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Philadelphia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

The City of Brotherly Love is a place I’ve visited often throughout my life (I have family there). While the city has received a bit of a bad rap in the past, Philadelphia has changed a lot in the last few years and is too often overlooked in my opinion.

The city is a vibrant destination with a growing population, good restaurants, a burgeoning art scene, and lots to see and do. (It’s packed with colonial history (the first Continental Congress was held here in 1774), making it an educational stop for anyone interested in learning more about the United States’ past.)

I really like the city and think you can spend a really nice three or four days here.

This travel guide to Philadelphia can help give you all the information you need to plan your trip.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Philadelphia

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Top 5 things to see and do in philadelphia.

1. See the Liberty Bell

This bell, which dates to 1752, is an iconic symbol of American freedom. It’s said to have been rung when the Declaration of Independence was read in July 1776. The 2,080-pound (940-kilogram) bell was cast in London, yet cracked the first time that it was run upon its arrival in Philadelphia. Local metalworkers recast it twice, yet the bell eventually cracked again, leaving the distinctive crack it still bears to this day. Today, the bell is located in Independence National Historical Park, which you can visit for free.

2. Run up the Rocky stairs

The stairs from Rocky , the classic boxing film from 1976, are located at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You can’t visit Philadelphia without running up them and doing your best Stallone impression. Just be prepared – there are 72 steps! When you’re done, there’s a bronze statue at the bottom of the steps that you can pose with. The 10-foot (3-meter) statue was originally created for a scene in the 1980 film, Rocky III , and later installed at its current location.

3. Photograph the LOVE statue

This sculpture of the word “Love” by Robert Indiana is one of the most iconic sights in town. Installed in 1976 in JFK Park (commonly called Love Park), the aluminum sculpture is a popular place to snap some photos, relax, and do some people-watching. “Amor” is the sister sculpture of “Love,” created by the artist to recognize the changing demographics of the country and his desire to connect with Spanish-speaking communities. You can visit “Amor” in Philadelphia’s Sister Cities Park.

4. Visit the National Constitution Center

This insightful museum is all about the Constitution (though the document itself is located in Washington, DC ). There are interactive displays as well as regular events and lectures where you can learn more about how the Constitution relates to the issues of the day. You’ll find a whole gallery dedicated to the First Amendment and another about the voting rights of women. In the Signer’s Hall, there are 42 life-size statues of the men who signed the Constitution and you can imagine what it may have been like on that day. The center also has hosted Presidential and Senatorial debates. Admission is $19 USD and you need to reserve a time slot in advance.

5. Browse Reading Terminal Market

Opened in 1893, this is one of the oldest and biggest markets in the country. There are over 80 stalls, vendors, and merchants offering all kinds of fresh produce, local cheeses, tasty meals, flowers, and handicrafts. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat, including local specialties like the iconic Philly cheesesteak or Pennsylvania Dutch whoopie pies. The market is open daily from 8am to 6pm (though Pennsylvania Dutch merchants don’t operate on Sundays).

Other Things to See and Do in Philadelphia

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do when I visit a new city is take a walking tour. They’re the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and meet a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Tours by Foot runs regular free walking tours that can show you all the main sites. Just be sure to tip your guide!

For an in-depth paid historical tour, check out The Constitutional . Tours last 90 minutes and cost $19 USD.

2. See the President’s House

This three-story brick building is where the president lived from 1790 to 1800, when Philadelphia was the capital (George Washington and John Adams both resided here while running the government). Prior to independence, the building was the headquarters for the occupying British forces. The house was accidentally destroyed in 1951, so only the walls remain. Today, the house is an open-air memorial that focuses on the role of slavery in colonial America — including the use of slaves in George Washington’s own house. Admission is free.

3. Visit the distilleries

Before the US embraced prohibition between 1920 and 1933, Philadelphia was a thriving distillery hub. While the 18th Amendment wiped out that progress, the city has slowly been returning to its boozy roots after a 2011 law allowed distilleries to run tours and offer samples. The city has a handful open to the public. Some local favorites are Philadelphia Distilling (the first to open to the public after the new law), Stateside, and New Liberty Distilling. Tour prices vary, but expect to pay around $20-25 USD.

4. Tour the Museum of Art

Established in 1876 for the first World’s Fair, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to over 200,000 items, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, armor, prints, photographs, and more. There are works by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Rodin, and other masters. The museum displays works from local artists as well as objects from around the world. Benjamin Franklin lived in Philadelphia for most of his life and there’s a whole section dedicated to artwork depicting the famous Founding Father. Admission is $30 USD; however, a pay-what-you-can admission is offered on the first Sunday of the month, as well as on Fridays, 5pm–8:45pm.

5. Try a Philly cheesesteak

No visit to the City of Brotherly Love would be complete without trying a Philly cheesesteak. This sandwich consists of thinly sliced grilled beef and onions, topped with melted cheese on a crusty bun. It was invented in the 1930s by two brothers who ran a hot dog stand in South Philadelphia. The sandwich caught on and more restaurants opened serving the popular item. Now you can find interesting variations around the city. While every local has their favorite place to grab one, some of the most popular are John’s Roast Pork, Pat’s King of Steaks, and Geno’s Steaks.

6. Visit Christ Church

Completed in 1744, this church is where many of the Founding Fathers and other noteworthy individuals worshipped, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Betsy Ross. The towering white steeple that can be seen from the surrounding neighborhoods.The current brick church replaced the original wooden building, which the community quickly outgrew. Upon completion, it was the tallest building in the US until 1856, at 196 feet. In the nearby cemetery, you’ll find the grave of Benjamin Franklin himself. Admission to the church and burial ground are $5 USD each for a self-guided tour.

7. Catch a game

While I’m not a big sports fan, catching a game in person is always a good time in any city you visit just because it’s a good way to meet locals. The city’s hockey team (the Flyers) was one of the first 12 teams in the NHL, while the Phillies baseball team is the oldest one-name, one-city sports team in the country. Prices vary, but you can usually find tickets for $25-50 USD, depending on the seats.

8. Tour Magic Gardens

This quirky folk art exhibition and art gallery is one of the most unique attractions in town. It’s a collection of indoor and outdoor art and mosaics made from broken tiles, glass, and all kinds of odds and ends that’s designed to be an immersive experience into a world of mixed-media art. Started in 1994 and opened to the public in 2008, it spans three city lots. There’s an outdoor labyrinth you can explore as well. Admission is $15 USD. There are 75-minute guided tours available on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a local expert. These cost $20 and may sell out, so book in advance.

9. See the Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site

Born in 1809, Edgar Allen Poe is best known for his macabre short stories (such as The Tell-Tale Heart ). While he lived in several houses around town over the years, this home-turned-historic site is the only one still standing. During his time in Philly, Poe published over 30 stories, making it one of the most prolific periods of his life. You can read his works, hear theories and criticisms about his writing, and tour some of the rooms he lived in. Admission is free.

10. See City Hall

Completed in 1894, this building is the world’s largest free-standing masonry building, built from granite, marble, and limestone. It was the world’s tallest building when it was completed (until 1908). The building is topped with a statue of William Penn, the founder of the city. The view from the top is one of the best. Tours are available on Saturdays for $16 USD. You can also take a tour of the interior and learn about the architecture, history, and art within the building. This tour also takes you outside the building to see the 250 sculptures around the grounds. These are about two hours long and cost $36.

11. Visit Franklin Court & Museum

Benjamin Franklin is one of the Founding Fathers of the US. One of the leading intellectuals of his time, Franklin was a gifted writer and thinker. This small court is where Franklin lived from 1763 to 1790 while serving in the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention. While his house was torn down after his death in 1790, a hollow structure stands where it was located, and there’s a museum nearby with information about his life and works. There’s also a working reproduction of an 18th-century printing office, as well as a post office here (Franklin was the first Postmaster General). Admission to the outdoor court is free. Admission to the Franklin Museum is free.

12. Explore Eastern State Penitentiary

This former prison was in operation from 1829 until 1971. It held all kinds of big-name criminals during that time, including mobster Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton. From the outside, it looks like a European castle with its stonework and turrets. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark and open to the public for tours. There are a few solitary confinement cells you can explore, and there are both day and night tours as well. Additional exhibits, including one out on the grounds, explore the current state of the prison system in the United States. Night tours include the option to grab a drink (beer is available) and other activites, like pop-up talks, that visitors don’t get during the day. Self-guided tours (narrated by actor Steve Buscemi) are also available. Admission is $21 USD.

13. Take a food tour

Philly is a foodie city, and the best way to sample and learn about the city’s culinary delights is with a food tour. The city was named one of the twelve “Places to Eat in 2024” by eater.com, right up there with Cairo, Egypt and Osaka, Japan. Four Philadelphia restaurants won James Beard awards in 2023 as well. Whether you want cheap street food or fine dining, this city has it covered. City Food Tours offers a few different ones around town, though its Flavors of Philly tour is the best place to start. You’ll visit five different restaurants over 2.5 hours, tasting the best eats along the way. Tours start at $49 USD.

Philadelphia Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There is only one hostel in Philly and it starts at $32 USD per night for bed in an 18-bed dorm. For a spot in a 6-bed dorm, prices start at $37 USD. Private rooms start at $83 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and the hostel also has a kitchen for cooking your own meals.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at $115 USD per night for something outside the downtown areas. For a downtown hotel, expect to pay at least $$150 USD per night.

Airbnb is widely available around town, with private rooms starting at $60 USD (though they average $65 USD) per night. Entire homes/apartments start at $125 USD per night.

Food – Like most US cities, food here is cheap and plentiful. It’s super easy to eat on a budget, though it might not be the healthiest. The city is famous for its cheesesteaks and hoagies (which are like submarine sandwiches), as well as its pretzels. Expect to pay around $13 USD for a cheesesteak (you can find them cheaper, but the best ones will be at least this much). There’s a large Italian population in the city so it’s easy to find great pasta, pizza, and other specialties, especially at the Italian Market in South Philadelphia.

You can find breakfast in a café or diner for $10-$15 USD. Hot dogs and sausages on the street, with a drink, can be found for under $5 USD, while fast food (think McDonald’s) is around $10.50 USD for a combo meal. You can find salads and sandwiches for lunch for around $15 USD.

A large pizza starts around $12 USD, while Chinese food is around $10 USD for a main dish. For a multi-course meal with table service and a drink, expect to pay at least $35 USD.

Beer costs around $6-8 USD, while a latte/cappuccino is around $5 USD. Bottled water is $2 USD.

Fine-dining restaurants are readily and some, like Kalaya from award-winning chef Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon, start with entrees around $30. Others, like Friday Saturday Sunday have fixed tasting menus for $165.

If you plan on cooking your meals, expect to pay around $55USD for a week’s worth of -groceries, including basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking Philadelphia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of $70 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel, cook your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like see the Rocky stairs and visit the Liberty Bell. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-15 USD per day.

On a mid-range budget of $150 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat cheap street food for most meals, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, like visit Magic Gardens or catch a game.

On a “luxury” budget of $360 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, take more taxis, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Philadelphia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Compared to cities like LA or NYC, Philly isn’t super expensive. However, costs can add up quick if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to help you keep your budget in tact:

• Take a free walking tour – If you want to see the main sights on a budget, take a free walking tour. You’ll get an expert guide to show you around and answer all your questions for free. Fee Tours By Foot is the best company to go with. Just be sure to tip!
• Visit the free sights – The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Franklin Court, and Congress Hall are all free. Really, most of the history stuff is free. Stick to the free attractions if you’re on a tight budget.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards and use those points when you travel. There’s nothing better than free accommodation and most cards come with at least 1-2 nights free, which can greatly help lower your costs. This post can help you get started with the basics so you can start earning points today and have plenty for your trip.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a platform that connects you with locals who can host you for free. You’ll not only get a free place to stay, but you’ll get to connect with someone who can share their tips and advice about the city.
• Cook your own meals – While binging on hoagies sounds fun, eating out can add up. Cook your own food to save money. It’s not as glamorous, but it will save you a ton of money!
• Get the Philadelphia Pass – If you plan on seeing a lot, get the Philadelphia Pass (for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days). It can save you a lot if you plan on visiting a bunch of attractions (over 30 are available). Passes range from $59 USD to $134 USD.
• Get a transit pass – Philly has transit passes that give you access to both the bus and metro systems. A one-day pass is $6 and a three-day pass is $15. If you’re staying for a whole week, a pass is $25.50. Depending on how much you plan to use the system, this can save you a lot over the $2 single-ride fare.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes water bottles with built-in filters to ensure that your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

There is only one hostel in Philadelphia, so you’ll need to book early if you’re on a budget. Budget hotels are also rare, so be sure to check Airbnb for the best deals. Here are my recommended places to stay:

• Apple Hostel
• Cozier Places
• Aloft Philadelphia Downtown
• Independence Park Hotel
• Hilton Garden Inn

How to Get Around Philadelphia

Public transportation – Philly is connected by buses, trolleys, a metro, and regional rail lines. Fares start at $2 USD with a SEPTA card (a reloadable transit pass that costs $4.95 USD) or $2.50 USD if paying cash (exact change is needed). You can get a one-day pass for $6 or a three-day pass for $15.

The train to/from the airport takes around 25 minutes and costs $6.50 USD.

Taxi – Taxis here start at $2.70 and charge $2.50 per additional mile. They can really blow your budget fast, so avoid them if you can.

Ridesharing – If you need to take something like a taxi, use Uber or Lyft instead as they are generally cheaper.

Bike rental – Indego is Philly’s bike-share program. There are 140 stations around town, with day passes starting at $15 USD for unlimited 60-minute rides on a classic bike. As long as you return the bike to a station within 60 minutes, you can avoid the additional charges.

When to Go to Philadelphia

Summer is the most popular time to visit. While the city gets busy, the sun is out and there are lots of events and festivals to attend like the Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Festival and the Philadelphia Folk Festival. There’s also a huge Independence Day celebration with multiple days of events. Expect daily highs between 85 and 90°F (29-32°C). Book your accommodation early if you’re visiting in the summer, as budget accommodation fills up fast.

Winter offers cheaper prices, but it’s cold, with temperatures hovering around 40°F (4°C). The city does host a Winterfest with some outdoor activities, but be sure to bring plenty of warm clothes. Unless you just plan to visit museums and stay indoors, I’d avoid visiting in the winter.

The late spring and early fall are great times to visit, as the weather is temperate and it isn’t busy. Spring temperatures range between 51°-72° (11°-22°C), so you’ll definitely want to bring a sweater for the cool evenings. The city has a Cherry Blossom Festival and all the parks and gardens come into bloom which makes it a nice time to visit. While you might get a little rain, it’s nice enough to walk around, and you won’t have the summer crowds or booked accommodations that are found in the summer.

During the fall, high temperatures are range from 54°-76°F (12°-25°C). From September 15th to October 15th the city hosts a number of events for National Hispanic Heritage Month. Later in October, you’ll find plenty of Halloween activities and the leaves are changing. It’s a nice time to be outside and it’s a bit drier than the spring. Just make sure to pack layers for the variable weather.

How to Stay Safe in Philadelphia

While Philadelphia has a bad rap, it is relatively safe, and scams and incidents here are rare, beyond a few specific neighborhoods. Theft and violent crime are rare outside of a few areas, so as long as you use common sense, you shouldn’t experience any issues. Avoid the areas of Nicetown and Hunting Park.

Avoid flashing your valuables while out in public and make sure they are out of sight in crowds and on busy public transportation. As a tourist, you’re most likely only going to encounter petty crime. Be mindful of your belongings at all times to avoid pickpockets.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

For travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . There aren’t many in the United States though.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Philadelphia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Philadelphia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 24 Hours in Raleigh, North Carolina

The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

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• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The Ultimate 3 Days in Philadelphia Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for great activities and attractions in the City of Brotherly Love? Our Philadelphia itinerary is all you need to plan the perfect trip!

When William Penn founded the Province of Pennsylvania in 1682, it’s doubtful even he knew the spot it would go on to take in US history. 

In the century to follow, the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Liberty Bell was cracked right here in Pennsylvania’s biggest city.

Its history is a major drawcard, with enough prominent sights and well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture to fill an entire itinerary. 

But while its past may remain on full display, to experience the real Philadelphia, travelers will also have to make room for its array of art museums and its variety of culinary treats.

Check out our full list of the 21 best things to do in Philadelphia before your trip!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Morning

Day 1 afternoon, day 1 evening, day 2 morning, day 2 afternoon, day 2 evening, day 3 morning , day 3 afternoon, day 3 evening, when is the best time to visit philadelphia, getting around philadelphia, best hostel in philadelphia: apple hostels, best mid-range hotel in philadelphia: la reserve bed and breakfast, best luxury hotel in philadelphia: four seasons hotel, how to spend 3 days in philadelphia itinerary.

Philly has a fantastic mix of history, art, food and drink. Our Philadelphia itinerary helps showcase all four sides of the city, so you’ll leave with no regrets!

Before you head into this awesome city, consider getting the  Philadelphia CityPASS . It will save you up to 50% on the entry fees for selected attractions. 

It’s a great way to save money during a weekend in Philadelphia!

Day 1 in Philadelphia

Your first day in Philly is packed with highlights. You’ll tick off some of the biggest attractions in town, including the iconic Liberty Bell. 

Afterward, you’ll have the chance to explore the Old City, in an old-fashioned way, before checking out the beautiful waterfront and jumping on a cruise.

To jump-start your weekend in Philadelphia, make your way into the Old City to visit Independence Hall. In the years prior to American independence, the hall was the Pennsylvania State House.

It was here, however, that the Declaration of Independence was signed, signaling the beginning of a new America.

Tours of Independence Hall are included with your free admission. You’ll be able to see the Assembly Hall where the first moves were made to separate from the British Empire and where future president George Washington became Commander-in-Chief.

• Address:  520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Hours:  9am-5pm (Mon-Sun)
• Price:  Free

After visiting Independence Hall, there’s only one place to go, the  Liberty Bell Center . It’s arguably the most famous attraction in Philadelphia and is the crown jewel of the Old City.

The Liberty Bell was originally a celebration of the state’s constitution and was built in the middle of the 18th century. But it didn’t get its famous crack until around 100 years later. 

Attempts were made to fix it for the birthday of George Washington. But as that proved futile, the legendary bell never rung again.

Today, it’s a simple of liberty and freedom, not just in the United States but around the world.

• Address:  101 S Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Now that you’ve ticked off two of the biggest attractions in Philadelphia, it’s time to enjoy the rest of the beautiful Old City. What better way to explore the city’s past than with a historic form of transport?

On this  guided tour  you’ll take a step back in time as you climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage and slowly make your way along the tree-lined streets. 

The journey back in time will help you understand not just the events that lead to the Declaration of Independence, but also the culture and lifestyle lived by locals back in the 18th century.

The ride will also take you by the Independence National Historic Park, Society Hill and the Betsy Ross House.

Once you’re back on steady land, walk a few blocks towards the Delaware River. When the sun is out, there are few better places to be than at  Penn’s Landing . The waterfront street is lined by leafy trees and has a vibrant atmosphere on balmy days.

Penn’s Landing plays host to concerts and festivals in the summer and you can also rent kayaks and SUPs to explore where you can’t walk. If you’re traveling in the winter, you’ll also find an ice skating rink.

As day turns to dusk, enjoy Philadelphia’s waterfront in a different manner. You can hit the town as hard as you like on day two (or even later today), but for now, enjoy this  cruise  on the  Delaware River .

The Spirit of Philadelphia takes you along the river as it glistens under the city skyline. From the observation decks, you’ll have 360-degree views of downtown and the neighboring state of New Jersey.

The cruise departs from Penn’s Landing with a delicious meal to complement the many views and the musical tunes floating through the air. 

As you make your way around the city, you’ll see such famous sights as the Battleship New Jersey, the Naval Shipyard, and the sparkling Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Visit Get Your Guide to check prices for a river cruise during your weekend in Philadelphia!

Day 2 in Philadelphia

After a day of revolutionary history, take the morning to experience Philly’s artistic side as you check out a rare municipal building that won’t evoke yawns and explore a parkway packed with galleries. 

Great eats are added for good measure before you get down, boogie and revel in the city’s wonderful nightlife.

The amount of history in Philadelphia can be hard to wrap your head around. The age of the buildings, the hallowed streets and the importance of singular events to the timeline of American life is enough to make any expert historian blush. 

So while  Philadelphia City Hall  may not sound as exciting as the Liberty Bell and the Old City, it remains a must-see. Don’t worry, there is no unnecessary bureaucracy here.

The  City Hall  begins today’s journey down the wonderful Benjamin Franklin Parkway. It’s a stunning piece of architecture with thorough granite foundations. In a city of opulent Victorian-era architecture, City Hall is most similar to a landmark structure found in Renaissance Europe.

It’s the largest municipal building in the United States but has more in common with a spectacular cathedral. At the heart of City Hall is a 548 feet tall tower, the highest such masonry tower on earth. You’ll be glad to know that you can make your way to the top of the tower and enjoy remarkable views over Philadelphia.

• Address:  296 Philadelphia Pedestrian Transit, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• Hours:  9am-5pm (Mon-Fri)

Before setting off on your walk down the historic parkway, stop for a bite at the  Reading Terminal Market . In Center City, the market is a culinary treat. The massive food hall is a hit as much among travelers as it is locals. 

You’ll find everything you need to load up the picnic basket for lunch at Love Park. Or you can simply feast on the many fresh meals that fill the market with mouthwatering aromas.

• Address:  51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• Hours : 8am-6pm (Mon-Sun)
• Price:  Free

Related: Don’t miss these great day trips from Philadelphia !

Depending on whether you order in or to go at the Reading Terminal Market, you can enjoy a picnic or quickly make your way through  Love Park .

Officially known as the John F. Kennedy Plaza, it received its new nickname upon the installation of Robert Indiana’s Love sculpture. While you’re here, complete the rite of passage and snap a quick selfie with the famous installation.

From there, it’s time to officially embark down the  Benjamin Franklin Parkway . The iconic stretch of tar was designed after Paris’ Champs-Élysées and is lined with some of the top museums and galleries in town.

After so much time focused on Philadelphia’s past, you’ll enjoy a look into the city’s modern arts culture. In a single mile, the thoroughfare features the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, the Barnes Foundation and others.

It ends in Fairmount Park on the banks of the Schuylkill River, where you’ll be met with the famous  Rocky Statue . Behind it are the so-called “Rocky Steps” where you’ll find travelers running up to the top before posing like Stallone did in the movie Rocky.

Continue on to enter the preeminent museum in the city, the  Philadelphia Museum of Art . The entrance to the museum is captivating, as the building was inspired by the temples of Ancient Greece.

Once you’re inside, your attention will quickly turn to the impeccable collection that boasts Matisse, Van Gogh and Picasso. But there’s much more, including architecture from around the world such as an Indian temple hall from the 1500s.

Check the website  to see what events and exhibitions are on at the Philadelphia Museum of Art when you’re in town. 

• Address:  2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• Hours:  10am-5pm (Thur, Sat-Mon) 10am-8.45pm (Fri)
• Price:  $25

For more art, head to the immersive Magic Gardens, a labyrinth of alleyways with some incredible street art.

After the previous night’s cruise, you’ll be raring to dive into the culinary and nightlife scenes found in downtown Philadelphia.

There are two standout spots for nightlife in Philadelphia. We can’t split them, so we will let you decide. The first is the Old City, where you can knock down Yuengling Lager on the same hallowed streets as some of the most prominent figures in US history.

Exploring this part of Philly at night will quickly show you why it’s such a beer loving city. Eulogy is the perfect example, with a mind-boggling list of brews that would take weeks to complete. 

Afterward, head to The Olde Bar set within a former bookbinder store that is packed with nostalgia. Finish up at the divey Khyber Pass Pub where you can help out your future self with some hangover-curing bacon grease popcorn.

The other great place to hit the town in South Philly. Not only is South Philadelphia the culinary hub of the city, but it’s laden with charming pubs, and quirky bars. The latter includes  the Garage , that looks exactly as the name suggests. Until you wander inside and find arcade games and a lively atmosphere.

Day 3 in Philadelphia

Your third and final day in Philadelphia will help showcase a different side of the city. You’ll begin in the Fairmount neighborhood to explore a charming, cobblestone-filled district that’s also home to an infamous prison. 

Later, experience Philly’s culinary side on a mouthwatering food tour. To round out the day, wander down the memorable South Street for more great eats and eclectic bars.

The final day of your weekend in Philadelphia begins in the beautiful neighborhood of  Fairmount . You will have caught a glimpse of this colorful district on your travels down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, but it’s well worth discovering on its own.

It may be a part of Philly’s Art Museum Area, but it strikes an independent pose that separates it from other parts of the City of Brotherly Love. 

With your favorite morning beverage, make your way down the streets as storied as any in Philadelphia. The cobblestone lanes lead to old-time book stores like the Book Corner and are littered with interesting monuments and marble art.

But the best part of visiting Fairmount is the  Eastern State Penitentiary . A National Historic Landmark, the penitentiary was built in the 1820s and many thought it was the most advanced prison in the United States.

But despite all the “modern” technology, life here for prisoners was gruesome, with abundant use of solitary confinement. It was until the 1960s that the prison closed. During that period, it housed a number of infamous characters, like Al Capone and Willie Sutton.

Now transformed into a museum experience, parts of the jail remain unchanged. It’s a fascinating look into America’s criminal history and how it treats those that end up behind bars.

• Address:  2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• Hours:  10am-5pm (Mon-Sun) Plus night tours
• Price:  $17

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days in Chicago Itinerary

In a city with such history, it’s easy to overlook the fact that Philadelphia has added plenty to the wider American cuisine. 

However, the congregation of such famous sites, means it can be tricky to find authentic, unapologetic Philadelphian food in the popular City Center and Old City. To allay this issue, sign up for this  food tour .

With your friendly local culinary expert, you’ll stroll around Philly for two and a half hours stopping at five beloved local institutions to sample mouthwatering cheesesteaks, tomato pie and cheese whiz fries, all served alongside a healthy dose of local culture and tales of yore.

Travelers will learn all about the humble beginnings of the now iconic  Philly Cheesesteak . The dish spikes your cholesterol as much as your love for cheesy, meaty goodness. Like many good things, it began on a whim, as hotdog vendor, Pat Olivieri chucked beef on the grill and served it in a hoagie, creating an immediate hit.

The experience ends back at the Reading Terminal Market. But with the help of a local eye, you’ll savor two exceptional deserts while writing down all the low-key food gems you must try on your next weekend in Philadelphia.

Your adventures in Philadelphia come to a close on the prismatic South Street. A few blocks below the Independence National Historic Park,  South Street  is a colorful example of Philadelphia’s 21st-century personality. Its upbeat atmosphere, rows of shops and restaurants, is  the  spot to reflect on the previous 72 hours.

As the sun falls, the colorful homes on South Street glow under the low-hanging light. The old architecture has been reinvigorated thanks to the street’s creativity, which has seen it become a man-made rainbow. The leafy streets have pleasant energy and they guide you to an endless list of restaurants cooking up cuisine from all around the world.

After an afternoon of classic Philly eats, branch out and try Thai food at Tamarind, Indonesian at Hardena, or Moroccan at Marrakesh. All the while, the South Street nightlife awakens.

After a delicious feed, find the right bar for you to toast your memorable 3 days in Philadelphia. Take in some live music at the  Theatre of Living Arts , or kick back at the several dive bars like Tattooed Mom, a local favorite. You can even sit in an old bumper car and knock back a few pints!

Heading further north? Check out this list of the best things to do in Boston, Massachusetts .

Philadelphia Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do during your Philadelphia itinerary, here a few suggestions for the best time to visit, how to get around, and where to stay when you visit.

Summer brings the best and most reliable weather and is a popular time to visit Philadelphia. The temps can reach the high 80s so be prepared to break a sweat as you make your way through the city’s very walkable downtown.

To avoid the summer crowds, consider arriving in the spring or fall. Not only will you contend with more pleasant temperatures, but the lines at the Liberty Bell and major museums will be smaller. It’s also a wonderful time to head to Penn’s Landing and kayak along the Delaware River.

