Strap yourself in; the City of Brotherly Love is quite the ride. There is no shortage of things to do in Philadelphia, quite the opposite, no matter whether you are a seasoned local or a fresh-faced tourist pounding the streets for the first time. Anyone with a passing interest in American history will find plenty to sink their teeth into, and the theme continues with some of the best food in the country. Much of that delicious food is at the city’s markets, where currency and conversation are king. Philadelphia’s must-see attractions are a love letter to everything that makes Philly special, then, now, and forever. Charge the camera, because you are about to take a lot of photos.
Photograph: Courtesy Visit Philadelphia/J. Fusco
1. Independence National Historical Park
- Attractions
- Historic buildings and sites
- Greater Philadelphia
Don’t be surprised if you spot people dressed in character, from tricorn hats down to square-buckled shoes, in this historic part of the city. After all, Philly is the Cradle of Liberty. Visiting these 55 acres of National Park is a must for anyone coming to Philadelphia. The abundance of landmarks in this park—including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Ben Franklin Museum—speak to its extraordinary role in the founding of the nation. Pro tip: limited additional ‘next day’ tickets are available at 5pm for the very popular Independence Hall tours the following day.
Photograph: Shutterstock/EQRoy
2. Reading Terminal Market
- Attractions
- Greater Philadelphia
Established in 1892, the historic Reading Terminal Market is America’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market. It is also something of a destination for Fromage fans—think rare Pennsylvania Dutch specialties and incredibly fresh mozzarella made on-site. Over 80 local food merchants are plying their trade here, so the choice is mind-blowing. If you are stopping for lunch, seek out Tommy DiNic’s roast pork sandwich, one of the best sandwiches you’ll find around these parts.
3. The Franklin Institute
Slap-bang in the heart of Philadelphia, the Franklin Institute is a must-see when visiting the city. The science museum, named after Benjamin Franklin (yes, one of the Founding Fathers), is one of the leading science centers in the country. There are daily educational programs, shows, and many exhibitions to explore. It’s a great day out for the family and, at the very least, somewhere to spend your time if it’s raining outside.
Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/Céline
4. Historic Old City
- Attractions
- Historic buildings and sites
- Elfreth’s Alley
This funky and historic section of town close to the Delaware River is a blend of cafés, boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and fascinating historical gems. We all learned about Betsy Ross making the country’s flag back in grade school, so visit her house to see the birthplace of the flag and the stories behind its making. Want to see the oldest—and cutest—residential street in America? Check out Elfreth’s Alley, dating back to 1702, and stop in the Elfeth’s Alley Museum to learn more about this National Historic Landmark. Walk a few minutes to the historic Christ Church, founded in 1695 and active today. Revolutionary-era attendees of the Episcopal house of worship included Ben Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Benjamin Rush, and Sally Franklin Bache.
Photograph: Courtesy Visit Philadelphia/M. Edlow
5. Rittenhouse Square
- Attractions
- Parks and gardens
- Rittenhouse
Love people-watching? Rittenhouse Square is endlessly fascinating. This elegant space has a rich history and is one of the five open-space parks throughout the city originally planned by William Penn and built in 1683. Bag yourself a sandwich from any nearby café, secure your wooden bench and watch the show go by—from chic mommies and daddies playing with their kids to tattooed bike messengers hanging out on the 18th Street corner. Besides the daily parade of Philadelphians, there are often also summer concerts, holiday celebrations, art fairs, and farmers’ markets in and around the square.
