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Philadelphia, celebrated as one of America’s most walkable cities, teems with parks, museums, and attractions full of rich history and vibrant culture. With an exciting food scene and world-class museums, you will love discovering Philly! This is more than just a great sports town! Philadelphia guarantees an exciting experience you won’t want to miss!
Stroll through historical sites in Old Town, uncover iconic Philadelphia museums with complimentary or wallet-friendly options, or enjoy a stroll or bike ride followed by a tranquil park picnic. Travelers can choose from various free things to do in Philadelphia.
Independence National Historical Park
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Begin your visit to the City of Brotherly Love at the Independence Visitor Center, 6th and Market streets, in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic mile, at the official welcome center of the region, and gateway to Independence National Historical Park.
A must-see includes Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Visitors can also tour Congress Hall, where George Washington was inaugurated as the United States’ first President.
The Liberty Bell
Nothing says “America” more than the iconic Liberty Bell. A symbol of our historic past is on display at the Liberty Bell Center. Tickets are not required, and access is granted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day on a first-come, first-served basis. A walk through the museum provides background and history around the famous bell, and visitors can get a close look at the renowned icon with a beautiful backdrop of Independence Hall across the street.
Museum of the American Revolution
Immerse yourself in American history. Visit the Museum of the American Revolution to learn all about what made the United States a country. This interactive multimedia museum is a great visit for families and visitors to the USA.
Benjamin Franklin Bridge—Pedestrian Walkway
Check out the beautiful sunset along the Benjamin Franklin Bridge’s pedestrian walkway. Enter at 5th & Race streets and head east to encounter one of the city’s best views.
Philly’s Five Original “Squares”
Philadelphia’s original city plan included five public squares. Today, you can visit Philadelphia’s picturesque squares, including Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square, Franklin Square, and Logan Square. The fifth square is home to City Hall, in the center of the city. Walk to the center courtyard of City Hall to see a map of all five squares and then enjoy refreshments and seasonal activities in adjacent Dilworth Park.
The LOVE Statue & LOVE Park
Selfie alert! Head to LOVE Park for one of Philadelphia’s favorite photo ops with the LOVE statue. The park features a clear view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway toward the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Recently redesigned, LOVE Park also offers plenty of seating and frequent food trucks. Check out the Visitor’s Centre for guidance on where to see some amazing public art and murals nearby.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Relax in a hammock or enjoy the breeze off the river at Spruce Street Harbor Park. Situated atop several floating barges, this park features plenty of seating and spaces to lounge in, food vendors, and more. The LED light installations glow beautifully at night along the Delaware River Waterfront.
Self-Guided Public Art Tours
Philadelphia takes its street art and murals very seriously. Public funding goes towards making this city beautiful, one building at a time. With over 4,000 murals and treasured public art pieces in every neighborhood throughout the city, the Mural Arts Philadelphia self-guided tours are a great way to get to know Philadelphia’s walkable communities.
Logan Square
One of the most iconic avenues in America begins at Logan Square. The Swann Memorial Fountain is the roundabout at the beginning of Benjamin Franklin Parkway. From the Franklin Institute to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this majestic avenue is worth an afternoon stroll with stops at some of the best museums in the country.
The Franklin Institute
A place for exploration and wonder, The Franklin Institute has a giant human heart! Hear the sounds of a human heartbeat as you go through the chambers. This is one of the many intriguing exhibits for children and adults alike.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rocky Steps
Follow in the steps of Rocky Balboa with a morning jog up the Rocky Steps to the Philadelphia Museum of Art – and don’t forget to take your photo with Rocky’s statue once you’ve cooled down. As an added bonus, the museum has a “pay what you wish” offer on the first Sunday of every month and each Friday from 5 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
The Barnes Foundation
With one of the most impressive private collections in the world, you should spend an afternoon looking at paintings, sculptures, and unique items at The Barnes Foundation. There are free tours explaining and a lovely cafe. Located on Benjamin Franklin Parkway beside the Rodin Museum, it offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month.
The Rodin Museum
You don’t even have to go inside to see the beauty of his sculptures. The Rodin Museum is directly beside The Barnes Foundation, and visitors are free to visit the garden. You will want to go inside to see how this French artist captures the human form in bronze. Check out the impressive Gates of Hell – the large doorway at the front of the museum.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, the massive Eastern State Penitentiary operated from 1829 to 1970. It introduced Americans to the concept of prison as a reform (penitentiary for “penance”) tool. Today, the site—which once housed notorious criminals like Al Capone—offers self-guided tours that explore the attraction’s history and modern social justice issues surrounding incarceration.
Philadelphia Magic Garden
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is an extraordinary art environment covered in mosaics created by Isaiah Zagar. It’s filled with handmade tiles, bottles, and other items reflecting his life and inspiration. Truly one of the quirkiest museums you will ever see, there is a fee for admission, but you can take a free tour of the neighborhood around it.
The Italian Market – South Street
One of Philadelphia’s most colorful neighborhoods is a short walk from the Magic Garden. Check out Philadelphia’s Italian Market, which runs along approximately ten city blocks of Ninth Street in South Philadelphia and is one of America’s oldest and largest open-air markets. On the hunt for the perfect cannoli or cappuccino? Look no further than Isgro’s Italian Pastries, which has been a staple since 1904.
Reading Terminal Market
Looking for a great place to eat and feel the whole Philly vibe? You can find an authentic Philly Cheesesteak, a decadent donut, or fresh oysters from the Atlantic Ocean. A top attraction, Reading Terminal Market is a foodie’s delight. It opened as a public market in 1893 and is considered one of the best public markets in the nation.
More on Philadelphia
- The Enigmatic 14: Philadelphia’s Best-Kept Museum Secrets and Number 13 Will Stun You!
- Unlocking Philadelphia: CityPASS® Your Key to Capturing Memorable Moments
- Breathtaking Murals in Philadelphia – MuralArts.org – Philly Mural and Mosaic Tours
🥾 Explore: Tours & Experiences
🏡 Where to Stay: Top Accommodations
🚙 Hit the Road: Car Rental Deals
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