Winter snow and ice skating may create a magical atmosphere, but it’s worth waiting for spring to travel to Philadelphia. Even if you’re used to the cold, as a traveler, the City of Brotherly Love is far more enjoyable to explore in the warmer months. 

Having said that, there are some major events that winter travelers can look forward to, including the oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade in the United States and the city’s wonderful Christmas market.

The heart of Philadelphia is essentially just 25 city blocks spread between the Schuylkill and the Delaware rivers. The city’s rich history is crammed into this area, meaning you’ll have an easy time getting around on foot. 

For reference, it’s around a 45-minute walk from one river to the next. So be sure to pack your most comfortable walking shoes.

A rental car may be tempting, but as you’ll be exploring primarily the dense inner city, a car can prove to be more of a hassle than its worth, especially when you factor in Philadelphia’s expensive street parking.

You’ll find there is a decent public transportation network known as  SEPTA . This is a popular choice for travelers who are staying in the city’s surrounding suburbs. 

You’ll find a combination of busses, trolleys and subway routes to get you from A to B. It’s also a great option to connect to Philadelphia International Airport.

Speaking of getting around Philadelphia, a  Go City Pass  can get you into 30 top attractions (including the major destinations on our Philadelphia itinerary) and tours across your chosen number of days. One of those is the hop-on, hop-off bus, an efficient and fun way of exploring the city.

Click here to book the Philadelphia Go City PASS on Get Your Guide!

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

The most common places to stay in Philadelphia are the City Center and the Old City. Both place you in the heart of the action, with the vast majority of our itinerary within walking distance. Importantly, despite the popularity of each area, you’ll still find accommodation to suit most budgets.

As an alternative, Philly has some gem neighborhoods that have their own stories to tell. Places like Rittenhouse Square, Society Hill and Fairmount have gorgeous parks, cobblestone streets and a distinct local vibe while being close enough to Center City that you won’t miss a beat.

If you’re wondering where to stay in the city, our recommendations for the best accommodation in Dallas will help you choose the top spot for your budget!

At  Apple Hostels  you can stay in a central location without breaking the bank. Your accommodation is under 200 feet from the Liberty Bell!

The hostel has a well-appointed communal space to go along with the clean dorms. You’ll find free WiFi, pool tables, X-Box and a great kitchen.

Set within a historic home in the beautiful Rittenhouse Square district,  La Reserve Bed and Breakfast  is luxury on a smaller budget. Guests will love the 19th-century decor set around a large parlor, the scene for your morning breakfast. You’ll also be close to the Parkway and Love Park.

You’ll find the luxurious  Four Seasons Hotel  inside the Comcast Center, otherwise known as the tallest building in Philadelphia.

The hotel boasts Michelin star dining, a spa, and an infinity pool on the spectacular 57th floor, along with a fitness center. Each upscale room will have you refreshed and ready for a day of exploration.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

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3 Days in Philly: The Perfect Weekend in Philadelphia Itinerary

Drenched in American history, architectural charm, and a delicious food scene that is all its own (hello Philly cheesesteaks and whoopie pies!), spending a long weekend in Philadelphia makes for an excellent short trip.

In some moments, Philly is reminiscent of both Boston and New York , but ultimately, the “City of Brotherly Love” and first capital of the USA absolutely holds its own as a weekend getaway.

Whether you’re primarily interested in art, food, American Revolutionary War history, or simply having some fun running up the Rocky Steps, you’ll have a blast spending 3 days in Philadelphia, PA.

We’ve designed this Philadelphia weekend getaway guide for first-time visitors hoping to get a varied and interesting introduction to the city, hit up Philly’s top attractions, learn some history, and eat well along the way.

Here’s how to make the most of a 3 day weekend in Philadelphia!

Table of Contents

The Perfect 3 Day Weekend in Philadelphia Itinerary

Where to stay for a weekend in philadelphia, pa, getting around during a philly weekend getaway, more than 3 days in philadelphia, pennsylvania, 3 day weekend in philadelphia itinerary map.

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Day 1 in Philadelphia: Explore the Revolutionary War Era + Old City

Start your weekend in philadelphia at independence hall..

Where else could you kick off your 3 days in Philadelphia than at the city’s most famous building?

Considered the birthplace of America, Independence Hall was built as the State House of the original Philadelphia Colony and witnessed the rise of our modern US government.

While Independence Hall is most famous for being the location of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it witnessed far more, including the signing of the Consitution, numerous debates over both documents, and the adoption of the Articles of Confederation.

No first trip to Philadelphia is complete without a stop here!

Prefer the context of a guided tour?

I’ve outlined this first day in Philly as a self-guided tour of many of the city’s most iconic Revolutionary War sights.

However, if you prefer more historical context and don’t want to worry about navigating yourself, all of these places (and a few more!) are covered on this popular Founding Fathers Walking Tour that gets excellent reviews.

Book your Founding Fathers Walking Tour in Philadelphia today!

Say hello to the Liberty Bell.

The Liberty Bell, which once hung at the top of Independence Hall, is one of the most iconic symbols of freedom in our collective American mythology.

The bell itself dates to the mid-18th century, but it didn’t adopt its cultural importance until the 1830s.

Its inscription, though, makes it clear why Americans of many generations would be inspired by it: “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof”.

Abolitionists, suffragists, and more were inspired by the bell.

Today, the bell–with its iconic crack–no longer hangs from Independence Hall but can be visited in a building out front.

Visiting is free but hours vary, so check the schedule when planning your trip to Philadelphia!

Check out (what’s left of) the Presidential Home of George Washington and John Adams.

One block north of Independence Hall, you’ll find the location of the Presidential Home of George Washington and John Adams, occupied during the brief decade from 1790 to 1800 that Philadelphia served as the US capital.

Though the building has been demolished, a layout has been preserved, along with lots of complex materials examining Washington’s relationship with slavery.

The information focuses on Washington’s time in Philadelphia, where he (temporarily, to avoid accidentally freeing them under Philadelphia law at the time) relocated 9 enslaved people with him from Virginia.

The exhibit is open-air, free to visit, and adds important context to Philadelphia’s–and the USA’s–history.

Visit Christ Church and the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin.

As you make your way north from the Presidential Home of George Washington and John Adams, you’ll quickly come across Christ Church.

Founded in 1695, this church was the birthplace of American Episcopalianism and counted many notable 18th-century names among its early members, from Benjamin Franklin to Betsy Ross.

It’s also the burial place of Benjamin Franklin, and as you explore the burial ground, you’ll be able to pick out his grave quite easily: there’s a tradition of leaving pennies on top of it, in honor of Franklin’s saying “a penny saved is a penny earned”.

While the church and burial ground are both well worth a tour, if you got a late start or simply aren’t interested in going inside, it’s worth pointing out that you can see Benjamin Franklin’s grave from Arch Street regardless of whether or not you go in.

See the Betsy Ross House.

Just a short walk along Arch Street from the Christ Church Burial Ground you’ll find the Betsy Ross House –which is very hard to miss, as a gigantic replica of a Betsy Ross flag hangs on one side!

The iconic Betsy Ross flag is considered to be the earliest forerunner of our current US Flag.

Whether or not Betsy Ross actually sewed the flag at the direction of George Washington has not been confirmed by history, but the flag–and the woman herself–have earned a place in the collective American origin story nonetheless.

Today, you can tour Betsy Ross’ home and learn about the life behind the legend!

Snap photos in picturesque Elfreth’s Alley.

Recognized as a National Historic Landmark for being an “exceptional example of early American structures built between 1720 and 1830”, Elfreth’s Alley just might be one of the most picturesque streets in Philadelphia!

This small street–or alley, if you will–was once the home of working-class merchants.

Today, it remains primarily a residential community (so please be respectful!), but you can also pay a visit to the Elfreth’s Alley Museum inside houses 124 and 126.

Explore the Museum of the American Revolution.

If you’ve ever had an interest in the American Revolution–what led to it, how it unfolded, and why history was shaped in the way it was–exploring the Museum of the American Revolution is one of the best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend.

With thorough exhibits that manage to tackle complex topics without being dry, this is an extremely well-done museum experience that we thoroughly enjoyed!

Don’t miss the Washington’s Tent presentation, either–it is well worth the time spent.

Book your timed entry tickets the Museum of the American Revolution now!

Stop by the B. Free Franklin Post Office.

Just a short walk from the Museum of the American Revolution, you’ll find the B. Free Franklin Post Office, which is part of the Independence National Historical Park.

It’s also the only place where you can send legal mail in the USA with the “B. Free Franklin” stamp that has its origins in the 18th century!

While Benjamin Franklin didn’t work in this building, he did famously serve as the postmaster of Philadelphia.

This post office has limited hours and services , but is an only-in-Philadelphia travel experience that’s worth a few minutes of your time if they are open!

Day 2 in Philadelphia: A Food Tour, A Museum + Some Twisted History

Start your morning with a visit to one of philadelphia’s museums or explore chinatown..

On the second day of your Philadelphia weekend trip, we’re leaving Old City and the Independence Hall area behind and heading a bit further west (but not too far–we are sticking with Center City).

Start your morning with either a trip to the Mutter Museum –or, if it’s not for you–check out Chinatown.

The Mutter Museum is a love-it-or-hate-it, extraordinarily memorable museum that ranks among the most downright unique things to do in Philadelphia.

It centers around anatomical specimens–that is, human body parts–dating from as early as the 7th century BCE but primarily from the 19th and 20th centuries.

It’s a fascinating place, but also quite disturbing.

If looking at tumors and abnormal skeletons isn’t your thing, consider starting your morning with a stroll around Philadelphia’s nearby, bustling Chinatown instead!

The beautiful Chinatown Friendship Gate is located at the corner of 10th and Arch Street, not far from the Reading Terminal Market.

Marvel at Philadelphia’s impressive City Hall.

Striking from all angles, City Hall is a must-see during your few days in Philly!

Completed in 1894, the City Hall is the largest free-standing masonry building in the world and an icon of the city.

It still serves as the city’s main municipal building, and the views of it from the various streets surrounding the building are among the most popular places to take photos in Philadelphia.

In the Before Times, you could also head to the top of the building for a fantastic view of the Philly skyline, but the tower has been closed since 2020.

Check here to keep an eye on any possible reopenings in the future!

Dive into Philadelphia’s food scene with a delicious food tour.

One of our absolute favorite things to do in any city–including Philadelphia–is to take a food tour.

We signed up for the delicious (and informative!) Flavors of Philly tour and had a blast eating our way through classic local foods while learning some history along the way.

I won’t spoil everything, but stops included a former bank vault turned steakhouse, a classic pizza joint, a Philly cheesesteak (of course), and chowing down on the famous Beiler’s Doughnuts at Reading Terminal Market.

We also enjoyed some non-food stops, such as the famous Eagle statue in the historic Macy’s location near City Hall (which we learned, thanks to our tour guide, that locals use as a meeting point–“Meet me at the Eagle!”).

We had a fantastic time and would heartily recommend the tour !

(And as always, we paid our own way–nothing sponsored).

Book your spot on the Flavors of Philly Food Tour today!

Explore Reading Terminal Market.

Bustling, fun, and packed with everything from fresh meat to whoopie pies, Reading Terminal Market is one of the best places to visit in Philadelphia!

If you take the Flavors of Philly food tour , your tour will end in the market–and while you’ll get a nice introduction with the tour, it’s well worth wandering around yourself.

Reading Terminal Market has its roots in Philadelphia’s 17th-century outdoor markets, though it itself only dates to 1893.

The market is open 7 days a week, but the traditional Pennsylvania Dutch merchants close up their stands on Sundays, so it’s worth making sure you come by on a different day, too!

We happened to stay right across the street from Reading Terminal Market when visiting Philadelphia ( Home2Suites By Hilton , which we can definitely recommend), and loved having such easy (read: daily) access to the market!

Stroll through Rittenhouse Square.

Shady and beautiful, Rittenhouse Square is a delightful place to relax and rest your feet when spending 3 days in Philadelphia.

As one of the city’s five original town squares, Rittenhouse Square dates to the late 1600s.

Today, it’s full of art and charm, and is a popular place to visit for locals and tourists alike.

The houses surrounding it are also worth a peek–as some of the most exclusive real estate in Philadelphia, they’re absolutely stunning!

Learn some of Philadelphia’s darker history on a night tour.

Yesterday, you got to see the American history classes of your youth come to life (in the absolute best way)… tonight, get a bit beyond that.

With Philadelphia’s Twisted History Tour , you can get to know a side of the city that didn’t show up in textbooks.

This fascinating tour was designed by historian Joe Wojie, who even got to bring Anthony Bourdain along on one of his tours!

We had a blast with our guide on the Twisted History Tour, diving into everything from brothels to legends… at least until it started pouring down rain and we sadly had to cut our evening short.

Weather notwithstanding, though, we highly recommend Philly’s Twisted History Tour as a way to dive into the city’s more scandalous history.

Book your spot on Philadelphia’s Twisted History Tour today!

Day 3 in Philadelphia: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Rocky Steps + Eastern State Penitentiary

Start your last day in philly with a little love..

Philadelphia’s famous Love statue has called the aptly named Love Park home–minus one detour or two–since the US Bicentennial in 1976.

It’s an iconic Philadelphia photo spot, and is also in a fantastic central location that makes for a great start to the final day of your trip to Philly!

… and Amor.

Just a short walk from the famous Love statue, you’ll find its Spanish (and Latin) counterpart: the Amor statue!

Also created by Robert Indiana, this time to commemorate Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia in 2015, the Amor statue now lives permanently in Sister Cities Park.

In the immediate area, you’ll also see Logan Circle and the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, which you can see in the background of our photo below.

Make your way up the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

As you continue to stroll up the famous Benjamin Franklin Parkway–a walk you started when making your way from the Love statue to the Amor statue–you’ll find yourself in the vicinity of many of Philadelphia’s most highly regarded museums.

The street itself is also a bit of a destination in its own right!

Look closely, and you may notice the inspiration: the Benjamin Franklin Parkway was heavily inspired by the Champs-Elysees in Paris.

Explore another one of Philadelphia’s fascinating museums.

While you won’t have time to visit all of the city’s incredible museums during your 3 days in the city, we recommend adding one more!

Here are some of the best museums you’ll find along Benjamin Franklin Parkway, each of which is well worth a visit during a Philadelphia weekend getaway.

We highly recommend checking to see if you need advance reservations before arriving!

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Philadelphia’s premier art museum is a classic and worthy choice when it comes to where to spend time during a weekend in Philadelphia!

The Philadelphia Museum of Art also happens to be one of the most recognizable buildings in the city and home to the famous Rocky Steps–more on that in a bit.

Barnes Foundation

The Barnes Foundation is an expansive and impressive art and history museum right off of Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

They’re best known for their modern European paintings, with a large focus on the impressionists (181 Renoir paintings call the Barnes Foundation home!).

The Franklin Institute

Named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, is it any surprise that the Franklin Institute is a science museum–and a wonderful one at that?

From rotating exhibits to an incredible planetarium, the Franklin Institute is a classic Philadelphia museum to visit.

Rodin Museum

Unlike the other art museums on this list, the Rodin Museum focuses on one artist: the prolific French sculptor Auguste Rodin.

Run (or walk) up the Rocky Steps.

Running up the 72 steps leading up to the east entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most popular activities in Philadelphia, all thanks to Sylvester Stallone.

Before heading up, though, be sure to head over to the Rocky Statue to say hello–and take the classic photo with your arms up!

The statue was originally commissioned for Rocky III and then donated to the City of Philadelphia after the movie premiered.

Once you reach the top, you’ll no doubt want to catch your breath–which will leave you with plenty of time to appreciate the gorgeous views of Philadelphia’s skyline that you’ve just earned.

Tour the fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

One of the most unique, interesting, and thought-provoking attractions in Philadelphia is none other than the abandoned–and once-notorious– Eastern State Penitentiary .

From 1829 to 1970 (which was, incidentally, 5 years after the functioning prison was designated a National Historic Landmark), Eastern State Penitentiary oversaw 141 years’ worth of prisoners ranging from the infamous (Al Capone) to the bizarre (a dog).

Most importantly, it was the penitentiary behind the development of the Pennsylvania System–in short, isolation–that changed how penitentiaries operated around the world.

Its history could fill many books, and the conversations its stories provoke surrounding crime, punishment, and society, are tangled and intense.

Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary is definitely among the most memorable places to visit during a weekend in Philadelphia.

Book tickets to visit Eastern State Penitentiary here.

When deciding where to stay in Philadelphia, we recommend sticking with Center City.

Ideally, you’ll want to be located within walking distance of the bulk of Philadelphia’s main tourist attractions, which tend to be conveniently close together!

Here are a few well-reviewed properties perfect for your long weekend getaway in Philadelphia.

Apple Hostel — Sleeping in Philadelphia on a budget isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but the popular Apple Hostel is a fantastic choice!

Offering both dorms and private rooms, as well as tons of opportunities to meet new friends, budget travelers will love the convenience of staying in Old City.

Dorms and private rooms are available.

Check rates & book your stay at Apple Hostel!

Home2Suites By Hilton — We had a great stay at this convenient hotel located literally right across the street from Reading Terminal Market!

The Home2Suites concept of combining the appeal of a hotel and an Airbnb into one property was excellent (our spacious room had a kitchenette), and the customer service was great.

We’d be happy to check in again!

Check rates & book your stay at Home2Suites By Hilton!

Morris House Hotel — Located right by Washington Square and a short walk from Independence Hall, Morris House Hotel is both a National Historic Landmark dating to the 18th century and a popular boutique hotel!

For a cozy, memorable place to stay in Philadelphia, you can’t go wrong with checking into the Morris House Hotel.

Check rates & book your stay at Morris House Hotel!

If you stay in a centrally located hotel like the ones we outlined above, you won’t need a car during your weekend in Philly!

That being said, you will definitely want to take a few Ubers/ride shares during your trip, so be sure to have an app downloaded and ready to go.

For the most part, though, each of these 3 days in Philadelphia are very walkable as outlined!

Don’t like the idea of walking?

A hop on/hop off bus pass may be right for you!

Philadelphia’s hop on/hop off bus will help you zip between the vast majority of the attractions on this 3 day Philly itinerary with ease.

If you think you’ll take ample advantage of the hop on/hop off tour, you may want to run the numbers on the 3 Day Philadelphia Pass , too (as of the time of writing, you’re unlikely to save money with the pass with this itinerary as written if you’re not using the hop on/hop off bus).

Check prices and shop tickets for Philadelphia’s hop on/hop off bus tour!

Lucky enough to have more than a few days in Philadelphia?

You’ll find plenty more Philly attractions to enjoy!

With more time in the city, consider adding on another museum or two (perhaps starting with the Ben Franklin Museum, checking out the fascinating mosaics at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens , or even heading out to see the Phillies play a game.

Other options include visiting Penn’s Landing on the river or checking out the historic Boathouse Row (which is within walking distance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

If you’re a street art fan, the Mural Mile routes are also worth a stroll!

We intentionally left the famous Pat’s vs Geno’s debate out of this Philadelphia weekend itinerary, as these famous cheesesteak places are out of the way and tend to attract long lines.

(Plus, according to the locals we spoke with, the cheesesteaks aren’t the best anyway.)

If you want to see the iconic dueling cheesesteak facades, though, you can definitely add them in with more time!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Home » North America » USA » Philadelphia

The BEST Philadelphia Travel Guide (Budget Tips • 2024)

This is a comprehensive, no-frills Philadelphia travel guide to the “City of Brotherly Love”; the birthplace of the infamous cheesesteak. Philly  is home to some of the most important historical sites in the country, and some of the tastiest food.

More than the aforementioned though, Philadelphia is becoming a brand  new city. In recent years, it’s been shedding its mangy reputation as a violent place and catching up to the USA’s most popular city destinations.

Parts of Philly could easily compete with other East Coast cities in terms of beauty and grandeur. Plus, the city already has one of the most underrated foodie scenes in the nation.

This Philadelphia travel guide is all about the city’s bright future. We’re going to talk about all sorts of relevant topics: when to go, what to visit, and where to stay in Philadelphia.

We’ll get into the nitty-gritty as well, and be making plenty of suggestions about foods and things to do at night in Philly.

It’s not the easiest city to visit nor is it the most convenient. But if you put in the time and actually give Philly a chance, you’ll be more than rewarded.

Why Visit Philadelphia?

A sample 3-day itinerary for philadelphia, top things to do in philadelphia, backpacker accommodation in philadelphia, philadelphia backpacking costs, best time to travel to philadelphia, staying safe in philadelphia, working and volunteering in philadelphia, nightlife in philadelphia, faqs about backpacking in philadelphia, final advice before visiting philadelphia.

Aside from being the First World Heritage City in the US, Philadelphia has a whole host of attractions to appeal to all kinds of tourists. It is one of the most historical locales in the United States. So the city is game-on for history buffs.

Foodies will also be hardpressed to find a city that does greasy, gross but oh-so-delicious eats this well. Add in plenty of sporting events and pleasing architecture, and you’ve got yourself quite a destination for travel in the USA .

Though often made out to be the grittiest of America’s Northeast Cities, Philly has a certain charm and soul that’s one-of-a-kind. But if most of the above doesn’t appeal to you, Philadelphia is worth the trip for its cheesesteaks alone.

What Are the Major Attractions in Philadelphia?

Philly is a match made in heaven for foodies, sports fanatics, and history buffs. If you don’t fall into one of those categories, I can assure you you’ll find something appealing to do.

And while there are plenty of places to visit in Philly , some fall more into the “can’t miss” category than others. Here are some of those spots in the city:

• Independence National Historical Park
• The iconic LOVE sculpture
• Museum of Art
• Cheesesteaks (yes, they get their own spot indeed!)
• Eastern State Penitentiary

How Long to Spend in Philadelphia?

A 3-day weekend in Philadelphia is the ideal amount of time for your first visit to the City of Brotherly Love. This will give you enough time to see the major sights, fill up on some delicious eats, and have a fun night out or two.

Thanks to the city’s stellar walkability and reliable public transit system, you’ll be able to visit everything you want relatively easily compared to most other popular places to visit in the US .

The following is a sample 3-day itinerary for a weekend in Philadelphia. Most of the top destinations mentioned in this Philadelphia travel guide are covered in this section.

Day 1 in Philadelphia: City Center and Old City

There is no better place to start out your Philadelphia trip than in City Hall. This enormous complex dominates the nearby skyline and demands attention. I highly recommend walking in and around the building to see all of the intricate little carvings and tableaus, which illustrate various historical events.

Near City Hall is arguably one of the most photographed attractions in Philadelphia – the iconic LOVE s culpture . For many, grabbing an Instagram photo with a loved one is one of the must-dos in Philadelphia, but you’ll have to share the statue with everyone else.

Let’s wrap up those photos and head directly east on Market Street. After walking about 15-20 minutes, we’ll arrive at the L-shaped Independence National Historical Park .

Here we’ll find all of the most famous historical landmarks in Philadelphia, including the eponymous Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Constitution Center, and Museum of the Revolution .

Spend the next however many hours you like walking around the grounds here and visiting the sites. The relics themselves can feel a little underwhelming at times – the Liberty Bell is a lot smaller in person. But if you give it some effort and join in the atmosphere, either on your own or with a reenactor, this area can be a lot of fun.

Around Independence Park are several other notable locations – such as your next stop: the African American Museum .

Be sure to drop by the Curtis Center to see the Dream Garden painting. It’s very detailed and extremely arresting.

Wrap up the day with a walk down America’s oldest inhabited street, Elfreth’s Alley , and a stroll along the banks of the Delaware River . You can then cross the Benjamin Franklin Bridge into New Jersey if you like to gain some solid views of the city at sunset.

Day 2 in Philadelphia: Ben Franklin Parkway

On the second day of this Philadelphia travel guide, we’re going to continue our cultural odyssey and visit some of the city’s top galleries and museums.

We once again start at City Hall, but head northwest on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway . This is one of the most beautiful avenues in the USA and, I think, even comparable to some in DC. It’s framed perfectly with trees and, as you’ll see from the Art Museum, provides a wonderful scene of Philadelphia.

Along Ben Franklin Parkway are several museums, the likes of which are must-sees in Philadelphia. There’s the buzzing Franklin Institute, which is where you stop first for a bit of science and history.

Beyond that is the Barnes Foundation , which hosts an amazing collection of ethnic and modern art. Finally, there’s the Rodin Museum, which hosts one of the largest collections of the sculptor’s work in the world.

None of these can top the Philadelphia Art Museum though. This institution was built in the neoclassical style and is one of the most beloved attractions in Philadelphia. It’s the best way to wrap up a museum day.

Aside from being one of the most impressive museums in the nation, it was also the setting for one of the most famous scenes in American cinema: the one where local hero Rocky Balboa ran up the steps in preparation for his fight. Run up the steps yourself and be sure to look back – this is one of the best views in Philadelphia.

End your day on the steps or continue deeper into Fairmount Park . If you choose the latter, you’ll have the chance of visiting Boathouse Row, Philadelphia Zoo, Please Touch Museum, and Shofuso House. Be aware that by the time you reach that last landmark, you will have walked a long way.

Day 3 in Philadelphia: South Street

We end our Philadelphia travel guide itinerary with a walk in South Philly – the beating heart of the city. For many, this is the real Philadelphia.

Before diving into South Philly, let’s start across the Schuylkill River at the University of Pennsylvania. This is one of the most prestigious colleges in the country and one of the most gorgeous as well.

Many of the campus structures here are built in an ornate Gothic style. There are also many museums and galleries around and most of them are open to the public.

Let’s head across the river on Walnut Street and make a quick stop at Rittenhouse Square. Granted, this park is pretty touristy and not what we’d call “local” but we skipped it the first day and it’s still worth visiting.

Our main objective is to reach South Street , which is further south of Rittenhouse. South Street is known as the “alternative” part of town, where bohemians and counterculture people like to hang out.

It is a very diverse street with tons of boutiques, restaurants, and ethnic shops. You can find just about anything here, from international cuisines to vintage clothing to strange baubles.

But first, one of Philly’s greatest treasures: the Magic Gardens . This outdoor art exhibit is a maze of trippy sculptures and mosaics, the likes of which you wouldn’t think to find in Philly. The area reminds me a bit of Gaudi if the man were high on PCP or crack.

Nearby to the Magic Gardens is where you’ll be stopping next: the 9th Street Italian Market. This is the oldest outdoor market in the USA and is chalked full of local vendors selling their wares.

Running a grand total of 10 blocks, you could spend the entire afternoon just browsing and sampling everything you see. It’s a very active area and hands-down one of the top sites in Philadelphia.  

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Here are some of the best things to do in Philadelphia . The city surely has something for everyone.

1. Dive into American History

It’s common knowledge that the historical sites in Philadelphia are among the most significant in the USA. It’s not the First World Heritage City for nothing. You can learn the history of the Founding Fathers all around Philly, but most easily at Independence Hall, Valley Forge, and the Museum of the American Revolution.

2. Go to a sports game

Philadelphians are some of the rowdiest sports fans in the nation. They are diehard souls who will follow their teams through the worst of draughts and calamities.

At the moment, most of their teams are doing pretty well actually. If you can snag tickets to the likes of an Eagles , 76ers , or Flyers game, it will be rewarding to see the locals in their natural element.

3. Explore the creepier side of the city

Let us not forget that some of the most haunted stories came from Philly. Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven and the Sixth Sense immediately spring to mind.

For those looking for strange, secret places in Philadelphia to inspire their ghastly delights, there are plenty of options. Eminent locations include the Eastern State Penitentiary, Mount Moriah, and Grip the Raven in the Philly Free Library.

4. Check out the collection at the College of Physicians

The College of Physicians was one of the first and most important medical schools in the country. It hosts a splendid collection of medical artefacts and curiosities, the likes of which are open to the public.

5. Go shopping at the Italian Market

The Italian Market is a staple of Philadelphia life and is one of the most beloved parts of the city. On weekends, people pour over this modern-day bazaar looking for the best local ingredients.

It’s one of the best places to eat in Philadelphia; there are plenty of little shops and stalls selling meals as well.

6. Run, walk, jump, or whatever at the Art Museum

It’s more well-known for its steps but the Philadelphia Art Museum is worth visiting as well. This is one of the most respected cultural institutions in the USA and you could spend an entire day touring it.

Don’t feel bad pretending you’re Rocky as you run towards it though – it’s a little fun.

7. Feel the love

One of the best things about Philadelphia is the sense of camaraderie in the air. Philadelphians are super proud of who they are and will stick by their city through thick and thin.

In fact, the original Quakers founded Philly upon the principles of fraternity, thus owing to its name “The City of Brotherly Love.”

8. Go to the Magic Gardens

Tucked away in a corner of Washington Square is an oasis of weird and wild art. The Magic Gardens is a wonderfully eccentric place, filled with tile mosaics and random sculptures. It’s an awesome respite from all of Philly’s historical attractions.

9. See the Cherry Blossoms in Fairmount Park

Like DC, Philly is famous for its cherry blossom displays, which peak in April and May. For a period of about 2-4 weeks, the whole of the city is blanketed in pink petals. For the best shows, best head slightly outside of Philadelphia to Fairmount Park.

10. Find the murals

The local Mural Arts Philadelphia program is one of the most active street art societies in the nation and produces some absolutely breathtaking pieces. Many serve a very explicit purpose and illustrate a part of Philadelphian life that you might not have seen otherwise.

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Philadelphia is actually one of my favorite cities to visit due in part to its quaint, historical housing. Cute brownstones, which are commonly associated with New York and Boston, can actually be found in Philly and these are only a tiny slice of the available lodging in the city.

When in Philadelphia, staying in a local apartment is highly recommended. And luckily, there are plenty of cozy Philadelphia Airbnbs to choose from. There’s a good possibility that you’ll be staying in a building that could be hundreds of years old. While some of these may be drafty, most are excellently maintained and renovated.

Like the rest of America, hotels in Philadelphia are just meh. They’re usually overpriced, underwhelming, and just not really ideal. There are always decent hotels in every city but I just find Airbnb to be more consistent.

There are also some epic glamping sites in Philadelphia for those who love to stay close to nature. These sites are often a little more remote and away from all the best attractions, but if you have time to spare you should consider one or two nights exploring the nature spots outside the city.

There are a few decent hostels in Philly that are spread throughout the city. Whether or not you’ve actually stayed at an American hostel or not, let me just say that it’s a little different than Europe or Asia and can attract a different crowd than your usual backpacking bunch.

The Best Places to Stay in Philadelphia

Wondering where to stay in Philadelphia ? Here are the coolest neighborhoods in the city:

Old City is our recommendation for where to stay if you’re visiting Philadelphia for the first time. The city’s historic quarter, this is the neighbourhood where the seeds of American Independence were sown

Center City

Center City is set at the heart of Philadelphia. The city’s central business district, this neighbourhood is the second most inhabited downtown in the USA

Rittenhouse Square

If you’re someone who loves to stay at the centre of the action, then Rittenhouse Square is for you!

Fishtown & Northern Liberties

Set north of the city centre are the neighbouring district of Fishtown and Northern Liberties. Once an ignored area of the city, these two districts have risen the ranks over the last couple of decades to become the coolest neighbourhoods

Midtown Village

Stretching across central Philadelphia is Midtown Village and Washington Square West. These side-by-side neighbourhoods are home to an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, shops, museums, and historic landmarks

Although Philadelphia has been growing and renewing itself just as much as any other American city, it is vastly more affordable than many others of its size. Cities like Seattle, Denver, and Boston have all become worrisomely expensive over the years. Though Philadelphia is still moderately inexpensive to visit.

Philadelphia is still an American city though, which means that it is still pricey by many international standards. You’ll have to be just as mindful of your spending habits in Philadelphia as anywhere else in the USA. But with the right budget backpacking skills , you may even get by for $10/day…

A lower daily budget for Philadelphia would be around $50-$70 . This will get you a dorm bed, groceries, bus tickets, and some extra spending money. Couchsurfing and only eating real cheap is how you stretch that budget further.

Accommodation in Philly is actually very affordable, at least when compared to its neighbors. Hostels here are some of the most inexpensive in the nation and Airbnb deals are pretty good too.

Food is affordable depending on what and where you eat. If you stick to cheaper, more “filling” meals like cheesesteaks and pizzas, you may leave the city with more cash. If you intend on dining out at restaurants or bistros, kiss that money goodbye.

Be mindful also of drinking in bars or restaurants in Philadelphia. Local liquor laws have made booze more pricey than it ought to be. You’d be better off bringing your own bottle or drinking at home. Thankfully, beer is still cheap in Philly.

A Daily Budget in Philadelphia

Below is a breakdown of a daily budget in Philadelphia including the average costs of each expense.

A Few Free Things to do in Philadelphia

If you’re looking to save some extra cash, then try doing one of these free things in Philadelphia while visiting!

• Get active – Feeling a little bloated after all of those cheesesteaks? Try dancing it off with Salsadelphia or join a free yoga session at the Race Street Pier to limber up.
• Get a history lesson – Being the historical treasure that it is, there are lots of history lessons to be found all over Philly. Listen to a speaker at a Once Upon a Nation marker or join in one of the many reenactments that take place regularly at Philadelphia’s many historical sites.
• Festivals and events – There are lots of arts and cultural events being held on a regular basis in Philly. First Fridays are always a great way to see local artists. Both the PECO Multicultural Series and FRINGE Arts are among the top festivals in Philadelphia. All are free.
• Museums and galleries – There are several museums in Philadelphia that are free at certain times of the week and month. Check out the websites for the Museum of Art, Institute of Contemporary Art, Science History Institute, and Edgar Allen Poe Museum to see when each is gratis .
• Kimmel – Aside from offering complimentary tours of the theater, check out the Kimmel Center’s free events , which are particularly common in the summertime.
• Symposiums and talks – Philadelphia has a large and very active academic community. Many of the local institutions hold public lectures and discussions that are totally free to the public. Ask around for the next gathering.

Travel Tips – Philadelphia on a Budget

It’s easy to spend without thinking, and even easier to go broke. If you want to visit Philadelphia on the cheap, then you’ll have to be strict with your spending habits.

For your benefit, I’ve created a list of Philadelphia travel tips to help you explore this historic city on a budget. Follow these words of advice and you’ll find that your dollar goes much further.

• BYOB – Pennsylvania has some strange liquor laws and these make drinks at bars/restaurants prohibitively expensive at times. Many establishments let you bring your own booze and you should absolutely do this to save money!
• Cook at home as often as possible – One of the most proven ways of saving money for backpackers; buying your own groceries and cooking at home will save you heaps of cash.
• Take advantage of happy hour – Happy hour is everyone’s favorite time of day! From around 4-6 pm and sometimes a bit later, lots of bars and restaurants have special drink/food prices. If you must eat out, try and go during this time.
• Pizza and cheesesteaks – Aside from being delicious, pizza and cheesesteaks are among the cheapest eats in town! Try not to indulge too much though – these foods really stick to your bones and may cause your clothes to not fit anymore.
• Buy a special pass – If you’re planning on seeing a lot of the city, then you may want to invest in a City Pass. This card will allow free entry into many entering a lot of Philadelphia’s must-see places and will even give you special rates for public transport.

Why You Should Travel to Philadelphia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful.

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realize the full extent of the plastic problem. So I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveler .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Philadelphia is part of the mid-Atlantic seaboard and is subject to four distinct seasons. None of these seasons are terribly extreme compared to some other American destinations (we’re looking at you, Denver and Miami) and there really is no real bad time to visit Philadelphia… except January and February when it’s too cold to really enjoy the city.

Summers in Philadelphia are known for being warm and muggy, much to the gripe of locals. From June-August, the weather in Philadelphia is quite humid or “sticky” as people like to say.

Still, you’ll encounter plenty of sunshine, and enjoy walking and eating outside, making it one of the best times to visit.

Autumn means changing foliage and, more importantly, Eagles kickoff . The weather is still quite pleasant during the day until Thanksgiving, which happens in late November.

September and October are particularly fantastic times to visit temperature-wise, and you’ll get to see some amazing fall colors as well.

If there was time to avoid Philadelphia, it’d be the winter .

The thing that makes winters unideal–besides the fact that it gets COLD–is that there’s just nothing to do in Philadelphia in winter.

The holidays can be quite festive and the city can even feel alive during sports matches but, if you don’t care for either of these, you might end up being pretty bored.

Spring is a lovely time to visit Philadelphia. The weather is pleasant and the prices are reasonable. In the spring, the flowers are blooming and, in particular, the cherry trees put on quite a show around the beginning of April.

What to Pack for Philadelphia

What you bring to Philly will largely depend on the season, but here are a few packing essentials I never leave home without!

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

As far as safety in the USA goes, Philadelphia is often considered one of the sketchiest and most unsafe places to visit. The caveat is that most of the city’s crime is found in the outer, more impoverished neighborhoods like the infamous Kensington.

As such, Philadelphia is safe for tourists , generally speaking, since most of its points of interest are located in the central areas of the city. Philadelphia’s City Center is pretty secure and you’ll notice a security presence around the city’s top attractions.

Granted, there may still be shady characters around, but they will be less inclined to target anyone when cops are around.

After dark is when there are more criminals and fewer cops around. If you intend on participating in one of Philadelphia’s many things to do at night, then just make sure you put all your top travel safety tips to use.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Philadelphia

Breweries and bars are plentiful and you can definitely find your fair share of lit nightlife in the city. 

Drugs are plentiful in the City of Brotherly Love. This means virtually anything can be acquired with the right connections.

But be careful while partaking in such activities of drug tourism in Philly. Accidental Fentanyl overdoses are common. So test anything before you try!

I wouldn’t say that Philadelphia is an ideal place to get into sex on the road . But if you do happen to meet anyone worth seeing more of, be respectful no matter what.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Philadelphia

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure. Many companies let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Get Into and Around Philadelphia

Philadelphia is located smack-dab in the middle of the Atlantic seaboard and near just about every other major East Coast city. In less than 4 hours of driving, you can reach the likes of New England, New York, Washington DC, and even Appalachia country.

Add in a very well-connected international airport and a fleet of long-distance trains, and Philadelphia is a very convenient city to get in and out of.

Philadelphia International is the largest airport in the city limits and handles most of the air traffic. It’s a fairly busy airport and is serviced by lots of international carriers.

The airport is connected to the city via a commuter train and travel time is around 30 mins. Tickets can be purchased on the train for $8 or with the Mozio  app for $6.75.

There is a myriad of interstate highways running in and out of Philly that connect the city to all of the surrounding states (New York, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware).

East Coast highways are fairly well laid-out and are easy to navigate. But keep in mind that Philly is a large urban metropolis so intercity traffic is a problem.

Plying the same highways are lots of mainliner buses . Buses are often direct so travel times shouldn’t be too long. Boasting reasonable prices as well, buses are a great alternative for those without cars.

Finally, trains make for a wonderful traveling experience. Amtrak is the major train company in the region and has near equal coverage as buses. Note that trains are a bit of a luxury in the USA and that they are significantly more expensive than any other form of ground transport.

Getting Around Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a major American city and has a public transit system that befits something of its scale. There is a fleet of buses, trams, and trains that link the city itself as well as the surrounding suburbs.

SEPTA is the major public transportation agency in Philadelphia and most of the city’s buses and trains are managed through it. There is a fairly extensive transit network and you’ll be able to get just about anywhere using it.

You can buy individual tickets for the trains/buses, but using a SEPTA Key (card) or an Independence Pass is much more convenient.

SEPTA Keys store a certain amount of credit and are used by simply tapping the card to a reader at the entry of the station or bus. An Independence Pass behaves in the same way but gives unlimited rides for a single day ($13 for one rider).

Honestly, Philadelphia is a pretty compact city. So if you don’t want to deal with public transport, you could probably get away with walking.

In fact, Philadelphia prides itself on its walkability and is often ranked as one of the most walkable cities in America. With most of the city’s attractions all within 30 mins of each other, you probably won’t use the bus/train very often.

If you did need to get across town, there are always rideshares like Uber and Lyft. These operate as you’d expect – efficiently, affordably, and sometimes with a bit of flair.

Bike lanes are becoming more and more apparent in Philadelphia so biking is a reasonable way to get around. The city itself is about as flat as cities get and there aren’t many hills to worry about (if you stay in the center).

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While working in the US will be very difficult without the proper paperwork, you can certainly live the digital nomad lifestyle in Philly if you wanted. With numerous universities in the city, you can rest assured that coffee shops and other co-working spaces are plentiful, even if the number of other nomads may not be.

As for volunteering in Philly, you might be able to swing a few opportunities, such as working in hostels or coworking spaces. But if that’s what you’re seeking, I highly recommend doing so with a trusted company like Worldpackers .

This easy-to-use and reputable platform connects travelers with epic opportunities. It’s review-based and transparent so you know what you’re getting into before you arrive.

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Philadelphia nightlife may seem a bit tame when compared to nearby powerhouses like New York City, Boston, or Washington DC.

While Philly may lack the sheer selection and grandioseness that these places have, that doesn’t mean people are puritan here. On the contrary, Philadelphians love a pint, a stiff drink, hell, anything that’ll help them forget a long day–or week–of work.

Like most American cities, the greatest concentration of Philadelphia’s nightlife is in the City Center.

Rittenhouse Square and the Old City host a large array of clubs and bars that will cater to just about anyone. One of my favorite spots is the Monk’s Cafe, partly because of the beer but mostly because of its totally unassuming location.

North of the Old City is Northern Liberties , which is Philadelphia’s current redeveloped darling. Here, there are lots of old warehouses that have been turned into bars or clubs and there are lots of parties going on.

Beyond Northern Liberties is Fishtown ; another good spot that has a distinctly more hipster vibe than its Northern Liberties neighbor.

South Philly is where you’ll find the really old-school bars and watering holes. Being mostly divey in nature, there is no centralized area to go out drinking in this part of town. Generally speaking though, you’ll find enough pubs along Passyunk Street and around Washington Square.

One of the best things about Philadelphia is that everyone loves beer! There are several breweries located in the central districts and around North Philly.

Some excellent breweries are Evil Genius, Yards, Love City, and Crime and Punishment . Be sure to sample one of these many brewers either at their respective tap houses or at one of the city’s many beer festivals e.g. Philly Beer Week and Philly Craft Beer Festival.

Dining in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is obviously most well-known for its eponymous Philly cheesesteaks , which are sandwiches made from shaved meats, sauteed veggies, and some sort of cheese. Some outsiders may disregard Philly Cheesesteaks as greasy, unhealthy, and gut-bombs. Let me assure you that the locals definitely don’t believe in this.

For Philadelphians, there is nothing more delicious, more wholesome, or more enriching than a good cheesesteak. This sandwich is a great source of pride for the people of this city and many will go to great lengths to find and defend what they believe to be the best cheesesteak.

There are a number of legendary cheesesteak joints around. Steve’s, Jon’s, Gino’s, and Delasandro’s are ranked as having the best cheesesteaks in Philadelphia. Pat’s is considered the birthplace of the sandwich and so receives a fair amount of attention as well.

There’s more to Philadelphia than just cheesesteaks though. In fact, one could argue that Philadelphia is one of the top foodie destinations in the USA.

Philadelphia receives particularly high praise for its pizza and ice cream offerings, which is more good news for your stomach but not your waistline. If you really need to mix things up, there are still plenty more diverse places to eat in Philadelphia.

Budget Travel Tip : if you plan on drinking at a restaurant in Philadelphia, then BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle). Liquor laws in Pennsylvania are crazy and have made the price of alcohol very high. Many restaurants allow you to bring your own booze, which is a great way to save on cash.

Slick Restaurants and Cheap Eats in Philly

Here are some delicious restaurants in Philly that won’t break the bank!

• Reading Terminal Market : This one is first for a reason–this legendary food market cannot be missed by budget travelers. Open daily from 8 AM – 6 PM, you can find everything from pork sandwiches to papusas and everything in between here. Don’t skip Bassetts,
• South Philly Barbacoa : This famous Italian Market joint is known for its lamb tacos, but everything on a menu packs a serious flavor punch. You can find a wide variety of delicious Mexican offerings as well as delicious fresh juices.
• Lorenzo and Sons Pizza : The perfect spot for lunch, after a night out, or really just any time of day, Lorenzo’s serves up some of the biggest pizza slices in the city. Enjoy sizes that are bigger than your head WITH toppings for $4.50.
• Mac Mart : Mac n Cheese lovers, you’re in for a treat here. This casual restaurant dishes out hefty servings of America’s favorite comfort food at budget-friendly rates. You can get real creative with your toppings here, with lots of BBQ-inspired options.
• John’s Water Ice : Ok, maybe you won’t be full after sampling Philly’s favorite summer treat, but it’s a prime dessert option that backpackers will love. The shop has been operating since 1940 with just a few simple ingredients: fruit, sugar, and ice.
• Dutch Eating Place: Another hot-spot of the Reading Terminal Market that deserves its own spot on this list is the Dutch Eating Place. The budget-friendly restaurant is comfort food at its best, and portions are hefty too.

Day Trips from Philadelphia

Thanks to its great location, there are tons of options for taking a day trip from Philadelphia . Check out one of these top destinations for the top things to do outside of Philadelphia!

• New York City – New York, New York; home to some of the most distinctive towers, most unabashed people, and most vibrant cultures, ever. This metropolis is arguably one of the greatest on the entire planet and is a must see for those visiting the USA. Traveling to New York from Philadelphia takes only 2 hours by train or bus so day trips between the two are very reasonable.
• Gettysburg – Gettysburg is the historical site for one of the most important battles in the American Civil War. It was an extremely bloody conflict, whose brutality has become well-known among Americans. These days Gettysburg is much quieter; the battleground is mainly a cemetery now and there are a few relics laying around. For anyone interested in American history, Gettysburg is one top things to do outside of Philadelphia.
• Jersey Coast – If the summer heat is starting to get to you, then why not make a day trip from Philadelphia to New Jersey’s beaches? The shoreline here is one of the most beloved and well-known stops on an East Coast road trip . Head to Atlantic City for some partying and gambling, or make for Sandy Hook for a quieter time.
• Baltimore/Washington DC – If you aren’t satisfied with the history that Philadelphia and the surrounding countryside, then head to the nation’s capital, Washington DC. The hallowed city is only 2.5 hours away and has a boatload of historical attractions like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and National Mall. Along the way, you can stop in Baltimore, which is one of the most underrated cities in the USA. Grab a blue crab at the Inner Harbor.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is one of those cities where the tourist spots are completely worth your time. You should absolutely enjoy the delicious famous food spots and epic historical sites while visiting Philly.

But you’ll get even more out of your travel experience if you tread off the beaten path , my favorite type of travel that can be done anywhere–including Philadelphia.

For a bit of urban nature, head to the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge . Besides the fact that most tourists don’t make it there, it’s also the nation’s first urban refuge. PLUS it’s free!

History buffs looking for a less-visited site can check out the Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial , which is the United States’ smallest national park.

Regardless of where or how you venture off-trail in the City of Brotherly Love, you’ll be glad you did. Places like these always help you peel back yet another layer of a complex metro.

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You’ve got questions about Philadelphia, and I’ve got answers. Here are some top FAQs to be aware of before your trip:

Is Philadelphia safe?

Look, Philadelphia used to be one of the more dangerous US cities. But things have turned around and the places that tourists actually visit ARE assuredly safe. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t venture off into shady areas, and avoid sketchy-looking roads at night and you should be good to go!

What should I avoid in Philadelphia?

The number one area to avoid in Philadelphia is Kensington, which has essentially become the United State’s largest open-air drug market. Other dangerous neighborhoods include Hunting Park, Elmwood, and Strawberry Mansion.

What is a good area to stay in Philadelphia?

The best places to stay in Philly include the Old City, Center City, Rittenhouse Square, and Fishtown. For families, Midtown Village is ideal.

What is the most famous Philly Cheesesteak?

Pat’s King of Steaks (where the iconic sandwich was introduced in 1930) is the bonafide “winner” though rivals Geno’s Steaks and Jim’s South Street certainly know how to pack a punch of deliciousness.

How many sports are in Philadelphia?

There are 5 major league sports in Philadelphia: baseball, football, basketball, soccer, and hockey, too. Check out the game schedules before your trip if you’re a sports fan!

The City of Brotherly Love is a memorable trip just waiting to happen. The neighborly city is compact enough to make it easy to visit while being filled with enough delicious food and unique attractions that all but guarantee a good trip.

While it might not be as glitzy or gorgeous as other US cities, Philly has charm and heart–and a whole lot of history. This brings me to my next point: do delve into the history! US history is admittedly boring compared to that of many other countries, but seeing it all in real life is a game-changer.

It brings those boring high-school classes to life, right on the very streets where such events took place. Even if you swore you’d never be interested in the woes of centuries past, do give at least one site a try while traveling in Philadelphia. You’ll never know how strong your inner history buff is until you give it a try!

Otherwise, enjoy all the cozy city has to offer. Just don’t forget the budget tips mentioned in this Philadelphia travel guide. This is a city for everyone, and yes that includes budget backpackers!

So what are you waiting for? Book that ticket and find an epic place to stay–a weekend (or more) in Philadelphia awaits!

Updated March 2022 by Samantha Shea from Intentional Detours

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Do Not go! City is a Mess – will make You pay! Best advice is go to a cleaner better city. Fair Warning. (this from a life-long resident also born and raised, sorry to report this) 4/2021

I’ve spent quite a lot of time in Philly. Sure, it has its problems and can be messy but it’s no worse than any other American city. I wouldn’t avoid visiting for that reason.

Great list! Your post will guide to many travellers. I am planning to visit this attractive city. 🙂

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The Best 3 Days In Philadelphia Itinerary

Philadelphia is among the great city breaks for people who truly appreciate history and culture. Fragments of Early American history can be found on almost every street corner. If you’re looking for a game plan to visit, this is an efficient 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary covering all the must visit spots.

Philadelphia was founded by English Quaker leader William Pennie in 1682. The name “Philadelphia” means City of Brotherly Love.”

Philly is know for cheesesteaks, Revolutionary War history, and Rocky. But there is more to the compelling city than that.

In some areas, the city lacks tourist ready gloss. Its mascot is even named Gritty.

In others, it boasts grand avenues and beautiful period architecture. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway was intended to emulate Paris’ Champs-Élysées.

For art lovers, it’s one of the best culture city breaks in the country, with world class museums at every turn. Add to that a hot food scene, walkable neighborhoods, and sports venues, and you have the perfect weekend getaway.

Overview Of 3 Days In Philadelphia Itinerary

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with 3 days in Philly. You can adjust it based on your personal preferences and pace of travel.

Day 1 : Independence Hall, Liberty Bell Center, National Constitution Center, Elfreth’s Alley, Museum of the American Revolution, Old City, Fishtown

Day 2 : City Hall, JFK Love Park, Masonic Temple, Franklin Institute or Philadelphia Academy of Fine Art, Reading Terminal Market, Logan Circle, Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul, Barnes Foundation, Rodin Museum, South Street, Magic Gardens

Day 3 : Rittenhouse Square, Mutter Museum, Schuylkill River walk, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Eastern State Penitentiary, Shofuso Japanese House & Garden

Here are some of the best tours and experiences you might consider booking to see the city:

• horse drawn carriage tour
• sightseeing tour by bus
• founding fathe rs walking tour
• constitutional walking tour
• nighttime ghost tour
• badass women’s tour
• south Philly art tour
• brewery and bike tour

On my latest visit to the city, I was there for 3 days and used the  Philadelphia Go City all-inclusive Pass , which covers almost all of the major attractions.

On day 1, head straight to Old City to bask in the Revolutionary War era. The neighborhood is lined with landmarks celebrating American Independence.

Independence Hall

Start at Independence Hall. This red-brick Georgian-style structure, built in the 18th century, is often regarded as the birthplace of American democracy and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can explore the historic chambers where the Founding Fathers debated and signed the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. And see the famous Rising Chair that George Washington sat in.

The Declaration was a momentous In signing, they would be labeled treason and risk their lives. But they were buoyed by Thomas Payne’s saying that “We have it in our power to begin the world over again.”

READ : Complete Guide To Independence National Historical Park

Liberty Bell Center

Then, check out the Liberty Bell Center to see the famous bell. It’s an iconic symbol of American freedom and independence.

It originally hung in the Independence Hall and is famously associated with the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The bell is known for its distinctive crack, which appeared shortly after it was first rung.

It’s free to go inside the center to see the bell and learn about its history. If you don’t want to brave the crowds you can also see it from the glass wall on the building’s exterior.

National Constitution Center

If the constitution is on your mind, head inside the National Constitution Center. It’s an airy spacious museum and educational institution dedicated to United States Constitution.

It offers engaging and interactive exhibits that explore the documents origins, evolution, interpretation, and impact on American society.

Upstairs is the Signers’ Hall. This is where you’ll find bronze statues of everyone who signed the Constitution in 1787. Each statue captures the likeness and personality of the historical figure it represents to a tee.

For lunch, you can head to the Bourse, right across from the Liberty Bell it’s a contemporary good market array of food vendors, artisanal shops, and dining options. And the best place to get ice cream is Franklin Fountain.

Betsy Ross House

Next, you can pop into the Betsy Ross House . You’ll find an authentic 18th century home with period furnishings. And can decide for yourself if it’s fact or fiction that Betsy made the first American Stars and Stripes flag.

Click  here  to pre-book a ticket.

Elfreth’s Alley

Right around the corner from the museum is Elfreth’s Alley. You can’t miss that!

It’s a gorgeous cobbled lane lined with 32 home that are wondrous and well-preserved examples of Early American architecture. I wanted to move right in.

Christ Church & Christ Church Burial Ground

From there, take a peak into Christ Church. It’ a beautiful structure dubbed “the Nation’s Church” because the Founding Father’s worshipped there.

You can also visit the Christ Church Burial Ground and see the grave of Benjamin Franklin.

Museum of the American Revolution

If you need another Revolutionary War data point, you can brush up on more early American history at the Museum of the American Revolution.

The museum tells the story of America’s early days. It takes you from British American to the Revolutionary War and what happened after.

Exhibits include old weapons, uniforms, documents, and artwork. The highlight is George Washington’s, displayed in a state of the art theater.

You can stay in the Old City for dinner. Have a cocktail at the open air Independence Beer Garden or Cherry Street Pier on the Delaware River Waterfront. There are artist studios, food trucks, and places to grab a beer or ice cream on the pier.

For dinner eats, in Old City, you can check out Zahav, with a wonderful tasting menu. For a special occasion, head to Fork. For Italian cuisine, check out Positano Coast or La Famiglia.

Alternatively, you could head to Fishtown for dinner. It’s an up and coming neighborhood about 20 minutes northeast of Old City on the Delaware River.

Fishtown is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and a growing number of restaurants, bars, and shops.

It’s home to Philly’s first urban winery, Mural City Cellars. There are natural wines sourced within 300 miles.

You can grab a coffee at La Colombe. Or have a beer at Frankford Hall, the most popular German beer garden in the city.

Then, dine at one of the many great seafood and ethnic restaurants. I liked Kalaya for Thai food. At Cheu, you can sample the Asian inspired noodle bowls.

Start day 2 of your 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary with a climb up the bell tower of City Hall .

City Hall is an architectural masterpiece in the Second Empire style and a prominent symbol of the city. Built between 1871 and 1901, it stands as one of the largest municipal buildings in the world.

A remarkable souvenir of the city’s historic past sits atop it in the form of a 37 foot 26 ton statue of William Penn. The city’s founder, he lovingly safeguards the city from his eternal perch.

In the winter, the building is covered in fairy lights and Christmas trees and there’s an ice rink for skating.

