Discover Philadelphia

Philadelphia became the first city in the United States to receive the designation of World Heritage City in 2015. History, museums, market life, and green spaces shape different sides of the city. Possible highlights range from places connected to the early history of the United States to walking trails in Wissahickon Valley Park.

Historic Sites and Their Stories

Independence Hall is the largest building in the middle of the Independence Square block. Congress Hall was home to the US Congress for ten years, from 1790 to 1800, while Philadelphia was the capital of the United States. Carpenters’ Hall points to another important date: in 1774, the hall hosted the First Continental Congress. It is free to the public.

Franklin Court and Elfreth’s Alley also bring history to life in different ways. Franklin Court features ghostly courtyard structures and the foundations of Benjamin Franklin’s house. Elfreth’s Alley dates back to 1703; its early American buildings were built between 1720 and 1836. A guided history tour of the entire alley lasts 40 minutes, follows the alley including Bladen’s Court, and includes admission to two museum houses. Tour times may change, so check the schedule in advance.

Museums and Guided Experiences

The experiences offer different perspectives: the Liberty Bell Center features self-guided exhibits about the Liberty Bell; exhibits may change over time. Revolutionary City, by contrast, is a guided walking tour outdoors. It lasts 1.5 hours and covers about a mile. The tour schedule may change, so it’s worth checking the latest dates before your visit.

On the Delaware River, the Independence Seaport Museum presents two historic ships and exhibits. Ships and exhibits may be subject to operational changes. At the Betsy Ross House, visitors can meet Betsy Ross in her upholstery workshop as she sews reproductions of Colonial-era fabrics. An English-language audio tour covers her life and her debated role in the American Revolutionary War. Flagmakers’ Hall explores the history, craftsmanship, and legacy of the American flag.

The Johnson House was an important part of the Underground Railroad. It features artifacts related to the history of slavery and extensive educational materials; it also hosts history talks, art exhibitions, and other special programs. If you plan to attend a particular talk or program, check its availability before your trip.

The Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center features a traditionally designed Japanese house and garden that reflect the history of Japanese culture in Philadelphia. Visitors can tour the house and feed the koi. Check the current conditions for these activities before your visit.

Markets, Animals, and Everyday City Life

Since 1893, Reading Terminal Market has been located in a building designated a National Historic Landmark. Its offerings include locally grown and exotic fruits and vegetables, regionally sourced meat and poultry, seafood, cheese, baked goods, and confections. The mix of vendors may change. You can get to know the market through both its history and its wide selection of food and baked goods.

The Philadelphia Zoo is home to more than 1,900 rare and endangered animals. Animal populations may change. The city offers visitors a range of experiences, from historic sites and exhibits to seeing animals and learning about their protection.

Parks and Outdoor Trails

At Fairmount Park, you can go for a walk, use the trails, and play softball. Wissahickon Valley Park offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and horseback riding; some activities on the upper trails require a permit. Forbidden Drive is a lower gravel road that follows the creek through Wissahickon Valley Park.

Boathouse Row is another of Philadelphia’s distinctive built landmarks: the row comprises 19th-century boathouses on the east bank of the Schuylkill River. Together with the parks, it offers a different perspective on the city than its museums and historic buildings, without requiring a specific itinerary.

Practical Information and Choosing a Hotel

The Independence Visitor Center offers a ticket counter, gift shop, public restrooms, and exhibits; visitor services may change. Philadelphia’s Indego bike-share system has eight locations in the Historic District. Stations may be relocated, so check their locations before using the system.

When looking for a hotel in Philadelphia, you can start by considering what you want to focus on during your stay: historic sites and tours, museums and market visits, or time outdoors.

Discover more destinations: Philadelphia, Juniata, Montgomery, Potter County, Butler, Venango County, Somerset County, Cambria County.

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