Philadelphia Travel Guide
The City of Brotherly Love is a place I’ve visited often throughout my life (I have family there). While the city has received a bit of a bad rap in the past, Philadelphia has changed a lot in the last few years and is too often overlooked in my opinion.
The city is a vibrant destination with a growing population, good restaurants, a burgeoning art scene, and lots to see and do. (It’s packed with colonial history (the first Continental Congress was held here in 1774), making it an educational stop for anyone interested in learning more about the United States’ past.)
I really like the city and think you can spend a really nice three or four days here.
This travel guide to Philadelphia can help give you all the information you need to plan your trip.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Philadelphia
1. See the Liberty Bell
This bell, which dates to 1752, is an iconic symbol of American freedom. It’s said to have been rung when the Declaration of Independence was read in July 1776. The 2,080-pound (940-kilogram) bell was cast in London, yet cracked the first time that it was run upon its arrival in Philadelphia. Local metalworkers recast it twice, yet the bell eventually cracked again, leaving the distinctive crack it still bears to this day. Today, the bell is located in Independence National Historical Park, which you can visit for free.
2. Run up the Rocky stairs
The stairs from Rocky, the classic boxing film from 1976, are located at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You can’t visit Philadelphia without running up them and doing your best Stallone impression. Just be prepared – there are 72 steps! When you’re done, there’s a bronze statue at the bottom of the steps that you can pose with. The 10-foot (3-meter) statue was originally created for a scene in the 1980 film, Rocky III, and later installed at its current location.
3. Photograph the LOVE statue
This sculpture of the word “Love” by Robert Indiana is one of the most iconic sights in town. Installed in 1976 in JFK Park (commonly called Love Park), the aluminum sculpture is a popular place to snap some photos, relax, and do some people-watching. “Amor” is the sister sculpture of “Love,” created by the artist to recognize the changing demographics of the country and his desire to connect with Spanish-speaking communities. You can visit “Amor” in Philadelphia’s Sister Cities Park.
4. Visit the National Constitution Center
This insightful museum is all about the Constitution (though the document itself is located in Washington, DC). There are interactive displays as well as regular events and lectures where you can learn more about how the Constitution relates to the issues of the day. You’ll find a whole gallery dedicated to the First Amendment and another about the voting rights of women. In the Signer’s Hall, there are 42 life-size statues of the men who signed the Constitution and you can imagine what it may have been like on that day. The center also has hosted Presidential and Senatorial debates. Admission is $19 USD and you need to reserve a time slot in advance.
5. Browse Reading Terminal Market
Opened in 1893, this is one of the oldest and biggest markets in the country. There are over 80 stalls, vendors, and merchants offering all kinds of fresh produce, local cheeses, tasty meals, flowers, and handicrafts. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat, including local specialties like the iconic Philly cheesesteak or Pennsylvania Dutch whoopie pies. The market is open daily from 8am to 6pm (though Pennsylvania Dutch merchants don’t operate on Sundays).
Other Things to See and Do in Philadelphia
1. Take a free walking tour
The first thing I do when I visit a new city is take a walking tour. They’re the best way to get the lay of the land, see the main sights, and meet a local guide who can answer all your questions. Free Tours by Foot runs regular free walking tours that can show you all the main sites. Just be sure to tip your guide!
For an in-depth paid historical tour, check out The Constitutional. Tours last 90 minutes and cost $19 USD.
2. See the President’s House
This three-story brick building is where the president lived from 1790 to 1800, when Philadelphia was the capital (George Washington and John Adams both resided here while running the government). Prior to independence, the building was the headquarters for the occupying British forces. The house was accidentally destroyed in 1951, so only the walls remain. Today, the house is an open-air memorial that focuses on the role of slavery in colonial America — including the use of slaves in George Washington’s own house. Admission is free.
3. Visit the distilleries
Before the US embraced prohibition between 1920 and 1933, Philadelphia was a thriving distillery hub. While the 18th Amendment wiped out that progress, the city has slowly been returning to its boozy roots after a 2011 law allowed distilleries to run tours and offer samples. The city has a handful open to the public. Some local favorites are Philadelphia Distilling (the first to open to the public after the new law), Stateside, and New Liberty Distilling. Tour prices vary, but expect to pay around $20-25 USD.
4. Tour the Museum of Art
Established in 1876 for the first World’s Fair, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to over 200,000 items, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, armor, prints, photographs, and more. There are works by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Rodin, and other masters. The museum displays works from local artists as well as objects from around the world. Benjamin Franklin lived in Philadelphia for most of his life and there’s a whole section dedicated to artwork depicting the famous Founding Father. Admission is $30 USD; however, a pay-what-you-can admission is offered on the first Sunday of the month, as well as on Fridays, 5pm–8:45pm.
5. Try a Philly cheesesteak
No visit to the City of Brotherly Love would be complete without trying a Philly cheesesteak. This sandwich consists of thinly sliced grilled beef and onions, topped with melted cheese on a crusty bun. It was invented in the 1930s by two brothers who ran a hot dog stand in South Philadelphia. The sandwich caught on and more restaurants opened serving the popular item. Now you can find interesting variations around the city. While every local has their favorite place to grab one, some of the most popular are John’s Roast Pork, Pat’s King of Steaks, and Geno’s Steaks.