With advance reservations , you can take an elevator up the tower for a bird’s eye view of Mr. Penn and the city from all angles. It’s a cramped space. Only 5 people can fit in the elevator.

When you descend, walk over to JFK Love Park and get the requisite selfie with Robert Indiana’s Love sculpture.

You can also take admire the large Government of the People sculpture by Jacques Lipchitz in the adjacent municipal plaza. It’s a spiraling column of figures that’s a tribute to democracy.

Masonic Temple

Then, considering taking a $15 tour of the Masonic Temple , a magnificent historic landmark. Built in the mid-19th century, it boasts stunning architecture, intricate detailing, and opulent interiors.

Outside the temple you can admire life-size bronze sculptures of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, both of whom were masons.

The temple is one of the finest examples of Masonic architecture in the United States and houses a treasure trove of Masonic artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can explore its ornate lodge rooms, grand hallways, and the jaw dropping Egyptian Room.

Pick a Museum

Then, depending on your interests, hit up either the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Art s or the F ranklin Institute .

The academy will appeal to art lovers with a passion for American art. The building itself and the exhibit areas are flat out gorgeous.

Famous works include David Martin’s Benjamin Franklin , Thomas Eakins’ The Gross Clinic , and Gilbert Stewart’s George Washington .

The Franklin Institute is a renowned science center that kids will love. It’s famous for its walk through model of a heart.

Reading Terminal Market

After your visit, grab lunch at Reading Terminal Market. It’s a bustling and historic food market that has been serving the city since 1893.

This culinary hub has over 80 vendors offering up fresh produce, meats, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international cuisine. I sampled a delicious salmon Thai curry, schawarma, and cheesesteak.

Got a sweet tooth? Try some of the donuts or treats at Beiler’s Bakery.

After lunch, head to Logan Circle and admire the Swan Fountain. Pop into the beautiful Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul. And see Robert Indiana’s other sculpture, AMOR.

Completed in the mid 19th century, the grand basilica is the largest brick brownstone building in the city. It features a stunning interior, intricate artwork and beautiful stained glass.

Barnes Foundation

Continue on to the Barnes Foundation . This is one of the best museums in the United States . Its treasure trove of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist art is the best private collection of its kind in the world!

Moreover, it’s a quirky collection curated by the owner himself, Albert C. Barnes. Under a proviso in his will, the art is displayed exactly as he wanted it and can’t be moved. This makes for a one-of-a-kind museum experience.

I think the best works are the Matisses. But you’ll want to find Van Gogh’s Postman (hidden in a corner) and stare up at Seurat’s Models above Cezanne’s famous Card Players .

Rodin Museum

Right next door to the Barnes is the elegant Rodin Museum . It houses one of the most comprehensive collections of sculptures by Auguste Rodin outside of France.

It features over 150 of his sculptures, including well-known masterpieces like The Thinker ,  The Gates of Hell , and  The Burghers of Calai s. And all of it is housed in a gorgeous Beaux Art building designed by famed architect Paul Cret.

South Street & Magic Gardens

In the early evening, head to South Street. It’s the perfect place to window shop (over 400 retail shops) and admire vibrant street art.

Quirky boutiques, vintage shops, record stores, and tattoo parlors line the street.

You might stop in Magic Gardens, if you arrive before it closes at 6:00 pm. It’s a one-of-a-kind mosaic art environment created by artist Isaiah Zagar.

This whimsical and immersive space covers half a city block, featuring intricate mosaics made from glass bottles, bicycle wheels, and other recycled items.

If you want to eat in South Philly, one of the hottest new restaurants in the city is El Chignon.

It’s a Mexican BYOB with not so traditional tacos. The restaurant is renowned for its Cemita , sandwich breaded chicken, Oaxacan cheese, sliced avocado, and chipotle peppers.

You could also get in line for cheesesteaks at the famous Geno’s Steaks.

And Cuzzy’s is pretty close. It’s a standing room only ice cream parlor for those with a sweet tooth.

Rittenhouse Square

Start day 3 in Philadelphia in the Rittenhouse Square area. This upscale residential area is known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a bustling commercial district filled with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

It’s a sought-after neighborhood that offers a mix of cultural attractions, green spaces, and a vibrant urban lifestyle.

It’s worth an aimless wander. Some of the pretties streets are Locust Street, Delancey Street, Delancey Place, Pine Street, and Spruce Street. Fashionistas will want to shop on Walnut Street.

You can start with breakfast at Green Eggs Cafe or Parc. Grab a coffee and pastry at K’Far Cafe or Federal Donuts.

Mutter Museum

If you have to stomach for it, spend an hour at the Mutter Museum . It’s a Victoria era medical history museum that describes itself as “disturbingly informative.”

It houses a bizarre and rather macabre collection of medical oddities, scientific relics, and human remains. 

The Mutter sounds peculiar, I know, but it’s wildly popular. The walls are adorned with gleaming wooden curiosity cabinets. Each contains an array of skeletons, skulls, specimens, brain slices, eyeballs, and tools.

For lunch, head to Dandelion, a fun gastropub on 18th Street near Rittenhouse Square. The eggs benedict are delicious and you can order a mimosa in almost every flavor you can imagine.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Once you’re fueled up, take a walk along the Schuylkill River Trail to the Philadelphia Museum Art . It’s about a 30 minute walk from the Rittenhouse Square area and you’ll have fantastic views along the way.

The museum is one of the best in the world. At the foot of its grand steps, you’ll find the film-famous bronze statue of Rocky, a beloved fictional character in Philadelphia’s lore. You’ll have to join the line if you want a selfie.

Run up the steps, Rocky style, to enter the grand Neo-Classical building. Exhibits are spread out over three floors.

You’ll find some of the best American art on the planet. And an incredibly impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist art.

The museum has the world’s largest collections of sculptor Constantine Brancusi and Conceptual artist Marcel Duchamp.

The showstoppers include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers , Cezanne’s Large Bathers , Picasso’s The Three Musicians , and Duchamps’s Nude Descending a Staircase .

Eastern State Penitentiary

A 30 minute walk from the museum is Eastern State Penitentiary , or ESP. Established in 1829, it was a groundbreaking prison designed to foster genuine remorse in inmates. It pioneered solitary confinement, influencing global prison reform.

ESP has an imposing Neo-Gothic exterior with tall crenelated walls. Inside, it was designed to resemble a monastery with high vaulted ceilings and cells equipped with “eye of God” skylights.

In line with Enlightenment principles, inmates were isolated to prompt self-reflection and a commitment to change. This philosophy, not surprisingly, failed and eventually the prison was closed.

Today, the prison is a stabilized state of semi ruin. You can visit on your own with the Steve Buscemi narrated audio guide to take a guided tour.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to ESP

Shofuso Japanese House & Garden

After being suffused in ruins, switch gears and polish off your day with a visit to Shofuso Japanese House and Garden. It’s located 2 miles away in West Fairmount Park.

It’s a remarkable cultural attraction showcasing Japanese architecture and culture. The house itself is a traditional Japanese-style structure, designed by architect Junzo Yoshimura and originally constructed in Japan in 1953.

It’s surrounded by a meticulously landscaped garden featuring elements like a koi pond, stone lanterns, and seasonal flora.

Head back downtown to Center City. Consider having a drink with views at the JG Skyline cocktail bar at the Four Seasons.

Then, polish off your 3 days in Philadelphia with an evening out. You can take in a music performance at one of Philadelphia’s most elegant venues, the Philadelphia Academy of Music. You’ll be awed by the marble lobby, gilded accents, and crystal chandeliers.

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia is a renowned venue that hosts a wide range of performing arts events. It’s home to the Philadelphia Orchestra and hosts concerts, ballets, operas and Broadway shows

Tips For A 3 Days In Philadelphia Itinerary

1. how to get to philly.

If you’re not driving, you will land at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). It’s the primary airport serving the city, with both domestic and international flights.

From the airport, you can get to the city center via taxi, Uber, or public transportation. You can also book a private transfer to your accommodation.

2. How To Get Around Philly

The easiest way to get around Philly is by walking. If you group your attractions for a given day by geography, it’s easy to walk everywhere. If you’re too far afield, you can catch an Uber.

You can also rent a bike, take Hop   On Ho p O ff B us , take a Segway tour , or  trolley tour .

Biking along the river is a breeze. But not so much biking in the city with the aggressive drivers.

You can also use SEPTA, the most beloved and hated beast in Philadelphia. It’s a network of trains, buses, and subways that are a bit skeevy. The trains are the best of the lot.

But if you are going from one end of the city to another, you’ll have to use SEPTA or Uber. After dark, opt for Uber.

3. Where To Stay In Philadelphia

There is no shortage of hotel options for your 3 days in Philly itinerary. You’ll probably want to stay in Center City.

For myself, I prefer staying in the Rittenhouse Square area. It’s safe at night and has loads of restaurants. You can check out the  The  Franklin  on Rittenhouse , AKA Rittenhouse Square , The Dwight D, or  Alexander Inn .

I recently stayed in the AKA Rittenhouse. It’s more like an apartment than a hotel room and I loved it, so convenient too.

Then, there are wonderful luxury options in Center City like the  Ritz-Carlton  and the  Four Seasons . The Four seasons is located atop the historic Comcast Center, and has unparalleled luxury, convenience, a ksybar, and infinity edge pool.

The Logan Philadelphia is a Hilton Curio hotel and has spectacular city views. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco is a 4 star hotel with nice rooms and a rooftop bar.

If you like boutique hotels, the Alexander Inn is a beautiful restored hotel. Chestnut Hill offers a Victorian vibe and real fireplaces.

4. When To Visit Philadelphia

Philly is a year round destination. Summer is, of course, the busiest with the most tourists and the hottest weather.

Spring is lovely. The weather is nice and you can enjoy the Philadelphia Flower Show on Arch Street and or drive out to Longwood Gardens.

In the fall, you can enjoy the fall colors and Halloween attractions. Eastern State Penitentiary offers Halloween Nights September through November, which are described as “One of American’s scariest Halloween attractions.” And the Thanksgiving Parade is the oldest in the nation.

In the winter, Philadelphia has an authentic open air German Christmas market,  Christmas Village , staged at Love Park and City Hall. You can also enjoy the Christmas Light Show at Macy’s and the Franklin Square Holiday Festival. Or ice skate at City Hall.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 3 days in Philadelphia itinerary. You may enjoy these other US travel guides and itineraries:

• 2 Days in Washington D.C Itinerary
• 3 Days in Washington D.C. itinerary
• 2 Days in Cleveland Itinerary
• 2 Days in Denver Itinerary
• 2 Days in San Diego Itinerary
• 3 Day Itinerary for Boston
• 1 Day Itinerary for Cambridge
• 7-10 Day Itinerary for Vermont
• 10 Day Itinerary for New Hampshire
• 25 Most Beautiful Towns in New England
• 10 Day Itinerary for Coastal Maine

If you want to spend 3 days in Philadelphia, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on April 24, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

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Your local guide to Philadelphia: A weekend in Philadelphia

May 21, 2018 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

Planning to spend a weekend in Philadelphia? Your local guide to Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, written by local Jacquelyn Kyle.  This guide to Philly includes off the beaten path Philadelphia and local food recommendations on where to eat in Philadelphia  besides cheesesteaks .  Keep reading about your perfect weekend in Philly. 

Jacquelyn Kyle is an archaeologist and the founder of Traveliste . She’s on a mission to help people throw out the packaged tours and plan the trips that are perfect for them. 

This post contains everything you need to know to have an amazing weekend in Philadelphia off the beaten path.  If you were staying with me, these are all the places I’d take you if you only had two or three days in Philadelphia.   I’m here to stop you from visiting all the tourist traps in Philadelphia, eating at mediocre restaurants, and waiting on long lines.

• 0.1.1 Magic Gardens
• 0.1.2 Consignment and Oddities Shops
• 0.1.3 Jim’s Steaks
• 0.1.4 Tattooed Mom
• 1.0.1 Enjoy Philadelphia’s cutest streets
• 1.0.2 Delaware River Waterfront/Penn’s Landing
• 1.0.3 Spruce Street Harbor Park
• 1.0.4 Race St. Pier
• 1.1.1 Pizzeria Stella: 2nd and Lombard
• 1.1.2 Bugambilias: 148 South Street
• 1.1.3 Santucci’s: 10th and Christian
• 1.1.4 Parc: 18th St. in Rittenhouse
• 1.1.5 Reading Terminal Market: 12th Street
• 1.1.6 Nam Phuong: 1100 Washington Ave.
• 1.2 Where to stay in Philadelphia
• 2.0.1 What was your favorite thing about Philly? Bonus points if your favorite place is somewhere I haven’t been before.

South Street

South Street is, in my opinion, the best way to get a feel for the real Philadelphia. It’s not exactly a clean, classy place, but then again–neither is Philly. It’s on the gritty side.  As the night gets later, the atmosphere gets more electric. Don’t be surprised if you pass rappers spitting fire or magicians mesmerizing crowds.

Magic Gardens

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yashy Murphy| Family Travel (@yashyanthi) on Oct 7, 2017 at 7:07am PDT

This artsy mosaic gallery and art center is a must-see. It’s well worth the $10 adult ticket price (and it’s even cheaper for kids and students), even if just for the drool-worthy Instagram posts you’ll create. It’s closed on Tuesdays and while it’s open 11:00AM-6:00, tickets do sell out fairly often–so plan ahead….

Consignment and Oddities Shops

South Street is a treasure trove of vintage shops and oddities parlors.  I love popping into The Strange and Unusual to see the latest gothic pieces (even though it’s not my style at all–it’s just a fascinating place). It’s right across from Jim’s by Starbucks, and definitely worth the few extra steps. If you stop in, say hi to Justin Beaver, a taxidermied beaver who will never be for sale.

Then, pop into Bella’s Consignment right next door for luxury pieces. People constantly ask me where I found a formfitting, sparkly black gown that I wore for a photoshoot at the Plaza in NYC–and are shocked when I tell them it was a consignment find from Bella’s that cost me a little over $100.

There are tons of other vintage and consignment stores on and near South St. You could spend the whole day combing the area for amazing pieces. Try Greene St. Consignment, Retrospect Vintage, Tucker’s Digs, Moon + Arrow, and RareCo (shown above).

If you’re a cat lover, don’t forget to head over to the Kawaii Kitty Cafe on 4th and say hello to the adoptable kitties that you can play with as you sip your latte (with cat-themed latte art, of course)!

Jim’s Steaks

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jim's South Street (@jimssouthstreet) on May 16, 2018 at 9:08am PDT

The quintessential Philly experience of eating a cheesesteak is not just hype; they’re truly delicious. Tourists tend to go to Pat’s or Geno’s , but locals know that Jim’s on South Street has by far the best cheesesteaks in Philadelphia. Important note: They only take cash.  You  can’t go upstairs and save a seat until you have your food.

Make sure to order like a local: say “wiz wit” i f you want Cheese Wiz with fried onions or “wiz witout” if you don’t want onions.  Don’t make the same mistake that I made my first time at Jim’s and order provolone under the mistaken impression that fake cheese product is gross (I mean, it is, but not on a cheesesteak!). Wiz is the only way to go.

Tattooed Mom

If you’re looking for a bar with character on South Street, make sure to check out Tattooed Mom . It has two floors, both of which are packed with interesting artwork and a lot of hipsters.  This isn’t the place to wear your loafers and work clothes; the people are part of the scenery, so show your personality.

Day 2: Enjoying the Waterfront

Enjoy philadelphia’s cutest streets.

For a taste of Phildelphia’s cutest streets, head to 200-300 Delancey St. for Philadelphia’s most picturesque old town filled with stunning trees (especially in fall).  Similarly, Jacqueline loves  Elfreth’s Alley .  This alleyway dates back to the early 1700s.  This national landmark is perfect for a quiet morning stroll.

Delaware River Waterfront/Penn’s Landing

You can technically walk here from South Street, but I always find that South Street is quite enough for one day.  There are a million things to do on the waterfront, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

You can go onboard some of the ships, which have been converted into museums, skate at the Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest (which isn’t a festival, heads up), or check out the Seaport Museum or some of the war memorials. It’s nice to do those things if you have a lot of time, but there’s one place I love to visit time and again: the Spruce Street Harbor Park.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

This is hands down my favorite place in Philadelphia. It’s only open in the warm seasons.  It’s filled with hammocks and happiness, food trucks and beer tents, and it’s right on the water.  What more could you ask for? Oh, a weekly arts market? Check .  A kids’ play area? Check .

Fair warning that you may have to wait for a hammock to open up, but I’ve never had to wait longer than 10 minutes.  There are other places to sit while you stalk your hammock and stare down the occupant so they get uncomfortable and leave (or wait–is it just me who does that?).

I could spend an entire day lounging in a hammock in the beautiful Philly weather or an entire evening.  The trees are hung with multicolored lights that turn the Spruce Street Harbor Park into a magical wonderland once the sun goes down.

Race St. Pier

This might be a quick stop, especially if it’s very hot out when you’re in Philadelphia, but you should definitely stop by.  Depending on where you park, Race St. Pier just might be on your way to Spruce St. Harbor Park.

The Race St. Pier has a beautiful view of the Ben Franklin Bridge, which crosses the Delaware River and joins Pennsylvania to New Jersey. If you’re looking across the river, you’ll see the Camden Aquarium, which is definitely worth a visit if you’re in town for a bit.  If you want to party on the Delaware, I’d recommend RiverDeck or Morgan’s Pier .

Where to eat in Philadelphia

One cannot subsist on cheesesteaks alone (believe me, I’d know). Luckily, there are many great places to eat in Philadelphia–and as a side benefit, they’re all in the heart of neighborhoods that you should definitely explore.

Pizzeria Stella: 2nd and Lombard

Y’all, this place is glorious. It’s a cute restaurant in a cute neighborhood, but all the atmosphere in the world can’t save bad food; this restaurant made the list because it is always delicious. They have gourmet pizza and a charcuterie plate (Salumi Mixto) that is to die for. The pizzas are large enough that I always end up taking half of mine home, so split one if you can agree on a choice (I almost always go ‘Nduja) and order some appetizers.

Bugambilias: 148 South Street

This tiny gem of a restaurant has traditional Mexican food from three different regions. Everything is made fresh and from scratch, and it shows in the amazing dishes. The margaritas are huge and creative and yummy. The decor is beautiful and traditional.

If you’re looking for a more hipster Mexican food experience, try Sancho Pistola’s or Loco Pez in Fishtown, or Union Tacos in Manayunk (stop in at I nsomnia Cookies afterward for warm cookies until 3am).  I’m a big fan of Mexican food, and I love all four of these places.

Santucci’s: 10th and Christian

My boyfriend’s family has ordered pizzas from here for special occasions since he was a little kid. They have a few locations, but I always pick mine up from the location on 10th & Christian since it’s in the midst of the Italian Market, a place you must see when you’re in Philadelphia. A heads up that the pizza sauce goes on top at Santucci’s, which threw me for a loop at first.

Parc: 18th St. in Rittenhouse

Parc is a French Brasserie with amazing brunch. Definitely on the classier side, so don’t show up in your yoga pants. Give yourself time to wander through Rittenhouse Square before or after your meal, though you’ll have a great view of it if you sit outside to dine.

Reading Terminal Market: 12th Street

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Reading Terminal Market (@rdgterminalmkt) on Sep 2, 2017 at 9:25am PDT

The Reading (pronounced ‘red-ding’) Terminal Market is on every tourist’s list, but I’m including it because I go there all the time (and so do locals!).  It’s one of the biggest and oldest public markets in Philadelphia and it’s worth a visit over a weekend in Philadelphia.

Inside, you’ll find every kind of food you could want, including groceries and produce.   You must try a pretzel log from the Pennsylvania Dutch/Amish booths, but otherwise I’d recommend that you wander around the whole place before you decide on your main meal.  Make sure to stop by and see Philbert the Pig in the food court; take along some spare change so you can feed him so he can feed needy children.

Nam Phuong: 1100 Washington Ave.

This is such a good Pho place. I’m especially partial to the egg rolls, which are deep fried and spectacular. The menu has many sections, so order something from each and share with the table.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

Wanderlustingk editor Karen stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City   on her first trip to Philadelphia.  I realize that it’s a chain hotel, but it’s walking distance from the city center, making it easy to visit Philly without a car.   For somewhere with more character, consider visiting   La Reserve Bed and Breakfast to stay in a historic bed and breakfast in the historic center of Philly. For a bit of luxury, consider staying at the  Rittenhouse 1715 , a 5* boutique hotel walking distance from Philadelphia’s cutest areas. Philadelphia has a few hostels, including Apple Hostels.

You may not get to visit everything in Philadelphia in a weekend, but hopefully you’ll discover some new favorites while you’re in town! Philly is a place that you’ll want to visit again and again, so don’t stress if you miss something this time around.  I can almost guarantee that you’ll be back!

Have you been to Philadelphia?

What was your favorite thing about philly bonus points if your favorite place is somewhere i haven’t been before..

For more travel inspiration, head to Jacquelyn’s blog for more tips about Philadelphia or click for tips for day trips from Philadelphia !

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

November 16, 2022 at 2:40 am

Awesome guide, thanks a lot! I will later report how our two days trip in Philadelphia was 🙂

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An Insider’s Guide to Philadelphia

Philadelphia – the city of brotherly love, “Philly,” the bird place of America, “the cradle of America.” Pennsylvania largest city is a place with many names, and now it’s a place that I hold dear to my heart.  As a New Yorker, I’ve heard great things about Philadelphia… especially in terms of its food culture, its history and its close proximity to Manhattan (thanks to the rail system). After just a few short days here on a whirlwind long weekend trip, I can honestly say I love Philadelphia. I’m excited to visit more regularly! Here are some of my absolute favorite finds in Philly!

Where to Stay

Fitler club.

When planning my rather spontaneous weekend trip to Philly, I found myself staying at the exclusive social club of dreams, Philly’s @fitlerclub. Each time you stay here earns visitors access to all of the privileges that the members have, such as 34,000 square feet of luxury co-working space, dining options curated by the geious Philly chef Marc Vetri, an incredible gym, and luxuriously stunning and sleek rooms. The Fitler Club also happens to be located right by the shimmering Schuykill River and a stone’s throw away from 30th Street station (Philly’s centrally located Amtrak train station). I loved waking up in the morning and having my breakfast right by the water. I can imagine this space is the perfect spot to grab a drink by the lounge or on their rooftop too! Such a stunning and easy location, if you ask me! Be aware there are only 14 rooms available, each of them adored with contemporary art and unique touches. It was the perfect place for a last minute getaway…  found on Hotel Tonight!

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia

If you’re on the hunt for a hotel that’s both centrally located right near City Hall  that also houses some stellar views of the Philadelphia skyline… the Kimpton Hotel Palomar is a great choice. What I love most about this boutique hotel is its design sense! It’s stylish, Art Deco-inspired, but with a Philadelphia scene of humor and a twist (think busts of Benjamin Franklin). It’s no wonder it’s a favorite for travelers! The Kimpton also offers their guests bikes to explore the city, as well as complimentary yoga mats in each room… nice little touches that truly make a big impact!

Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square

Decorated beautifully around the holidays, the Warwick has one of the most chic lobby’s in the city. I loved seeing it looking merry and bright right around Christmas time. If you’re looking to stay close to Philadelphia’s favorite little park, Rittenhouse Square – this is a great spot! The Warwick Hotel is also listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places as it was originally constructed in the 1920’s – so history buffs will adore its  commitment to maintaining its age and architectural details.

Reading Terminal Market

This was honestly one of my favorite experiences in Philly! The market has endless food choices of some of the best of the best treats in Philly… but what captured my heart the most was how vintage and old school it is. You won’t find any hipster vendors trying to hard here. What you see is what you get (such a Philadelphia mentality – and I love that!)… and what you get in Reading Terminal market is the best, because many of them have been around for years and years. Established and Philadelphian-loved market vendors know what they’re doing here! Just spend an hour or two grazing amongst its stands! Trust me, you’re going to love this place.

Broad Street

Head to Broad Street and capture the perfect shot of City Hall with this perfect frame of view. Philadelphia’s City Hall is an architecture lovers delight.

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

I absolutely loved this unique experience of exploring Phlly’s Magic Garden! This large and expansive mosaic exhibit is so charming and interesting! It’s a outdoor labyrinth of some of the coolest mirror mosaic pieces that stretches three city blocks, as well as a museum and community art space with so many unique touches and picturesque spots. You’ll find splashes of mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar all around Southern Philly too! I loved exploring the many quaint and quirky neighborhood blocks, especially Washington Square West.

City Hall Tower & Observation Deck

The most popular observation deck in Philadelphia  is the One Liberty Observation Deck… but we decided to check out the observation deck inside the City Hall’s tower and found it to be stunningly beautiful and more of an authentic, less touristy experience. With a small space and 360 degree views all the way to Jersey, this desk is the perfect place to catch the sunset at golden hour.Bring your cameras for this one!

Rittenhouse Square

Take a stroll around one of Philadelphia’s most beloved parks! The Rittenhouse Square area of the city is surrounded by old trees, historic architecture and… my favorite find, Anthropologie’s flagship store. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I explored the store decked out in holiday garb!

30th Street Station

Whether you arrive in Philly via train or not, a stop to the city’s gorgeous train station is worth it, in my opinion! I’ve never seen a more elegant look to a buzzing train stop. Soak it in and observe the hustle and bustle.

Where to Eat

These Lebanese eatery stole my heart with its refreshing and authentic dishes with a twist. It’s been voted Philadelphia’s Restaurant of the Year, and I can truly see why! It’s not only a restaurant serving up creators Nathalie Richan and Roland Kassis’s genius recipes (the restaurant is named after their grandmother), but also a market celebrating the best grab and go bites from around the world. I loved their restaurant’s menu! Each dish was classical and modern, as well as their cocktails – all named after the beautiful words of Lebanese poet Khalil Gibran!

The Continental Restaurant and Martini Bar

This timelessly styled, stainless steel diner is so much more than meets the eye. You’ll find a brunch menu with trendy choices just as much as the classics, served up with some of the best martinis in town. It’s the perfect place to pop in for a drink in between exploring!

The Dandelion

I was enamored with this pub’s exteriors! Isn’t it just darling? There are so many European influences around Philadelphia… but this one took the cake. The Dandelion is a British-style pub located right in the heart of the Rittenhouse Square area.

Owned by some of Philly’s most renown restauranteurs, The Love is a bilevel restaurant and bar with communal style country tables, serving up fresh wine, ciders and more. It’s got such an energy to it that I loved!

A taste of France right in Philly! Parc has one of the best views of the Rittenhouse’s park area, and it’s a great place to pop in for a warm bite or a toast of champagne. The menu is all so chic, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Paris’s Forgotten Era.

I loved this little coffee shop! Filled with Swedish influences, Kanditori feels like a local, neighborhood coffee spot with some of the best Scandi pastries too.

I fell in love with Philly after just a few short days, and I hope more travelers consider a trip into America’s birth place! Philly’s attitude, its historic sights and amazing culinary scene will have me coming back for more, I’m sure!

Stay sponsored by  Hotel Tonight .

All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site. All opinions are my own.

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Nastasia, originally a Labor & Delivery nurse turned travel blogger, has leveraged her passion for travel, photography and has founded Dame Traveler, a curated women’s travel blog where solo female travelers can inspire, and connect with, one another. Her eye for stunning travel visuals has helped build a large Instagram following, with over 600,000 followers on @dametraveler and 100,000 on her personal account, @nastasiaspassport, in addition to a large network of travel bloggers. Her hard work has led her to be featured in publications such as Travel & Leisure, Fodor’s, Vogue and more. 55+ countries into her journey, her passion for the world has led her to create a sizeable community of female travelers where her mission is to empower them to travel more, do more and be more. Whether sipping on chai in Istanbul or volunteering abroad in South Africa, Nastasia continues to find and share the beauty of this world, thus inspiring people to change the way they see and experience life.

