Philadelphia is one of the most history-filled cities in the nation. From the very rooms that our country was established into restaurants that have been open and operating for over a century to vibrant parks and museums, Philly’s rich history is remarkable, to say the least. The concept of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness was birthed in this city. Read on to learn about some of the things you can do during a visit to the City of Brotherly Love.
Things to Do
Rocky Steps + Statue {2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway}
Taking a photo with the Rocky statue perched at the bottom of the stairs at the Philadelphia Museum of Art is and running up the museum’s nearly 80 stairs throwing your arms up just as Rocky did in the movie is a right-of-passage.
Philadelphia Museum of Art {2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway}
{Photo credit: @philamuseum}
Don’t just stop at the top of the Rocky steps, visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art that was completed in 1928. The museum carries some of the best art collections that the tri-state-area has to offer. Aside from the must-see exhibits like the South Asian Collection, the museum hosts discussions from experienced historians, educational activities for children, a costume and textile study, a vast library, and more. The admission is $25 per adult.
Independence National Historical Park {143 S. 3rd Street}
Many buildings within the national park were a part of the American Revolution and the founding of the nation. Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were created. The first and the second Bank of America are on the property, and as well as more historic landmarks. Guests can take guided tours of the park.
Liberty Bell {526 Market Street}
Across the street from the park, the State House bell, which was renamed the Liberty Bell, originally hung in Independence Hall. It was made in 1751 in London and cracked on the first test ring. In 1846, the bell was repaired for George Washington’s birthday holiday and metal workers widened the thin crack to prevent its further spread. The inscription is from the Bible (King James version): “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof.” The quote provided a rallying cry for abolitionists wishing to end slavery.
Betsy Ross House {239 Arch Street}
{Photo credit: Betsy Ross House}
Betsy Ross is famous for making the first American flag in her house in 1870. The Betsy Ross House is known as the birthplace of the American flag and the house itself has been kept in its original state for historic purposes. Guests can take guided tours of the house and learn about her life and the process of making the flag.
National Liberty Museum {321 Chestnut Street}
{Photo credit: @nationallibertymuseum}
The museum carries cutting-edge contemporary exhibits, educational experiences, and public programs. The current exhibition, Philly’s Freedom: Artists Speak Out features more than 75 works of art that explores what freedom means to 50+ artists as they use stories, reflections, and images to inspire visitors to see freedom and liberty as an ongoing human goal we share. It is open for self-guided tours with new hours, timed-ticketing.
Museum of American Revolution {101 S 3rd Street}
{Photo credit: @amrevmuseum}
The Museum of the American Revolution’s mission is to tell the story of the American Revolution as well as shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how the nation was founded.
The Franklin Institute {222 N 20th Street}
{Photo credit: @franklininstitute}
The Franklin Institute is a science museum and the center of science education and research in Philadelphia. The main section of the institute is the Benjamin Franklin Memorial that was designated by the United States Congress as the official national memorial to Benjamin Franklin in 1972. The centerpiece of the memorial is a 20-foot high marble statue of Benjamin Franklin that weighs 30 tons.
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens {1020 South Street}
{Photo credit: @phillymagicgardens}
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is made up of two indoor galleries and a two-level outdoor sculpture garden that is covered in mosaics. In 1991, the artist utilized glass bottles, bicycle wheels, tiles, and international folk art to chronicle his life. In 2008, the property became open to the public.
Read More: A Day Trip to the Quaint Town of New Hope, PA
Shop on South Street Headhouse District
South street is the prime shopping area in Philly with over 400 small businesses lined down the avenue on the left and right sides. From fashion boutiques, street-style shops, shoe stores, and amazing vintage clothing stores, it’s impossible not to find something you’d like. Explore the used book stores, comic shops, and record stores for hidden gems. Or, make an appointment to get your hair, nails, or a tattoo at one of the many salons and tattoo parlors.
LOVE Park {Arch Street}
This park is officially named John F. Kennedy Plaza but was nicknamed LOVE Park because of the iconic Robert Indiana 1970 LOVE sculpture. However, The one in this park is a reproduction. It is a public park that’s in the middle of the city, just minutes away from City Hall. The sculpture is nestled in front of a beautiful foundation, making the perfect backdrop for a picture.
