I didn’t expect to fall in love with Philadelphia as quickly as I did. I came for the history like most first-time visitors do but I stayed for the character. There’s something raw and unfiltered about this city, in the best way possible. It’s not polished like D.C., not flashy like New York but it’s real. And in that honesty, Philly shines.
One minute I was standing in front of Independence Hall, imagining powdered wigs and revolution, and the next I was sipping lavender oat milk lattes in a cozy Fishtown café with murals climbing up every wall. That’s the magic of Philly it surprises you with its layers. Historic landmarks sit shoulder-to-shoulder with dive bars. Street food is just as important as fine dining. And art? It’s everywhere. On walls, in alleyways, in unexpected corners of the city.
I’ve now been to Philly more times than I can count, and each visit feels different. I’ve explored it in the dead of winter with a hot pretzel in hand, and again in spring when cherry blossoms spill over the sidewalks of Fairmount Park. I’ve stood in line for cheesesteaks at midnight and watched the sun rise over Boathouse Row. It’s a city that reveals itself slowly and rewards curiosity.
So if you’re planning a trip, I’ve put together this guide based on my own experiences. Some are must-sees you’ll find in every travel book. Others are spots I’ve stumbled upon and now return to every time. Whether you’re here for a weekend, a week, or just passing through, these are the best things to do in Philadelphia that will help you feel the soul of the city not just check off a list.
Top 12 Things to Do in Philadelphia
These are my absolute favorites classic landmarks, cultural gems, and food spots I keep going back to.
1. Independence Hall
This is the heartbeat of Philadelphia’s historic district and honestly, it gave me goosebumps. Walking through the Assembly Room where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, I could practically feel the weight of history pressing against the wooden floorboards. You’ll see George Washington’s “rising sun” chair, portraits of the Founding Fathers, and the original ink well used to sign America’s birth certificate.
The guided tour by the National Park Service is short but rich with context, and the rangers here don’t just recite facts they tell stories that make the past feel alive.
Zee’s Tip: Book your free timed-entry ticket online in advance (especially in spring/summer). Go first thing in the morning to beat the lines and school field trips. Pair this with a visit to nearby Congress Hall and Philosophical Hall they’re included and rarely crowded.
2. The Liberty Bell
I used to think the Liberty Bell was one of those quick tourist stops you do just to say you’ve done it. But when I finally stood in front of it, I was surprised at how moved I felt. This bell cracked, imperfect, yet powerful has become a symbol of freedom and resilience not just in the U.S., but around the world.
Before you even reach the bell, there’s a small but powerful exhibit that walks you through its journey from being recast multiple times in the 1700s to becoming a Civil Rights symbol in the 1900s. It’s quick, meaningful, and completely free.
Zee’s Tip: Arrive right when it opens (usually 9:00 AM) for a peaceful experience and better photos. And yes, you can take pictures just turn off the flash to be respectful of others.
3. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
I’ve never seen anything like this before. Magic Gardens isn’t your typical museum it’s part art installation, part outdoor maze, and completely magical. Artist Isaiah Zagar spent decades transforming this once-abandoned lot on South Street into a glittering mosaic wonderland made of broken mirrors, glass bottles, bicycle wheels, ceramic tiles, poetry, and found objects. It’s whimsical, emotional, and incredibly Instagrammable.
Walking through this labyrinth of light and texture felt like stepping into someone’s dreams. I took my time here every nook tells a story, every surface is covered in meaning.
Zee’s Tip: Buy tickets online for timed entry, especially on weekends. Go late afternoon when the sunlight bounces off the mirrored surfaces, or arrive early to snap photos without the crowds. If you’re into photography, bring your wide-angle lens!
4. Reading Terminal Market
This place is a sensory feast, and I come back every single time I’m in Philly. The smell hits you first sweet, savory, fried, fresh, and smoky all at once. Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest public markets in America, dating back to 1893, and it’s still buzzing with energy.
There are over 80 vendors inside, but some stalls have reached near-legendary status:
- DiNic’s Roast Pork with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone (don’t @ me, it beats the cheesesteak)
- Beiler’s Donuts for fluffy, hand-rolled perfection
- Dutch Eating Place for blueberry pancakes and apple dumplings
- Hershel’s East Side Deli for New York–style pastrami sandwiches
Zee’s Tip: Come hungry and avoid peak lunch hours if you can. I usually aim for a late breakfast or early lunch (around 10:30 AM). There’s limited seating, so be ready to grab a bench or share a table with strangers it’s part of the charm.
5. Philadelphia Museum of Art + The Rocky Steps
Let’s be honest most people come here for the photo op at the top of the famous Rocky Steps. And yes, I ran up those steps too (cue the theme song in your head). But once I caught my breath and looked out, the panoramic view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with City Hall in the distance absolutely blew me away.
Inside, the museum is massive and magnificent. With over 240,000 works of art spanning continents and centuries, it’s easy to get lost in here for hours. Some highlights: impressionist masterpieces by Monet and Degas, ancient Egyptian statues, Buddhist temples, and the stunning Japanese teahouse tucked away upstairs.
