Philadelphia is the largest city of the state of Pennsylvania (capital is Harrisburg), or better say the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It is just the legal name of the state. Pennsylvania is one of the original 13 colonies. It has a very significant importance in history. It is in Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Philadelphia is very close to a lot of interesting cities, so take a car or in my humble opinion take a train. Here it is where the famous "Rocky" (movie, Sylvester Stalone) climbed the stairs, so if you see people doing that while getting filmed, now you know!
I have prepared a one day guide to help you cover the top attractions. If you wish to make your own, scroll down!
DAY 1
Philadelphia is a city with a lot of history, but I think the most “important” attractions could be achieved in one day. After breakfast, let’s start our day at Independence Hall. It is the place where the declaration of Independence was signed. The tours are free that’s why you need to get there early. After you finish your tour, cross to the Independence National Historical Park. Here we are going to be able to see the Liberty Bell.
After you are done, if you are a history fan, Betsy Ross House, the creator of the first American flag, is few blocks away. Otherwise, look for Market St and walk west 23 min. Once you reach Philadelphia City Hall, make a right. You will pass by the Masonic Temple. If you have time, check it out. One block from here, you will reach Love Park. Famous sign made by artist Robert Indiana.
After taking some pictures, take Benjamin Franklin Parkway until you reach the Philadelphia Museum of Art. On the way, you will pass by the Rodin Museum. If you like sculptures, here is a good place to visit. Remember Auguste Rodin is famous for the thinker sculpture.
Finally you have reach the last stop. Wait! Before you take those steps, let me tell you that you have to play on your phone “Eye of the Tiger”. Do you remember now? These are the famous Rocky Steps. After you take videos and pics. If you like art, visit this museum. I will totally recommend it. You will be probably starving! The Philly Cheese Steak is a must eat in Philadelphia. It is a sandwich with sliced beef and melted cheese.
If you have more time, rememberer to check out the rest of the attractions on the tab below!
Make Your Own
- Independence Hall
- Liberty Bell
- Love Park
- Philadelphia Museum of Art $
- Betsy Ross House $
- Rodin Museum $
- Eastern State Penitentiary $
- Mutter Museum $
- Edgar Allan Poe Home
- Franklin Institute
- Barnes Foundation
- Elfreth's Alley
Philadelphia Phillies (Baseball)
Season April - October
Philadelphia Eagles (Football)
Season September - January
Philadelphia 76ers (Basketball)
Season October - April
Philadelphia Union (Soccer)
Season March - October
Playoffs October - December
Philadelphia Flyers (Hockey)
Season October - April
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor - 54 miles
Six Flags Great Adventure - 54 miles
HersheyPark - 98 miles
You will need a car for the "closest beaches". Beacuse of the weather beaches are popular mostly in summer. Some of them are in New Jersey. Here are some of the nice beaches:
Cape May & Wilwood Beach (94 miles), Long Beach Island (68 miles), and Spring Lake (75 miles).
Pittsburgh 304 miles
Falling Water House and Andy Warhol Museum.
New York 97 miles
One of the largest cities in USA. Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Central Park, etc.
Washington D.C. 139 miles
Nation's capital. Lincoln Memorial, White House, Capitol, etc.
Atlantic City 62 miles
Resort city in New Jersey with casinos.
Take a Train
Pittsburgh 7.5 hours
New York 1.5 hours
Washington D.C. 2 hours
A car is not really needed in Philly. There are a few dangerous places in the outskirts of Philadelphia. Be sure to hang around in touristic places; those places are safe. Do not worry! Try to arrive early to the Independence Hall and Liberty Bell; they are the top attractions and free of charge. I would highly visit the house of Falling Water it is far away from Philly, but it is worth a visit. The Mutter Museum ia as Collection of medical oddities and anatomical experiments. (Not recommended for children.)
Tallest Buildings:
Comcast Center
One Liberty Place
Tow Liberty Place
There are good places to have a drink in Rittenhouse Square. Northern Liberties (nightclubs).
If your plan is going shopping, check out King of Prussia or Springfield Mall.
