There are as many interesting things to do in Philadelphia as there are stories behind these activities. Perhaps one the original of the master planned cities in the United States; Philadelphia was designed on a grid system, the brainchild of famous architect William Penn Jr., who devised the city's rich layout in the late 1600s. Today the grid design that Penn contrived is still very prevalent in this city, which offers a historically rich downtown area that merges with a bustling newer uptown district.
The city has much to offer the visiting tourist including dozens of amazing historical sights that cannot be found anywhere else in the nation, as well as plenty of other dazzling attractions that you will want to take photos of when you travel here. To better help you make the most out of a vacation to this burgeoning metropolis, this list of top ten Philadelphia tourist attractions are certainly worth setting aside some time to see when here to visit.
Liberty Bell: You absolutely have to see this preserved staple of democracy when you visit Philadelphia. It was made famous by its founder, William Penn, who designed the bell in the mid-1700s to represent liberty for all, when the Pennsylvania Statehouse was being built. There are free tours daily, offering to all this famous citing from American history etched on the side of the Liberty Bell: "Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof." Of course, the crack down the side of the bell has been the fancy of many history books as well. This is a must-see tourist attraction in Philadelphia for sure!
Independence Hall: One of the most historically notable landmarks in the United States, this hall was where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were penned and is a sight that all American citizens should try to see during their lifetime. You can take guided tours of twenty different buildings that are situated on this 45-acre spread, all which call Independence National Historical Park their home.
Lights of Liberty: If you want to catch one of the most amazing light shows in the world, then make sure that you don't miss the Lights of Liberty in the downtown area. During the evenings, Independence National Historic Park is lit up brilliantly featuring several different live performances that recant the rich tale of the American Revolution. This is an absolute must-see when you travel to Philadelphia. A one hour walk through this park during nighttime will net you an experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: Similar to the Vietnam memorial in Washington D.C., this monument is in honor of the thousands of unknown soldiers that died in battle or from diseases during the Revolutionary War. In the early 1950s, a statue of George Washington and an Unknown Soldier was placed here to commemorate and remember nameless veterans who gave their lives for our freedom and independence from the British.
Rittenhouse Square: One of the most popular things to do in Philadelphia, as well as one of the best parks in the United States, be sure to set aside a few hours so you can take a gander and a stroll through this enormous park and shoot some photos. Situated in the center of the city, surrounded by upscale residential communities, this place is literally an oasis in the middle of a bustling metropolis.
Philadelphia Museum of Art: One of the most diverse museums of art in the world awaits you to come into its glorious hallways that feature more than two hundred different galleries. With over 400,000 different art pieces, you will want to definitively set aside at least half a day to really take in all the sights that this amazing museum has to offer. A hands-down must-see when you travel to Philadelphia!
Philadelphia Zoo: This zoo is not to be missed when you are here and is actually one of the oldest zoos in the country. There are more than two thousand different kinds of animals here, including some of the rarest creatures in the entire world. Making this zoo a must-see destination for anybody that comes to Philly!
Penn's Landing: This is a really awesome harbor side hotspot in the center of the city that borders the Delaware River. From live musical street performances to the numerous beautiful yachts that are docked by the bay, to the must-see Seaport Museum. Make sure that you check out one of the oldest ports in the US when you are here in this amazing city!
Love Park: One of the more famous of inner city parks in the country most noted for the 'Love' sculpture that was erected here in 1978, designed by famous artist Robert Indiana to represent the city's tag line: "The City of Brotherly Love." This park has been featured in many different movies and TV shows over the years and is definitely worth visiting when you travel to Philadelphia.
Harbor Cruises: If you really want to take in all that the city has to offer make sure to embark on one of the many different water cruises that can found at the harbor. They all range in price and in length. It is recommended that you take a guided tour so that you can learn about some of the rich history of this ancient American port.
This modern yet historical city has so much to offer, and there are so many things to do in Philadelphia that you may feel overwhelmed. Be sure to prioritize your list of attractions, and enjoy this exciting metropolis.
Visit often to learn more information from our updated Things to Do in Philadelphia.
