What to do in Philadelphia: the city of freedom
The city of Philadelphia offers a wide range of cultural events, festivals, shops and restaurants to enjoy.
It is the largest city in the state of Pennsylvania, in the United States, it has a large number of attractions and activities to enjoy. It stands out for guarding some of the richest chapters in the country's history, since there you can see the Liberty Bell, in Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed) and other places of the American Revolution. We tell you what to do in Philadelphia, a destination that has a lot to offer visitors.
Philadelphia, also known as "The City of Brotherly Love" and "The City of Liberty," has several distinctive features that make it special. Its historical importance is perhaps the most widespread, but it is not the only one.
Philadelphia is a city with a rich history that played a crucial role in the formation of the United States. It served as the nation's capital for several years and was the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The United States Constitution was also written there in 1787.
In addition, the city has impressive colonial architecture, especially in its Historic Quarter. You can find red brick houses, cobbled streets and historical buildings that will transport you to the times of the founding of the nation.
Things to do in Philadelphia
As we said, Philadelphia is located in the state of Pennsylvania, in the northeast region of the United States. It is the largest city in the state and is located 150 miles (240 kilometers) southwest of New York City and about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northeast of Washington, D.C.
It is a big, beautiful city with a lot to do. Some recommendations:
Visit Independence National Historical Park: This park is home to several important historical sites, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution of the United States.
Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Known for the famous staircase in the movie "Rocky," the Museum of Art houses a vast collection of works of art, from paintings and sculptures to Asian and European art. You can also enjoy special exhibitions and cultural events.
Tour Philadelphia's Historic District: Stroll the cobblestone streets of the Historic District to admire the colonial architecture and immerse yourself in the history of the city. Don't miss Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuous residential street in the United States.
Visit the Museum of the American Revolution: Located near Independence National Historical Park, this museum tells the full story of the American Revolution through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and immersive theater.
Explore Reading Terminal Market: This historic market is a culinary haven with a wide variety of food stalls. Try Philadelphia's famous cheesesteaks, indulge in savory seafood, or sample sweet Amish delights.
Stroll Through Fairmount Park: This beautiful urban park is perfect for relaxing, having a picnic or playing outdoor sports. In addition, it offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the famous "Rocky Steps".
Philadelphia offers many green spaces and parks. Fairmount Park, Franklin Square Park, and Rittenhouse Park are just a few examples where you can relax, enjoy nature, and participate in outdoor activities.
Discover the Adventure Aquarium Aquarium: If you're traveling with your family or just like marine animals, visit this aquarium that has a wide variety of species, including sharks, penguins and sea turtles.
Enjoy Street Art in the Mural Mile Neighborhood: Philadelphia is known for its vibrant street art scene. Walk the Neighborhood of Mural Mile to admire the impressive murals painted on the buildings of the city.
Philadelphia is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to a host of renowned museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which has an extensive collection of art, from classic masterpieces to contemporary art. There are also plenty of art galleries, theaters, and cultural festivals throughout the year.
Gastronomy in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is famous for its iconic food, with the cheesesteak being its best-known dish. You can also enjoy soft pretzels, water ice, hoagies (sandwiches) and Tastykakes. Reading Terminal Market is a popular place to sample a wide variety of culinary delights.
Where to stay in Philadelphia: where to sleep
Philadelphia offers a variety of lodging options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some popular areas where you might consider staying in Philadelphia:
Center City: This is a central and convenient location, especially if you want to be close to major tourist attractions like Independence National Historical Park, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Reading Terminal Market. Here you will find a wide range of hotels, from budget options to luxury hotels.
Rittenhouse Square: It is an elegant and vibrant neighborhood, known for its beautiful central park and its tree-lined streets. Here you will find high-end boutique hotels, world-class restaurants, and exclusive shops. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a more sophisticated experience.
Old City: As the name implies, this neighborhood is steeped in history and is the place to be for lovers of historical sites. Here you will find a variety of boutique hotels and charming accommodation, as well as being close to attractions such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
University City: If you plan to visit Philadelphia's universities, such as the University of Pennsylvania or Drexel University, this neighborhood is a great option. Here you will find accommodation options for different budgets, and the proximity to the university campuses will give you a lively student atmosphere.
South Street: This area is known for its bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife. Here you will find a variety of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to youth hostels, and you will be close to restaurants, bars and unique shops.
These are just a few of the popular areas to stay in Philadelphia. Before making a reservation, consider your location preferences, budget, and the places you plan to visit during your stay in the city.
Mummers 2023: The Philadelphia Mummy Parade
The Parade of the Mummies or Mummers is the oldest parade in the United States. It has been celebrated for 123 years and usually gathers more than 20,000 spectators and up to 10,000 puppeteers dressed in luxurious and colorful costumes.
The Mummers Parade takes place in Philadelphia on New Year's Day, continuing the tradition of the oldest annual folk parade in the nation.
Things to do in Philadelphia
These are just a few ideas to get you started exploring Philadelphia. The city also offers a wide range of cultural events, festivals, shops and restaurants to enjoy. I hope you have a wonderful time in Philadelphia!