6. Visit Christ Church
Completed in 1744, this church is where many of the Founding Fathers and other noteworthy individuals worshipped, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Betsy Ross. The towering white steeple that can be seen from the surrounding neighborhoods.The current brick church replaced the original wooden building, which the community quickly outgrew. Upon completion, it was the tallest building in the US until 1856, at 196 feet. In the nearby cemetery, you’ll find the grave of Benjamin Franklin himself. Admission to the church and burial ground are $5 USD each for a self-guided tour.
7. Catch a game
While I’m not a big sports fan, catching a game in person is always a good time in any city you visit just because it’s a good way to meet locals. The city’s hockey team (the Flyers) was one of the first 12 teams in the NHL, while the Phillies baseball team is the oldest one-name, one-city sports team in the country. Prices vary, but you can usually find tickets for $25-50 USD, depending on the seats.
8. Tour Magic Gardens
This quirky folk art exhibition and art gallery is one of the most unique attractions in town. It’s a collection of indoor and outdoor art and mosaics made from broken tiles, glass, and all kinds of odds and ends that’s designed to be an immersive experience into a world of mixed-media art. Started in 1994 and opened to the public in 2008, it spans three city lots. There’s an outdoor labyrinth you can explore as well. Admission is $15 USD. There are 75-minute guided tours available on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a local expert. These cost $20 and may sell out, so book in advance.
9. See the Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site
Born in 1809, Edgar Allen Poe is best known for his macabre short stories (such as The Tell-Tale Heart). While he lived in several houses around town over the years, this home-turned-historic site is the only one still standing. During his time in Philly, Poe published over 30 stories, making it one of the most prolific periods of his life. You can read his works, hear theories and criticisms about his writing, and tour some of the rooms he lived in. Admission is free.
10. See City Hall
Completed in 1894, this building is the world’s largest free-standing masonry building, built from granite, marble, and limestone. It was the world’s tallest building when it was completed (until 1908). The building is topped with a statue of William Penn, the founder of the city. The view from the top is one of the best. Tours are available on Saturdays for $16 USD. You can also take a tour of the interior and learn about the architecture, history, and art within the building. This tour also takes you outside the building to see the 250 sculptures around the grounds. These are about two hours long and cost $36.
11. Visit Franklin Court & Museum
Benjamin Franklin is one of the Founding Fathers of the US. One of the leading intellectuals of his time, Franklin was a gifted writer and thinker. This small court is where Franklin lived from 1763 to 1790 while serving in the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention. While his house was torn down after his death in 1790, a hollow structure stands where it was located, and there’s a museum nearby with information about his life and works. There’s also a working reproduction of an 18th-century printing office, as well as a post office here (Franklin was the first Postmaster General). Admission to the outdoor court is free. Admission to the Franklin Museum is free.
12. Explore Eastern State Penitentiary
This former prison was in operation from 1829 until 1971. It held all kinds of big-name criminals during that time, including mobster Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton. From the outside, it looks like a European castle with its stonework and turrets. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark and open to the public for tours. There are a few solitary confinement cells you can explore, and there are both day and night tours as well. Additional exhibits, including one out on the grounds, explore the current state of the prison system in the United States. Night tours include the option to grab a drink (beer is available) and other activites, like pop-up talks, that visitors don’t get during the day. Self-guided tours (narrated by actor Steve Buscemi) are also available. Admission is $21 USD.
13. Take a food tour
Philly is a foodie city, and the best way to sample and learn about the city’s culinary delights is with a food tour. The city was named one of the twelve “Places to Eat in 2024” by eater.com, right up there with Cairo, Egypt and Osaka, Japan. Four Philadelphia restaurants won James Beard awards in 2023 as well. Whether you want cheap street food or fine dining, this city has it covered. City Food Tours offers a few different ones around town, though its Flavors of Philly tour is the best place to start. You’ll visit five different restaurants over 2.5 hours, tasting the best eats along the way. Tours start at $49 USD.
How to Stay Safe in Philadelphia
While Philadelphia has a bad rap, it is relatively safe, and scams and incidents here are rare, beyond a few specific neighborhoods. Theft and violent crime are rare outside of a few areas, so as long as you use common sense, you shouldn’t experience any issues. Avoid the areas of Nicetown and Hunting Park.
Avoid flashing your valuables while out in public and make sure they are out of sight in crowds and on busy public transportation. As a tourist, you’re most likely only going to encounter petty crime. Be mindful of your belongings at all times to avoid pickpockets.
Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.
For travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here. There aren’t many in the United States though.
If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.
Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. It will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:
Where to Stay in Philadelphia
There is only one hostel in Philadelphia, so you’ll need to book early if you’re on a budget. Budget hotels are also rare, so be sure to check Airbnb for the best deals. Here are my recommended places to stay:
Philadelphia Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel dorms – $32-37 USD per night
- Hostel private rooms – $83 USD per night
- Budget hotels – $115-150 USD per night
- Airbnb private rooms – $60-65 USD per night
- Airbnb apartments – $125 USD per night
Food
- Street food – $5-13 USD
- Sit-down restaurants – $20-35 USD
- Fine dining – $30-165 USD
- Casual take-out places – $10-15 USD
- Fast food (think McDonald’s) – $10.50 USD
- Beer – $6-8 USD
- Cappuccino/latte- $5 USD
- Bottled water – $2 USD
- Groceries for a week – $55 USD
Philadelphia Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – 70 USD Per Day
On a backpacking budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, and use public transportation to get around. You’ll need to limit your drinking and do free activities like see the Rocky stairs and visit the Liberty Bell. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-15 USD per day.
Midrange – 150 USD Per Day
On a midrange budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room. You’ll be able to eat cheap street food for most meals, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, like visit Magic Gardens or catch a game.
Upscale – 360 USD Per Day
On a “luxury” budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out pretty much anywhere you want, drink at the bar, take more taxis, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!
Philadelphia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
Compared to cities like LA or NYC, Philly isn’t super expensive. However, costs can add up quick if you’re not careful. Here are some tips to help you keep your budget in tact:
Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes water bottles with built-in filters to ensure that your water is always safe and clean.
Take a free walking tour – If you want to see the main sights on a budget, take a free walking tour. You’ll get an expert guide to show you around and answer all your questions for free. Fee Tours By Foot is the best company to go with. Just be sure to tip!
Visit the free sights – The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Franklin Court, and Congress Hall are all free. Really, most of the history stuff is free. Stick to the free attractions if you’re on a tight budget.
Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards and use those points when you travel. There’s nothing better than free accommodation and most cards come with at least 1-2 nights free, which can greatly help lower your costs. This post can help you get started with the basics so you can start earning points today and have plenty for your trip.
Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a platform that connects you with locals who can host you for free. You’ll not only get a free place to stay, but you’ll get to connect with someone who can share their tips and advice about the city.
Cook your own meals – While binging on hoagies sounds fun, eating out can add up. Cook your own food to save money. It’s not as glamorous, but it will save you a ton of money!
Get the Philadelphia Pass – If you plan on seeing a lot, get the Philadelphia Pass (for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days). It can save you a lot if you plan on visiting a bunch of attractions (over 30 are available). Passes range from $59 USD to $134 USD.
Get a transit pass – Philly has transit passes that give you access to both the bus and metro systems. A one-day pass is $6 and a three-day pass is $15. If you’re staying for a whole week, a pass is $25.50. Depending on how much you plan to use the system, this can save you a lot over the $2 single-ride fare.
How to Get Around in Philadelphia
Public transportation – Philly is connected by buses, trolleys, a metro, and regional rail lines. Fares start at $2 USD with a SEPTA card (a reloadable transit pass that costs $4.95 USD) or $2.50 USD if paying cash (exact change is needed). You can get a one-day pass for $6 or a three-day pass for $15.
The train to/from the airport takes around 25 minutes and costs $6.50 USD.
Taxi – Taxis here start at $2.70 and charge $2.50 per additional mile. They can really blow your budget fast, so avoid them if you can.
Ridesharing – If you need to take something like a taxi, use Uber or Lyft instead as they are generally cheaper.
Bike rental – Indego is Philly’s bike-share program. There are 140 stations around town, with day passes starting at $15 USD for unlimited 60-minute rides on a classic bike. As long as you return the bike to a station within 60 minutes, you can avoid the additional charges.
Car rental – You don’t need a car to get around the city and, since parking isn’t cheap, I’d skip the rental unless you’re planning to leave the city. For the best rental car prices, use Discover Cars.
When to Go to Philadelphia
Summer is the most popular time to visit. While the city gets busy, the sun is out and there are lots of events and festivals to attend like the Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Festival and the Philadelphia Folk Festival. There’s also a huge Independence Day celebration with multiple days of events. Expect daily highs between 85 and 90°F (29-32°C). Book your accommodation early if you’re visiting in the summer, as budget accommodation fills up fast.
Winter offers cheaper prices, but it’s cold, with temperatures hovering around 40°F (4°C). The city does host a Winterfest with some outdoor activities, but be sure to bring plenty of warm clothes. Unless you just plan to visit museums and stay indoors, I’d avoid visiting in the winter.
The late spring and early fall are great times to visit, as the weather is temperate and it isn’t busy. Spring temperatures range between 51°-72° (11°-22°C), so you’ll definitely want to bring a sweater for the cool evenings. The city has a Cherry Blossom Festival and all the parks and gardens come into bloom which makes it a nice time to visit. While you might get a little rain, it’s nice enough to walk around, and you won’t have the summer crowds or booked accommodations that are found in the summer.
During the fall, high temperatures are range from 54°-76°F (12°-25°C). From September 15th to October 15th the city hosts a number of events for National Hispanic Heritage Month. Later in October, you’ll find plenty of Halloween activities and the leaves are changing. It’s a nice time to be outside and it’s a bit drier than the spring. Just make sure to pack layers for the variable weather.
Philadelphia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
- Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
- Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
- SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
- LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
- Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
- Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
Philadelphia Travel Guide: Related Articles
Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:
