Welcome to Philadelphia, a city bursting with history and fascinating attractions! Whether you're a history buff or just looking for some spooky thrills, this city has something for everyone.
As you plan your visit to the City of Brotherly Love, we present a selection of accommodations that will elevate your stay to new heights. From luxurious Philadelphia 5 star Hotels on hotels-in-philadelphia.net that epitomize elegance and refinement to charming accommodations in the vibrant South Philly neighborhood and the picturesque Chestnut Hill Hotel, Philadelphia offers a range of choices to suit every discerning traveler's preferences.
If you crave the vibrant energy and cultural diversity of South Philly, you'll find an array of accommodations that capture the essence of this eclectic neighborhood. Stay amidst the bustling streets, savor the flavors of diverse cuisines, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that defines South Philly Hotels on hotels-in-philadelphia.net. Discover the unique charm of the accommodations in South Philly and experience the authentic spirit of this dynamic neighborhood.
Eastern State Penitentiary
If you're up for a spine-chilling experience, Eastern State Penitentiary is the place to go. This imposing castle-like structure was designed to isolate prisoners from all human contact, under the belief that they would become penitent when left alone with their crimes. Even today, it's creepy enough to host a massive "haunted house" every autumn. You can even take an audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi. Visit their website at easternstate.org for more information.
Independence Hall
Photograph: Alamy
Step back in time at Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution was adopted. This iconic landmark is part of a national park that also houses the famous cracked Liberty Bell. While the Constitution and Declaration are actually kept in Washington DC, the Constitution Center across the street offers an interactive hologram of Benjamin Franklin. Don't miss the chance to ask him about French women for a hilariously lecherous response. Check out nps.gov/inde for more details.
Mütter Museum
Photograph: Alamy
For those with a morbid curiosity, the Mütter Museum offers a unique collection of medical oddities and historical artifacts. From pieces of Einstein's brain to a nine-foot colon, this museum is sure to spark your sense of wonder and gratitude for modern medicine. Find them at collegeofphysicians.org/mutter-museum.
Benjamin Franklin Museum
Photograph: Alamy
Philadelphia's beloved founding father, Benjamin Franklin, is celebrated throughout the city. His contributions to society, from his abolitionist beliefs to his inventions, have left an indelible mark on American history. The Benjamin Franklin Museum is the perfect place to learn more about this fascinating figure. Visit their website at nps.gov/inde to plan your visit.
I hope you find this information helpful. Enjoy exploring the wonders of Philadelphia!
The Magic Gardens
Photograph: Alamy
South Street used to be a bohemian haven, much like New York's East Village. Nowadays, it's filled with cheap stores and lots of teenagers. But traces of its former life can be seen in the mosaics created by Isaiah Zagar, which adorn random buildings like beautiful lichen. The heart of it all is the Magic Gardens, a vacant lot turned into an enormous, multi-level art environment covered in Zagar's trademark ceramic-and-mirror tiles.
1020 South Street, phillymagicgardens.org. Open Sun-Thurs 11am-5pm and Fri-Sat 11am-6pm. Adults $7, students and seniors $3, six-12 years $3, under-fives free
Mummers Museum
Photograph: Alamy
Philly's annual Mummers Parade is the oldest folk festival in the country. It's a unique celebration that dates back to traditional British mummers plays but has evolved into something completely its own. Picture glitter, marching banjos, huge feathered headdresses, and, of course, lots of beer. Mummers have been typically blue-collar white men who mix the holiday traditions of South Philly river ward immigrants. For the full Mummers experience, visit during New Year, or if you just want a taste of Philly's weirdness, head over to the museum in Mummer territory.
1100 S 2nd Street, mummersmuseum.com. Open Wed-Sat 9.30am-4pm, October-April. Adults $3.50, students, seniors and under-12s $2.50
Rittenhouse Square
Photograph: Alamy
Rittenhouse Square is one of Philadelphia's most elegant parks. It was originally part of the city's plan by William Penn and is now the centerpiece of the city's wealthiest area. The park is perfect for people-watching, with its central fountain, diagonal sidewalks, and plenty of benches. You'll see a mix of bike messengers, well-dressed grandmas with Pomeranians, students from the nearby Curtis Institute of Music practicing outdoors, and the occasional amateur tightrope-walker. Take a seat and enjoy the atmosphere.
18th and Walnut Streets, friendsofrittenhouse.org. Open Tues-Thurs and Sat 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-7pm
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Photograph: Alamy
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is known for more than just its art collection. It's also famous for the steps that Rocky Balboa famously ran up in the movie. The museum itself is massive, spanning 10 acres, and houses a diverse range of artwork. Don't miss the impressive Duchamp collection and, for a memorable experience, find the unmarked peephole that reveals Duchamp's mysterious artwork, Étant Donnés.
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, philamuseum.org. Open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Adults $20, seniors $18, students and 13-18s $14, under-12s free
The Barnes Foundation
Photograph: Alamy
The Barnes Foundation is home to one of the world's most remarkable art collections, featuring works by impressionist and modernist artists. The collection was amassed by Albert C. Barnes and displayed in unconventional arrangements, combining million-dollar paintings with everyday items. The foundation went through a controversial move in 2012, but the original arrangements were meticulously replicated. Whether this move was a success or a tragedy remains a subject of debate.
2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, barnesfoundation.org. Open Sat-Mon and Wed-Thur 10am-6pm, Fri 10am-10pm. Non-members $30, members $20
Reading Terminal Market
Photograph: Alamy
Reading Terminal Market has a long history as a bustling marketplace in Philadelphia. In the past, it was scattered along Market Street until it was consolidated into an indoor market at 12th and Market. Today, it's a vibrant complex filled with various food stalls. You can find everything from Thai curry and urban honey to roast pork sandwiches and even items like quail and emu eggs. Be sure to try the traditional Pennsylvania Dutch treats like shoo-fly pie and sticky buns in the north-west section of the market.
12th and Arch streets, readingterminalmarket.org. Open Mon-Sat 8am-6pm and Sun 9am-5pm
