. Its also repeatedly implied that the term "justice" and imprisonment as a whole is only for reformation and not punishment. Which is not true and has never been true in human history. And is anti death penalty. Put although irritating I chose to ignore those parts and to focus on the large amount of fascinating history and stunning architecture. My husband and I sat in bed looking up all kinds of prison topics that night.
JFK Plaza (Love Park)
| Address | 1501 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19102 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 686-1776 |
If you’re visiting Center City, JFK Plaza (universally known as LOVE Park) is a mandatory stop, if only to check the box on a quintessential Philly photo-op. Located right across the street from the massive, ornate City Hall, it serves as the literal gateway to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The Highlights
The Iconic Photo: The primary draw is Robert Indiana’s famous LOVE sculpture. There’s almost always a polite, self-organizing line of tourists and locals waiting to snap a picture with City Hall framing the background.
The Vibe & Layout: Thanks to its multi-million dollar redesign a few years back, the park feels very open, modern, and clean. It’s got a great mix of large granite paved areas, neat lawns, and a massive central fountain jet that's perfect for people-watching on a warm day.
The Air-Conditioned Relief: On a hot day, the temporary visitor setup nearby is a lifesaver. They currently have an air-conditioned tent with visitor services, clean restrooms, and water stations, which made a huge difference during a mid-day walk.
Such a cute place to go and take pictures at! My daughter and I just took a trip to Philly and this was a must stop, even in the rain, it was beautiful:) very clean and well maintained. Perfect for selfies and photos with your love ones
This is my first time at love park in Philly. I came to check out the African festival. The intention is to check out at least two of the food vendors. The lamb, rice and plantain was very good. I will get some grilled jerk chicken to go. I wanted to do some shopping but they were no men's clothing for sale. The park is fairly clean but there were some vagrants hanging around. $20 under ground parking.
Always something going on here, yesterday there were goats, bees, free photographer, and a DJ. Not to mention the fountains for the kids.
Yesterday, at Dilworth park, besides all the regular going on. The Philadelphia Police thanked Philadelphia with water ice from Philadelphia Water Ice Co. Soft pretzels from Philadelphia Pretzel Factory, and hoagie from Wawa. Who knows what tomorrow brings.
It's an easily walkable park and accessible from Chestnut, the convention center, city hall, Chinatown, etc. There is plenty of parking via its own parking garage, street parking, or one of the many parking garages nearby. If you're shopping in the city, this is a great place to stop by. This is especially true during the holidays when the Christmas markets take place.
Rodin Museum
| Address | 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
Love the museum. Perfect gallery and I love the sketchbooks! Such a cool feature to be able to draw inspiration at the museum and sketch it in the moment. I drew a lil something in the Bal Zaç room before the garden bat party. The party was amazing and not too crowded! Rodin makes a lot more sense after a cup of prosecco! Plenty of seating if you want to sit and take in the art. I recommend watching a couple of YouTube videos while viewing the art. I loved learning about how Rodin would intentionally leave his sculptures slightly unfinished. Very clean bathrooms by the way? The garden bar event is amazing and perfectly curated. A MUST SEE for visiting Philly on a Friday. Thank you for an amazing time.
A very pleasant surprise at the Rodin Museum in Philadelphia. The setting itself is beautiful, both inside and in the surrounding gardens, which add real value to the visit.
Despite its relatively small size and limited number of works, the museum remains highly interesting and well curated. In about an hour, you can comfortably explore the collection and enjoy a focused, high-quality artistic experience. It is probably the second museum with the largest number of Rodin works and casts outside of Paris.
Ideally combined with a visit to the nearby Barnes Foundation, just a short walk away — together, they make for an excellent three-hour art-focused morning that is absolutely worth the detour.
Very small museum easy to do in between other activities and well worth the visit. This is supposed to be the largest collection of Rodin outside of Paris and the pieces are spectacular. There are a couple of sculptures in the garden as well as tables and a lovely fountain and the inside is full of beauty.
Small museum but has the largest collection of Rodin’s sculptures outside France. If you visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, tick includes the Rodin Museum. A ticket for two days and two museums.
I honestly couldn't believe the Rodin Museum was right here in Philadelphia. It was such a privilege to finally see masterpieces I only knew from books with my own eyes.