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Philadelphia Itinerary: Things To Do in One Day in Philadelphia

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Rich in history and packed with sights, spending one day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is just enough time to see the highlights. The best things to do in Philadelphia revolve around the city’s past, modern culture and fantastic food scene. We created a perfect Philadelphia Itinerary that features must-see Philly sights and the top things to eat!

One Day in Philadelphia

Having just one day in Philadelphia will be somewhat limiting. Seriously, there is so much to see and do in Philly! Travelers will need to pick and choose which attractions and sights to tour. That said, we think that if you are going to visit Philadelphia in one day, you should absolutely make the most of it!

Whether you are on a layover or planning a short day trip to Philadelphia from nearby, you can use our guide of things to do in Philly.

Visit Philadelphia on a Long Layover, Business Trip or Day Trip

Philadelphia, PA is a major US transportation hub. In fact, PHL is a gateway to Europe – and on our trips overseas, we often had layovers of up to 24 hours in Philadelphia.

Rather than just sitting in an airport hotel, we would come up with different plans for what to see in Philadelphia in 1 day and set off to explore. We marveled at the history, sampled the local fare and experienced a bit of the nightlife. In just a short amount of time, we were able to see some of the best attractions in Philadelphia. 

Likewise, visitors on business or making a day trip to Philadelphia from Pittsburgh , New York or DC have numerous options for sightseeing. Just like travelers on layovers, people on business or making day trips to Philadelphia can use our outline of what to do in Philly to plan their time.

To efficiently plan a DIY day trip to Philly, you may need to make some adjustments to our Philly Itinerary. On the other hand, you could forget about the hassle of planning a trip to Philadelphia and join an organized tour. We feature the best options for a day trip in Philadelphia at the end of the article.

More of the Best Things To Do in Philly

There are so many Philadelphia things to do that you can easily fill 2 or 3 days of sightseeing. Historic places, intriguing art and beloved sports teams are top Philadelphia attractions that can entertain visitors for days. 

While we are highlighting how to spend a day in Philly, having more time is even better. To help, we offer insight into how to expand our Philadelphia One Day Itinerary to a multiple day trip. 

Planning a Weekend Trip to Philadelphia

Spending an entire weekend in Philadelphia is an excellent way to experience the city! To help, we provide tips at the end of the post for alternate Philly itineraries.

Unique Things To Do in Philadelphia for Repeat Visitors

Travelers who visit Philadelphia often might be stumped when looking for places to go that are unique and interesting. Don’t fret! Find more of the Top Things To Do Philadelphia in our expanded Philly Itineraries section!

Pro Tip:  No matter how long you’re staying in Philly, get organized for your trip with our Travel Planning Printables !

Things To Do in Philadelphia FAQs

Before we jump into what to do in Philly in one day, we want to answer a few frequently asked questions. 

Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? 

Absolutely – and we can prove it in our itinerary of Top Things To Do in Philly! The city appeals to a wide range of visitors – from history buffs to foodies to sports fans. There is truly something for everyone. 

What is There To Do in Philadelphia Besides History? 

A lot! It is true that some of the best things to do in Philadelphia, PA revolve around the historical sights. However, there is much more to the city than the past! Some of the top things to see in Philly are modern. 

Are There Things To Do in Philadelphia for Free? 

Yes! There are many free things to do in Philly. We highlight some of the best throughout our list. Our guide of how to spend a day in Philadelphia can be used by travelers with any size budget! 

Are There Philadelphia Things To Do with Kids?

Of course! The city is family friendly boasting many fun things to do in Philadelphia with kids. While our itinerary of the best things to see in Philadelphia is not exclusive to family travel, we share quite a few options for what to do in Philly with kids. 

1 Day in Philadelphia Itinerary

In our Philadelphia 1-Day Itinerary, we cram all of the best things to do into a single sightseeing day. We highlight exactly what to see in Philadelphia in one day – including top attractions, the best places to eat and a touch of nightlife. 

The sights featured in our Philadelphia trip planner are listed in order to create an easy self-guided tour. If there are sights you wish to eliminate, simply jump to the next sight on the list and create your preferred route.

In addition to what to see and do on a Philadelphia one day trip, we offer tips for how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. Plus, we include a Things To Do in Philadelphia Map so that you can easily find your way to the sights and attractions we feature in our list. 

Our One-Day Philadelphia Itinerary includes everything you need. Save, Pin or Bookmark this article to plan your trip to Philly!

Morning Itinerary for Philadelphia in a Day

Begin your One Day Itinerary Philadelphia with a classic breakfast. Then step back in time at some of the most important sites in America’s history at the Independence National Historical Park. Depending on time and interest, delve deeper into the most historical part of the city during your discovery of Philly in a day.

The Bourse for Breakfast

Start your day of Philadelphia sightseeing with breakfast in a historic location, The Bourse. The building dates to the late 1800s and was used as a commodities exchange. However, it has been renovated into a Food Hall featuring some of the best Philly eats. It’s a great place to kick off your Philadelphia One-Day Itinerary! We recommend getting an All-American breakfast at the Grubhouse.

Not up for a full breakfast? Swing by Old City Coffee for a morning pick-me-up. The award winning coffee shop first opened in 1985 and is well known for their superior coffee beans that are roasted in-house in tiny batches. 

Independence National Historical Park

Steeped in history and lined with cobblestone streets, the Independence National Historical Park is home to museums, artifacts, statues and monuments. See where the United States’ Declaration of Independence was signed and walk in the footsteps of America’s Founding Fathers.

Independence Hall

Visiting Independence Hall within the Independence National Historical Park is one of the top things to do in Philadelphia in one day. This is a must on your Philly Itinerary!

One of the most significant places in US history, Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were debated and signed. Essentially, it is the birthplace of America. Built in 1732 as the Pennsylvania State House, the red brick building features an ornate white clock and bell tower and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visiting Independence Hall on Your One Day in Philly

Visitors who want to see the interior of the building can join a free 30-minute guided tour, but obtaining an online timed ticket is required for entry. The cost is $1 USD. Visitors also need to arrive 30 minutes in advance in order to pass through the security. So be sure to allow for the extra time when planning a Day in Philadelphia Itinerary. 

Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell ranks as another one of the top places to see in Philadelphia. The famous bell is conveniently located just across the street from Independence Hall – so it’s easy to add to your One day in Philadelphia. 

A timeless symbol of the United States of America, the iconic Liberty Bell has a fascinating history – and is a must-see on your Philly Itinerary. Commissioned in London in 1752, the bell was cast to hang in the tower of the Pennsylvania State House. The bell was inscribed with the quote: “Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof.” However, at first ring, the bell cracked.

The bell was melted, recast and re-inscribed by locals Pass and Stow, but the bell produced a horrid sound…and had to be re-cast, yet again. Years later, on July 8, 1776, the Liberty Bell was rung to celebrate the first reading of the Declaration of Independence.

The Liberty Bell is now housed in the Liberty Bell Center and is free to visit (no ticket required), which makes it one of the fun things to do in Philly if you are on a budget. Exhibits inside the center tell the story of the bell and visitors are able to view the bell up close.

Carpenters’ Hall

Continue your exploration of Philly in one day at Carpenters’ Hall in Independence National Historical Park. 

Witness to numerous historical events, Carpenters’ Hall housed the First Continental Congress in 1774. The brick building is one of a few in the complex – and can be toured for free. Inside, visitors will find information about its historical significance and a small gift shop. Because of its location, it is easy to fit in a visit to Carpenters’ Hall while touring Philadelphia in one day.

Museum of the American Revolution

Brush up on your history of how the United States was formed at the Museum of the American Revolution. Follow the timeline of America’s independence. From Boston to war to the beginning of the nation via engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

Because you only have a day in Philadelphia, you don’t want to spend your time standing in line! Buy a Skip-The-Line Ticket!

Tips for Visiting the American Revolution Museum

The Museum of the American Revolution is one of the best places to visit in Philadelphia to learn about history of the founding of the United State of America. It can be breezed through in about an hour, but many visitors spend up to 4 hours in the museum.

Those interested in seeing more of the best Philly sights might want to bypass the museum entirely. If you do opt to skip this museum on your 1 day in Philadelphia trip, it is still worth exploring the area. Other Philadelphia places of interest on the square are the Merchant Exchange Building, the Independence Historical Library, and City Tavern.

National Constitution Center

If your interest in the formation of the US has been piqued, consider including a visit to the National Constitution Center. Through interactive displays, the museum details the creation of the United States Constitution in a fun and informative way.

Pro Tip : Guests could easily spend the better part of the day inside the two museums we recommend at Independence National Historical Park. If history is the main focus of your one-day trip in Philadelphia, then the museums will likely be a highlight. 

Attractions Near Independence National Historical Park

Just beyond the small park boundaries are more historical sights to add to your One Day Philadelphia trip plan. Discovering the attractions in the oldest part of the city is one of the fascinating things to do in Philadelphia, PA.

That said, on a quick 24-hour Philly trip, you will have to pick and choose which sights to see. We are highlighting a few of our top picks that you can add to your itinerary before lunch, if you have time. Alternatively, you could spend your entire day in Philly seeing the sights in and around Independence National Historical Park.

Washington Square

If you have time before or after visiting Independence Hall, make a quick detour to Washington Square. 

Once a grazing field and cemetery, Washington Square is now a leafy urban escape and host to several memorials. Don’t miss the center fountain, the Eternal Flame and Memorial to the Unknown Soldiers of the American Revolution.

Society Hill

Society Hill is the oldest neighborhood in Philly, dating to the late 1600s. The district is characterized by narrow, cobblestone streets and beautiful 18th and 19th century brick houses. 

We highly encourage wandering through the area when exploring Philly in one day. Specifically, we recommend seeking out South American Street (between Spruce and Delancey), the Old Pine Street Church and Cemetery and Head House Square. 

Penn’s Landing

Penn’s Landing is situated along the Delaware River waterfront. It is a fun place for families, friends, couples and solo travelers to include on a Philly day trip itinerary. 

Many top events are held in Penn’s Landing. The area is home to an array of entertaining riverside bars and parks. The riverside is also an excellent place to take a stroll to see the old-time ships, submarines and beautiful bridges along the Delaware River. 

Elfreth’s Alley

You can truly step back in time on Elfreth’s Alley. Walk down the landmark cobblestone lane, which has existed as a residential street for more than 300 years. Learn more at the Elfreth’s Alley Museum at #124. On your stroll, tuck down Bladen’s Court and read the stories of the homes that stand there. 

Betsy Ross House

The Betsy Ross House is one of the top attractions to see when visiting Philadelphia for a day. The home is where Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag in 1776. Although there is some dispute that this is, in fact, the exact house Betsy Ross lived in, it is still one of the interesting places to go in Philadelphia. Tickets are required to enter, but visiting the courtyard and gift shop are free. 

The Nation’s Church

Just around the corner from the Betsy Ross House is Christ Church, which dates to 1695 and is often referred to as “The Nation’s Church.” Many of the Founding Fathers – including George Washington – were members of the American Episcopal Church. The church is open to visitors for a small fee and is considered a must-see Philadelphia sight.

Benjamin Franklin Gravesite and Christ Church Burial Ground

While some visitors may think it is odd to include visiting a cemetery on a day trip in Philly, the Christ Church Burial Ground is one of the city’s most famous sights.

The cemetery is located just east of Independence National Historical Park at 5th and Arch. Visiting the graveyard is one of the top Philadelphia activities because it is where Benjamin Franklin is buried – along with four other signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Benjamin Franklin Museum and Sites

Benjamin Franklin had an enormous impact on Philadelphia, the United States and the world. Much of his story is recorded in the city and with 1 day in Philly, you can visit many Benjamin Franklin sights. 

The Benjamin Franklin Museum, which includes artifacts and exhibits from his life, is an interesting place to visit in Philly’s historical center. In the area, visitors can also see portions of Franklin’s house, the Franklin Court Printing Office and one of the oldest post offices in the USA!

Franklin Square

Taking a walk through Franklin Square has long been one of the top things to do in Philadelphia. One of the city’s originally planned public spaces, Franklin Square sits north of Independence National Historical Park. At the center is the Franklin Square Fountain (which dates to 1838) – and other sights at the park are the Parx Liberty Carousel and Living Flame Memorial.

Pro Tip : The Bolt of Lightning Sculpture is another one of the top things to see in Philadelphia in one day. From the east side of Franklin Square, you can view the 101-foot-tall sculpture. The artwork commemorates Ben Franklin’s famous experiment of flying a kite in a storm to prove lightning bolts have an electrical charge. 

Where to Eat Lunch on Your One Day in Philly

By now, you’re probably midway through your 1-day in Philly, which means it is time for lunch! We have two suggestions for your mid-day meal: Reading Terminal Market or a restaurant in Philadelphia Chinatown. 

Reading Terminal Market

One of the best places to go to eat in Philly is the Reading Terminal Market. In fact, we think it is a must-see on Philadelphia trips!

The market was established in 1893 under the train tracks of the newly built Reading Terminal. Today it stands as both a historic landmark and the heart of the city’s gastronomy. Not only is it a place to eat, the building itself is one of the top things to see in Philadelphia. 

With more than 80 food vendors, deciding what to eat can be a conundrum. That said, we recommend getting a Philly Cheesesteak! Several vendors sell them at the market (and they are all delicious), but By George and Carmen’s Famous are our favorite spots. 

Alternatively, indulge in a Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork Sandwich. Earning such praise as ‘the best sandwich in America,’ the roast pork and beef sandwiches from DiNic’s are Philly culinary delights. 

Grab a soft pretzel from Miller’s Twist as well. Pretzels are Philly’s favorite snack. And, for dessert, head for Beiler’s – either for a delicious donut or a sweet treat from their bakery. 

Restaurants in Chinatown

Visiting Chinatown is another one of the fun things to do in Philadelphia for a day. The Philly Chinatown has a history that dates back to 1871. The district is filled with Asian eateries and shops – and is marked by the ornamental Chinese Gate at 10th and Arch.

Explore the vibrant district on foot. As you take in the tantalizing scents, you will likely be lured into a restaurant. Dim Sum Garden, Sang Kee Peking Duck House and Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House are all good picks! 

Afternoon of Your One Day in Philadelphia Itinerary

After your filling lunch, continue your Philly tour by visiting more of the landmark sights. The afternoon of your Philadelphia Itinerary in 1 Day includes a mix of modern and historic attractions.

Philadelphia City Hall

While sightseeing Philadelphia, visiting City Hall is a must. It is one of the most beautiful and iconic buildings in the city. 

Opened in 1901, the Philadelphia City Hall building once reigned as the tallest building in the world. The grandiose building features a bell tower topped by a statue of William Penn (the city’s founder) – and reaches a height of 548 feet. Today, it houses the local government offices and is a National Historic Landmark.

Pro Tip : Taking a tour of City Hall is one of the top things to do in Philadelphia. City Hall offers two tours – one of the grand interior rooms and the other to the open-air tower observation deck. 

The famous LOVE sculpture is one of our favorite places to visit in Philly – and it’s located in LOVE Park, just steps from City Hall. 

Designed in the 1960s, the park is officially dedicated to President John F. Kennedy. However, the park is now better known as LOVE Park for the Robert Indiana LOVE sculpture that was first displayed at the park in 1976.

Taking a selfie with the LOVE sculpture is one of the must-do things in Philadelphia to put on your list!

Pennsylvania Railroad Suburban Station

If you are a fan of Art Deco architecture, don’t miss the façade of the Pennsylvania Railroad Suburban Station in downtown Philly. The station sits across the street from the southwest corner of Love Park. Built in 1930, Suburban Station is still a major transportation hub today.

Center City West in Downtown Philadelphia 

If there is still time left in the afternoon, consider exploring Center City West. It’s one of the fun things to do in downtown Philly. The Shops at Liberty Place is a good place to start, but shoppers will find everything in the district from a Buffalo Exchange second-hand store to Tiffany’s. 

If shopping isn’t your jam, head for Rittenhouse Square – an opulent planned green space with walkways and flowerbeds. 

Things To Do in Philly at Night

We have highlighted some of the best places to visit in Philadelphia in one day, but our sightseeing adventure is not over yet! To complete your 1 Day in Philadelphia Itinerary, grab a bite to eat, relax on the riverside and then join the revelers on South Street for a drink.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House in Midtown Village

After a full day of exploration, end your downtown discovery with a beverage at McGillin’s in Midtown Village. Standing as the longest running tavern in the city, McGillin’s offers a menu of pub grub in a throwback atmosphere. Soak in the nostalgia and maybe even stay for dinner.

Consider bar-hopping in Midtown Village to other fun spots, like Woody’s, Graffiti Bar or Dirty Frank’s. It’s a fantastic way to complete your Philadelphia one-day tour!

Spruce Street Harbor Park

If the riverside sounds more appealing, give your feet a much needed rest at Spruce Street Harbor. In the relaxing urban oasis, you can swing in a hammock, play a game of chess or stroll along the boardwalk. After a long day of sightseeing in Philadelphia, it is the perfect way to wind down.

South Street

Another way to end your 1-Day Itinerary in Philadelphia is on South Street, a lively entertainment district. Appealing to a wide range of interests, the street is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, international eateries, fun bars and live music venues. Tattooed Mom is a funky spot with a hip vibe – but with so many choices on South Street, we recommend wandering a bit until finding a spot that fits your style.

Pro Tip : If you have a late-night craving, be sure to stop at Jim’s on South Street for a Philly Cheesesteak. The restaurant opened in 1939 and is the perfect way to cap off your trip to Philadelphia in a day!

How Many Days to Spend in Philadelphia?

We packed loads of sights into our recommended one day trip to Philadelphia – but there is still so much more to see. While all of our Philly trips have been limited on time, we could easily spend a long weekend in Philadelphia.

To determine how many days in Philadelphia is right for your trip, consider your budget, interests and time. To help, we are highlighting more sights in our recommended Philly itineraries for longer stays.

Half Day in Philadelphia

For us, a perfect Half Day Philadelphia Travel Itinerary would include the iconic spots within the Independence National Historical Park. In fact, an easy way to plan your trip would be to simply follow our outline for the morning activities (Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Carpenters’ Hall, and Museum of the American Revolution,).

With extra time on a half-day trip to Philly, visit the other top historical sights (Society Hill, Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church Burial Grounds) that we recommend in the area.

Alternate 1-Day Philadelphia Itinerary

We believe we have outlined the absolute best way to spend a day in Philadelphia, but it’s not the only way to do it. 

Touring Philadelphia in One Day with a Guide

Rather than a completely self-guided tour of what to see in Philadelphia, start your day with a local guide. The two-hour Founding Fathers Tour is a small-group walking tour that visits many of the sights we recommend seeing. More the details!

What To Do in Philadelphia for a Day…Beyond History

On the other hand, those who are looking for things to do in Philadelphia in 1 day outside the historic core have many options. 

A great way to sightsee beyond Old Philly is to travel by Hop On Hop Off Bus to other top sights. Visitors can purchase tickets for 1, 2 or 3 days of sightseeing. Get Tickets!

2-Day Itinerary Philadelphia

Planning a 2-Day Philadelphia Itinerary allows for a lot more sightseeing. Visitors on a Philly weekend trip can experience the best of South Philly – including artistic attractions and delectable food.

On the first day of your trip, follow our detailed guide things to do in Philadelphia for one day. 

What To See in the Morning on Day 2 

Start your second day of your Philadelphia 2 Day Itinerary with a favorite Philly breakfast. Donuts and fried chicken from Federal Donuts. There are several locations, but the one on South Street is a perfect place to kick off your morning discovering South Philly. 

Work your way from South Street into South Philadelphia – seeking out intriguing street murals along the way. Use this map of murals by Mural Arts Philadelphia to find the best artwork. 

Continue your exploration by walking south to the Gloria Dei Church. Visiting the church is one of the best South Philadelphia things to do. The quaint church ranks as the oldest brick building in Philly and is a National Historic Landmark.

From here, detour to the riverside and climb the spiral staircase at the Washington Avenue Pier. It’s the best place to visit in Philadelphia for a birds’ eye view of the Delaware River and surrounds. 

For lunch, see if you can settle the greatest debate in South Philly and decide who you think makes the best cheesesteak: Geno’s or Pat’s. The two restaurants face off on opposing street corners on what is considered the most famous Philly Cheesesteak corner.

Things To See in the Afternoon 

After lunch, head north to the Italian Market 9th Street, an open-air market that dates to the late 1800s (or join a guided tour for a local experience!). 

At the end of the day, circle back to South Street and go to Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, one of the city’s unique art museums.

End your day with a meal at Ralph’s Italian Restaurant, where they have been serving up red gravy Italian-American dishes since 1900. 

Alternatively, go further into South Philadelphia and catch a game! Both Citizens Bank Park (where the Phillies play) and the Wells Fargo Center (where the Flyers, 76ers and Wings lacrosse team all play) are located in South Philly. Attending a sporting event is one of the fun things to do in Philadelphia at night. 

Pro Tip : Get a complete introduction of the best things to do in South Philly on a guide-led tour! Learn more!

3-Day Philadelphia Itinerary

To create a Philadelphia 3-Day Itinerary, we recommend following the tips in our above 2 Days in Philadelphia Itinerary. Then spending the third day at the best museums and top attractions on the north side.

What To Do in the Morning on Day 3 

Start your third day in Philadelphia with a brisk walk in a cool park – The Rail Park. An old train track converted into an urban oasis, similar to the Highline in New York City , the elevated and landscaped trail in a unique attraction in Philly. 

Next, eat a hearty and satisfying breakfast at Sabrina’s Café on Callowhill Street. Then, head northwest by walking along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

The grandiose street features many of the top Philadelphia museums – like the Academy of Natural Sciences, The Franklin Institute, The Barnes Foundation, the Rodin Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art (whose steps are almost more of an attraction than the art itself, thanks to Rocky Balboa). Spend your morning visiting one or more of these top institutions. 

Pro Tip : Another way to experience art and culture is on a Street Art Murals Tour of the northern neighborhoods. Philly is filled with incredible and poignant street art – and guides will lead the way to the best artwork. Book it now!

Things To Do in the Afternoon 

Explore the gardens and Schuylkill River paths north of the Philadelphia Art Museum. If the weather is nice, we recommend bringing a picnic lunch to have along the riverside. Otherwise, ease into the Fairmount district and eat lunch at a local hangout – like The Bishop’s Collar or Jack’s Firehouse. 

Spend the last afternoon of your 3 days in Philly at the Eastern State Penitentiary, one of the odd (but highly recommended) sights to see in Philadelphia. The crumbling (and some say haunted) cellblocks in the famous prison once housed notorious criminals, like Al Capone and Slick Willie Sutton. Visitors can now tour the abandoned jail (ticket required).

Note : All of these museums can be reached with the Hop On Hop Off Bus !

Breweries and/or Bridges in the Evening of Your Philadelphia Itinerary 3 Days

With 3 days in Philadelphia, you can spend the evening of your last day tasting local craft beer or relaxing on the riverside. 

Philadelphia Breweries

Philly has a long history as a beer town. There is even a district called Brewerytown, which is where the majority of the city’s beer was produced in the early 1900s. If after visiting the penitentiary, you want to stay on-point and nearby, visit Crime and Punishment Brewing in Brewerytown. 

However, there are ample craft breweries in the city. Stop by the highly-regarded Yards Brewing Company to get a taste of their locally-sourced craft beer. From there, you can brewery hop to other top Philly breweries, like Love City Brewing, Triple Bottom Brewing or Liquid Art Barrel House (formerly Roy Pitz). 

Alternatively, finish your time in Philadelphia in the heart of it all at the Independence Beer Garden. The outdoor, summertime beer garden offers 40 beers on tap, fun bar games and pub grub. Spending a laid back evening at IBG is one of the fun things to do in Philadelphia for adults. 

Pro Tip : Those who are really interested in craft beer could join a Philadelphia Brewery Tour. The excursion includes lunch or dinner that visits multiple breweries. Get the details!

Philadelphia Riverside Relaxation

Instead of brewery hopping, you could end the day on the water, enjoying the views from the Race Street Pier and Benjamin Franklin Bridge. You can even use the BFB walkway to cross the river into New Jersey.

Next, go north to Morgan’s Pier, for great views or go one pier south to the Cherry Street Pier, a spacious exhibition center featuring a flea market and waterside pub. 

If you are traveling to Philly with kids, stop by the riverside Blue Cross Riverrink for fun for the whole family. Play games, eat, relax – or strap on skates (ice skates in the winter, roller skates in the summer) for an entertaining evening. 

Day Trips from Philadelphia

While there are heaps of tourist attractions in Philly, visitors staying longer may want to add day trips near Philadelphia to their itinerary. Some popular DIY destinations are DC and NYC. Other popular Philadelphia day trips are by joining tours to Amish Country and Brandywine Valley .

1 Week New York, Philadelphia, Washington Itinerary

Have a full week to spend on the East Coast? Make the most of it by creating a 1 Week Philadelphia, DC, NYC trip plan! 

Philadelphia, New York City and Washington DC are in close proximity – making it easy to plan a multi-city trip. Be sure to use our tips in our New York Itinerary and Washington DC Itinerary to plan your One Week East Coast US Trip!

Top Travel Tips for 24 Hours in Philadelphia

Now that you know what to do in Philadelphia in one day we have a few more tips before you take off.

How To Get to Philly

Philadelphia can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. All of which are viable modes of transit for Philadelphia day trips. 

Flights to Philadelphia

Our preferred method is to travel by plane – and when we  buy airline tickets , we start our search for the best times and fares on SkyScanner .

The Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is located 11 miles southwest of the city and is serviced by all major US airlines.

As we already mentioned, the Philadelphia airport is an international gateway to Europe with direct flights to/from Paris , Dublin , Frankfurt , London , Madrid , Amsterdam , and Rome (to name just a few!). PHL is also a major domestic hub, with flights to nearly every top US destination.

Getting from Philly Airport to City Center

To get from PHL to the city center, guests can either take Private Transportation , taxis/ Uber  or the Regional Rail train ( SEPTA ).

On day trips to Philadelphia, we prefer to use the Regional Rail service – as it is inexpensive and convenient.

From the airport, passengers board the Airport Line and can exit at Jefferson Station. It’s under the Reading Terminal and just a short walk to Independence National Historical Park. Alternatively, use Suburban Station, which located just west of Love Park.

Train to Philadelphia

Visitors planning a Philadelphia day trip from NYC or Washington DC may prefer to travel by rail. We have a few specific tips for how to plan these day trips in Philadelphia using train travel.

How To Plan a Day Trip from NYC to Philadelphia by Train or Tour

One of the most popular ways to visit Philly is on a day trip from New York City. There are several ways to plan a day trip to Philadelphia from NYC.

The cities are just 85 miles apart – and Amtrak is the best way to get between the two destinations. The ride takes about 1.5 hours each way and there are multiple departures throughout the day. Trains depart from NYC at Penn Station and terminate at 30th Street Station in Philly. 

Once in the city, use our outline of what to visit in Philadelphia in 1 Day to plan your own itinerary. Alternatively, you could book an organized New York to Philadelphia Day Tour ( Book it! ). 

How to Plan a Philadelphia Day Trip from Washington DC by Bus or Train

Another popular way to visit Philly is on a day trip from Washington DC. Via train, the ride takes about 2 hours and departs DC from Union Station and arrives in Philly at the 30th Street Station. From the 30th Street Station, it is easy to get public transportation to top Philly sights. 

Riding the bus will take longer than the train by about an hour, but can cost less. Check the Flixbus schedule and fares. Just keep in mind that the longer bus ride will cut into your time for what to do in Philadelphia for a day!

Where To Stay in Philadelphia

If your one-day trip to Philadelphia includes an overnight stay, you are going to need to find somewhere to spend the night! We think the best place to stay in Philadelphia on a short trip is in the heart of the city, within walking distance of the best tourist attractions.

On our trips to Philly, we stay at the Hilton Penn’s Landing. The high-rise hotel overlooks the Delaware River and is just a short walk to top attractions. The 4-star hotel features great amenities, like an indoor pool, outdoor sundeck, spacious rooms and waterfront dining. Check rates and availability!

