Explore Philadelphia: Historic Landmarks, World-Class Museums & the Best Cheesesteaks

Walk in the footsteps of America's Founding Fathers in the city where the nation was born. See the Liberty Bell, tour Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and explore the Museum of the American Revolution. Philadelphia's historic district brings the country's earliest chapters vividly to life.

Philadelphia is one of America's great museum cities. Climb the famous Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, admire the masterpieces of the Barnes Foundation, get hands-on at the Franklin Institute science museum, and explore the curious collections of the Mütter Museum. Art and discovery wait around every corner.

No visit is complete without a classic Philly cheesesteak from legendary spots like Pat's, Geno's, or Dalessandro's. Graze your way through the historic Reading Terminal Market, sample Italian specialities along the 9th Street Italian Market, and discover why Philadelphia has become one of the country's most exciting food cities.

Philadelphia is home to more public murals than any other U.S. city thanks to the Mural Arts program. Wander the cobblestone streets of Old City, explore the indie shops and street art of Fishtown, browse South Street's eclectic boutiques, and soak up the character of the city's distinctive neighborhoods.

Experience Philadelphia's passion for sports across the Phillies, Eagles, Sixers, and Flyers, escape into the green expanse of Fairmount Park, and stroll the scenic Schuylkill River Trail. Take in skyline views from City Hall's observation deck and recreate Rocky's victory run up the art museum steps.

The historic heart of Philadelphia, Old City and Society Hill are home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, cobblestone lanes, and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Stay here for unbeatable access to the city's founding landmarks, charming cafés, galleries, and the lively riverfront.

Philadelphia's vibrant downtown is anchored by elegant Rittenhouse Square, upscale shopping, top restaurants, and grand City Hall. Central, walkable, and well connected, Center City is ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to attractions, dining, and the city's best hotels.

Set along the grand Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Fairmount is Philadelphia's cultural corridor. It's home to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation, the Franklin Institute, and Eastern State Penitentiary, all close to the green expanse of Fairmount Park, the nation's largest urban park system.

Bursting with character, South Philly is the home of the city's famous cheesesteak rivalry between Pat's and Geno's, the historic 9th Street Italian Market, and the trendy restaurants and bars of East Passyunk Avenue. It's the place to eat your way through Philadelphia's rich culinary traditions.

Once industrial, now one of Philadelphia's coolest areas, Fishtown and Northern Liberties are packed with craft breweries, music venues, indie boutiques, coffee roasters, and some of the city's most creative restaurants. It's the heart of Philadelphia's contemporary arts and nightlife scene.

Just across the Schuylkill River, University City is home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, giving it a youthful, energetic feel. Tree-lined streets, museums like the Penn Museum, diverse eateries, and easy transit links make it a lively base close to Center City.

We recommend: Philadelphia Highlights

We recommend: Historic Philadelphia Itinerary

We recommend: Philadelphia Culture Itinerary

We recommend: Philadelphia Food Itinerary

We recommend: Best Day Trips from Philadelphia

Just 30 minutes from the city, Valley Forge National Historical Park preserves the site of George Washington's 1777–78 winter encampment. Explore historic landmarks, scenic trails, and rolling parkland that tell a pivotal story of the American Revolution.

About an hour southwest of Philadelphia, the Brandywine Valley is home to Longwood Gardens, one of the world's premier botanical gardens. Wander spectacular fountains, conservatories, and seasonal displays alongside historic estates and the Brandywine River Museum of Art.

Around 1.5 hours west of the city, Lancaster County offers a glimpse into Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish life. Explore rolling farmland, traditional markets, hearty country cooking, and charming small towns at a peaceful, slower pace.

Just over an hour away on the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City pairs sandy beaches and its famous boardwalk with casinos, entertainment, and seaside dining. It's an easy, fun-filled escape from the city for a day or a weekend.

A scenic hour north of Philadelphia, the riverside town of New Hope charms visitors with art galleries, antique shops, riverfront restaurants, and a relaxed creative vibe. The surrounding Bucks County countryside is dotted with covered bridges and rolling farmland.

About 2.5 hours away by car or under 2 hours by Amtrak, the U.S. capital makes an ambitious but rewarding day trip. Visit the National Mall, world-class Smithsonian museums, and iconic monuments before returning to Philadelphia in the evening.