Recent Searches
Clear
Things to do in Philadelphia

Things to do in  Philadelphia

Welcome to Philadelphia

Get an up-close look at American history in the City of Brotherly Love, an early capital of the United States. History lovers, foodies, and adventurers will find plenty of things to do in this bustling city: Book a private or group tour to experience Philly’s sights, sounds, and tastes. Start with a hop-on hop-off city sightseeing tour on a double-decker bus. You’ll get your bearings and stop wherever you like—and hop back on when you’re ready. Tour major historic sites such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Congress Hall, plus the Betsy Ross House, Constitution Center, and the immense City Hall topped with a statue of William Penn. Or get some exercise with a walking or bike tour around the city center. Culinary tours focus on Philly’s vibrant local brewery scene and regional specialties, such as soft pretzels, Philly cheesesteaks, and cuisines from around the world. (Try an Uzbekistan restaurant.) Peruse the outdoor Italian Market, one of the country’s oldest, for cannoli and fresh pasta. Then turn your focus to culture: Take a tour of public art, including sculptures and murals, and discuss what the artists intended with your guide. Head to the Philadelphia Art Museum, the Franklin Institute, and the 42-acre Philadelphia Zoo. And cap off your day with an evening bus tour through the city’s lights, a dinner cruise, or a pub crawl, for a great night’s sleep, before starting again in the morning.

Top 15 attractions in Philadelphia

#1
Liberty Bell Center

Liberty Bell Center

star-4.55,688
The Liberty Bell, a 2,000-pound (907-kilogram) piece of American history, was forged in London's Whitechapel Foundry and represents freedom in the city where the Declaration of Independence was crafted. Now set in the Liberty Bell Center, the bell was commissioned in 1752 and has been in Philadelphia since British Colonial rule.More
#2
The Franklin Institute Science Museum

The Franklin Institute Science Museum

star-42,235
One of the country’s first science museums, the Franklin Institute takes its name from inventor and former Philadelphian Benjamin Franklin. Today, it serves as an entertaining and educational destination for visitors of all ages—its hands-on exhibits, temporary exhibitions, planetarium, and other offerings make it a family-friendly must.More
#3
Philadelphia Museum of Art

Philadelphia Museum of Art

star-4.51,251
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest public art galleries in the United States. Along with its main Greco-Roman style building—home to works by Rubens, Monet, and van Gogh—this cultural treasure boasts four smaller museums and is fronted by the “Rocky Steps,” immortalized in the hit 1976 film Rocky.More
#4
Philadelphia City Hall

Philadelphia City Hall

star-4.52,259
Philadelphia City Hall, in the middle of Center City at the intersection of Broad and Market streets, is visible from all over town. For nearly 100 years, it remained the tallest structure in the city. Though it no longer bears the accolade, City Hall remains one of the city’s most recognizable historic buildings.More
#5
Betsy Ross House

Betsy Ross House

star-4.55,218
George Washington supposedly asked Betsy Ross to stitch the first-ever American flag. The seamstress is said to have created the Stars and Stripes in 1776. Today, visitors can explore the 18th-century house where Betsy Ross purportedly lived, examine artifacts from her life, and even meet a costumed Betsy Ross impersonator.More
#6
Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo

star-41,963
The Philadelphia Zoo is perfect for families with kids looking for a break from the historical sites, though it has some historical significance as well—it was the nation’s first zoo. It’s home to over 1,300 different animals, many of them rare and endangered, and renowned for successfully breeding animals that are difficult to breed in captivity.More
#7
Christ Church

Christ Church

star-4.54,630
Founded in 1695 and located in the heart of Old City, Christ Church is one of Philadelphia’s oldest and most significant religious landmarks, formerly attended by Founding Fathers including George Washington. Christ Church Burial Ground serves as the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin, George Ross, and other American luminaries.More
#8
Philadelphia Chinatown

Philadelphia Chinatown

star-41,970
Originally settled in the mid-19th century by Cantonese immigrants, Philadelphia's Chinatown is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its fresh-food markets, authentic restaurants, and diverse crowds. Its streets and alleyways are jam-packed with shops, including those selling gifts and souvenirs, novelty items, and artisan crafts.More
#9
Rocky Statue

Rocky Statue

star-4.51,355
The larger-than-life bronze statue standing at the base of the steps to the Philadelphia Museum of Art has become an essential stop on any visit to the hometown of fictional fighter Rocky Balboa. The massive Rocky Statue—both arms raised—was made for the movie Rocky III (1982) and gifted to the city by actor Sylvester Stallone.More
#10
Philadelphia Old City

