Things to see in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a big city to explore and discover, with many things to see in it! With its rich history and vibrant culture, it has something to offer for all tastes. From museums, historical sites, to outdoor parks and restaurants, it may be difficult to decide what you should see when you visit the City of Fraternal Love or Philly, as its inhabitants call it affectionately.

Fortunately, in this article, we bring you a list of the best places of interest and attractions that Philadelphia has to offer. So keep reading!

Philadelphia origins

Philadelphia has a long and fascinating story. The city was founded in 1682 by William Penn. He called the city for the Greek words for “fraternal love”, (compound of philos (φίλος) “love”, and Adelphos (ἀδελφός) “brother”), which is still seen today in local culture.

There are a variety of sites and attractions that allow visitors to explore the origins of Philadelphia.

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Combine your trip to Philadelphia with other United States destinations

Philadelphia is an ideal destination for travelers who go to the east from New York and wish to plan an itinerary on the east coast. There are some ways to get there, even traveling by train. The trains leave the Moynihan Room at the New York Penn station and make the trip in approximately an hour and a half to Philadelphia.

Another option to get to Philadelphia is to go with a rented car, for example, from New York takes approximately two hours by the South I-95.

What things are there to see in Philadelphia?

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is an unmissable monument for any Philadelphia visitor. Located in the heart of the city, it is one of the most emblematic places associated with US history. The Chamber was built between 1732 and 1753. Originally, it was the headquarters of the Colonial Government of Pennsylvania.

It was here that the declaration of independence in 1776 was debated and signed, and it was also where the United States Constitution was written later.

Depending on the time the visit can be made independently or only through a guided tour, while you are planning your trip visit the official website of Independence Hall to know what you should do to visit it and avoid surprises.

Independence Hall is part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1979

LOVE sign

The LOVE sign in Philadelphia is an iconic symbol of the city and one of the most popular things to see in the city. Located in John F. Kennedy Plaza, commonly known as LOVE Park, the LOVE sign was created for the 1976 Bicentennial celebration as part of a Robert Indiana art installation.

The truth is, it doesn’t matter whether you go with your partner or you don’t have one, it will be impossible to resist the love of this artistic monument, and you will take the photo. I also succumbed to his charms!

Philadelphia Art Museum

The Philadelphia Art Museum is one of the largest and most recognized art museums in the United States. It was created in 1876 for the centenary exhibition and opened its doors in 1877, with collections that cover centuries, from ancient objects to modern masterpieces, it offers something for everyone.

Whether you are looking for Renaissance paintings or contemporary photographs, there is something in this museum that will catch your attention.

If you do not have time to visit the museum inside, anyway it is worth you to give you a turn, especially if you are a fan of the Rocky Balboa saga.

Rocky’s stairs

Rocky’s stairs are an iconic site in Philadelphia. These are the steps that are at the forefront of the Museum of Art of Philadelphia and have become a popular tourist attraction over the years, since they are the ones that were seen in the film “Rocky”, winner of the prize of the prize of the prize of the prize of the 1976 Academy.

Each year, thousands of people participate in what has now become a ritual for many: up and down as if they were living their own personal training assembly of Rocky Balboa. I climbed them up, but without the rhythm of Rocky training, for I was going alone and if I fell, I had no one to help me.

The Rocky Statue

In the upper part of Rocky’s stairs is a bronze statue of Sylvester Stallone, which refers to the first movie of the saga. This pays tribute to his inspiring character who achieved greatness against wind and tide.

It was installed there on September 8, 2006. I could not see it, since I went to the city two years before.

Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell of freedom is an iconic symbol of American independence. Originally known as State House Bell, later he was renamed Liberty Bell, having been rung for its most important moment on July 8, 1776, to announce the adoption of the declaration of independence. Since then, it has been one of the most iconic symbols associated with the United States struggle for freedom.

Today, visitors can see the bell closely in its home in the National Historical Park of Independence. The bell is registered with a 25:10 Leviticus appointment that says, “proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants.”

Seeing first-hand this part of the history is an impressive experience that you should not skip if you visit Philadelphia.

The Franklin institute

The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia is one of the main science museums in the United States and offers something for all with interactive exhibitions, demonstrations and a variety of educational programs that explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

If the exhibition that is at that time does not attract your attention, anyway take a walk to visit its main hall, which is free. You will find the Benjamin Franklin memorial where you can see, among other things, a huge statue of one of the founding parents of the United States and a huge dome.

City Hall building

The City Council buildings are an integral part of the cities horizon, and one of the examples of this is the City Hall of Philadelphia, which was completed in 1901 and measures 167 meters high.

It is a large building with a statue of William Penn at the top of its tower. And until 1987 it was the tallest building in Philadelphia because by a gentlemen’s pact it was banned that any structure be higher than the statue of William Penn.

The headquarters of the city council had been the highest building built in masonry, since in 1953 the Summit of the Mole Antonelliana of Turin collapsed. The Pinnacle of the Mole Antonelliana was rebuilt and reinforced with steel, causing the City Council of Philadelphia to stay with the position.

Betsy Ross House

This little house was, supposedly, the home of the famous seamstress and manufacturer of flags Betsy Ross. It is said that it was here that she sewed the first American flag.

Despite being one of the most visited sites in Philadelphia, most historians agree that the statement that Betsy lived in that house was false. Anyway, it is a place to visit if you have already passed through Elfreth’s Alley Street, since it is very close and ends up giving an idea of the historical environment of the time.

Museums for all tastes

In addition to the historical sites of the National Historical Park of Independence and the Museum of Art, there are many other museums to see in Philadelphia. Including the impressive Museum of the Academy of Natural Sciences, which offers a variety of exhibitions on natural history, or also the Rodin Museum is another suitable option for art lovers, with its impressive collection of sculptures of August Rodin. It also has a beautiful garden that is open to visitors throughout the year.

If you want to change a little atmosphere, another option to visit is the infamous Eastern State Penitentiary, where Capone was imprisoned in 1929. This old prison offers tours and provides an interesting vision of architecture and the atmosphere of how it could have been for the inmates in the early twentieth century.

What to eat in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is home of one of the most iconic dishes in the United States, the Philly Cheesesteak. This classic dish consists of rib steak in fine slices, onions and grilled peppers and melted cheese in crispy Italian bread.

Its savory and salty flavor, combined with its crunchy texture, make it an irresistible meal for locals and visitors alike. So don’t leave town without trying it!

Philadelphia, a historic city

In conclusion, there are many things to see and enjoy in Philadelphia. From its rich history to its modern attractions, there is something for everyone in this incredible city.

Take some time to explore the City of Brotherly Love and let your curiosity guide you as you discover the wonders Philadelphia has to offer.

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