Convenient Philadelphia Hotels

There are several other Philadelphia hotels and short-term apartments that are convenient for travelers using public transport.

Loews Hotel is a contemporary, upscale hotel within steps of Jefferson Station, near City Hall and just a short walk from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. 

Budget travelers who want to stay in the center have a few good options, as well. We like staying at Club Quarters , which has small rooms but an excellent location. Travelers looking for affordable rooms with kitchens should check rates and availability at Home2Suites by Hilton. 

We start our search for the best hotels on Booking.com – but you should also use our Top Tips for Finding Accommodations . 

Best Time To Go To Philadelphia

We think autumn is the best time to visit Philadelphia. The weather is usually cool but comfortable and the autumn leaves add a stunning splash of color to the city. 

Summers are also pleasant. However, the days can be hot and humid, making visiting the must sees in Philadelphia a task when doing so on foot. 

Winters can be brutally cold and are best avoided – unless you like to bundle up to explore! The benefit of wintertime visits are fewer crowds. Plus, Philly hosts a spectacular and festive German-style Christmas market!

Springtime brings rain (but, it can rain in Philly year-round) and a bit of sunshine – so it’s not a bad time for trips to Philadelphia.

What You Will Need For A Philly Day Trip

Before you set off on your Philadelphia trip, you will want to make sure you have a few things with you. Check out all of our packing tips and hacks for your Philly trip. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist !

Walking Shoes 

Our Philly Itinerary is essentially a One Day Walking Tour of Philadelphia. Therefore, you are going to need a good pair of city walking shoes ! I am most comfortable in lightweight Columbia Shoes – and Kris wears Merrell trail shoes for city walks. 

Clothing for Your Philly Trip

If you plan a trip to Philadelphia for the day, you will want to make sure you wear clothing that is comfortable. It’s a good idea to wear layers – as the temperature can vary throughout the day. 

If you are staying the night, regardless of whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , what clothes you pack for your trip to Philly will depend on the time of year that you travel.

In the summertime, pack clothing that is lightweight and breathable – and don’t forget a sunglasses , wide-brimmed travel hat and sunscreen .

During the winter, make sure you bundle up with layers – and bring a hat and gloves . And, regardless of the season, it is always a good idea to have a travel umbrella and packable raincoat . 

Travel Camera 

The historical sights in Philly are truly spectacular! We recommend using a real camera to capture them. On our travels, we carry a DSLR Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens . The camera is easy to use and is well-priced. Best of all, it comes as part of a bundle with a ton of accessories – which is perfect budget camera for beginner photographers.

Day Pack 

With long stretches exploring Philly sights, you will want a great day bag to organize and secure all our your essential everyday travel items ! Plus, you will need a place to stow your clothing layers. 

Philadelphia Attractions Map

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Philadelphia Tourist Map below. It’s marked with all of the attractions highlighted in our best Philadelphia itineraries for 1, 2 or 3 days in Philly.

Start planning your trip to Philadelphia, USA ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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O. Christine

How to Spend a Fun 3-Day Weekend in Philly (Itinerary from a local!)

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As someone who has both lived in Philadelphia (yup, I paid taxes!) and visited as a tourist, I have a pretty good grasp of the array of activities in Philadelphia. So much so that people always ask for my recommendations for a weekend in Philly when they come to visit.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit for a day or weekend, thanks to its proximity to big cities like DC and New York City, and its plethora of transportation options if you don’t want to drive there! Read on for a Philadelphia itinerary you can use.

What to do in Philadelphia for a Weekend

3 Days in Philadelphia Itinerary Guide

Whether you are visiting Philly for the art , food, or history and architecture, planning a weekend visit to Philadelphia might feel overwhelming. There is always something new popping up, debates on which bites are the tastiest, and what seems like not enough hours in a day to try it all!

To get you started, here is a 3-day weekend Philadelphia itinerary that will give you a taste of some of Philly’s best without making you feel burned out by the end. If you are yearning for a break outdoors while there, pair it with a couple of these stunning hikes nea r Philadelphia . 

Day 1: Philadelphia Center City

What to do in Philadelphia’s walkable center city

1:00pm: Check into An affordable luxury Philly hotel in center city

My favorite way to experience Philly is on foot. Traffic can get stressful (depending on the time of day) and public transit within the city is not my favorite.

But booking a hotel in the center of it all allows for freedom to experience whatever you want  when  you want it. For farther sites, a quick Uber /Lyft/Taxi ride will do just fine. 

My Philly hotel recommendations: 

• When I didn’t live in Philly, and just visiting for a weekend, I enjoyed staying at the renovated Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown overlooking City Hall. Get a corner king suite if you can stretch it. It is beautiful!
• I’ve also stayed at the beautiful Warwick Hotel at Rittenhouse Square . This affluent neighborhood has lush treelined streets, a beautiful park, and the hotel itself is definitely an elegant contemporary vibe.

These Philly hotels were both in optimal locations with gorgeous surroundings. Like other hotels, early check-in is hit or miss, but you can have the front desk hold your bag for free. 

1:30pm: Have a Quintessential Philly lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Open during daytime hours (now extended until 6 pm), Reading Terminal Market is the perfect lunch spot to refuel before a day of exploring. A national historic landmark building, the market has existed since the 1800s and offers delectable sweet, savory, and filling tastes for any palate. Be sure to bring cash as a backup; some merchants don’t accept credit cards. 

2:30pm: Find the best spot to take panoramic Photos of Philadelphia  

Head to One Liberty Observation Deck for a scenic overlook of the city and access resources for planning out your weekend. Between detailed facts about City Hall, art installations, and an interactive board that allows you to zoom in on landmarks, you’ll find time flies when you’re taking selfies with Philly from 57 stories high!

4:00pm: Join a Philly Mural-mile walking tour

Philadelphia is known for its energetic and inspiring murals, accessible to everyone. Take a self-led tour at your leisure or join a themed tour for a fee. I prefer guided if the murals go beyond the greater center city because some neighborhoods are a bit more desolate and you always want safety first.

Mural Arts Philadelphia’s mural-mile tour guides you through “the world’s largest outdoor art gallery” . Be sure to grab a must-have photo of Philly’s “LOVE” sculpture at Love Park.

7:00pm: Dine in old-world luxury at a glam Philadelphia restaurant

There are so many amazing spots to eat in Philadelphia . For dinner and drinks, dine under glam chandeliers towering from 24-foot ceilings at Harp & Crown .

Kick off the evening fused with cachaca, fig, lime, and thyme from their Elfreth’s Garden cocktail, and order an array of dishes served to share. My favorites include truffle pizza, Berkshire pork belly, and “Rooster’s Comb mac & cheese”. 

DAY 2:  Old City + Benjamin Franklin Parkway

A weekend in Philadelphia exploring history.

9:00am: Start the day with ease

If you wake up with your calves and feet aching, you’re feeling the effects of a day well toured. Start the day with ease by taking deep breaths, elongated stretches, and gentle yoga. Here’s a diverse list of free yoga videos you can try in the comfort of your hotel room before starting your day.

For breakfast , buy a breakfast sandwich at Wawa (you can spot one by way of drooling Philadelphians — they’re obsessed ), have brunch at one of these Latin-owned Philly restaurants , or head to Rittenhouse Square Farmer’s Market on Saturdays (say hello to my friends Teddy and Faith at Plowshare Farms )!

10:30am: Celebrate Philly history at Independence National Historic Park

If you can’t visit Philadelphia without a visit to some of the USA’s first government landmarks, walk to Old City and explore Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Surrounding are the Philadelphia History Museum, Independence Visitor Center, National Constitution Center, and the First Bank of the United States (to name a few).

For lunch:  head directly across from the Liberty Bell to drink, dine, and play at the Independence Beer Garden (only open during the summer). You’ll love the open-air space, oversized games, and Adirondack chairs. 

4:00pm: BYOB & take a hilarious history tour via trolley

There are more iconic Philly sites to see, but you’ll need to hitch a ride for this one. This is where booking a tour would best fit the itinerary.

When I booked the 2-hour Historically Hilarious tour with Founding Footsteps for my bestie’s bachelorette party last summer, I added it to my list of recommended activities to suggest for first-time visitors.

This BYOB tour is comically brimming with historical dad jokes by way of old-fashioned trolley, but actually quite informative and a great way to sightsee ’round Philadelphia while resting your feet. This tour will also take you to the famous Rocky Steps along Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

After your tour is done, walk off the laughter for a few blocks to visit Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in the country (and a super cute photo opportunity).

7:00pm: Dine in Philly with delicious Peruvian Flair 

If you end up loving Old City as much as everyone else does, stick around for dinner and eat at Peruvian-owned Vista Peru : an authentic Peruvian restaurant and Pisco Bar. Close your eyes while enjoying the ceviche, lomo saltado, and Pisco, and you’ll be transported to Lima in bliss — trust me, I’ve tried it firsthand (in both Lima and Philly).

DAY 3: Bucket List Musts on a Weekend in Philly

Make sure you try these Philadelphia favorites before you go

9:00am: Line up for Morning Glory or get funky with green eggs

For your Yelp fix, queue up for Philadelphia’s popular Morning Glory Diner for breakfast (but emotionally prepare for a possible long wait) and order morning potatoes and frittatas.

Alternatively, Green Eggs Cafe is but a stone’s throw from your Center City hotel and often a top local recommendation (there’s now one in my Brewerytown neighborhood with a similarly long line – woohoo!)

If you’re more of a coffee shop person, head over to Good Karma Cafe in center city. There are four locations to choose from and it is a top Black-owned restaurant in Philadelphia .

11:00am: Transport to a magical place

Near Sam’s Morning Glory Diner is the famous Philadelphia Magical Gardens : an extensive art gallery adorned with mosaic art made from recycled materials. From the fantastical lower level to an outdoor “backyard” with twisting paths, you’ll use up your camera’s storage space taking photos galore.

Note : the basement is for guided tours only, and the outdoor sculpture garden is not entirely wheelchair accessible. There are also narrow stairs to watch out for. 

1:00pm: Know where to find your favorite Philly cheesesteak

Meat eaters can’t leave Philadelphia without trying a famous cheesesteak, so head to Passyunk Square to decide once and for all whether Pat’s or Geno’s is the best. (I prefer Pat’s between the two, but they’re both just good.)

Or… you can listen to Philly locals and avoid both. Instead, head to Jim’s (South Street ), Tony Luke’s (South Philly) , or farther out to Delassandro’s or Max’s (definitely take an Uber ).

How to get to Philadelphia without a car

You can get to Philadelphia by air, train, bus, or car. If you don’t have a car, no worries! It is still an easy trip. I usually visit Philadelphia from NYC via car, Amtrak, NJ Transit and Septa, or Mega/Bolt Bus (these days, Amtrak is my favorite but more expensive if you don’t book at least two weeks in advance — this 5’9″ girl loves the leg room). 

Prices and experiences vary but if you buy your ticket more than two weeks in advance you’ll get some great deals.

Hey Pinterest Fam!

Share this guide to A 3-Day Weekend In Philadelphia   by pinning the image below to your planning board.

Hi thanks for sharing this amazing blog post. It is really well written and informative. Waiting for your next blog.

Thanks for reading!

Your photos are absolutely gorgeous!! Wow. I’ve never been to many of these places in USA – only in LA, and San Fran. Definitely adding these to my must visit list!!

Thanks so much, Bianka! Yeah there are so many gorgeous (and picture-perfect) places to see right on American soil!

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Philadelphia

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Travel blogs, photos, stories, and features from one of America’s rising cities

Philadelphia Travel Guide

Your guide to the best things to do and see in the city of brotherly love.

The birthplace of American democracy, there’s a lot more than just history in Philadelphia.  Start here with my basic Philadelphia travel tips, or jump down below to read my latest Philadelphia travel blogs .

When to Visit

Winters might seem a bit bleak in Philly, but from the spring through the autumn, there are plenty of fun activities. The city’s relatively flat streets make it great for cycling and the many outdoor cafes and restaurants keep a lot of life outdoors during the sunnier seasons.

Look out for the food and beverage festivals that fill up the Philly festival calendar—the city is increasingly foodie-friendly and home to a number of expert chefs and creators.

Top Things To Do in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Museum of Art – The front steps of the museum were made famous by Sylvester Stallone’s role in the “Rocky” film series, but don’t miss the artwork inside. The collection dates back to the 19 th century and a robust program of events and funding means there are an ever-changing and diverse display of new and contemporary exhibitions as well.

Independence Hall   — This is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated, created and signed and today the area is a part of the U.S. National Parks system. Just across from the Independence Hal museum, the Liberty Bell sits inside a building where historical displays explain its significance as an icon recognized at home and abroad.

Fishtown – Philadelphia’s hipster neighborhood in the north, Fishtown is where you’ll find all the street art and many independent art galleries, thrift shops, and cute cafés. There’s even a great craft distillery, Philadelphia Distilling , where you can sample drinks (everything from vodka to gin, and even an absinth) made on the very same property.

Philadelphia Tours

Philly is a great city for walking around, but if you’re on a tight schedule and looking to take in the major historical sights, it might be worth booking a half-day tour. There are many that operate in the city and the tours are useful if you’re just day-tripping.

LGBTQ – Gay Philadelphia Travel Guide

Philadelphia’s gayborhood, adorned with rainbow street signs (and since 2017, a rainbow crosswalk) is at the heart of the city and there are at least 10 gay bars open just about every night of the week.

For over 30 years, the gay bar Woody’s has stood at the corner of the gayborhood and anchored much of the nightlife with its two dancefloors and large outdoor patio. The bar and club is popular with men, women, gays, and straights—but the mixed atmosphere makes it a fun place to start a night out in the Gayborhood.

Nearby, the cozy U Bar offers an unpretentious, casual hangout—great for dates. And just up the street, Tavern on Camac is a popping gay bar with a piano on the ground floor (expect singalongs!) and an upstairs dance club (be prepared to wait in a queue to get upstairs!). A little further from the Gayborhood, near the Rittenhouse Square, the queer Stir Lounge has a mixed crowd of young gays and lesbians (especially during their happy hour).

After the bars close at 2am, the Voyeur Nightclub is the place to be. A three-level dance club, it’s open until just after 3am. A runway and stage sit at the center of the club, complete with disco balls hanging from the ceiling. Drag shows and themed parties make up the club’s calendar.

More gay travel resources here.

Philadelphia Hotel Deals

Many of Philadelphia’s hotels are located in the city center, walking distance to most of the tourist attractions and things to do.

Recommended hotel: The Cambria Philadelphia Downtown Hotel is in the heart of the city and offers a luxurious (but affordable!) place to rest. Directly on the busy Broad Street, Cambria only opened in March 2018 but its rooftop bar and restaurant have already become a social hangout. It’s also walking distance to all the gay nightlife in Philadelphia and the in-room suites with min-fridges and sinks make it a great business hotel, too.

Follow @ travelsofadam on Instagram for more travel tips!

Philadelphia Travel Blogs

5 Most Famous Foods to Try in Philadelphia (Besides Cheesesteak)

Of course there’s the Philly cheesesteak, but food in Philadelphia is so much more than that! don’t miss these other famous Philly foods for a taste of the local cuisine

The Wm. Mulherins’ Sons Hotel in Philadelphia is a designer’s dream (PHOTOS)

When my Uber first pulled up in front of the hotel, I knew I was in the right place. A red-bricked building with a large sign proudly proclaiming this as Wm. Mulherin’s Sons. I walked inside to find a restaurant and marble-top bar relatively quiet before the lunch crowd would soon walk in. The hotel’s …

A weekend in Philadelphia’s gayborhood

A short city break to the city of Brotherly Love, and I’m in love! Philadelphia surprises me with its fun gayborhood (more gay bars than I could count!) and a quirky and cool arts scene

Philadelphia for hipsters – Cool things to do

Discover the coolest things to do and see in Philly— a mini-guide to the most fun and cool things in Philly, from trendy restaurants to the best hipster hotspots

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Philadelphia Travel Blog: Food, Murals, & Grit

/ travel blog.

goKonrad’s Philadelphia travel blog

You have to appreciate Philadelphia and the notorious Philly attitude. It’s like the city takes their motto, the “city of brotherly love,” very literally – but not in the original Quaker way. It’s more like how you’d treat your real brother as a kid. You yell and fight constantly, but you have each other’s backs against anyone else. After all, only you can talk about your brother like that, right?

Despite this attitude (and the fact GQ Magazine referred to their sports stadiums as “the most monstrous collection of humanity outside of the federal penal system”), Philadelphians aren’t actually rude. They’re just brutally blunt and never shy to voice their own opinion. Like their famous fictional hero, Rocky Balboa, they just have a lot of heart and have to direct it somewhere.

Philadelphia is one of the most important cities in American history, home to a thriving food and art scene, and is one of the best cities in the United States for a weekend trip. Here is my Philadelphia travel blog with all my favorite things to do in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Travel Blog – Things To Do

Reading terminal market.

This is one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the country. It’s a whole city block and you can find a diverse and delicious assortment of local and international cuisines, handmade crafts, area specialties, fresh produce, and much more. This Philadelphia landmark presents unparalleled options for eating, shopping and people watching. The only downside is that the sheer number of choices means you can’t try it all. I tried dozens of places before writing this Philadelphia travel blog, and in my opinion, here is where you should focus your Reading Terminal Market efforts:  Beiler’s Donuts (best donuts I’ve ever had), Dutch Eating Place (great for breakfast), DiNic’s (great for lunch), Miller’s Twist  (pretzels), Four Seasons Juice Bar , and the Pennslyvania General Store (which sells the delicious  Hope’s Cookies ).

In 1984, Philadelphia created the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program as a public art project to encourage local artists to use the blank building exteriors to beautify the city. Every blank wall is now a potential canvas for local artists, and vibrant murals that celebrate the community adorn building facades throughout the city. There are nearly 4,000 creations throughout Philadelphia, but if you need a place to start after reading this Philadelphia travel blog, the founder of the program picked her 10 favorite works in this Guardian article .

Photo source: Steve Weinik, City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program

Barnes Collection

Even though Philadelphia is famous for its art scene, it often shocks people to know that it’s also home to the most impressive Post-Impressionist and early modern art collection in the world with the Barnes Collection . The collection includes works of art from Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, van Gogh, and many more. This museum is also the center of a controversial drama that many believe to be the largest and most calculated art heist in history… conducted by the city of Philadelphia itself. If this Philadelphia travel blog peaked your interest, The Art of the Steal  is a great documentary that shares the full story. Attendance is limited, so book tickets in advance here .

Morgan’s Pier

This bar has a great beer selection, but the reason it makes my favorite things to do in Philadelphia list is the atmosphere and view. It’s an all outdoor patio with picnic tables and fire pits. It’s on the water and has postcard quality views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Morgan’s Pier closes for the winter, but it’s my favorite spring or fall drinking activity in this Philadelphia travel blog.

Cheesesteak

It may be cliché to talk about cheesteaks in a Philadelphia travel blog post, but one of the essential things to do in Philadelphia is stuffing yourself with a Philly Cheesesteak. This sandwich has come a long way from its beginning in the 1930’s by an unsuspecting hot dog vendor. These long rolls filled with thinly sliced meat and topped with melted cheese have become a true cultural obsession in Philadelphia. The question for who makes the best Philly Cheesteaks is a divisive topic in the city – and of course, some will frustratingly snap back about how Philly’s food scene has so much more to offer than some “disgusting sandwich.” But if you’re visiting, you should experience one and here are a few places to get you started: Pat’s and Geno’s (two rivals directly across the street from each other who argue about who actually invented the sandwich), Tony Luke’s , Sonny’s , and  Campo’s . I will refuse to go on record and say which is best, but I recommend grabbing a friend, buying a cheesesteak from a couple different establishments, and doing your own taste test.

Italian Market

Dozens of vendors line South 9th Street   in one of the largest and oldest open-air markets in the country. It still maintains its Italian heritage, but you can find a wide variety of international cuisine and specialty shops lining the storefronts around the market. Although there are plenty of delicious, Italian inspired selections to choose from, you can now enjoy cuisine from around the world, especially Mexican and other Latin American countries.

McGillin’s Olde Ale House

In the heart of center city, McGillin’s Olde Ale House is Philadelphia’s oldest bar. It was founded in 1860 and the beer has been flowing from its taps ever sense. In addition to its history, this Irish pub is renowned for its laidback atmosphere, simple but delicious food, and solid beer selection. This bar is popular with both tourists, but its well-priced beer draws locals in as well.

Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary operated as a prison for over 150 years, housing some of the nation’s most notorious criminals, such as bank robber Willie Sutton and Al Capone. It was the most expensive and famous prison in the world during its time, and was uniquely designed to inspire “true regret and reform” in the hearts of its convicts. It was a bit of a failed experiment, but it now operates as a great museum that gives insight into the evolution of the American prison system and the many problems the United States has today with incarceration rates.

It’s not the only LOVE sculpture, and it’s not the first, there are a couple dozen around the country. It’s a work of the Pop Art movement, and like Andy Warhol’s thousands of Marilyn Monroe’s, mass production is kind of the point. However, this sculpture means something special to Philadelphia. It was originally installed here for the city’s Bicentennial celebration in 1976. It was meant to be temporary, but people made such a stink when it was taken away that a local businessman bought it and donated it back to the city. Most visitors will always want to check the box and take a photo in front of the iconic statue in Love Park (officially known as John F Kennedy Plaza). Aside from awesome photo opportunities, it’s also a stopping point for many of the city’s best food trucks.

Philadelphia has many great museums to explore. Independence Hall is the place that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed. Nearby, you can see the Liberty Bell and Constitution Center.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is the third largest art museum in the country with an impressive collection of Renaissance, American, Impressionist, and Modern art. You can also check out the famous Rocky Statue and run the Rocky Steps from this location.

Finally, if you’re not easily grossed out, the Mutter Museum is one of the most unique, and disturbing, museums in the country. It gives you an insightful perspective on the human body and the history of the diagnosis and treatment of disease. It’s home to over 20,000 provocative items, such as skulls, diseased organs, and old medical instruments in order to teach you about disease, deformity, abnormality, medical history, and biology.

Take a self-guided tour with my travel app, TripScout ! It will provide a self-guided walking tour with a curated list of even more of the top neighborhoods and things to do in Philadelphia – all on your phone. It includes all the site mentioned in this Philadelphia travel blog and much more. We collaborated with the best walking tour company in town for the curation and audio guides. If you want a more personal tour, go with Free and Friendly Tours (our TripScout collaborators).  Download the TripScout app here .

Where to Stay

There are lots of great places to stay in Philadelphia, however the most convenient for visitors is Center City. Most of Philadelphia’s hotels are clustered in this area, as are many of its most famous attractions. It is also a convenient location to to access other neighborhoods or sites mentioned in this Philadelphia travel blog.

Before You Go

Philadelphia has served as a backdrop to many famous films, however none are better known than, of course, Rocky (and in my humble opinion, Rocky IV was single handedly responsible for ending the Cold War, but I digress). Many have commented that Philadelphia is as much a character in the film as Rocky himself, and it’s certainly a film to get you excited for your visit. Also, as mentioned above, make sure to watch The Art of the Steal before you visit the Barnes Collection.

If you’re in New York or Washington D.C. and want to visit Philadelphia (or vice versa), the AmTrak provides a 1.5 – 2 hour comfortable option for ~$40 if you book in advance. The MegaBus , my preferred bus provider, can make the same trip for 2 – 3 hours for $5 – 10. The bus ride is typically comfortable, and is equipped with outlets and WiFi. Also, if you need more info, Visit Philly   has a great Philadelphia travel blog and is one of the best tourism websites I’ve seen.

I hope you enjoyed my Philadelphia travel blog!

If you enjoyed this philadelphia travel blog, you can follow me on  instagram  or sign up for my free weekly digest about ways to  travel the world , build a successful business or career , and make a difference  at the same time:.

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40 Best Philadelphia Blogs and Websites

• Philadelphia Magazine
• PhillyBite Magazine
• Philly Grub Blog
• Hidden City Philadelphia
• Eater Philly
• Coming Up Roses
• Philadelphia Weekly
• Delanceyplace
• Philatravelgirl | Flying by the Seat of my Points
• Philly PR Girl
• Campus Philly Make the city your campus
• Furia Rubel Communications, Inc.
• Philadelphia Technician Training Institute
• Life in Pumps
• Just Grubbin
• The PhillyLiving.com | Philadelphia Real Estate Blog
• A Cup of Kims
• Fidelity Management
• Hidden River Arts
• POSITIVE PUBLICITY
• The Independent Hotel | Philadelphia Travel Guide & Blog
• The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia
• Belly of the Pig | Philadelphia Food Blog
• Wee Wander | A parent's guide to navigating Philadelphia
• Green Philly
• Diostar Dumplings
• Small Biz Philly
• Misadventures In VO
• The Honest Blonde | Lifestyle Blog
• Pharm2Philly

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Here are 40 Best Philadelphia Blogs you should follow in 2024

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2. PhillyBite Magazine

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5. Eater Philly

6. Billy Penn

7. Coming Up Roses

8. Philadelphia Weekly

9. Delanceyplace

10. WURD Radio

11. Philatravelgirl | Flying by the Seat of my Points

12. Philly PR Girl

13. Campus Philly Make the city your campus

14. Furia Rubel Communications, Inc.

15. Philadelphia Technician Training Institute

16. Life in Pumps

17. LivingLesh

18. Just Grubbin

19. The PhillyLiving.com | Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

20. A Cup of Kims

21. ForMotiv

22. Fidelity Management

23. Hidden River Arts

24. POSITIVE PUBLICITY

25. Do Good HQ

26. Uwishunu

27. The Independent Hotel | Philadelphia Travel Guide & Blog

29. The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia

30. Belly of the Pig | Philadelphia Food Blog

31. Wee Wander | A parent's guide to navigating Philadelphia

32. Green Philly

33. Diostar Dumplings

34. Small Biz Philly

35. Misadventures In VO

36. The Honest Blonde | Lifestyle Blog

37. Pharm2Philly

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53 Best Travel Blogs and Bloggers To Follow (in 2024)

Written by Ankit Singla

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Last Updated on:

by Ankit Singla

If you’re searching for the best travel blogs today, look no further.

As always, I created this list to help aspiring travel bloggers learn a thing or two from these established sites.

However, people who are only looking for travel ideas and tips will also enjoy this post.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the top travel blogs to follow in 2024.

Best Travel Blogs

• Nomadic Matt
• Backpacking Matt
• Adventurous Kate
• The Blonde Abroad
• California Through My Lens
• Dan Flying Solo
• Travel With Lakshmi
• Fluent in 3 Months
• Cheapest Destinations Blog
• Alex in Wanderland
• I Am Aileen
• Wandering Earl
• Be My Travel Muse
• Followtheboat
• Matthew Woodward
• The Opposite Travellers
• We Seek Travel
• Bucket List Journey
• Migrationology
• The Cranky Flier
• Never Ending Footsteps
• A Dangerous Business
• Against The Compass
• Everything Everywhere
• The Longest Way Home
• Global Grasshopper
• Girl Gone Travel
• Oneika The Traveller
• The Adventurists
• Time Travel Turtle
• Hand Luggage Only
• Travel4Wildlife
• The Insatiable Traveler
• View From The Wing
• Uncornered Market
• Jessie On a Journey
• Legal Nomads
• TravelFreak
• The Everywhereist
• Keep Calm and Travel
• Practical Wanderlust
• Expert Vagabond
• The Voyageur
• Amateur Traveler
• Girl Eat World
• The Adventure Junkies
• A Broken Backpack
• The World Travel Guy
• Life Part 2

1. Nomadic Matt

By:  Matthew Kepnes

I have to be honest with you — I love everything about  Nomadic Matt .  

Everything from his website’s design to his personal writing voice makes for an engaging reading experience. Not to mention that the name “Nomadic Matt” really sticks with me. 

Matthew Kepnes, AKA Nomadic Matt, was once a cubicle worker who admittedly wasn’t always a big traveler. On his first trip back in 2004, he went to Costa Rica where his perspective in life transformed forever. 

