Philadelphia, also known as the “City of Brotherly Love,” is a historic and culturally rich destination for travelers. Whether you’re interested in American history, art, or good food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here is a guide for travelers, including information on two outdoor activities, two must-see places, and one unusual tip for making the most of your visit to Philadelphia.
Outdoor activities
Explore the outdoors by enjoying activities in Philadelphia. From biking along the Schuylkill River to enjoying Fairmount park, there's something for every adventure seeker to enjoy.
The Schuylkill River Trail
This trail is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Philadelphia while getting some exercise. The trail runs along the Schuylkill River and offers stunning city views. You can bike, run, or walk along the trail and stop at various points to take in the sights. The trail is also home to several parks and playgrounds, making it an excellent destination for families.
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and offers various outdoor activities. You can hike, bike, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. There are also several playgrounds, picnic areas, and many historic houses and monuments to explore. The park is also home to the Philadelphia Zoo and the Please Touch Museum, which are both great places to visit with kids.
Must See Places
Explore the top attractions in Philadelphia City, from historical buildings to impressive art museum. Don't miss out on these must-visit destinations during your trip.
Independence Hall
This historical building is where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were both signed. Visitors to Independence Hall can take a guided tour of the building to learn about the history of the American Revolution and the formation of the United States. The tour includes a visit to the Assembly Room, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the room where the Constitution was written.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest museums in the United States and home to an impressive collection of American and European art. Visitors can see works by famous artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Cezanne, as well as a wide variety of artifacts from ancient Egypt and Asia. The museum also features many special exhibitions throughout the year, making it an excellent destination for art lovers.
Unusual Tip
Uncover the hidden gem of Philadeplhia. This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.
Magic Gardens
One unusual tip for visiting Philadelphia is to check out the city’s Magic Gardens. These mosaics, created by artist Isaiah Zagar, cover an entire city block and are made from found objects such as glass bottles, ceramic tiles, and mirrors. The gardens are a unique and beautiful sight and are definitely worth a visit.
Hidden Wonders
These two places from Atlas Obscura will certainly add a unique and offbeat dimension to your trip. Eastern State Penitentiary offers a glimpse into the past and the evolution of the penitentiary system, and Mutter Museum showcases a collection of medical specimens that will certainly pique your curiosity.
Eastern State Penitentiary
This historic prison is known for being one of the most expensive and technologically advanced prisons of its time. Visitors can take a guided tour of the prison and learn about its history and the lives of the inmates who were held there. Some of the most notable features of the prison include the “big house” design, which allowed guards to watch all the cells from a central location, and the “Pennsylvania System,” which believed in rehabilitation through solitary confinement.
Mütter Museum
The Mütter Museum is a medical museum that features a wide variety of unusual and fascinating medical specimens. Visitors can see things like a plaster cast of Siamese twins, a piece of Albert Einstein’s brain, and a collection of antique medical instruments. The museum also features several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the history of medicine and the human body in an engaging and hands-on way.
Accommodation Suggestions
These four accommodation suggestions offer a range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury, in various city locations, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
Budget-friendly:
The Philadelphia Hostel is an option for travelers looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay. The hostel offers private rooms, shared dormitories, and a variety of communal spaces, including a kitchen, lounge, and outdoor patio. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and a complimentary continental breakfast. The hostel is located in the city’s heart and within walking distance of many of Philadelphia’s top attractions.
Mid-range:
The Morris House Hotel is a historic hotel located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Society Hill neighborhood. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with elegant furnishings and modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also enjoy a fitness center, a complimentary continental breakfast, and a courtyard garden. The hotel is within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions and is a great option for travelers looking for a unique and historical experience.
Luxury:
The Rittenhouse is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Rittenhouse Square. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with elegant furnishings and modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also enjoy a fitness center, a spa, and a complimentary continental breakfast. The hotel is in close proximity to many of the city’s top attractions, making it a great option for travelers looking for a high-end experience.
Unique:
The Independent Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, a 24-hour front desk, and a complimentary continental breakfast. The hotel is in close proximity to many of the city’s top attractions, making it a great option for travelers on a moderate budget.
Philadelphia is a great destination for travelers, with plenty of outdoor activities, must-see places, and unique experiences to enjoy. From the Schuylkill River Trail to Independence Hall, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. And remember to check out the Magic Gardens for a truly unusual experience!