Philadelphia Zoo {3400 W Girard Avenue}
{Photo credit: @philadelphiazoo}
America’s first zoo was ready to open on July 1, 1874. The zoo is home to almost 1,300 animals, including many rare and endangered species. Every year, the zoo educates more than 1.2 million visitors about animal and environmental conservation via a first-in-the-world animal travel trail system. From water-life to big cats, and a primate reserve, the zoo is a must-visit destination. Admission is $23 per adult.
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden {Lansdowne + Horticultural Drive}
{Photo credit: @shofuso}
The Shofuso garden is a traditional 17th century-style Japanese house and garden located within Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park on the site of the Centennial Exposition of 1876. The historic site and museum include a hill and pond garden with a waterfall, koi fish, a tea garden featuring a traditional tea house, and a courtyard garden leading to a bathhouse. Admission is $12 per adult.
The Delaware Waterfront
The Delaware River waterfront is the perfect place for an evening stroll, a place to grab a bite at the many restaurants lining the strip and enjoy the attractions. Be wowed by the view of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge that connects Philadelphia to New Jersey. The Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier, and Schuykill River waterfront park and walkway are also must-visits.
Mural Arts Philadelphia {1727-29 Mount Vernon Street}
Mural Arts Philadelphia is the nation’s largest public art program. The Mural Arts program has brought artists and communities together through artistic collaboration. The program has aimed to transform public spaces and lives through inspiring artwork. It’s essentially an outdoor gallery. Philadelphia is known internationally as the “City of Murals.”
Eastern State Penitentiary {2027 Fairmount Avenue}
{Photo credit: @easternstate}
This former American prison in Philadelphia is now a historic landmark. Pennsylvania. It operated from 1829 to 1971. The penitentiary is known for the revolutionary system of separate incarceration first introduced at the Walnut Street Jail, which practiced principles of reform instead of punishment. Notorious criminals like Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton were held here. Currently open as a museum, guests can take a guided tour.
Barnes Museum {2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway}
{Photo credit: @barnesfoundation}
The Barnes Foundation is an art collection and educational institution. The mission of Barnes is to promote the advancement of education and the appreciation of the fine arts and horticulture. Philadelphia art collector Albert C. Barnes (1872–1951) chartered the Barnes Foundation in 1922 to teach people from all walks of life how to look at art. Over three decades, he collected some of the world’s most important impressionist, post-impressionist, and modern paintings, including works by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, and Picasso.
Where to Eat
Reading Terminal Market {51 N 12th Street}
The was the first farmers’ market when it opened in 1892. This historic indoor market is home to more than 80 vendors offering all kinds of food. The market itself has an old-timey feel that is very charming with neon lights and vintage signs throughout that make it exciting to walk up and down the rows of eateries.
Ishkabibble’s {337 South Street}
Operating since 1979, this local gem has been serving up authentic cheesesteaks that are sure to make anyone go back for more. The original location is a small “hole-in-the-wall” filled with all of the charms of the city. There are a walk-up window and a handful of stools available to eat inside. They now have two locations, the second being much bigger. In addition to a cheesesteak, order the half-lemonade, half-grape “Gremlin” drink, and Spanish fries.
More Spots for Cheesteaks, of Course: Geno’s, Jim’s, and Pat’s
A 2019 list from The Daily Meal included this restaurant in the nation’s top 75 hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Geno’s, located at 1219 S 9th Street, Jim’s South Street located at 400 South Street, and Pat’s King of Steaks located at 1237 E Passyunk Avenue are all nationally-recognized as must-try stops for authentic cheesesteaks in town.
See More: A Day Trip Guide to Lambertville
Italian Market {S. 9th Street}
This is America’s oldest outdoor market located in the Bella Vista and Passyunk Square communities. The community has almost 200 businesses spanning over 20 blocks from Fitzwater Street at the north through Wharton Street at the south. From seafood spots to bakeries to butcher shops to pizzerias, there is something for everyone.
John’s Water Ice {701 Christian Street}
{Photo credit: @johnswaterice}
Since 1945, John’s Water Ice has been serving the community refreshing water ice and ice cream from family recipes passed down through generations. Located in the heart of Bella Vista, the water ice flavors are all homemade and all-natural using real fruit and fruit juice, no syrups or artificial flavors.