Zee’s Tip: Admission includes two days of access, so if you’re short on time, explore one wing and return later. Don’t miss the Rodin Museum nearby it’s included and often overlooked.
6. Spruce Street Harbor Park (Summer Only)
This place feels like a secret festival tucked along the Delaware River. When I first wandered into Spruce Street Harbor Park on a summer evening, I didn’t expect it to be so dreamy colorful hammocks swaying between trees, floating barges with beer gardens, string lights overhead, and the smell of boardwalk fries and funnel cakes drifting through the air.
It’s a relaxed, family-friendly spot during the day, but by night it transforms into a romantic date-night hangout or a chill group hang. You can rent paddle boats, play arcade games, or just sink into a hammock with a drink and watch the sunset.
Zee’s Tip: Visit just before dusk to experience the park in daylight and then enjoy it after the lights come on it’s truly magical. And wear comfy shoes you’ll want to stroll along the waterfront trail afterward.
7. Eastern State Penitentiary
This one gave me chills and not just because of the cold stone walls. Eastern State Penitentiary is a hauntingly beautiful ruin, once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. It’s now a museum where you can walk through crumbling cellblocks, peer into Al Capone’s surprisingly plush former cell, and learn how prison reform evolved over the years.
What I appreciated most was how immersive it is. The self-guided audio tour, narrated by Steve Buscemi, leads you through personal stories, eerie soundscapes, and haunting histories. It’s not just spooky it’s thought-provoking.
Zee’s Tip: Don’t miss the Prison Art and Voices of Incarceration exhibits toward the end. And if you’re visiting in October, book tickets to Halloween Nights a thrilling mix of haunted houses, live performances, and cocktails in the courtyard.
8. Elfreth’s Alley
Tucked between modern shops and cafes, this little cobblestone street is one of Philly’s most photogenic corners. Elfreth’s Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, dating back to the early 1700s. It’s only one block long, but every inch is packed with charm colorful shutters, tiny front doors, flower boxes, and flags fluttering in the breeze.
What I love most is how peaceful it feels. Even though it’s in the heart of Old City, it’s surprisingly quiet, almost like stepping back in time.
Zee’s Tip: Stop by in spring when the window boxes are blooming. There’s a small museum on-site (open on select days), and during special events, you can tour the inside of some homes.
9. Barnes Foundation
This isn’t just an art museum it’s an obsession. Dr. Albert Barnes, a quirky and brilliant collector, created this space to house his personal collection of over 4,000 masterpieces and he had very strong opinions about how they should be displayed. The result? A living room-style gallery filled with Renoirs, Cézannes, Matisses, Van Goghs, and more… arranged in a way that feels intimate and unpredictable.
There’s no signage on the walls (by design), so you’re encouraged to really look at the art instead of reading about it. It’s a refreshing experience, and one that made me slow down and appreciate each piece more deeply.
Zee’s Tip: Go mid-morning on a weekday for fewer crowds. The building itself is gorgeous, with a reflecting pool and a sleek café that makes for a perfect coffee stop after your visit.
10. LOVE Park
Yes, it’s a photo-op spot but it’s also the heart of Center City. Officially named JFK Plaza, LOVE Park is where locals and tourists alike gather to snap a picture with the famous LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana.
But beyond the statue, the park is a lively, modern public space with fountains, food trucks, pop-up events, and seasonal decorations. I’ve stumbled upon live music here, farmer’s markets, and even free yoga.
Zee’s Tip: If you’re visiting during the holidays, this is where you’ll find the Christmas Village, complete with mulled wine, bratwurst, wooden stalls, and festive lights. Don’t skip it.
11. The Franklin Institute
Even if science museums aren’t usually your thing, trust me this one’s different. The Franklin Institute blends education with full-on fun. I’ve walked through a giant model of a human heart, flown a simulator jet, built bridges, and played with electricity. There are also fascinating rotating exhibits (mine featured Marvel superheroes when I last visited!).
It’s a hit with kids, but honestly, I’ve had just as much fun here as the little ones. Plus, the building itself is beautiful, with massive columns and a statue of Ben Franklin that gives the place a grand, timeless feel.
Zee’s Tip: Buy your tickets online, especially if there’s a special exhibit running. Plan for at least 2–3 hours if you want to see everything and hit the gift shop (which is surprisingly cool).
12. South Street + Murals
South Street is one of those places that always keeps you guessing. You’ll find vintage clothing stores, indie record shops, cheesesteak joints, tattoo parlors, dive bars, and of course tons of murals. This part of the city feels younger, louder, and full of creative energy.
What I love is how raw and authentic it feels. Every corner has personality, whether it’s a rainbow-painted stoop or a wall covered in bold street art. You’ll also stumble on Isaiah Zagar mosaics throughout the area, connecting you back to Magic Gardens.
Zee’s Tip: Grab a slice at Lorenzo’s, browse Philly AIDS Thrift, and keep your phone ready for murals you’ll pass dozens just walking a few blocks. If you’re into night photography, this is a great place for evening shots.
More Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia
If you’ve got extra time or just want to dig deeper into the city’s personality, these are the places I recommend exploring beyond the main tourist list. They’re quirky, seasonal, scenic, or just plain fun and each one shows a different side of Philly.
Fairmount Park
Whenever I need a breather from the bustle of Center City, I head to Fairmount Park. It’s one of the largest urban park systems in the country, and yet somehow still feels like a hidden gem. The park spans over 2,000 acres and is sprinkled with historic mansions, wooded trails, sculptures, and peaceful creeks.
In the spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the Schuylkill River Trail and at the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the city. In summer, it’s perfect for picnics, jogging, or just people-watching near Belmont Plateau, which offers skyline views through the trees.
Zee’s Tip: Bring a blanket and snacks you’ll want to spend a couple of hours here. If you love biking, rent one and cruise from Fairmount to the Art Museum or along MLK Drive when it’s closed to traffic on weekends.
Mütter Museum
Let me just say: this place is not your average museum. The Mütter Museum houses one of the most unusual and captivating collections I’ve ever seen. Think preserved human specimens, antique surgical tools, skulls from around the world, Einstein’s brain, and even a jarred colon that once held 40 pounds of waste (yep, that’s a thing).
As wild as it sounds, the museum isn’t gimmicky it’s deeply educational and handled with care. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for medical history, human biology, and how far we’ve come.
Zee’s Tip: It’s best for older teens and adults (younger kids may find it disturbing). Allow about an hour to explore and don’t forget to check out the gift shop for some delightfully macabre souvenirs.
Fishtown
This is probably my favorite neighborhood to just wander with no agenda. Fishtown feels like the creative pulse of Philly part hipster haven, part working-class roots, and full of surprises.
I usually start at La Colombe’s flagship café, then work my way down Frankford Avenue popping into record stores, local boutiques, and art galleries. On weekends, there’s often a farmer’s market or pop-up event happening. The murals here are vibrant and ever-changing be sure to keep your camera handy.
And the food? Don’t even get me started. From Suraya’s Lebanese brunch to Pizza Brain’s quirky museum-pizzeria hybrid, Fishtown nails the flavor game.
Zee’s Tip: Come hungry and stay late many of the city’s best bars and live music venues are tucked right here. For something unique, check if The Fillmore or Johnny Brenda’s have shows that night.
Christmas Village & Winter Markets
I absolutely adore Philly in December. The city turns into a cozy, glowing bundle of twinkle lights and gingerbread smells, thanks to its European-style Christmas Village at LOVE Park and nearby Dilworth Plaza.
There are wooden huts selling ornaments, hot cocoa, bratwurst, handmade gifts, and mulled wine (called Glühwein you get to keep the festive mug!). There’s also a massive Christmas tree, light shows projected onto City Hall, and an ice skating rink surrounded by skyscrapers.
Zee’s Tip: Come after 4 PM when the lights are on, and grab a warm soft pretzel while browsing the stalls. If you’re traveling with kids, hop on the holiday carousel or take photos with the massive snow globe display.
Boathouse Row
One of the most iconic views in Philadelphia is also one of the most peaceful. Boathouse Row is a collection of historic rowing houses lining the Schuylkill River, and at night, they’re lit up with glowing outlines that reflect beautifully off the water.
I’ve seen it at sunrise, during a fall run, and once even from a kayak and it’s always magical. If you happen to visit during a regatta, you’ll witness a unique local tradition that brings out passionate crowds and proud teams.
Zee’s Tip: The best viewpoint is from the Fairmount Water Works area or across the river on MLK Drive. Bring a thermos of coffee and catch the sunrise here if you’re an early riser it’s serene and breathtaking.
Cherry Street Pier
What was once a crumbling pier has become one of Philly’s most vibrant waterfront hangouts. Cherry Street Pier blends industrial charm with community creativity it’s part artist studio, part marketplace, part event venue, and part café.
Every time I visit, something different is happening: a vintage flea market, an open studio art walk, live music, or a movie screening under string lights. You can sit by the river with a drink, watch boats cruise by, or check out pop-up installations inside the pier’s warehouse-style space.
Zee’s Tip: Combine this with a stroll through Race Street Pier, just next door it’s one of my favorite sunset spots. And check the Delaware River Waterfront website for seasonal events like beer gardens or night markets.
Adventure Aquarium (Across the Bridge)
Okay, this one’s across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey but it’s literally a 10-minute ride from Old City and totally worth it, especially if you’re visiting with kids (or are a kid at heart).
The Adventure Aquarium has everything from sharks and stingrays to penguins, hippos, sea turtles, and even a walk-through shark tunnel. I went expecting a family-friendly attraction and came away having had a blast myself.
Zee’s Tip: Go early in the day to avoid crowds and plan for about 2–3 hours. They also have touch tanks where you can gently feel starfish and stingrays a hit with little ones and adults alike.
Philadelphia has this energy that’s hard to explain it’s raw and real and completely its own. You get the history of Boston, the food scene of NYC, and the heart of a city that’s proud of its past but not stuck in it.
Whether you’re walking through cobblestone alleys or admiring modern murals, there’s always a surprise waiting around the corner.
