Top 10 Things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Photographed and Written by Whitney O’Halek

Nicknamed a city of firsts, Philadelphia is at the top of many a must-go list. Whether you’re here for professional sports, the cheesesteak or the Liberty Bell, you’ll love the City of Brotherly Love. Here are the top 10 things to see and do in Philadelphia.

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10. Find the LOVE Statue – One of the most recognizable Philadelphia icons is the LOVE Statue in LOVE Park. Installed in 1976 for the United States Bicentennial, the statue is located in the heart of downtown and walkable from the Old City; you’ll find it across the street from City Hall. Take a picture with the LOVE statue in the City of Brotherly Love.

9. Visit Reading Terminal Market – For anyone who wants a taste of the authentic Pennsylvania flavor—including Pennsylvania Dutch fare—make sure Reading Terminal Market makes its way onto your itinerary. It dates to 1893 and is open every day of the week. You can find breakfast, lunch, dinner, sweets, flowers, produce and more here. Shop and eat locally.

8. Eat a Philly Cheesesteak – If you go to Philly and miss out on eating a Philly cheesesteak, did you really go? You’ll find a version of this Philadelphia icon at just about any restaurant, and if you ask a local who makes the best, they’ll have a strong opinion. Sound like a local when you order yours and get it with “whiz” (Cheese Whiz). Not into the whiz? White American and provolone are also acceptable and delicious choices.

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7. Send a Postcard from the B. Free Franklin Post Office – If you’re looking for an inexpensive, unique keepsake from your trip to Philadelphia, plan to send yourself a postcard from Ben Franklin’s B. Free Post Office. It’s a regular U.S. Post Office, except you can only use their exclusive “B. Free” postmark here. There’s also a small museum inside, so don’t miss it. Fun fact: This is the only U.S. Post Office that doesn’t fly the American flag. Why? Because it didn’t exist in 1775 when founding father Ben Franklin was appointed Post Master General.

6. Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park – Just a short drive outside Philadelphia is Valley Forge, where the Continental Army got whipped into shape and turned the tide of the American Civil War. The driving route takes you past the most critical sites through the entire park. And there are plenty of places to pull over along the way to take photos or walk around for a closer look. Don’t miss touring Washington’s Headquarters while you’re here, too.

5. Tour the Betsy Ross House – Did Betsy Ross sew the first American flag? There is strong evidence that she did, but then again, maybe she didn’t. Either way, a tour of the house she lived in at the time is worth a visit. And be sure to watch Betsy in action down in the basement. A costumed interpreter will stay in character to answer your questions and show you how she makes a five-pointed star with a single cut.

4. Visit Congress Hall – Originally built to be the Philadelphia County Courthouse, this building served as the seat of the United States Congress from 1790 to 1800. It’s part of Independence Hall National Park, and visitors can sit in the main room and listen to a park ranger talk about the challenges that faced the new nation. It’s free to visit, so make sure you do.

3. Go Inside the Old City Hall and U.S. Supreme Court – What was once Philadelphia’s City Hall became the U.S. Supreme Court, while Philadelphia served as the United States Capital. The cases they heard here helped shape the country. A park ranger will tell you about the history, controversies, and building. Feel free to ask questions. The park rangers love it.

2. Get a Selfie with the Liberty Bell – Everyone wants to see the Liberty Bell. Ask anyone what to see in Philadelphia; the famous Liberty Bell is at the top of everyone’s list. Located across the street from Independence Hall, visitors can get close to the bell itself and a great photo that includes Independence Hall. It’s free to visit, but if you want a good chance at photos without a zillion other people around, go within half an hour after opening or before closing time.

1. Tour Independence Hall – Independence Hall is where it all began. The Continental Congress met in these rooms, and the Constitutional Convention happened here, too. The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed here. It’s also the number one site visitors to Philadelphia want to see, so you’ll want to get your tickets in advance. It’s a must-see for even the most casual of history appreciators.

Come for the history; stay for the cheesesteaks. Philadelphia is a great destination any time of year, and you can see and do a lot whether you have two weeks or two days to spend here. This list is the best place to start.

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