Philadelphia, sometimes known as the birthplace of America, is a historic city full of charm and culture. The city is located in a geographic sweet spot, with access to the Delaware River and proximity to New York City. While it isn't known as an international tourist destination, the city has much to offer, making it an excellent destination for a day trip. This article will highlight some, but certainly not all, of the recommended activities that visitors should not miss on a trip to Philly.
Philadelphia Museum Of Art
Philadelphia is full of museums, many of which are within walking distance of each other. If due to a lack of time, visitors must choose only one museum to visit, there is no doubt that it should be the Philadelphia Museum Of Art.
Old school tourists who may not be very interested in paintings will be happy to know that the museum is famous for being the filming location for the iconic scene from Rocky (1976) and many of its sequels, where, as part of his training, Rocky Balboa, burdened by the chip on his shoulder, triumphantly runs up the 'Rocky Steps' at the back side of the museum. Commemorating the movie, there is a bronze statue of Rocky, and a great many tourists have enjoyed a cathartic moment recreating the scene.
Inside, the museum features a vast collection of one-of-a-kind art, including classics from Van Gogh, Dali, Picasso, and more. Apart from the excellent curation of curios, relics, statues, and paintings, the museum itself is a stunning testament to humanity's highest ideals. The Greek-Revival style was popular in the days when the museum was built and marks the country's early fascination with Hellenism and Freemasonry. Tourists will find such examples of early American influences all over the city.
- Museum: Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States
- Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Admission: $25 for adults, $14 for students, free for minors
The Liberty Bell
No mention of Philadelphia would be complete without the Liberty Bell. The bell was built in the 1750s and was inspired by a passage from the Old Testament.
"And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family."
Leviticus (25:10)
Thus, the Liberty Bell consecrated the United States as the land of liberty. However, the first time it was rung, the bell cracked, which could be interpreted as a bad omen. In the following centuries, the Bell was sounded to announce major public declarations and was rung to announce the reading of the Declaration of Independence.
- Place of interest: The Liberty Bell
- Address: 526 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States
- Hours: 9 AM - 7 PM
- Admission: Free
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest markets in the United States in addition to being one of the largest. Opened in 1893, the market was named after the Reading Railroad Company because of its location underneath the company's elevated train shed. The merchants and farmers of the market were unwilling to move when it came time to build the train terminus, so the company was forced to build it above them.
This origin story contains the themes that define the market to this day. Inside, visitors will find that the products sold are intimately rooted in the city's locale. Enjoy a Philly Cheese Steak at one of the many food stalls, pick up some locally cultivated vegetables and meat, or have a sit-down meal at a classic family-run ethnic restaurant.
- Place of interest: Reading Terminal Market
- Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
- Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM
- Admission: Free
Penn's Landing
Penn's Landing is a historic waterfront area that serves as the city's public square. The name commemorates the landing of William Penn, the founder of the province of Pennsylvania. Penn was a prominent Quaker and early advocate of religious freedom and democracy. He was especially revered for promoting good relations with the Lenape Indians through a series of peace treaties. He was given the land of Pennsylvania by the King of Scotland, who gave it up to repay a debt owed to Penn's father.
A prominent feature of Penn's Landing is The Great Plaza, a concrete labyrinth that serves as the city's main public space. It is adjacent to the Festival Pier, where summertime events such as concerts, carnivals, congregations are hosted. The pier has a whopping capacity of over 6,500 people.
Elsewhere on Penn's Landing, visitors can catch a ferry across the Delaware River to Camden, New Jersey, but before leaving, tourists are urged to check out Spruce Street Harbor Park, which is an aesthetically pleasing stretch of boardwalk with hundreds of picnic tables and hammocks for public use.
- Place of interest: Penn's Landing
- Address: 101 N. Columbus Blvd. Philadelphia, PA 19106
- Hours: Dawn till dusk
- Note: Closed in the winter