Unforgettable Adventures in Philly: Things to Do in Philadelphia That Will Leave You Breathless.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, commonly referred to as “Philly,” is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a lively atmosphere.
Located in the northeastern part of the United States, Philadelphia is the sixth-largest city in the country, with a population of over 1.5 million people.
One of the defining features of Philadelphia is its history. The city played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and is often called the birthplace of the United States.
It is home to several historic landmarks, such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed.
Other historic sites in the city include the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, and the National Constitution Center. Visitors can take guided tours of these sites to learn more about the city’s role in shaping American history.
In addition to its history, Philadelphia is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. The city is home to world-class museums such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the Barnes Foundation.
The Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the country’s oldest and most respected orchestras, performs regularly at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. The city is also known for its murals, with over 3,000 scattered throughout its neighborhoods.
Food is another defining feature of Philadelphia. The city is known for its signature cheesesteak sandwich, made with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese and served on a long roll. Other local favorites include soft pretzels, water ice, and hoagies.
Visitors can explore the city’s food scene by taking a food tour, visiting local farmers’ markets, or trying out some of the city’s many restaurants.
Finally, Philadelphia is a city that loves to celebrate. It is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Philadelphia Flower Show, the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts, and the Philadelphia Film Festival.
The city also celebrates its diverse neighborhoods with annual events such as the Italian Market Festival and the Chinese Lantern Festival. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively atmosphere, Philadelphia is a city that offers something for everyone.
Top 15 things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia Zoo
- Independence National Historical Park
- Reading Terminal Market
- Philadelphia Museum Of Art
- Liberty Bell Center
- The Franklin Institute
- Adventure Aquarium
- Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps
- Love Park
- Rittenhouse Square
- Spruce Street Harbor Park
- Wissahickon Valley Park
- Dilworth Park
- Blue Cross RiverRink
- Please Touch Museum
Philadelphia Zoo
Located on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, the Philadelphia Zoo is one of the nation’s premier zoos. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the city as they take in the sights and sounds of the natural world.
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The Philadelphia Zoo is an education and recreation organization promoting wildlife conservation and inspiring action among all ages.
The zoo hosts award-winning programs and events that teach kids about the natural world. The zoo also works with numerous groups to protect animal habitats.
The Philadelphia Zoo has a variety of attractions, including a primate reserve, a children’s zoo, and an animal hospital. It is also home to several rare and endangered species.
The zoo is a popular destination for families. It offers several seasonal events throughout the year.
Independence National Historical Park
Located in the city’s heart, Independence National Historical Park is a 45-acre site with historic structures associated with the American Revolution. The U.S. National Park Service operates the park, including the Declaration House and several other sites.
Independence Hall is the building where the Declaration of Independence was drafted and adopted. It was constructed as the State House of Pennsylvania in 1753.
The building is now part of Independence National Historical Park. The park has been named a World Heritage Site.
The park is a great place to get a taste of the history of America. In addition, the National Park Service has also studied the site as part of a far-reaching research project. The park also offers a wide variety of facilities for visitors to explore.
Reading Terminal Market
Founded in 1893, Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. and a must-see for Philadelphia travelers.
It’s the country’s best public market and home to over 80 vendors and 26 restaurants. It’s a great place to shop for groceries, jewelry, and housewares.
If you aren’t a foodie, Reading Terminal is also home to more than 76 independent small merchants who make everything from Amish burgers to handmade crafts.
The Reading Terminal Market has a wide variety of food, including a vast selection of fresh seafood. It’s also home to several traditional Pennsylvania Dutch bakeries. Famous 4th Street Cookies and Molly Malloy’s are some of the most popular.
The Reading Terminal Market is open Monday through Sunday. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon. These are less crowded times.
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
Located on Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Center City, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the oldest art museums in the United States.
Founded in 1876 for the Centennial Exhibition, the museum is an essential landmark in the city. The art museum has an extensive collection of works by various artists.
In addition to paintings, the museum also has an impressive sculpture collection. The Rodin Museum is located near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and is one of the largest collections of works by Auguste Rodin outside of Paris.
The museum has a strong history and is home to several notable pieces. It is often a site for festivals and concerts. It is also easy to access by bus or car. In recent years, the museum has opened up new public spaces.
Liberty Bell Center
Located in Independence National Historical Park, the Liberty Bell Center is home to the iconic symbol of American independence.
In addition to the Liberty Bell, this building also contains several interactive exhibits that tell the story of the bell’s construction and the importance of the site in the broader context of the early United States.
Designed as an open, human-scale, architecturally compelling place, the Liberty Bell Center is part of the Independence Mall’s $314 million makeover. The Liberty Bell, the largest worldwide, is housed in a glass pavilion.
The Liberty Bell was moved from Independence Hall to the glass pavilion in 1976. The National Park Service took over custody of the Liberty Bell after World War II. It is now a widely used icon and speaks to the values of freedom and rights people hold worldwide.
The Franklin Institute
Founded in 1824, the Franklin Institute is the oldest science museum in the United States and one of the oldest institutions in the country that focuses on STEM education.
The organization offers interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning. In addition, it hosts a variety of science shows, camps, and events for people of all ages.
The Franklin Institute has been a leader in bringing the latest technology to the public for many years. Its planetarium is the second oldest in the country, featuring a 40,000-pound steel dome. It also displays exhibit-themed films.
The Franklin Institute’s “Vikings: Beyond the Legend” exhibition will feature 600 artifacts and interactive elements. Visitors can experience augmented reality and a virtual re-creation of Viking ships.
The exhibit is set to run through Sept., including a 122-foot Viking ship that was reconstructed to look like a skeleton.
Adventure Aquarium
Located in the heart of the Camden Waterfront, the Adventure Aquarium is a must-see for visitors to the Philadelphia area.
