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Philadelphia

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39 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

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Tips

10 places on the map

Top 10

  1. 1

    Birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution.

    • Must know: Book ahead
    • Tip: Go early
    1 tip
    • Guided ranger tour runs about 30 minutes
    📷 Photos
  2. 2

    The iconic cracked bell, symbol of American freedom.

    • Tip: Go early
    2 tips
    • Free entry, no ticket needed
    • Read the exhibits before the bell for context
    📷 Photos
  3. 3

    Grand art museum with vast European and American collections.

    • Tip: At night
    • Tip: Allow a few hours
    2 tips
    • Pay-what-you-wish on first Friday evenings
    • Check the Perelman Building for special shows
    📷 Photos
  4. 4

    Historic food hall with Amish specialties and local favorites.

    • Must know: Closed Mondays
    2 tips
    • Try roast pork sandwiches and Dutch Eating Place breakfast
    • Avoid peak weekend lunch crowds
    📷 Photos
  5. 5

    The famous steps from the movie Rocky, with city views.

    • Tip: Sunset
    3 tips
    • Run up for the classic photo
    • Rocky statue is at the base to the right
    • Sunset gives great skyline views
    📷 Photos
  6. 6

    Atmospheric former prison once home to Al Capone.

    • Tip: Book ahead
    2 tips
    • Allow 2 hours with the audio tour
    • Dress for weather; much is outdoors
    📷 Photos
  7. 7

    America's oldest continuously inhabited residential street.

    • Tip: Go early
    2 tips
    • Residents live here; keep voices low
    • Small museum house is open seasonally
    📷 Photos
  8. 8

    Mosaic-covered art environment by Isaiah Zagar on South Street.

    • Tip: Weekdays
    • Tip: Book ahead
    1 tip
    • Combine with a South Street stroll
    📷 Photos
  9. 9

    Grand Second Empire building topped by a William Penn statue.

    • Tip: Book ahead
    2 tips
    • Tower tours go up to the observation deck
    • Walk through the courtyard arches
    📷 Photos
  10. 10

    Interactive museum dedicated to the US Constitution.

    3 tips
    • Start with the Freedom Rising show
    • Signers' Hall has life-size bronzes
    • Allow 2 hours
    📷 Photos

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Before you go: Philadelphia tips

Transportation

  • Use a SEPTA Key: SEPTA buses, subway and trolleys accept the SEPTA Key card and contactless payment, which is easier than paying cash.
  • Walk Center City: Center City is compact and grid-based, so walking between Old City, Rittenhouse and Chinatown is easy.
  • Take the Airport Line: SEPTA's Airport Line regional rail links the airport with Center City stations.

Security

  • Stay alert at night: Some neighbourhoods and transit stations are less safe after dark; stick to busy streets and use rideshares late.
  • Watch your belongings: Keep phones secure on the subway and in crowds around Independence Hall and the Reading Terminal Market.
  • Avoid unlicensed rides: Use official taxis or rideshare apps rather than accepting rides from strangers near stations.

Saving

  • Visit free sights: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and many historic sites in Independence National Historical Park are free.
  • Eat at the markets: Reading Terminal Market and the Italian Market offer cheap, filling meals from local vendors.
  • Check pay-what-you-wish times: Some museums offer pay-what-you-wish or free hours; check their websites before you go.

Weather/Clothing

  • Expect hot humid summers: Summers can be sticky; wear breathable clothes and plan indoor breaks in museums.
  • Bundle up in winter: Winters are cold with occasional snow; pack a warm coat, hat and gloves.
  • Enjoy spring and fall: These seasons are mild and pleasant; bring layers and a light jacket for cool evenings.

Cultural

  • Try a cheesesteak: Philly's famous sandwich comes in many styles; locals debate whether to order with or without onions and cheese type.
  • See the murals: Philadelphia has thousands of public murals; the Mural Arts programme offers tours.
  • Tip for service: Tipping is expected in restaurants and bars in the US, usually a percentage of the bill.

Local Hacks

  • Run the Rocky Steps: Climb the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art for city views and a photo with the Rocky statue.
  • Try a soft pretzel: Philly-style soft pretzels are a local snack sold at bakeries and stands all over town.
  • Go to Spruce Street Harbor Park: In warmer months this waterfront park has hammocks, lights and food stalls.

1-day itineraries in Philadelphia

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

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