A single trip — that’s how easy it is to fall in love with travel. 

Today, Matthew continues living the life he was born for. He primarily blogs about travel tips, encompassing topics like how to save for a trip and things to do in Singapore. 

Blog Topics 

• Travel Insurance
• Travel planning
• Saving money on travel
• Travel gear
• Destinations

Monetization Strategies

• Display advertisements
• Superstar Blogging online course
• Affiliate marketing ( Check: Best Travel Affiliate Programs )

2. Backpacking Matt

By:  Matt Kyhnn

I think there’s something about the name “Matt” that raises a person’s affinity for traveling. 

Backpacking Matt , owned and run by Matt Kyhnn, is a travel blog that has similar vibes with Nomadic Matt. It has a simplistic design, a memorable content tone, and striking travel photos that bring the blog’s stories to life. 

Matt Kyhnn also leverages videos — providing his audience a more immersive way to enjoy his content. 

Fresh out of college, Matt simply decided that he won’t settle for a 9-5 job. Instead, he spent months working and traveling across Ireland, Scotland, and other regions in mainland Europe. 

He then booked a one-way ticket to New Zealand where he now resides. In addition to his blog, Matt also runs his own travel planning and booking website — Planit NZ. 

Blog Topics

• Affiliate marketing
• Planit NZ travel planning and booking services
• Brand collaborations

3. Adventurous Kate

By:  Kate McCulley

Kate McCulley, AKA  Adventurous Kate , is a travel blogger with lots of adventures to tell.

She’s been to 83 countries, seven continents, and plenty of experiences to help women appreciate the traveling life. 

Kate’s blog was built during her time in Southeast Asia along with her freelance portfolio, which helped fund her travels. Her target audience is women who want to travel, but required guidance on how to do it safely and easily. 

The “Solo Female Travel” category on her blog consists of posts about travel safety, travel planning, destination guides, and more. She also compiled a list of travel resources that help turn her audience’s travel ideas into action plans. 

• Travel safety for women
• Sponsored posts

4. The Blonde Abroad

By:  Kiersten “Kiki” Rich

I covered Kiersten “Kiki” Rich of  The Blonde Abroad   in my list of the top lifestyle bloggers to follow in 2024. 

As her blog’s name suggests, she’s mainly a travel blogger who also discusses two other lifestyle-related topics — blogging and photography. 

Kiersten spent three, eye-opening months in multiple countries to re-envision the idea of “ success .” She succeeded in her goal and is now one of the most accomplished travel bloggers on the web. 

The Blonde Abroad covers a range of topics from travel photography to foreign cuisine. All of which draws wisdom from Kiersten’s personal travel experiences.

• Photography
• Travel destinations
• The Travel Shop
• Social media and influencer marketing consulting

5. California Through My Lens

By:  Josh McNair

Josh McNair, owner of  California Through My Lens , has a distinct writing style that vividly describes details of travel destinations. 

Unlike bloggers who discovered the love for travel in their adulthood, Josh has always been a passionate traveler at heart. He created California Through My Lens to document his adventures with the online audience. 

California Through My Lens is run by both Josh and his wife, Amy. The pair also has an active YouTube channel called Through My Lens where they share their experiences in video form. 

As you may have guessed, Josh’s content focuses on the beaches, caves, hiking trails, waterfalls, and various landmarks in California. Intricate details of each location, from hike distances to specific travel tips, are often included in his posts. 

• National parks in California
• Driving around California
• California destinations
• Selling eBooks
• Advertisements through YouTube 

6. Dan Flying Solo

By:  Daniel “Dan” Clarke

Dan Flying Solo   is by Daniel Clarke — a travel blogger, photographer, and creative director at his own Portugal-based media company. 

Dan’s blogging life was ignited by his passion for photography. He was originally a frustrated restaurant manager who wanted more out of life.

Like me, Dan is a self-taught blogger. He worked day in and day out by doing free online courses, YouTube tutorials, and heaps of informative guides. 

What makes Dan Flying Solo an extra noteworthy blog is its library of video content. Daniel also makes it clear that the site has no particular theme — not unlike everything else in life.  

“ There’s not one particular theme to this blog because I don’t think that’s how life really is. We change and what we enjoy changes.”

7. Travel with Lakshmi

By:  Lakshmi Sharath

Lakshmi Sharath worked on a desk job for multiple media organizations for 15 years. She then started her personal travel blog in 2005 — traveling to over 25 countries and across every corner of India. 

Travel with Lakshmi has only grown steadily ever since. It won multiple awards, including “India’s best travel blog of the year” award from Indiebloggie.  

As an Indian herself, Lakshmi made sure to highlight the country’s top travel destinations on the blog. She also documented her travels to foreign countries — from Abu Dhabi to the United Kingdom. 

As a way to support aspiring travelers around the world, Lakshmi also covers important tips on starting a travel blog. This includes essential tips on photography, travel planning, and travel writing.

• Social media marketing campaigns
• Content marketing and writing services
• Digital media consulting services

8. foXnoMad

By:  Anil Polat

foXnoMad   is a unique travel blog run by digital nomad Anil Polat.

Anil was exposed to travel at a young age because his parents were journalists. Other than routine trips between Turkey and the United States, they also visited multiple destinations around the world. 

Even in his professional life as a computer security consultant, travel was a big part of Anil’s life. He eventually decided to quit his job and fixate on one goal: to visit every country in the world.

What makes foXnoMad unique is that Anil utilizes his knowledge in tech to provide insightful tips on traveling smartly. He also develops apps that can help travelers in situations like determining water drinkability and calculating tips.

You can check out his podcast where he talks about current events, new product tech releases, and all things travel-related. 

Blog Topics                                           

• foXnoMad Shop
• Paid mobile apps

9. Fluent in 3 Months

By:  Brendan “Benny” Lewis

Fluent in 3 Months   by Brendan Lewis is created for travelers with a purpose. 

Apart from regular posts about travel planning and destinations, Brendan also writes a lot of guides on foreign languages. 

Remember, language is a crucial part of every culture. Brendan makes sure you learn dozens of useful words and phrases that will enrich your visit to any country. 

Some of the most prominent content formats in his blog are “ways to say” posts and phrase listicles. There are also fun, bite-sized stories like “How I Learned French on the Toilet in 6 Months.”

For more serious language learners, Fluent in 3 Months offers “The Challenge.” It’s a full-fledged online course that will enable you to hold a 15-minute conversation in a new language.

• How to speak foreign languages
• Language hacking 
• Traveling jobs
• The Challenge online course
• Speaking engagements

10. Cheapest Destinations Blog

By:  Tim Leffel

Cheapest Destinations Blog   is one of the oldest travel blogs on this list. 

It is created and run by Tim Leffel — an award-winning travel writer and author.  

Tim has made it his life’s goal to help people make the most out of travel while spending less. His blog contains posts that teach how to spend your travel money wisely and how to make every cent count. 

Other than Cheapest Destinations Blog, Tim also runs a handful of other blogs on different, travel-related topics. This includes Perceptive Travel, Travel Writing 2.0 Blog, and Cheap Living Abroad.  

• Travel budgeting
• Influencer marketing through 360 Degree Travel Network

11. Alex in Wanderland 

By:  Alexandra Baackes

Alexandra Baackes created  Alex in Wanderland   for two reasons. 

First, she’s been dealing with a case of wanderlust all her life. And second, she’s a fan of a beloved, fictional character — Alice in Wonderland. 

Alexandra is originally from Brooklyn, New York where she purchased her one-way ticket into the traveling life. She now blogs about the best travel destinations, outdoor activities, and her personal, travel-related gear.

One of the things I like about Alex in Wanderland is the presentation and categorization of content. 

On the “Categories” page, Alex makes sure articles are well-organized based on topics like travel inspiration, activities, and planning. This makes it easy for her audience to find the information they need at any given time. 

• Outdoor activities

12. Hey Nadine

By:  Nadine Sykora

Nadine Sykora of  Hey Nadine   is a popular travel blogger, YouTuber, and social media influencer.

Over the past 10 years, she has traveled across 55 countries, spoken on expert panels, and became a keynote speaker. 

Nadine’s goal is simple: share her travel experiences with the world and help others do the same. 

Hey Nadine contains a host of content on travel advice, hacks, destinations, and inspiration. As a seasoned YouTuber, you can expect her blog content to contain a lot of embedded videos from her channel. 

• Video production
• Advertisements through YouTube
• Sponsored content

13. I Am Aileen

Just like Kiersten Rich, Aileen Adalid is another travel blogger whom I also featured in my top lifestyle blogs listicle.

Aileen runs  I Am Aileen   — an award-winning blog that discusses just about everything there is to discuss in travel. She writes about destinations, the best travel activities, foreign cuisine, and more. 

What interested me the most about Aileen is her blogging background. At age 21, she quit her corporate job, which only paid $300 a month, to become a professional traveler. 

Since then, she’s been on a streak of smashing goals and breaking barriers. Thanks to her commitment to quality content, she’s recognized as one of the top bloggers in Asia. 

• Online shop

14. Wandering Earl

By:  Derek Earl Baron

Here’s a fun trivia about  Wandering Earl . 

Unlike most bloggers who use their first names, the “Earl” in “Wandering Earl” is actually a middle name. Blog owner Derek Earl Baron only thought that “Wandering Derek” didn’t sound as catchy.

Derek is a one-of-a-kind, adventurous soul who discovered his purpose as a modern nomad relatively early into adulthood. After graduating in 1999, he planned a three-month vacation across Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. 

That three-month vacation continues to this very day. 

And that’s how Wandering Earl was created — documenting Derek’s adventures in over 100 countries. He also shares valuable pieces of wisdom on travel planning, food, budgeting, gear, and so on. 

Wandering Earl has that “old-school” look and feel to it. On the plus side, the site’s design only highlights 

• Working while traveling
• Selling “eGuides”

15. Be My Travel Muse

By:  Kristin Addis

Be My Travel Muse  is a solo female travel blog created by Kristin Addis. 

She studied in Taiwan and kept an investment banking job for four years. The only problem was, her daily routine rendered her creative, dreamer side claustrophobic. 

Her first step was a one-way ticket to Bangkok — envisioning a life of writing and travel. That’s exactly what she accomplished with her blog, which now caters to millions of readers all over the world. 

Kristin believes that solo traveling is the best way for women to feel empowered and more confident. She prioritizes solo female travel tips on her blog, including guides on safety, packing, and maintaining relationships. 

Be My Travel Muse also has heaps of content on popular travel destinations and self-care for women. 

• Self-help for women
• Relationships
• The Photo Muse Masterclass online course

16. Followtheboat

By:  Liz Cleere and Jamie Furlong

Followtheboat   is a unique travel blog that focuses on a specific mode of transport: sailing. 

It is created with love by a travel writer Liz Cleere and photographer Jamie Furlong. There’s also Millie the rescue cat, which functions as a source of inspiration and encouragement for the blog’s human founders. 

Despite the focus on sailboats, Followtheboat’s content isn’t just made for sailors. The posts are tailor-made for travelers who also happen to be interested in the art and joys of sailing. 

Don’t be surprised at the humor and dynamic range of topics on the blog. You’ll find posts like “tools you need on a sailboat” and “is this the weirdest loo in the world?”

Followtheboat also has a library of podcasts, which record Liz and Jamie’s experiences on their travels. 

• Boat maintenance
• Patreon donations

17. Matthew Woodward

By:  Matthew Woodward

If Followtheboat is about boats, you can probably guess what  Matthew Woodward   is a blog about trains. 

Not to be mistaken for  Matthew Woodward  the internet marketer, Matthew Woodward the rail adventurer loved trains as a child. He owned model railway sets, traveled alone by train, and watched shows about trains on TV. 

In his time as a geography student, he explored Europe with his trusty Interrail pass. He set his passion aside to focus on his career, which he eventually gave up to become a travel writer. 

Today, he blogs about railway systems over different continents. He’s also an accomplished author of three books: “The Railway to Heaven,” “A Bridge Even Further,” and “Trans-Siberian Adventures.”

• Railway systems
• Traveling by train
• Selling books

18. The Opposite Travellers

By:  Ryan and Rachel Riel

The Opposite Travellers   were created by married couple Ryan and Rachel Riel. 

While both loved to travel, Ryan and Rachel had contrasting preferences when it comes to traveling. 

Rachel prefers to travel in style and luxury — through the accommodations and services offered by establishments and travel agencies. Ryan, on the other hand, leans toward daring adventures like biking and trekking — on $5 per night accommodations. 

The couple, however, utilized their differences as a selling point in The Opposite Travellers. 

As such, the website’s “Travel” section has two main categories: “Luxury Travel” and “Adventure Travel.” In other words, the blog has a diverse content library for travelers of all tastes and budgets.

The Opposite Travellers also boasts high-quality visuals taken and produced by Ryan Riel. All of the site’s videos are published on Ryan Riel Media — Ryan’s official YouTube channel.  

• Content production
• Social media marketing 
• Influencer marketing

19. We Seek Travel 

By:  Olly Gaspar

We Seek Travel is an adventure travel blog by traveler and adventure photographer Olly Gaspar.

Olly has been living out of his bags full-time since 2018, turning his passion for global adventure into a treasure trove of useful travel guides accompanied by his inspiring photography.

His travel blog serves as a window to extraordinary experiences around the world– from backpacking in India to climbing Himalayan peaks, crossing deserts on camelback, cycling over the Arctic Circle, hiking with gorillas in Uganda, and even fighting Muay Thai in Thailand.

But We Seek Travel is more than just a diary of adventures. It’s a resource-rich hub where Olly shares his firsthand experiences to help modern explorers discover unique outdoor adventures, off-beat hiking trails, travel photography gear, and helpful accommodation and digital nomad resources.

• Travel Planning & Accommodation
• Outdoor Adventure
• Hiking & Trekking
• Travel photography
• Travel Gear
• Photography licensing
• Adventure Photography shoots
• Tourism development

20. Bucket List Journey

By:  Annette White

Travel is all about adventures, and so is life. 

That’s the essence of the  Bucket List Journey   by Annette White. 

The blog’s tagline is “tools and inspiration to live your list.” It refers to a person’s “bucket list,” which is basically a list of goals and experiences they want in life. 

Annette didn’t always have such a positive outlook in life. She used to be diagnosed with anxiety, which caused her to miss out on life-enriching experiences and opportunities. 

Eventually, she decided that she’ll no longer become a prisoner of fear and uncertainty. She had courage and took charge of her life’s direction — something every aspiring blogger needs to do at one point. 

Bucket List Journey talks about bucket list-worthy destinations, motivation, money, and travel tips. Annette also imparts knowledge on people who also struggle with facing fear and making braver life decisions. 

• Overcoming fear and anxiety

21. Migrationology

By:  Mark Wiens

When I first visited  Migrationology , I wasn’t sure whether to classify it as a food or travel blog. 

Then I checked out Mark Wiens’s “About” page. There, I learned that he viewed food as a way to connect with people in various cultures. 

And to be exposed to these cultures, Mark dedicates his time, money, and efforts to travel. 

Mark makes sure the blog only focuses on content based on his personal travels. It’s made for people who want to experience the flavors of the world — in person or through Mark’s posts. 

Apart from general food travel blog posts and city guides, Migrationology also offers readers a “Food Tour” service. It is the result of a year of research done by Mark himself — in partnership with  Bangkok Vanguards . 

• Bangkok Food Tour

22. The Cranky Flier

By:  Brett Snyder

We already mentioned a blog about boats and another about trains. It’s time to talk about a blog on airplanes and air travel.

Cranky Flier   is a unique blog created by Brett Snyder — President and “Chief Airline Dork” of Cranky Flier LLC. 

Brett has been fascinated with airlines all his life. When he was young, he collected airline timetables and even spent a birthday with his grandmother watching planes land. 

As an adult, he spent several years in the airline industry fulfilling multiple roles. He became a sales intern at USAir, senior analyst at America West, marketing planning product at United, and so on.

Today, Brett publishes his opinions about the airline industry on Cranky Flier. He also updates several series, like “Worst Airline Ever,” “Airlines We Lost,” and “Across the Aisle Interviews.” 

I’ll let you determine what these series are all about based on what they’re called. 

• Airline industry
• Cranky Concierge service

23. Never Ending Footsteps

By:  Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is one of those bloggers who already knew what they wanted to be from an early age. 

She dreamt of traveling to new places, meeting new people, and exploring new cultures.  Never Ending Footsteps   is proof that she accomplished all three. 

The blog consists of posts about Lauren’s fulfilling travels to different countries. But unlike a lot of famous travel bloggers, she also talks about the downsides of being a digital nomad.

Never Ending Footsteps has a “The Incidents” blog section where Lauren discusses the not-so-sexy aspects of traveling. She has been scammed, attacked by monkeys, locked out of her room, lost her passport, and more. 

Despite these incidents, Lauren’s love for travel only grew. Such experiences increased her wisdom and travel acumen — resulting in some of the most insightful travel articles ever published.

Lauren also helps her audience get into the world of travel blogging. Check out “How to Start a Travel Blog” for information on web hosting, working with WordPress, and so on.

• Travel safety

24. A Dangerous Business Travel Blog

By:  Amanda Williams

A Dangerous Business Travel Blog   is a straightforward blog made to help people travel. 

It is created by Amanda Williams, who is a former journalist with degrees in journalism, hospitality, and tourism management.

Amanda first got into journalism by editing obituaries — eventually becoming a copy and layout editor at a newspaper company. She started A Dangerous Business Travel Blog in 2010 out of boredom and her need for a creative outlet. 

Fast forward to 2024, the blog now averages over 340,000 page views per month. Amanda also maintains a strong social media presence with thousands of followers across networks like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

A Dangerous Business Travel Blog contains posts about travel planning, packing, destinations, and inspiration. Everything is sprinkled with high-quality photos to keep readers engaged and enthused.  

The centerpiece of A Dangerous Business Travel Blog is “The 10-Day Adventure Project.” Put simply, it’s a collection of ready-to-use, self-guided itineraries that will shave hours off your travel planning process.

• Packing 
• DangerousBiz online course
• Freelance writing

25. Against the Compass

By:  Joan Torres

How do you make a travel blog stand out?

Joan Torres has a surefire answer: covering the most unusual and “off the beaten track” destinations.

Against The Compass   is a unique blog that talks about the travel routes and destinations you probably haven’t heard of. It covers destinations that people don’t normally include in their bucket list, like Pakistan, Tunisia, Syria, and other high-risk countries. 

Of course, Joan makes sure to highlight the importance of safety when traveling in relatively low-popularity destinations. He has comprehensive guides for solo female travel, travel insurance, and general travel safety.

• Travel insurance

26. Everything Everywhere 

By:  Gary Arndt

In travel blogging, a picture is undeniably worth a thousand words. There’s simply no excuse for any travel blogger to forego the inclusion of visual content in their posts.

Gary Arndt’s absolutely nailed it with his photography work for  Everything Everywhere .

Gary actually won multiple, major travel photography awards — more than any travel photographer. His photography is so good that I suggest you check the “Travel Photos” page on Everything Everywhere.

Go ahead, take a break and thank me later. 

Other than taking breathtaking photos, Gary also publishes detailed blog posts about the places he’s been. He’s been on the go for roughly 9 years non-stop, which means readers will never run out of material.

27. The Longest Way Home

By:  David Ways

The Longest Way Home   started as the personal travel journal of David Ways — a solo traveler in search of home. 

The blog originally started as David’s private, digital diary. As he journeyed across Europe and gained experience, it turned into a full-on blog with travel guides to specific locations. 

David finally found home in Nepal before traveling to other parts of Southeast Asia. 

He’s not the most nitpicky blogger in terms of grammar and spelling, but he’s definitely a brilliant storyteller. He’s also skilled in capturing and immortalizing moments into photos, which you can view on his blog’s gallery. 

The Longest Way Home has a library of content about various destinations, trekking, and travel planning. It also features in-depth travel guides to Nepal, Thailand, and overland travel — plus a mini-guide to Portugal.  

• Travel planning 
• Overland travel

28. Global Grasshopper

By:  Becky Moore

Global Grasshopper   is a travel blog run by Becky Moore and her team of professional travel photographers and writers. 

Becky’s first adventure was a six-month voyage in Southeast Asia. She considers herself a “semi-nomad,” traveling from country to country while nestling in Ireland, Australia, or parts of Southeast Asia. 

Global Grasshopper contains posts about popular travel destinations, hotels, and other places that deserve more attention. Readers will also enjoy the blog’s posts about dog-friendly travel — covering topics like dog booster seats and pet-friendly hotels. 

Since the blog is run by a team of experts, expect the content quality to be top-notch across the board. The team also organizes boutique tours, which readers can participate in for a memorable travel experience. 

• Traveling with a pet
• Boutique tours bookings

29. Girl Gone Travel

By:  Carol Cain

Carol Cain is an accomplished professional in the field of communications. She is a social media marketing expert, public speaker, branding agency owner, and award-winning travel blogger.

Girl Gone Travel   is the result of Carol’s innate passion for travel and knack for digital marketing. It is a well-designed, engaging, and filled with quality content that shines with Carol’s personality. 

Other than her travel-related posts, Girl Gone Travel also publishes a lot of posts about blogging and online branding. This makes it an excellent place to start for hopeful travelers who plan to have their own blog one day. 

• Destinations 
• Online branding
• Brave World Media company

30. HoneyTrek

By:  Mike and Anne Howard

Believe it or not,  HoneyTrek   is a travel blog about a honeymoon.

Yes — it’s probably the longest honeymoon ever.

Founders Mike and Anne Howard are a power couple with skills that can make any blog great. Anne is a former magazine editor whereas Mike’s a veteran digital media strategist and photographer. 

Together, they’ve honeymooned to over seven continents and 60 countries while creating the most romantic travel blog in the process. 

HoneyTrek contains a collection of posts about their travel destinations, experiences, and travel tips for all budgets. They also wrote two successful books: “Comfortably Wild” and “Ultimate Journeys for Two.” 

• Travel budgeting 
• Travel skills

31. Oneika The Traveller

By:  Oneika Raymond

Oneika The Traveller   is an award-winning travel blog by journalist, keynote speaker, and media personality Oneika Raymond. 

For those who don’t know Oneika, she’s the on-air travel and lifestyle correspondent for CTV Canada and NBC New York. Even more impressively, her blog won her a gold medal in the 2018 SATW Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition.

Oneika talks about travel destinations and her go-to tips for life on the road. With her experience in the field of journalism, she’s definitely one of the most engaging storytellers on this list.

• Fashion and style while traveling
• Traveling as a minority
• Personal opinions
• Social media marketing

32. The Adventurists

By:  Tom Morgan

The Adventurists   is hands down one of the most well-designed travel blogs in this post. 

The blog proves that integrating tons of video content into one page doesn’t have to affect its loading speed. In fact, the site loads surprisingly fast despite having several video panels on the homepage.

I’m not going to delve too deeply into this technical feat. What I’m going to focus on, however, is the brilliant team behind The Adventurists. 

The site is founded by “Chief Idiot” — Tom Morgan. Apparently, most of the crazy ideas featured on the blog were his. 

Every page on the site reflects Morgan and his team’s wackiness and passion for great adventures. They do, host, and document daring outdoor activities on air, land, and sea — plus, a whole lot of charity.

Their audience can also participate in these activities, which can be held in various parts of the globe. The “Monkey Run,” for example, is an event where participants race through dirt trails on tiny bikes.

The bottom line is, it’s hard to come up with unique ideas that set you apart in the blogging landscape. The Adventurists, on the other hand, managed to do so multiple times. 

• “The Adventures” events
• The “Shop of Stuff”

33. Time Travel Turtle

By:  Michael Turtle

Time Travel Turtle   is created by Australian Journalist Michael Turtle. 

Michael was born to be a storyteller and he knew it from an early age. 

In school, he ran the student newsletter and contributed a weekly column. He also filled the role of deputy editor of a university newspaper. 

Time Travel Turtle’s contains mainly posts on the locations that Michael has visited over the years. 

Like most renowned travel bloggers, Michael captures amazing photos that travel enthusiasts can fall in love with. He puts some of these photos up for sale to companies who’d like to feature those locations or properties. 

Michael continues to explore the world as a digital nomad. He also shares practical travel tips so readers can experience these adventures themselves. 

• Selling photography

34. Hand Luggage Only

By:  Yaya and Lloyd

Hand Luggage Only   is a hugely successful travel blog by couple Yaya and Lloyd. 

The site doles out travel advice, inspiration, photography tips, food reviews, and posts about must-see destinations. It also has a library of high-quality videos where Yaya and Lloyd describe their experiences in detail.  

Yaya and Lloyd started the blog in 2014 with a plan to share their travel stories with the world. Within a few hours, they published their first posts using photos they already took and edited. 

The moral of the story is, consider starting a blog if you already have a library of unused travel photos. 

35. Travel4Wildlife

By:  Christina Garcia and Hal Brindley 

It should only take anyone a second to figure out what  Travel4Wildlife   is all about. 

The blog is created by couple Christina Garcia and Hal Brindley out of their passion for wildlife. 

Hal is an experienced wildlife photographer for organizations like the Nature Conservancy Magazine, SEE Turtles, and RARE Conservation. Christina, on the other hand, is an experienced zoologist who worked on studies on wolves, cheetahs, and leopards. 

Travel4Wildlife’s goal is to increase awareness and increase the appreciation for wildlife. More importantly, it was Christina and Hal’s life goal to promote wildlife conservation through responsible tourism. 

Behind the scenes, the couple teams up to create compelling articles that focus on wildlife in specific destinations. The blog covers a range of species on different continents — from owls in South Africa to polar bears in Canada. 

• Wildlife tour reviews
• Responsible travel

36. The Insatiable Traveler

By:  Susan Portnoy

Susan Portnoy, also called  The Insatiable Traveler   on her blog, is a seasoned travel writer and photographer. 

Susan’s last full-time job was VP of corporate communications at Condé Nast. When that door closed, she took on a freelancing career as she learned the art of photography. 

Fast forward a few years, and she has enough accolades to make photography degree holders envious. 

Her photographic works were featured by organizations like National Geographic and companies like Bing. She also won awards like the SATW Lowell Thomas Award and the 2018 Gold in the Muster Photo Competition. 

The main focal points of The Insatiable Traveler include destinations, cruises, photography, and travel gear. Susan also covers the safaris in various regions, like Tanzania, Namibia, and Kenya. 

37. View from the Wing

By:  Gary Leff 

Just like Brett Snyder, Gary Leff of  View From The Wing   is an expert in all things air travel. 

Gary was named one of the “World’s Top Travel Experts” by Condé Nast Traveler since 2010. He also co-founded InsideFlyer.com — a community made by and for frequent flyers.

View From The Wing is a goldmine of timeless tips on airline miles, credit cards, hotels, and business travel. No matter your sub-niche in travel, I recommend checking it out for ways to maximize your frequent flyer miles. 

Gary also publishes posts called “Trip Reports” about establishments, food, and various attractions. 

• Hotel reviews
• Credit cards

38. Uncornered Market

By:  Daniel Noll and Audrey Scott

Dan Noll and Audrey Scott are a pair of adventurers, storytellers, and tourism advisors who advocate for responsible traveling. 

They created  Uncornered Market   — a responsible tourism blog — after leaving their secure and stable lifestyle in Prague. Prior to that, they lived in San Francisco and took a leap of faith for the sake of avoiding regrets.  

It’s clear that both Dan and Audrey believed that fulfillment can’t be found within the confines of your comfort zone. They explored, made connections, and shared their experiences through their travel blog. 

Some of the topics you’ll find in Uncornered Market are about destinations, sustainable tourism, food, and trekking. Dan and Audrey also write about personal growth and experiential travel. 

Uncornered Market is also a tourism development and marketing consultancy company. They help travel companies, destinations, and tourism organizations build their brands and deliver their message to a wider audience. 

• Responsible tourism
• Tourism development and marketing consultancy services

39. Jessie on a Journey

By:  Jessica “Jessie” Festa

Like plenty of bloggers, Jessica Festa needed a taste of life before discovering her true calling. 

