Philadelphia is one of the most historically significant cities in America — but there is so much more to the City of Brotherly Love than the Liberty Bell and cheesesteaks. No matter if you love culture, food, art or architecture, Things to do in philadelphia attractions have something for everyone — and then some!
With that in mind, we wanted to make sure we were telling you about the very best things you could be doing in the city right now in an updated 2025 guide on the top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites in Philly so you can experience the best of it during your time there.
Walk Through America’s History
Independence National Historical Park
No visit to Philadelphia is complete without seeing Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was jointly signed.
Museum of the American Revolution
This interactive museum brings nail-biting stories of soldiers, civilians and revolutionaries to life.
Betsy Ross House
Step inside the house of the woman who sewed the first American flag. There are educational and family-focused interactive tours. Learn more here
Explore the City’s Cultural Side
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Home to the “Rocky Steps,” this museum features a wide range of American, European and Asian art. Inside, you can see everything from medieval armor to impressionist masterpieces.
Barnes Foundation
This not-so-popular museum also has one of the world’s finest collections of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. It is a hidden gem for art lovers.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Previously the best known prison in the world, this great Gothic building is now a chilling museum which can be visited with the help of a tour guide, or by audio guide.
Find Flavors You Can Only Get Here
Reading Terminal Market
One of the greatest indoor markets in the nation, Reading Terminal Market is crammed with food vendors peddling everything from Amish baked goods to the classic Philly cheesesteak.
Philadelphia Cheesesteaks
Pat’s and Geno’s might be the big names, but don’t overlook a lesser-light like Dalessandro’s, or Jim’s South Street. Explore top cheesesteak spots
Italian Market
Extending for more than ten blocks, this open-air market provides produce, meats, spices and some of the city’s finest Italian food.
Embrace the Outdoors and Nature
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park occupies more than 2,000 acres and is one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S. It’s ideal for picnics, biking, walking the trails, and even kayaking down the Schuylkill River.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
In the summer months, it becomes a riverside haven, with hammocks, food vendors, floating gardens and arcade games. Visit here
Schuylkill River Trail
A perfect respite for joggers and bicyclists, this beautiful pathway alongside the river connects some of the city’s prettiest locations. More info
Discover Unusual Points of Interest and Secret Gem’s
Magic Gardens
This artist-created immersive art environment, by artist Isaiah Zagar, is a mosaic wonderland of reused art, poetry, and color. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Philadelphia.
Franklin Institute
This family-friendly spot is one of the best science museums in the country, complete with interactive exhibits, a planetarium and a walk-through giant heart.
Elfreth’s Alley
The oldest continuous residential street in the U.S. boasts colonial-era homes and insight into early American life.
Shopping, Neighborhoods, and Local Experiences
Rittenhouse Square
Arguably the city’s most stately neighborhood, Rittenhouse is a great spot to shop, people-watch, and sip a cappuccino at an outdoor café.
South Street
The mix of this bohemian street ranges from the vintage shopping to tattoo parlors to street performers. It’s the city’s counterculture hub.
Northern Liberties and Fishtown
If you’re into art galleries, microbreweries, music venues, and other such establishments, hip neighborhoods. An absolute must for anyone who wants to see Philly like a local.
Travel Tips for Visiting Philadelphia
Take Public Transportation: Philly’s SEPTA system is pretty user-friendly and gets you everywhere you need to go. SEPTA official site
Walkable City: Philadelphia is a very walkable place—especially in Center City. Bring comfortable shoes. Also visit Orlando
Book in Advance: Attractions such as Independence Hall have timed tickets, especially in summer.
Branch Out From Downtown: Don’t confine yourself to tourist turf — there are neighborhoods such as Manayunk and East Passyunk that offer genuine local flavor.
Planning a Bigger Trip?
If you’re traveling around the U.S. more, be sure to check out our travel guide to the things to do in Orlando for amazing theme parks and tropical fun.
Why You Should Go to Philadelphia Next
Still one of the best cities to visit in the country, Philadelphia’s mix of history, good food, art, and walkable charms means it shouldn’t be overlooked! Whether you’re exploring Revolutionary War sites or uncovering street art in Fishtown (or anywhere in between), there are more than enough things to do in Philadelphia to appeal to all types of travelers.
