Considered one of the most important cities in the entire United States, Philadelphia is a huge city with many interesting sights! The metropolis has been the scene of many landmark events, including the writing of the Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution.
So, whether you want to visit historical sites and learn more about what happened there, or go to super-modern stadiums to watch a great American soccer game, there are plenty of options.
With that in mind, I've put together some of the sights you can do in Philly, the city's adorable nickname. Keep reading here at Happy Tours and check out the best places to visit there. Happy reading!
1. City Hall
Let's start with one of the most imposing and gigantic buildings in downtown Philadelphia, City Hall. The City Hall building took 30 years to complete, but it's no wonder. There are 700 rooms and many sculptures scattered throughout the building, one of the most famous being that of William Penn, the English writer and thinker.
To get to know the place better, you can take a complete tour for just $8. This tour of the building takes place every 15 minutes, so there's no need to book. The way it works for the public is as follows:
- Monday to Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m;
- Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
2. Movie tour
As we know, this is a famous city that has been used in several series and films. That's why you can't miss an itinerary to see all the most famous places we've seen in the works. Depending on where you go, you'll see scenes that have been used in films:
- The Sixth Sense;
- Mannequin;
- Changing the Balls;
- The Witness;
- A Madman on the Block;
- Rocky II.
3. Reading Terminal Market
This is a famous market in the city and one of the oldest in the USA, and it should definitely not be left out of your travel itinerary. The Reading Terminal, founded in 1893, now has almost 100 restaurants and stores. And the best thing about it is the infinity of options, as you'll find different cultures and be able to sample cuisine from all over the world.
Its opening hours are from 9am to 6pm, and it is open every day of the week. However, the opening hours of some stores may vary, meaning you may find some closed depending on the day.
4. Stephen Starr's restaurants
How about visiting restaurants to enjoy the local food? The space is very large and super comfortable, with a tone reminiscent of the cafés in Paris, only a little more modern. Sofas, tables and chairs complete the place and a bicycle hanging from the ceiling adds a unique touch.
It's a great place to relax and sample a typical bistro menu, such as filet with ribbons, almond trout and other delicious dishes. Oh, and of course I can't forget to mention the wine list, which pairs perfectly with the food.
See also other options in the next city: 10 best restaurants in New York!
5. Script by Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was one of the most important figures for the American people. It was he who signed several important documents for the country, such as the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence (in City Hall, which I mentioned above).
In that sense, this itinerary is pure history! You'll go to places where the figure passed through, seeing all the architecture of the time and hearing great stories. The first place on the tour is Independence Hall, the building in which the documents he signed at the time were drafted.
Afterwards, visit Christ Church Burial Ground, a church founded in 1695 with amazing colonial architecture. This is an important point on the tour because it was Benjamin himself who campaigned to raise funds for its construction. As well as being a faithful worshipper.
Finally, there's the Benjamin Franklin museum. There, you'll find various items that belonged to the writer, both objects used in his work and personal items.
6. Philadelphia Museum of Art and Barnes Foundation
The museum was one of my favorite spots when I visited this phenomenal city. There, like me, you'll be enchanted by all the works of art in the museum. Whether it's the naturalistic or realistic paintings, they present a different proposal and make a big impact when you appreciate them.
There, you can enjoy the works of great artists such as:
- Van Gogh;
- Duchamp;
- Matisse;
- Picasso;
- Rodin;
- Monet;
- Renoir.
Among other things, the museum has a collection of more than 240,000 works of art! In addition, the museum also has an area that recreates an entire 16th century Indian temple, making you leave the country and go directly to another one in no time.
And this room theme isn't just for that specific country, we can also find a room with various objects and works from a 17th century Chinese palace and a Japanese tea room. Cool, isn't it? If you want to visit, the opening hours are as follows:
- Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m;
- On Wednesdays and Fridays it closes later, at 20.45.
The entrance fee to visit the park varies between $14 and $30, depending on your age. However, for those aged 18 and under, admission is free.
Want to see other galleries? Check out 13 art galleries in New York and be enchanted by their works!
Did you like these travel tips and would you like to see more sights around Philly? Here at Happy Tours, you'll find it! We have several travel itineraries to give you ideas of what to do in the main cities of the United States. Browse our blog and enjoy.