Philadelphia Old City

star-4.52,411
Old City is a neighborhood in Central City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, known for its antiquated charm and many historic sites important to the birth of the United States. Wander down its narrow cobblestone streets and you'll feel like you're stepping through a time warp into 18th-century colonial America.More
#11
Elfreth's Alley

Elfreth's Alley

star-52,930
Billed as the oldest residential street in the United States, Elfreth’s Alley dates back to 1702. A National Historic Landmark and a living museum, the narrow, cobbled alley features 32 buildings in Georgian and Federal styles. It’s also home to Elfreth's Alley Museum House.More
#12
National Constitution Center

National Constitution Center

star-42,803
Located on Philadelphia’s historic Independence Mall, the National Constitution Center is dedicated to honoring and exploring the United States Constitution, which (ratified in 1788) is the supreme law of the nation. The sprawling, tech-savvy museum brings the Constitution to life via interactive exhibits and dramatic presentations.More
#13
Penn's Landing

Penn's Landing

star-4.52,218
Sandwiched between Columbus Boulevard and the Delaware River on the east side of Philadelphia, Penn's Landing is skinny in shape but important in stature. The waterfront area served as the 1682 landing spot for William Penn, founder of the Pennsylvania colony, making it a must-see spot for any American history buff.More
#14
Fairmount Park

Fairmount Park

star-4.51,586
The largest park in Philadelphia—and one of the biggest swaths of urban green space in the country—Fairmount Park is also home to public artworks, museums, and historic highlights. With east and west sections divided by the Schuylkill River, Fairmount Park stretches across 2,052 acres (830 hectares).More
#15
Love Park

Love Park

star-4.52,274
Located in downtown Philadelphia, the John F. Kennedy Plaza is better known as LOVE Park, after Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture in the center of the park. Newly redesigned, with expanded green spaces, improved seating and pathways, and a programmable fountain, LOVE Park is a popular destination with locals and visitors alike.More

Trip ideas

How to Spend 3 Days in Philadelphia

How to Spend 3 Days in Philadelphia

Top activities in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

star-4.5
1584
From
HK$289.65
Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out
Dark Philly Adult Night Tour

Dark Philly Adult Night Tour

star-5
1427
From
HK$241.38
Flavors of Philly Food Tour
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out

Flavors of Philly Food Tour

star-5
195
From
HK$522.98
Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Lunch Cruise with Buffet
Likely to Sell OutLikely to Sell Out
Philadelphia Segway Tour

Philadelphia Segway Tour

star-5
304
From
HK$442.52
Sip of Philly Brewery Tour

Sip of Philly Brewery Tour

star-5
19
From
HK$724.13
The Musical History Tour

The Musical History Tour

star-5
124
From
HK$249.42
Founding Fathers Tour of Philadelphia

Special Offer

Founding Fathers Tour of Philadelphia

star-4.5
816
From
HK$305.74
HK$382.18  HK$76.44 savings
Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Recent reviews from experiences in Philadelphia