Oyster House {1516 Sansom Street}
{Photo credit: @phloysterhouse}
This long-standing restaurant has been shucking oysters since 1947. Oyster House is known as one of the best raw-bars in town and for good reason. Patrons can expect fresh seafood, a-buck-a-shuck oysters, and $3 oyster shooters during happy hour, all in a chic, nautical environment.
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House {1022 Race Street}
{Photo credit: Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House}
That’s right, patrons can indulge in Nan Zhou hand-pulled noodles at this charming restaurant in the heart of Chinatown. The guest selects whether the noodles are broad or narrow, thick or thin, and orders their assortment of condiments and greens for a unique customized experience. The menu is extensive with endless options of apps, soups, stir fry, and rice dishes.
Suraya {1528 Frankford Avenue}
{Photo credit: @surayaphilly}
Suraya is an award-winning specialty, all-day Lebanese spacious market and chic café, restaurant, with an outdoor garden. The menu consists of traditional Levantine ingredients. The flatbreads and kebabs are must-tries.
Parc {227 S 18th Street}
{Photo credit: Parc}
This gem has major Paris vibes from classic bistro fare to an authentic French experience. The menu is filled with staples like onion soup, escargots, steak frites, towering plateaus de fruits de mer, and fresh-baked goods.
Fork {306 Market Street}
{Photo credit: @forkrestaurant}
Founded in 1997, this high-end restaurant serves up a popular brunch, American cuisine, and craft cocktails in a modern space located in the Old City neighborhood. It’s known for its seasonal menu, so be sure to check out what they’re currently offering.
Taste of Brazil {6222 Bustleton Avenue}
{Photo credit: Taste of Brazil}
This buffet-style Brazilian steakhouse features Brazilian barbecue, charcoal-grilled meats, a salad bar, and housemade desserts. Patrons can expect dishes like tropeiro-beans, the traditional feijoada, and tender churrasco dishes.
Abyssinia {229 S5th Street}
This casual spot serves up delicious Ethiopian food, good drinks, and has live music on Wednesdays. Patrons can expect generous portions, classic dishes like injera {Ethiopian flatbread, kitfo {steak tartare}, lamb dishes, and more. There are also vegetarian-friendly options.
Ralph’s {760 S 9th Street}
{Photo credit: @ralphsitalrest}
Ralph’s has been open and operating since 1900. This establishment has been passed down from generation to generation, cooking must-try southern Italian dishes. Ralph’s withstood the test of time, having survived the Great Depression, prohibition, and two World Wars. Theodore Roosevelt, President Biden, our very own Frank Sinatra have dined here.
Alma del Mar {1007 S. Ninth Street}
{Photo credit: @almadelmar.philly}
This Mexican fusion restaurant was featured in season five of Queer Eye. The restaurant is owned by husband and wife duo Tlacopilco and Alama who endured many struggles to keep their business running before the cast revamped the restaurant and helped the couple get back on their feet. The menu mixes American breakfast and brunch standards with Mexican and seafood dishes, including the crab and corn chowder. The sandwich section includes a mollete, a salmon burger, and since it’s in Philly, roast pork with broccoli rabe and provolone.
Kalaya Thai Kitchen {764 S 9th Street}
{Photo credit: @kalayaphilly}
Patrons can find authentic Thai cuisine at this eatery as well as shop in the sister market just a few blocks away in the heart of the Italian Market. Each dish is inspired by the owner’s home-cooking growing up. There is daily outdoor seating and bring your favorite bottle.
Essen Bakery {1437 E Passyunk Avenue}
{Photo credit: @essenbakery}
After much career success, Chef Tova du Plessis opened this cozy neighborhood bakery that sells baked goods like babka, challah, bagels, bread, and more. Patrons can also order a fresh cup of coffee to complement the treats sold here.
Zahav {237 Street, James Place}
{Photo credit: @zahavrestaurant}
Zahav is a go-to for Israeli cuisine and hospitality. Laffa bread baked comes with every meal served alongside hummus and salatim. A must-try dish is the pomegranate lamb shoulder and of course, the award-winning desserts. Patrons can enjoy a cold Lemonanna, a cocktail, or a bottle of boutique Israeli wine.