Franklin Square
| Address | 200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 629-4026 |
Such a fantastic experience at the Chinese Festival in Philly! 🏮❤️ The festival had a wonderful atmosphere, beautiful decorations, delicious food, and lots of fun things to see and enjoy. It’s also a great event for kids, with a fun and family-friendly environment. I had a great time and definitely want to come back. Next time, I’ll be bringing my son so he can enjoy it too! ✨🥢🎉
I visited on a Monday morning, and it was quiet. I was able to take some pictures and was glad to see the decorations for the Chinese Lantern Festival. I wished I could have been there at night, as the displays looked very festive and colorful. The water fountain show added to the dramatic atmosphere and enhanced the attraction. The restrooms were very clean, and filtered drinking water fountains were available.
Small but cute place.
I particularly liked the fountain.
They have good entertainment for the kids and families.
Plenty of place to sit and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
We went to the Franklin Square for the annual Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival. The event was just loaded with notable Chinese Cultural presentations including the Chinese Zodiac to stage shows with acrobatic feats as well as educational presentations on creating traditional Chinese noodles and a central fountain that pulsates water jets and lights accompanied by traditional Chinese music. Later in the evening, we were treated to an awesome display of lighting of all of the many exhibits. Not to be missed are the many Chinese restaurants that have created booths with some of the best tasting Chinese food from the Philadelphia area!! All present had a great experience which we will try to duplicate again in the future. The Festival runs from June 5th through August 15th with loads of parking nearby.
This is a beautiful park. 😍 If given the opportunity be sure to stop by for the Chinese Lantern Festival. This has got to be the BEST prepared event that the park holds every summer.. . Great for ALL ages. A spectacular event.
Cherry Street Pier
| Address | 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 923-0818 |
A pretty chill place with a heck of a view of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. The riverside walk was clean and well-maintained. Went there for a festival and the artistic expression around the place were good too.
Nice food trucks and tables to enjoy your snack with a view.
It's was a nice place to relax. The music was good & they had some nice retro things like pictures & albums. Definitely a family friendly event.
Visited Cherry Street Pier and really enjoyed the atmosphere. The waterfront views are amazing, the art installations are unique, and the open-air design makes it a perfect spot for photos or just relaxing. There are small vendors and food options too. A great place to walk around when you're in Philly.
They offer beer, food and beautiful views. Great place for date night.
A great open-space area to view local art exhibits, take in stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, eat and drink, and truly immerse in the river front culture of Philadelphia! Put it on your To-Do List!!!
Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps
| Address | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:45 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
The Philadelphia Museum of Art completely exceeded my expectations. Every gallery is beautifully curated, with an incredible collection that lets you experience centuries of art in one place.
Whether you love history, classical masterpieces, or modern art, this museum is absolutely worth visiting. I could have spent the entire day exploring.
A truly unforgettable experience—I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Philadelphia. 🎨✨
Visiting the Rocky Steps was such a fun and iconic experience. Running up the stairs and recreating the famous movie scene made the visit really special. The view from the top is amazing, with a beautiful panorama of Philadelphia. It is also completely free, which is a great bonus for visitors. Many people were taking photos and enjoying the atmosphere, but there was still plenty of space. The Rocky statue at the bottom is a must for a picture as well. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the city
Worth a stop as one of the most iconic statues relating to film. It was a cool visit! There is parole close for a fee and very few free spots.
Pretty cool - visiting the iconic "Rocky Steps" was fun for the family - however given my age, I resisted the temptation to re-enact the 'running up the stairs'. Much to my wife's relief.
The view from the top is pretty good offering an expansive panorama of Philadelphia. Lots of tourists and photos - but there was still plenty of space. Well recommended to anyone visiting the city
The Rocky Steps in Philadelphia are an iconic spot and a fun place to visit, especially if you’re a fan of the Rocky movies. Climbing the steps and reaching the top gives a nice sense of achievement, and the view of the city from there is quite enjoyable. It’s always lively with people recreating the famous run, which adds to the energy of the place. A great quick stop with a classic vibe.
African American Museum in Philadelphia
| Address | 701 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 574-0380 |
The AAMP was beautiful and informative. The standing exhibit took us on a walk through freedom in images and words. I could get the sound to play on the kiosk, but it was unnecessary.
From the time you walk in, you're treated to a visual feast of stunning books, clothes, and merchandise. There's even a cozy chair to sit and read. There are ramps and elevators everywhere and the music is fully accessible for the physically challenged. The staff is so friendly and warm too. Everyone from the receptionist, to the security team, to an employee we chatted with on the elevator was so sweet and helpful. We got to experience the Ruth E. Carter costume exhibit which is A MUST SEE! But don't skip the exhibit in the auditorium on the lower level on sailing to freedom. You are in for a treat!