It is home to more than two million gallons of water and more than eight-five thousand aquatic creatures, making it one of the largest aquariums in the country. It also features several innovative exhibits and attractions.
The shark-themed Shark Bridge is the longest rope suspension bridge in the world. It’s free to enter and is sponsored by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. It allows guests to swim amongst nearly thirty sharks in a tank over 20 feet deep. The other main attraction is the Jules Verne Gallery, which displays sea creatures like sandbar sharks and Japanese spider crabs.
Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps
Known as the “Rocky Steps,” the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s entrance is a must-see for visitors to the city. This museum is the largest art museum in the United States. It contains over 300,000 works of art from over 2,000 years.
The museum’s steps symbolize the city’s energetic and determined spirit. People have used these steps to speak out against injustice and advocate for the underdog.
The pediment on the north wing of the building contains thirteen classical figures, which illustrate a theme of sacred and profane love. The steps are also home to several large “Bathers” by Cezanne, painted in colors reflecting the natural world.
The 72 stone steps leading up to the museum’s entrance are iconic landmarks. The steps are a significant tourist attraction, and thousands of visitors climb them yearly.
Love Park
Located in Center City, LOVE Park is a popular public space for locals and visitors alike. It offers a wide variety of events and activities throughout the year.
The LOVE sculpture is a recognizable landmark in Philadelphia. It is a statue designed by Robert Indiana, which he donated to the city in 1976. It is a symbol of love and affection. The figure was inspired by the sign “God is Love” in the Christian Science Church. It is only about seven feet high and sits atop a seven-foot pedestal.
The fountain is also a site to see. It features programmable uplighting, a basketweave of jets, and an enormous plane. It is also the first basin-less fountain in the world to be tested.
The Love Park also has a few built-in seating options. There are steps leading up to the lawn and backless benches around the trees.
Rittenhouse Square
Originally called Southwest Square, Rittenhouse Square is one of Philadelphia’s most desirable neighborhoods. It’s surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants, museums, and shopping. It’s also in the middle of the Center City.
Rittenhouse Square is a beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city. It was once surrounded by brickyards but was converted into a park in the 1880s. It is one of five original public squares in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, it is one of the most expensive residential neighborhoods in the city.
The square is located at the intersection of Fourth and Walnut Streets. It features a sculpture-lined central reflecting pool. There are more than 200 galleries and shops here. It is a very walkable neighborhood. People picnic here and enjoy the trees.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Spruce Street Harbor Park is an award-winning waterfront park in the Penn Landing area of Philadelphia. It offers a variety of unique attractions, including a floating barge, a boardwalk, and floating gardens. It also features some activities and entertainment for all ages.
The park, which Groundswell designed, received rave reviews from the local community. One of the most notable features is the large outdoor roller skating rink. The rink features a plant-covered island in the center, which provides seating for skaters.
Other attractions include shuffleboard and paddle boats. In addition, the park is home to several food vendors, including Distrito Taco Truck, Federal Donuts, and Port FedNuts. Some food vendors open early in the afternoon, so arrive early to grab a bite.
Wissahickon Valley Park
Wissahickon Valley Park has over 2,000 acres of woodlands and gorges in Philadelphia. This natural treasure is part of the Fairmount Park system. It features 57 miles of trails.
There are five stone arch bridges from the early nineteenth century. Rock statues, benches, and picnic tables are found throughout the park. There are also baseball fields and fishing piers.
The Wissahickon Creek is a tributary of the Schuylkill River. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was home to dozens of mills. It was also the location of America’s first paper mill. In the Civil War, workers made blankets in the area.
The creek is now a National Natural Landmark. There are many species of birds and animals living in the area. Some are endangered. These include the Northern Water Snake, the Eastern Two-Lined Salamander, and the groundhog.
Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park is one of Philadelphia’s most popular public spaces at the foot of City Hall. It offers a relaxing respite from the bustle of Center City. It’s also an ideal location for large-scale events. As a result, these events are going on at Dilworth Park all year.
In September 2014, Dilworth Park underwent a $55 million renovation. This redesign transformed the park into a vibrant green amenity. The design also replaced the original plaza with a universally accessible common space.
Dilworth Park offers a variety of activities, including live music, free movie screenings, and outdoor lunch. In winter, it hosts the annual Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. It’s a great place to ice skate. In addition, it offers a programmable fountain.
Blue Cross RiverRink in Philadelphia
Located along the Delaware River, Blue Cross RiverRink in Philadelphia offers visitors an unforgettable experience of skating, enjoying hot foods, and taking in the views of the city. The rink is also open seven days a week in the summer.
In addition to its outdoor ice skating rink, the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest features a signature Christmas tree, warming cabins, and firepits.
During the festival, guests can enjoy various activities, including games and dance performances, while drinking hot apple cider for just $3 a cup.
Tickets for the rink are just $5, and Independence Blue Cross cardholders can bring three guests free of charge. However, if you want to use the fire pits, you must buy a ticket. The rink is accessible to all ages and levels of experience.
Please Touch Museum
Located inside a historic building, Please Touch Museum is a great way to spend the day with your kids. You can expect tons of interactive exhibits, fun performances, and activities. The facility is clean, and the staff is friendly.
Several special events take place throughout the year. This includes performances of the Please Touch Playhouse, the first live theater experience for young children. There are also monthly art experiences in the Creative Arts Studio.
Please Touch Museum features six interactive exhibit zones on two floors. These include a streetscape, which is life-sized and includes buses and cars. There are also water tables in the River Adventures area.
There is also a large foam shapes area called the Imagination Playground. There are also many different classrooms and meeting areas. There is also a kids’ store where you can buy toys, books, and other items for your kids.