In her youth, Jessie traveled to mostly cruises in the Caribbean and road trips in North America. She also experienced being a sightseeing guide in New York. 

Jessie on a Journey   is the result of her pursuing her dreams of getting paid to do something she loves. She now blogs about being a solo female traveler, blogging it, and profiting off of it. 

I’m sure a lot of big-name bloggers are all too familiar with how Jessie made the blogging vision a reality.

For a long time, she felt that the workaday lifestyle isn’t for her. It made her feel like she’s living everyone else’s life — not the kind of life she wanted to keep. 

Despite the disapproval of loved ones, Jessie decided to quit her secure job in favor of being a travel blogger. 

She was just as unprepared as most people before starting their own blog. The key difference is, she went out there and took her first step. 

• Travel blog consulting
• Tour company consulting

40. Legal Nomads

By:  Jodi Ettenberg

Back when Jodi Ettenberg was in law school, she never would’ve guessed she’d run a successful travel and food business. 

That happens to a lot of people, especially those who never thought of giving priority to their passions. 

It’s just a hunch, but I think the name  Legal Nomads   had something to do with Jodi’s background in law. 

Legal Nomads highlights destinations and local cultures just as insightfully as other travel blogs. What makes it different is that Jodi focuses on local cuisines to experience and tell the stories of each destination. 

A huge part of Jodi’s blog is about wellness and gluten-free eating. She then utilized her knowledge and experience to create detailed restaurant cards, which travelers can use when visiting certain countries. 

• Gluten-free restaurant cards
• The Legal Nomads Shop

41. Indiana Jo

By:  Jo Fitzsimons

Like Jodi Ettenberg, Jo Fitzsimons also used to practice law before becoming a successful travel and lifestyle writer. 

Indiana Jo   started way back in 2010 where Jo can comfortably type away her thoughts and musings. Fed up with her full-time job, she went out to see the world as a digital nomad.

It wasn’t always smooth sailing for Indiana Jo, however. According to her, she thought about quitting the blog several times before finally realizing that it’s a lifetime thing. 

Jo writes about her travel experiences, destinations, wine, and food. She also shares travel planning tips along with a long list of content about topics that personally interest her. 

• Travel health and safety

42. TravelFreak

By:  Jeremy Scott Foster

TravelFreak   is the brainchild of Jeremy Scott Foster who left America in the middle of a recession and to Australia. 

For a while, he racked up some savings as a traveling bartender. It took some time before he finally made the switch to be a digital nomad and online entrepreneur. 

Jeremy created the blog to help people create opportunities to achieve the fulfilling life they deserve. 

He writes about travel advice, destinations, gear, and ways to get your finances in order as you travel. This includes guides on how to land and keep a job abroad along with resources on reliable booking websites. 

I personally like the way Jeremy designed TravelFreak to provide the best possible user experience. Unlike a traditional layout, the site features a search bar so readers can jump right into the content they need.

TravelFreak has been featured in Forbes, National Geographic, The New York Times, and a few other big-name publications.   

43. The Everywhereist

By:  Geraldine DeRuiter

Before anything else, yes — that’s Rand Fishkin in the photo above. 

And yes, the next travel blogger on this list is Rand’s longtime sweetheart and wife. 

Geraldine DeRuiter was a former copywriter and went with Rand in his travels, which are often business-related. She then turned to the habit of documenting their travel experiences, which she described as “love letters” to her husband. 

Today, Geraldine works full-time on  The Everywhereist   — named by Time magazine as one of the best blogs in 2011. 

The Everywhereist contains posts about food and Geraldine’s travel experiences along with a comprehensive Philadelphia travel guide. The guide contains information on where to go, eat, shop, and stay. 

Geraldine also wrote a book called “All Over The Place.” It chronicles how she embraced her love for blogging after being laid off, which aspiring bloggers can draw inspiration from. 

• All Over The Place book sales

44. Keep Calm and Travel

By:  Clelia Mattana

Keep Calm and Travel   is a travel blog created by serial traveler Clelia Mattana. 

Ever since she was 19, Clelia is a certified sea lover and globetrotter. But like many travel bloggers, she was given a choice between a secure job and the traveling lifestyle. 

Clelia’s finalized her choice when she bought a one-way ticket to Asia. She then created Keep Calm and Travel to send a simple message:

“No matter what your age is, or your budget, or status, you can travel and live your life on your own terms.”

The blog’s topics include destinations across continents, photography, and travel gear. She also has a dedicated page for Sardinia, which is one of her absolute favorite travel destinations.

45. Practical Wanderlust

By:  Lia and Jeremy Garcia

Lia and Jeremy Garcia, who aptly labeled themselves a “travel couple” on Instagram, are the minds behind  Practical Wanderlust .  

Jeremy is a film degree holder whose passions include writing and directing. He also became a high school teacher who taught filmmaking and digital media art.

Lia, on the other hand, has a fashion design and apparel merchandising degree. She took on roles in corporate merchandising before becoming a business systems analyst. 

Why did I tell you all this? Simple: I want you to know what the pair had to give up pursuing their dreams of traveling. 

Practical Wanderlust’s goal is to help other people enjoy travel in the most realistic and sensible approach possible. The blog is filled with detailed content on planning memorable trips on a budget, where to go, and staying safe.   

Lia and Jeremy also host their own podcast, which is available on Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. 

• Coaching and mentoring services
• Sponsored podcast episodes

46. Expert Vagabond

By:  Matthew “Matt” Karsten

Matthew Karsten, AKA the  Expert Vagabond , has been a travel blogger, photographer, and digital nomad for nine years.

He talks about budget travel tips, destinations, travel photography, and strategies to make the digital nomadic life work. 

Matt is a business degree holder who spent time freelancing as a nightlife and event photographer. While he admits it was fun, he knew that he wants and deserves something more. 

After a year of downsizing his life, eating homemade food, selling eBooks, and saving every penny, he was ready. He set out to obtain a different kind of wealth — that which is made with adventures and experiences.

• Nomadic living

47. The Voyageur

By:  Pauline Chardin

Pauline Chardin is a France-based fashion designer, photographer, and art director. 

She always had a soft spot for travel — driven by her appreciation for picturesque architecture, landscapes, and good food. She started  The Voyageur   to help people view the world through her voice and eyes. 

The Voyageur is a simple, yet aesthetic website achieved through Pauline’s incredible photography skills. Apart from itineraries and posts about hotels, food, art, and architecture, the site also has a sizeable photo gallery.

Images are accompanied by a brief article that describes the destination’s history and Pauline’s thoughts and emotions during her visit. I’m not sure what it is, but there’s something about this content format that’s truly engaging and relaxing. 

• Art and architecture

48. Amateur Traveler

By:  Chris Christensen

Don’t be fooled by the name —  Amateur Traveler   is by no means run by an amateur.

Chris Christensen is a skilled photographer, travel writer, and podcast host. The site also utilizes a long list of monetization strategies that I believe every blogger should learn. 

True, he wasn’t the most experienced traveler when he started the blog. Before he created Amateur Traveler, he was a full-time EVP of engineering and operations for a company based in Silicon Valley. 

In his defense, he grew up in a family that traveled a lot to national parks in a trailer. He also learned a lot of foreign languages, which he believes is a window into understanding and embracing different cultures. 

Amateur Traveler discusses destinations, travel budgeting, planning, gear, and booking. The site also features a weekly podcast on the top destinations around the world. 

• Amateur Traveler Shop powered by Etsy
• Podcast advertisements
• Social media and content marketing consulting services
• Content writing services
• Paid guest posts

49. Girl Eat World

By:  Melissa Hie

Melissa Hie is the “Girl” in  Girl Eat World  — a name that encapsulates what the whole blog is all about. 

You see, Melissa’s three passions are food, travel, and storytelling. She started the blog in 2015 as a digital diary for herself and friends who need travel tips. 

Prior to her blog’s success, she amassed quite a following on Instagram. This springboarded her blogging career, which she put in the back burner after focusing on her full-time career.

Girl Eat World is essentially a compendium of Melissa’s travel stories and travel planning guides. She also has an iconic style of capturing Instagram posts, which must be seen to be appreciated. 

50. The Adventure Junkies

By:  Antonio Cala and Amanda Zeisset

The Adventure Junkies   is definitely not your average travel blog. 

It’s not just about the travel stories of founders Antonio Cala and Amanda Zeisset. Upon visiting the blog for the first time, you’ll realize that it’s all about the community the blog has built. 

New visitors are encouraged to join “ Summit ” — a free community for people who seek adventures through travel and outdoor activities. There, members can connect, plan events, share posts, ask questions, form groups, and discuss anything related to travel. 

The Adventure Junkies also compile guides and resources about outdoor activities like diving, kayaking, mountain biking, and snowboarding. There’s also a section for visitors who’d like to learn about outdoor and underwater photography.

Antonio and Amanda started The Adventure Junkies as a personal blog about their three years of cycling. Over time, their readers began asking questions on how they can plan their own adventures. 

The couple then realized that they need to create something more than a personal blog. As such, they transformed The Adventure Junkies as a one-stop shop for adventurists.  

• The Adventure Junkies Store
• Paid digital guides

51. A Broken Backpack Travel Blog

By:  Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux used to be a social worker who only traveled once a year. 

Melissa created  A Broken Backpack   a year after her journey in the Canadian Rockies — hitch-hiking from point A to B. She continued working on her blog as a creative outlet while working on a farm in Australia. 

It didn’t take long before A Broken Backpack’s popularity gained momentum and gave Melissa a new frontier. 

The website contains crucial tips on travel gear, budgeting, destinations, and the life of a digital nomad. Melissa also put together in-depth guides on travel blogging, moving to another country as an expat, and backpacking.

• SEO eBook on Nomad Life 101

52. The World Travel Guy

By : David Leiter

David Leiter is an American travel blogger currently based in Bali, Indonesia, with his wife Intan (who’s a Bali local).

They travel around the world and try to document the most scenic destinations by creating articles, photos, videos, and guides for other travelers.

David runs  The World Travel Guy , an adventure travel blog that he started when he was a solo traveler, but now covers their travels around the globe as a couple.

In total, they’ve visited dozens of countries, while also checking off some bucket list adventures like a Komodo dragon safari in Indonesia, the Mount Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal, and a bunch of world monuments like the Angkor Wat and Taj Mahal.

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53. Life Part 2

By:  Jonathan Look Jr. and Sarah Wilson

The last blog on this list that your best life can start at any time you choose. 

Let me tell you the story behind  Life Part 2   and the people behind it.

Jonathan Look Jr. and Sarah Wilson are both happy retirees with a simple mantra: “don’t waste your retirement.”

To them, retirement isn’t about being comfortable and secure. Rather, it’s all about the freedom to listen to your heart and follow where it takes you. 

Jonathan and Sarah met in Chiang Mai, Thailand where they both agreed to see the world as a couple. 

Life Part 2 is a mix of all things travel. At times, there’ll be a post about remote destinations and backpacking, and at other times, the theme is luxury travel. 

You will, however, notice that the content topics on the blog often revolve around retirement, minimalism, and travel. 

Planning to go on your own travel adventures? Perhaps you’re thinking of starting your very own travel blog?

It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a case of wanderlust or the desire to be a travel blogger yourself. 

The list above has some of the best travel blogs ever created. They can provide you with ideas and inspiration for your next trip or first-ever travel blog post. 

If you think I missed a great travel blog that everyone should read, let me know in the comments below. Good luck!

Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us.

Ankit Singla

Ankit Singla is a full-time blogger, YouTuber, author, and public speaker. He founded and leads Master Blogging . With over 13 years of blogging expertise, he has assisted numerous aspiring bloggers in achieving their dreams of creating successful blogs.

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Travel 2024: A Spring Fling in Philadelphia in USA

Curated By : Lifestyle Desk

Last Updated: April 30, 2024, 18:28 IST

New Delhi, India

Spring Blooms Fairmount Park Horticulture Center photo by K. Huff (4)

Philadelphia welcomes visitors to explore its easily walkable cityscape, inviting all to embrace unforgettable spring experiences.

Spring in Philadelphia brings blooming cherry blossoms and vibrant outdoor festivals celebrating the city’s cultural diversity. Springtime offers the perfect opportunity to immerse in the city’s outdoor beauty and rich cultural heritage while fresh blossoms and cosy temperatures set the stage for exploration. Philadelphia welcomes visitors to explore its easily walkable cityscape, inviting all to embrace unforgettable spring experiences.

Witness WrestleMania 40

This spring, Philadelphia will be “The Grandest Stage of Them All” as the city welcomes WrestleMania 40. A week-long celebration of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) will take over the city, with the main event at Lincoln Financial Field on Saturday, April 6, and Sunday, April 7, 2024. The Wells Fargo Center will host Friday Night SmackDown®, the 2024 WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony®, and Monday Night Raw® during WrestleMania® week. Additionally, massive fan events are scheduled at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Parks and Gardens

Philadelphia becomes a walkable garden of freshly bloomed beauty in spring. By early April, cherry blossoms, magnolia, and other spring flowers reach peak bloom. Some of the best locations to admire these seasonal blossoms include the Delaware River Waterfront, Fairmount Park Horticulture Center and the neighbouring Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, operated by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia.

Philadelphia’s expansive parks are also a great place to admire the spring blooms and feel the warm weather. Run, bike, or walk the trails in the 2,000+ acre Fairmount Park. Admire the historic homes and other landmarks on your journey. Navigate Forbidden Drive in the 1,800+ acre Wissahickon Valley Park, tucked in the northwestern corner of the city.

It is no surprise that spring blooms and outdoor experiences extend beyond Philadelphia’s city limits. The neighbouring counties and gardens of the Countryside, make it “America’s Garden Capital.” In Kennett Square, find vibrant spring colours covering the grounds of Longwood Gardens. They welcome the season with garden-wide Spring Blooms displays, featuring flowering trees, blooming bulbs, and other charming scenes throughout the over the 1,000-acre property.

At Andalusia Historic House, Gardens and Arboretum in nearby Bucks County visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the 65-acre estate. The picturesque site rests along the Delaware River and features 18th-century gardens, over 800 trees, and the 19th-century Greek Revival home of the Biddle family. Spend time outdoors and admire over 8,000 tulips and some of the largest trees in the region on the lush grounds of the 92-acre Morris Arboretum.

Delaware River Waterfront Activities

Philadelphia’s popular Delaware River waterfront destinations allow visitors to enjoy the refreshing breeze or a local brew on a sunny day. Seasonal Spruce Street Harbor Park features mouthwatering food trucks and local cold beer and is perfect for lounging in a hammock beneath a canopy of multi-coloured lights next to a floating barge oasis. Head to Race Street Pier to relax on benches or on the lower lawn with the Benjamin Franklin Bridge above you. Then, make your way to neighbouring Cherry Street Pier where more impressive views and equally amazing art from local artists await. Cherry Street Pier also regularly hosts pop-up markets, food fairs, and art exhibitions. The Garden Restaurant at Cherry Street Pier is an ideal place for quick bites, beer, wine, and cocktails.

The Independence Seaport Museum invites visitors to learn more about the Delaware River watershed and Philadelphia’s maritime history. Tour the museum or board the historic Cruiser Olympia docked nearby. Head to the 28,000-square-foot Liberty Point, Philadelphia’s largest restaurant in modern history, to enjoy more bites and brews. The giant indoor-outdoor space includes three main levels for food, drinks, live entertainment, and breathtaking views of the water. Grab a bite to eat on the waterfront deck at a nearby seasonal bar and restaurant, Morgan’s Pier.

To see what is across the Delaware River, catch a ride on the RiverLink Ferry for a quick, 15-minute trip across the river. While in Camden, explore the Adventure Aquarium, home to more than 15,000 aquatic animals or tour the historic Battleship New Jersey, the country’s largest and most decorated battleship.

Special Spring Events

Springtime means the skates are out at Dilworth Park. The Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink allows visitors to lace up their skates next to Philadelphia City Hall. The retro rink was designed and fabricated by Philadelphia’s Lucky Dog Studio. When not skating, visitors can enjoy sandwiches, beer, cocktails, and more at Air Grille Garden’s pop-up beer garden.

Many of Philadelphia’s museums have new exhibits on view this spring. The world’s most extensive exhibition of LEGO art, “The Art of the Brick” at The Franklin Institute will showcase 100 remarkable artworks crafted from millions of vibrant LEGO bricks by artist Nathan Sawaya. The exhibition, which features a Philadelphia-exclusive creation and a spacious 9,000-square-foot brick play area, promises an immersive experience for visitors.

Exciting new art exhibitions are coming to Philadelphia’s art museums. The Philadelphia Museum of Art showcases “Mary Cassatt at Work,” the first major exhibition of the artist’s work in the U.S. in 25 years, featuring over 130 of her vibrant pieces that focus on the social and working lives of women. At the Barnes Foundation, “Alexey Brodovitch: Astonish Me” explores the influential legacy of the Russian designer and photographer, highlighting his role as the art director of Harper’s Bazaar and emphasizing his impact on shaping the magazine’s visual identity.

At the Museum of the American Revolution, “Witness to Revolution: The Unlikely Travels of Washington’s Tent,” delves into the multi-generational journey of preserving and transforming George Washington’s tent into a symbol of the American Republic. The exhibit features an array of artworks, rare documents, and historical objects from various public and private collections across the United States, offering a comprehensive narrative of the tent’s significance and its passage through different historical periods, including the American Civil War and the Centennial Exposition of 1876 in Philadelphia.

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia runs a nationally recognized travel program that organizes trips around the globe for the association of Councils across America and has been doing so for over 35 years. If you enjoy traveling on unique tours to fascinating destinations, and having access to political experts and local guides who give behind the scenes views and briefings, then you'll quickly discover why traveling with us is so special. If you are interested in learning more about  our travel program, we encourage you to check out our official website   where you can view our upcoming tours.  The intention of this online platform is to strengthen and engage our travel community and those interested in educational travel by providing thought-provoking sources related to travel, culture, history and world events. The best part is that you can find all of the information that any experienced traveler would seek, all in one place! An added bonus is that we will introduce you to the the talented people you would typically meet along the way on our tours.

Watch CBS News

New airline rules will make it easier to get refunds for canceled flights. Here's what to know.

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Aimee Picchi

Updated on: April 25, 2024 / 12:56 PM EDT / CBS News

New consumer protection rules will soon entitle airline passengers to automatic refunds when flights are canceled or significantly delayed, while also requiring airlines to reveal  junk fees  upfront.

In total, the new rules could save travelers $500 million annually, Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday, describing the regulations as "the biggest expansion of passenger rights in the department's history."

They take aim at some of the most common complaints against airlines, such as delays and difficulties getting refunds. Airlines will also have to disclose all possible fees, such as added costs for seat selection, when advertising a fare.

The regulations are likely to effect in October, officials said. Here's what to know about the new rules and what they mean for you.

You'll get an automatic refund for delayed or canceled flights

The first rule mandates that airlines promptly refund customers when flights are meaningfully disrupted or delayed. Airlines will have to refund customers the full ticket prices, including airline-imposed fees, as well as government taxes and fees.

In theory, passengers are already entitled to such refunds, but in practice airlines don't always provide them, Buttigieg noted. He said the new rule benefits infrequent fliers in particular, who may be less familiar with their rights. 

This rule will save customers the hassle of dealing with a chatbot or completing a cumbersome claims process to receive refunds they're entitled to anyway when flights don't take off as scheduled.

Airlines often offer customers compensation in the form of vouchers or miles with values that are less than the flight's original cost. And passengers often must engage with customer service agents or chatbots to secure refunds, which can lead them to give up on the process altogether, according to Buttigieg.

How long of a delay will qualify for a refund? 

The new rule defines what constitutes a "significantly changed" flight: a delay of at least three hours for a domestic flight, and at least six hours for an international flight. That was previously left to the discretion of the airline. 

The rule says passengers will get automatic refunds in those cases as long as they don't accept alternative transportation or travel credits offered by the airline.  

Passengers will also be entitled to refunds for other significant flight changes, according to the Department of Transportation. 

These changes include flights whose departure or arrival airports change, that add connections or downgrade passengers to a different level of service. If a flight requires a passenger with a disability to make a connection at an airport or on a flight that is less accommodating, that also qualifies for a refund.

How long will it take to get a refund?

Airlines will have seven days to automatically refund passengers who purchased their tickets with a credit card, and 20 calendar days for other payment methods, the Transportation Department said.

"No more defaulting to vouchers or credits when consumers may not even realize they're entitled to cash," Buttigieg said. 

Can I get a refund for delayed bags? 

Yes, checked bag delays are also covered. 

When bags aren't delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight's arrival at its gate, passengers will get a refund for their checked bag fee.   On international flights, bags that don't arrive within 15 to 30 hours, depending on a flight's length, are covered by the rule. 

What other refunds will be available? 

Airlines must also refund the costs of services customers paid for but then didn't receive on the flight, such as wifi, seat selection or in-flight entertainment, the Transportation Department said.

For instance, if passengers buy wifi access but it doesn't work properly, they are entitled to a refund for the service.

What is happening with surprise fees? 

Transportation officials also announced a second rule on Wednesday that targets "junk" or surprise fees, which are charges that aren't typically disclosed to a consumer ahead of purchase. 

Under the rule, airlines must disclose all fees the first time that airfare is advertised on an airline's site. Hyperlinks don't count, according to the agency.

The rule is designed to protect consumers against confusion caused by "drip pricing"  by requiring airlines to disclose how much these additional fees will cost up front. That includes amounts airlines charge consumers to check bags, carry on bags, select seats, and change or cancel flights.

The rule is designed to help make it easier for passengers to estimate the full cost of flying so they can make an informed purchase.

Are seats guaranteed if I buy a ticket?

Under the second rule, airlines will also have to make clear to customers that if they buy a ticket, they're guaranteed a seat — even if they don't fork over additional money to choose where on the plane that seat is located. 

How will I know I'm seeing the actual flight price?

The second rule also bars airlines from advertising artificially low prices that don't factor in mandatory fees. 

The Transportation Department said this will end "discount bait-and-switch tactics" that dangle deceptive discounts to convince travelers to buy tickets.

What do airlines say about the new rules?

Airlines for America, a trade group for large U.S. carriers, noted that refund complaints to the Transportation Department have fallen sharply since mid-2020. 

A spokesperson for the group said airlines "offer a range of options — including fully refundable fares — to increase accessibility to air travel and to help customers make ticket selections that best fit their needs."

The group said the 11 largest U.S. airlines issued $43 billion in customer refunds from 2020 through 2023.

While Buttigieg said airlines aren't "enthusiastic" about being held to a higher standard, he believes the new rules will build passenger confidence in companies and ultimately benefit the industry as a whole.

Buttigieg also said he hopes the new rules will push carriers to improve the consumer experience. For example, if an airline knows it will automatically owe customers refunds for canceled flights, it might invest more in precise scheduling, and ultimately reduce the number of cancellations overall. 

—With reporting by the Associated Press.

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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UNITED STATES NEWS

Remains of child found in duffel bag in Philadelphia neighborhood identified as missing boy

May 1, 2024, 2:24 PM

BY ASSOCIATED PRESS

A decomposed body found earlier this year in a duffel bag in Philadelphia has been identified as a 4-year-old boy who authorities say was beaten to death.

The body of Damari Carter was found March 18 in the city’s Mantua neighborhood by a worker who was cleaning out an alleyway. Authorities initially could not determine the child’s age, gender and identity, but Carter eventually was identified through DNA testing, police said Wednesday.

The child was last seen alive in early December but was not reported missing until Dec. 30. His remains were found less than half a mile from where he lived with his mother, Dominique Bailey, and her boyfriend, Kevin Spencer. They are charged with murder, abuse of a corpse, child endangerment and related counts in his death.

Authorities have said they began investigating after finding discrepancies in Bailey’s account of her son’s death. They said she initially told relatives her son died at a hospital after being hit by a car.

Bailey eventually claimed she watched Spencer beat Carter at their home on Dec. 7 until he lost consciousness, authorities said. When they later realized the boy was dead, they disposed of the body, she told police, according to authorities. However, the couple did not tell investigators say where the put the corpse, authorities said.

A preliminary hearing for Bailey and Spencer is scheduled for June 18. The Associated Press left messages with their attorneys seeking comment.

The Mantua section is in western Philadelphia, near the Schuylkill River. It is home to the Philadelphia Zoo and is near the campus of Drexel University.

United States News

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City of Philadelphia

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What happens if you don’t pay your Philly property tax?

You owe Philadelphia’s Real Estate Tax if you own a property in the city. The tax is due once a year, on March 31, and is based on your property’s assessed value, which is determined by the  Office of Property Assessment  (OPA).

Paying this tax on time and in full is important, as it provides funding for the local school district, police, and fire departments, among other essential City services. If you cannot pay your entire bill, you should apply for help. There are  several relief programs available to owners  who live in their properties, even if you still have a mortgage.

If you don’t qualify for assistance, you should call (215) 686-6442 and ask about setting up a  payment plan . We offer a range of options with flexible terms that can help you stay current.

If you wait until your account becomes delinquent, you could lose your property at a tax sale. Keep in mind that tax sales are always a last resort. The Department of Revenue’s main goal is to ensure tax compliance while providing relief to financially distressed households.

How does Real Estate Tax work?

The Department of Revenue sends out property tax bills every December. The bill must be paid in full by March 31 of the following year. Qualifying homeowners can apply for  relief to reduce or pay their bills in installments . You can always apply for a standard payment agreement if you don’t qualify for the City’s  owner-occupied property tax assistance programs .

If you miss the payment deadline and do nothing, your bill becomes past due and  accrues monthly interest and penalties . You’ll receive bills from the Department of Revenue and potentially a collection agency. If you still don’t pay or enroll in a payment plan by December 31, your account becomes delinquent on January 1 of the following year. The City can then put a lien on your property and add legal fees to your account—increasing your debt.

What is a lien?

A lien is a legal claim against a property because of debt owed. Liens are filed by the City against delinquent properties every year or more often for unpaid property taxes and water charges.

Multiple enforcement measures

The City uses tax sales,  sequestration , and lawsuits against property owners to collect overdue real estate taxes.

In a  tax sale proceeding, the City files a petition with the Court of Common Pleas, seeking to sell your property to recover unpaid taxes. A hearing is then scheduled, and you are served the Petition by the City. Initial hearings in this case are conducted without a judge. The following is what you will receive if you appear at the hearing:

• A continuance of the case (basically postponing the case),
• An Owner-Occupied Payment Agreement (OOPA) application to complete (if you’re eligible), and
• A chance to meet with a housing counselor.

The OOPA program is one of several City-led programs that help Philadelphians pay their old and current property tax bills in monthly installments.

If you fail to appear at the hearing, the City can ask the Court to enter a decree, which is an order allowing the City to sell your property at an auction.

In sequestration , a court-appointed person (or “sequestrator”) collects outstanding property taxes and water charges on the City’s behalf. This person takes possession of your property for a time. They collect rent and pay off delinquent taxes and water charges until all City debts are paid. You will receive a warning letter with payment options or suggestions to enter into a payment agreement before the City places your property under sequestration.

A  personal lawsuit , against property owners, occurs when the City sues a multi-property owner for overdue taxes. You may face a trial if you fail to pay the taxes you’re sued for.

What can you do to protect your property?  

It’s always best to pay your property taxes on time, when possible. If you cannot afford the full amount of your bill, you should apply for an OOPA or enter into a  standard payment agreement .

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Nba playoffs game 4: new york knicks vs philadelphia 76ers, tv channel, free live stream, share this article.

The New York Knicks travel to Philadelphia to face the 76ers in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series on Sunday afternoon.

The Knicks will look to bounce back after a 125-144 loss in Game 3 despite a strong performance from guard Jalen Brunson, who netted a team-high 39 points.  Meanwhile, the 76ers being down 2-0 responded with a dominant performance in Game 3. Joel Embiid was unstoppable, exploding for a career-high 50 points.

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New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers

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