I have really enjoyed the African American museum. While attending, I had the opportunity to check out their youth program. Students performed character skits and played for the guests. The youth band was amazing. I love what this organization is doing for their community. I visited here all the way from Kansas City.
We enoyed an excellent Philly First event of music and history that AAMP hosted. The event celebrated Philly for having the first abolitionist society in America.The Philly 1st sculpture also highlights Philly's William Still and is on display in the museum's front window. AAMP's staff were friendly and helpful. The museum admission was reasonable and they offer a senior discount. We stayed to tour the museum's amazing exhibit of costumes designed by Ruth Carter. The displays include costumes from Roots, Black Panther, Do the Right Thing and much more. There is also an excellent multimedia exhibit tracing a hundred years of African Americans in Philadelphia. Another highlight is the Bells of Freedom sculpture by the museum entrance.
Took a day trip from NYC to Philly to see the Ruth E. Carter exhibition. It was stunning! The staff was welcoming and knowledgeable about the exhibition,including security. They also had an art activity to celebrate MLK, Jr. Day. I will definitely return.
A small but beautiful museum which despite space restrictions does an excellent job of covering Black history in the US. Undoubted highlight though was the special of costumes, sketches and information from the work of Ruth E Carter covering Black Panther, Wakanda Forever, Selma, Malcolm X, Do The Right Thing and many others. Incredible work from an incredible talent.
Benjamin Franklin Museum
| Address | 317 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (267) 514-1522 |
Go in and see the stuff above ground, but the museum itself is not worth the $7.50 it cost to get it. It is kind of aimed at kids, but not fully. The wiki page on Franklin is more informative. Seeing the old buildings is cool, but that's it
Fantastic small Museum!
The interactive stations are divided into rooms based on Franklin’s personality traits (like Curious, Rebellious, and Strategic) rather than a strict timeline, which is why it feels so engaging and quick to tour. Very informative and educational for all ages!
Small (but mighty!) museum with interactive exhibits about the life and times of Ben Franklyn. We visited on National Ben Franklyn Day (his birthday). There were a few park rangers on hand to answer questions.
The museum is fully accessible, with an elevator to the main exhibit area. Isles are wide and items are placed within reach. Lots of interactive items (please touch) and very entertaining movies. It took us less than an hour to tour. $5 entrance fee (adults).
Nicely stocked museum store.
Very interesting place in the basement. Takes about 45 minutes. Interactive displays, objects, videos, printed material about the great man. $5 entry fee totally worth it. Has a store attached. Lift too.
I loved seeing his glass harmonica, his sedan and the giant bible. "The First American" is a great book to learn more about Ben's amazing life.
Museum of Illusions Philadelphia
| Address | 401 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 608-8521 |
Our family recently visited the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia, and we had an absolute blast! From the moment we walked in, the exhibits were fun, interactive, and had all of us questioning what our eyes were seeing. It was the perfect mix of entertainment, creativity, and learning.
What impressed me most was how much fun both the adults and the kids had. We brought our children, and every room sparked curiosity, laughter, and plenty of “How is that even possible?” moments. The staff was friendly, helpful, and eager to explain the science and illusions behind many of the exhibits.
The photo opportunities alone make the visit worthwhile. We left with some incredible pictures and memories that we’ll be talking about for a long time. It is one of those places where you can truly let your imagination run wild and experience something completely different from the typical museum visit.
The only reason I am not giving it more than five stars is because I wish it were bigger. We were having such a great time that it felt like we reached the end too quickly. The experience was so enjoyable that we wanted even more exhibits to explore.
Overall, if you’re looking for a unique family outing, date night, or something fun to do with friends, I highly recommend the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia. It is engaging, memorable, family friendly, and packed with moments that will leave you amazed. We will definitely be back again.
An interesting visit to this place. My daughter enjoyed. It's a bit pricey and difficult to get tickets during weekends.
It is an interactive edutainment attraction located at 401 Market Street in Old City, Philadelphia, offering over 60 mind-bending exhibits that challenge perception through optical illusions, holograms, and immersive rooms. Opened in March 2022, it’s part of a global franchise that began in Croatia and now spans more than 35 cities, including New York, Chicago, and Toronto.
Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Adults (13–59): $28
Children (5–12): $22.40
Seniors/Military (65+): $25.76
Children under 5: Free (no ticket needed)
Tickets are timed and sold online; advance booking is strongly recommended to avoid sold-out times.
Features unique Philly-themed installations like an eyes-following Ben Franklin mural, an upside-down diner with Rocky and The Philadelphia Story posters, and the Infinity Room with endless reflections.
Designed for all ages, with hands-on puzzles, photo ops, and educational insights into how the brain interprets visual information.
You typically can spend about 1 hour, though time varies based on engagement with brain teasers.
Bring a charged phone for photos.
No food or drinks are sold inside—eat beforehand.
Located near Independence National Historical Park and SEPTA’s 5th Street/Independence Hall stop—easy to access during a day trip.
Consider pairing with the Visit Philly Overnight Package for hotel perks.
It was an amazing experience! Anyone that comes here will enjoy it cuz we did! My girlfriends son and I finished the hard puzzle that took us an hour and a half to figure out! It was money well spent!
This was so much fun, spent over an hour in here with my 9 year old. He did the entire disc tower move from one peg to another and took a long time and Ciera helped him. Ciera was patient and kind and even my son said she helped just enough without giving it away or being critical - we really enjoyed her presence around the museum. All the other staff were great too!
Great but small, a bit pricey for the number of illusions. However some of them were really good, for me the spinning tunnel room was the most fun, but lots of great photo opportunities and simple mind bending illusions. Great time but only spent an hour or so here before we had seen it all a few times.
Museum of the American Revolution
| Address | 101 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 253-6731 |
5 out of 5! This is a well done museum, and worth your time in "museum dense" Philadelphia.
-3 hours to go through, reading most of the large placards and watching most of the videos
-Worth the $27 adult admission
-MUST SEE- Washington's tent! 12-minute video and the tent itself
-Well done scenes with mannequins and horse. See photos
-Inclusive almost to a fault. They cover views of women, the slave population, and indigenous people consistently.
-Handicap accessible
-Well done gift shop
-Conveniently located around Old Town Philadelphia
-I walked from my hotel, but my guess is that parking is tight in the area as a whole
This is an amazing place full of history with our country's beginnings starting with the Revolutionary War.. about 30 years worth. We had a guided tour on a very busy day, but so interesting. The presentations are so very well done and the displays are incredible -- some touchable, some behind glass, but so real telling our story. Go here!
I am a bit of a history buff so I was more than excited to be able to go and spend some time there. The displays were as fantastic as expected! I really appreciated the theaters and the interactive displays that allowed you to smell something!
My major fatigue and complaint with the displays and narrative comes from the commentary on every display that sought to ask "how can I make this historic moment about a minority" the anxiety of answering this question has tainted the narrative of the exhibit and given fatigue to those who know better. Not all history needs to be told, nor are we a character in the past.
This whole exhibit was a living embodiment of the old parody "Comet hits earth. Women and minorities hit hardest."
My visit cost me $30 for one person and of course the gift shop knick-knacks ended up costing me another $160!
All in all I do not regret my visit and it was great to refresh my memory of the sacrifices of the Great Men who came before me. I imagine the curator believed that 2023 would last forever. It's time that we stop apologizing for the revolution at a museum designed to honor it. Thanks!
This museum is definitely worth a visit if you're in Philadelphia and interested in American history. Conveniently located within walking distance of Independence Hall, this museum helps provide a bigger picture of the story of the American Revolution. There are a number of exhibits inside, so plan to allow for a couple of hours to get the most out of your visit.
Very nice museum! Great display and they tell the story of the events of the American Revolution really well. Plenty of short films and interactive exhibits. Highly recommend spend an hour or more here.
Rocky Statue
| Address | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
• The Rocky Statue is a fun and iconic stop in Philadelphia, especially for fans of the Rocky films.
• It perfectly captures the city’s energy and fighting spirit. Perfect location, around other sights, and great for photos too.
• The area around it is lively and full of visitors, adding to the excitement of the experience.
• The snow during my winter visit even made the experience memorable.
It was a nice walk over there through lovely tree lined sidewalks. The statue was busy with tourists but not too bad. We were there before 6pm. I actually think the fountain you can see from the steps was more interesting. Built in the late 1800 there were so many interesting details. I wish there was a sign explaining it all.