star-5
Great way to see some of...
Ann_G, Aug 2022
Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Tour
Great way to see some of the most important historical sites of Philadelphia.
star-5
Delightful
Gina_F, Aug 2022
Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
What a way to see Philadelphia.
star-5
Philly at night
shawn_m, Jul 2022
Dark Philly Adult Night Tour
A great way to see Philadelphia in a alif back setting while learning about it
star-5
Was an excellent tour!! A...
David_R, Jul 2022
Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
A great way to see Philadelphia in 2 hours!
star-5
Philadelphia
Rita_R, Jul 2022
Philadelphia History, Highlights, & Revolution Tour
Then go back to see inside some of the historic buildings and museums.
star-5
Knowledgeable guide and great history
Koontz_C, Jun 2022
The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia
With only two days in town, this was a really nice way to see several spots.
star-5
Great Historical Tour!
Rachel_L, May 2022
Old City Historic Walking Tour in Philadelphia
You get lots of interesting background about the city and get to see a lot of important historical sites as well.
star-5
Excellent experience
Amanda_B, May 2022
Old City Historic Walking Tour in Philadelphia
Our tour guide, Seamus, was so knowledgeable, personable, and helpful with tips of things to do afterwards.
star-5
Great time!
Valerie_B, May 2022
BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia
Such a fun way to see the sites of Philadelphia!
star-5
If you love music!
h7r7pmjbqr, Feb 2022
The Musical History Tour
It was great to see so many iconic Philadelphia landmarks along the way.
star-5
All 27 Stops
Adrianne_E, Jul 2022
Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
The tour was wonderful even on one of the hottest days of summer.
star-5
See the best of Philadelphia.
Kathryn_O, Jul 2022
City Sightseeing Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
We loved to opportunity to see a wide range of Philadelphia and learn interesting facts and stories.
star-4
Enjoy a Nighttime Walk Through Philly!
Rachel_L, May 2022
Dark Philly Adult Night Tour
The Dark Philly Adult Night Tour is a great way to see the city at night time!
star-5
Best Tour in Philly!!
Christine_R, Apr 2022
The Musical History Tour
The tour bus and ride was comfortable and we were able to visit so many parts of the city - from Center City to South Philly to the Rocky steps at the Art Museum.
star-5
Great tour for my teenage daughters
Romney_D, Apr 2022
The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia
This was the first time for my daughters (ages 12 & 15) to visit Philadelphia, so I wanted to make sure they got to visit all the historical sites and have fun while learning about our country’s history.
star-5
Great Experience!
Caitlin_B, Apr 2022
Founding Fathers Tour of Philadelphia
This tour was about two hours and you get to see most of the historical sites in Philadelphia.
star-5
Italian market place tour with Chef Jacquie
Lee_C, Mar 2022
Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour
The only thing we would have changed was to schedule it at the beginning of our trip as Jacquie offered up her favorite restaurants and there was not enough time to visit them all!
star-5
Great way to see the city
john_p, Oct 2021
BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia
Unique way to see Philadelphia and spend time with friends while drinking your favorite beverage
star-5
Great experience seeing Philly!!
Julius_C, Sep 2021
Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day)
It is the perfect way to see Philly!!
star-5
Good Experience
Floyd_P, Jun 2021
Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet
We especially enjoyed the cruise and being able to see Philadelphia skyline at sundown.
We perform checks on reviews

All about Philadelphia

When to visit

Following its long winter, Philadelphia is more than ready to shine when the weather warms up. Spring highlights include Mexican Week, the South Street Spring Festival, Aberdeen Dad Vail Regatta, Broad Street Run, and the long-running Easter Promenade. Alternatively, fall brings crisp temperatures and the chance to see the city bathed in autumnal hues.

Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
EDT (UTC -5)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English

People Also Ask

What is Philadelphia famous for?

Philadelphia was the nation's early capital, and history buffs can discover the Liberty Bell, follow in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers in Old City, and visit Independence Hall, where the Constitution was drafted. Philly is also known for its Art Museum (immortalized in "Rocky"), its sports teams, and its cheesesteaks.

...More
How can I spend a day in Philadelphia?

Begin a day in Philadelphia among the landmarks of Independence National Historical Park before heading to the indoor Reading Terminal Market for a hearty lunch. Afterwards, continue to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a dose of culture, and finish with a stroll among the shops and restaurants of Rittenhouse Square.

...More
Is Philadelphia worth visiting?

Yes, the Philadelphia area welcomes upwards of 40 million visitors per year, and its wealth of historical landmarks, cultural destinations, and distinctive neighborhoods make it a must-visit city. Sports teams like the Eagles and the Phillies are a draw, and the city's dozens of museums and top-tier dining scene added bonuses.

...More
What attractions are there in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a wealth of attractions, including historic landmarks (Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, City Hall) and museums (the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, the National Constitution Center). Eastern State Penitentiary is a macabre draw, while Longwood Gardens and Fairmount Park are popular warm-weather destinations.

...More
What should I avoid in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has something for everyone, but it's wise to do your research: squeamish visitors should skip the medical oddities of the Mütter Museum, and those bored by politics should avoid the National Constitution Center. Additionally, beware of tourist-trap cheesesteaks: try Angelo's or Jim's instead.

...More
Is Philadelphia dangerous for tourists?

No, Philadelphia is not usually dangerous for tourists, but the city does have elevated levels of crime. While the main attractions of Center City are usually a safe bet, it's best to avoid straying into outlying neighborhoods in North, West, and South Philadelphia, and to avoid walking around alone at night.

...More
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the top things to do in Philadelphia?
Q:
What are the top activities in Philadelphia?
Q:
What are the top things to do near Philadelphia?
A:
Check out things to do near Philadelphia:
Q:
What do I need to know before visiting Philadelphia?