Philadelphia Things To Do

Everything Philly first-timers need to see: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Christ Church, and the National Constitution Center. Get your bearings (and hard-to-score tickets to Independence Hall) at the Independence Visitor Center.

Yes, the Rocky statue is back, but after a photo-opp and a run up the famous steps, explore the 200 galleries inside, including the collection of local revolutionary-era furniture.

No matter your age, the hands-on displays, planetarium, IMAX theatre, and outstanding visiting exhibits (like King Tut) at this museum are a hit every time.

See the moving displays promoting tolerance and artwork honoring the nation’s heroes – people who’ve stepped outside their comfort zone for the greater good.

Philadelphia’s most tourist-y street is definitely worthy of a stroll. Sure it’s like an outdoor shopping mall – think the Gap and Foot Locker – but there’s great people-watching and a sprinkling of fun bars and bohemian boutiques.

Come in winter for the ice skating – in summer for the free concerts, movies, and waterfront activities along this ten-block stretch fronting the Delaware River.

Outside the city limits but worth the trek (and the months-in-advance reservation), this 12-acre arboretum houses one of the world’s most important private art collections including Impressionist, post-Impressionist, and Modernist works.