A must-visit when you’re in Philadelphia! The Rocky Statue is an iconic landmark that perfectly captures the spirit of determination and perseverance. It’s a great spot for photos, and standing next to such a famous symbol from the Rocky movies is a really fun experience. The surrounding area is beautiful, and climbing the “Rocky Steps” makes the visit even more memorable. Whether you’re a movie fan or just sightseeing, this is one of Philadelphia’s top attractions and absolutely worth the stop.
A visit to the Rocky Statue is an absolute must if you’re in Philadelphia — especially if you’re a child of the ’80s whose heart still beats for the ultimate underdog story. Standing there in front of Rocky with the famous steps nearby instantly brings back all the motivation, grit, and nostalgia that made the movies legendary.
Whether you’re a huge fan of the films or just appreciate iconic movie history, this stop is worth it. Great photo opportunity and a fun piece of Philly culture that captures the spirit of determination and perseverance.
Went back to the Rocky Balboa statue in Pennsylvania for the third time, and it still hits the same. My last visit was about 12 years ago, so coming back this time with the kiddos made it even more special. Watching them do the Rocky pose and getting their pics taken was honestly awesome.
As a Gen X’er, Rocky wasn’t just a movie character. He was an attitude. Keep showing up. Keep fighting. Stay humble. That kind of inspiration sticks with you for life. And yeah, part of me thinks if kids today had more idols like that, the world would be a little less negative.
If you’re anywhere near Philly, go. It’s iconic, it’s fun, and it’s one of those stops that leaves you weirdly motivated.
Tips for Visiting Philadelphia Attractions
To make the most of your time in the City of Brotherly Love, a little bit of planning goes a long way. The city is highly walkable, but knowing a few local secrets regarding timing, transportation, and ticketing can save you both time and money. These practical tips will help you navigate the attractions like a seasoned local rather than a first-time tourist.
1. Purchase the Philadelphia CityPASS or Go City Pass
If you plan to visit three or more major ticketed attractions, such as the Franklin Institute, the Zoo, or the observation decks, an attraction pass is almost always worth the investment. These bundled tickets can save you up to 40% on admission fees. Additionally, they often allow you to skip the primary ticket line, which is a massive advantage during the busy summer months.
2. Time Your Visit to Independence Hall Carefully
While the Liberty Bell can be viewed without a ticket, touring Independence Hall requires a timed entry ticket. During peak season (March through August), these tickets run out early in the day. You should either reserve your tickets online in advance for a small reservation fee or arrive at the Visitor Center before 9:00 AM to grab the free same-day tickets.
3. Don’t Drive if You Can Avoid It
Philadelphia is consistently ranked as one of the most walkable cities in the United States, and the public transit system (SEPTA) connects all major neighborhoods. Parking in Center City and Old City can be notoriously expensive and difficult to find. Save the rental car for a day trip and rely on your feet, the Broad Street Line, or the Phlash Downtown Loop bus during your stay.
4. Eat Like a Local at Reading Terminal Market
Timing is everything at this famous food hall. The market is packed with office workers during the weekday lunch rush (11:30 AM – 1:30 PM), making it difficult to find a seat. Visit mid-morning or after 2:00 PM for a more relaxed experience. Note that the Pennsylvania Dutch vendors are traditionally closed on Sundays, so plan your visit for a Tuesday through Saturday if you want the full variety.
5. Embrace the Outdoor Spaces Between Museums
Some of the best moments in Philadelphia happen between the indoor attractions. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is lined with flags and fountains, while Spruce Street Harbor Park offers hammocks and floating gardens in the summer. Don’t over-schedule your itinerary; leave breathing room to simply sit on a park bench or walk along the river.
6. Book the “Rocky Steps” for Early Morning or Sunset
The Philadelphia Museum of Art steps are a must-do photo opportunity, but they can be incredibly crowded at midday. For the best lighting and the fewest people in your background, head there right at sunrise or just before golden hour. You will have a much easier time getting the perfect victory pose without photobombers.
Philadelphia is a city that rewards curiosity. While the guide above hits the highlights, the true magic often lies in the unplanned detours down a narrow side street or a conversation with a friendly vendor at an Italian Market produce stand. Allow yourself the freedom to wander, and the city will reveal its character to you.
As you wrap up your visit, you will likely find that the city’s reputation for grit and brotherly love is well-earned. It is a place of profound historical weight that refuses to take itself too seriously, offering a travel experience that is as educational as it is deliciously fun. Safe travels, and enjoy every step.
