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Whether it’s your favorite vacation spot or you’re visiting for the first time, Philadelphia is considered one of the best travel destinations in the world. Known as the Birthplace of America, Philadelphia has countless close ties to the American Revolution, making it a must-visit city for history buffs.
If you plan to join the 42.9 million tourists trekking to Philly, you’ll want to spend your time in the city efficiently. Discover the top 10 must-see attractions and best things to do in Philadelphia with the help of Safeguard Self Storage’s travel guide!
1. Independence Hall
Our first recommended stop on your Philadelphia trip is Independence Hall. Located on Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets, this historic building is the site where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
You can visit Independence Hall daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but remember to leave time to pass through the security screening area. Security screenings end 15 minutes before the building closes or earlier if all the tours are full.
Speaking of tours, you’ll need tickets to enter Independence Hall. You can secure your spot on a tour online or by giving the ticketing service a call from 10:00 a.m. to midnight.
2. Liberty Bell Center
Just around the corner from Independence Hall is the Liberty Bell Center, which houses—you guessed it—the Liberty Bell! This famous symbol of freedom in the United States has been on display since 1753, when it was first struck in Independence Hall’s tour.
Seeing this incredible piece of history in person is one of the best things to do in Philadelphia, and you don’t need a ticket! Stop by anytime between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., allowing five minutes for security screening.
3. Try a Cheesesteak
If you build up an appetite after learning about America’s history, you’ve got to grab one of Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteaks. A cheesesteak consists of rib eye beef that’s chopped or sliced and melted cheese on a crusty long roll, with optional sautéed onions, peppers, and other toppings. You can get white, American, or provolone on your cheesesteak, but the local favorite is Whiz, which is a melted cheddar-style cheese.
We won’t tell you which shop you should go to, as it’s a hot debate among Philadelphians, but here are some of the most popular cheesesteak spots in town:
4. Rocky Statue and Steps
After you’ve had a cheesesteak or maybe two, get your steps in and experience some cinematic history by checking out the Rocky Statue and “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll recognize the stone staircase leading to the museum’s entrance as the same one Sylvester Stallone climbs in his film “Rocky.”
Whether you run or walk, no Philadelphia sightseeing trip is complete without snapping a photo of yourself at the top of the steps doing Rocky Balboa’s iconic two-handed salute.
5. Benjamin Franklin Parkway
The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a mile-long boulevard that boasts a wide variety of world-renowned museums. From admiring breathtaking art to exploring the scientific legacy of Benjamin Franklin, visiting the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is perfect for visiting multiple must-see attractions in Philadelphia. We recommend adding any of the following spots to your Philly itinerary:
6. Reading Terminal Market
If you haven’t scratched that foodie itch with an authentic cheesesteak, you can find the mouthwatering dish you’re looking for at Reading Terminal Market. First opened in 1893, it’s one of the oldest public markets in the country. From even more cheesesteak options at Tommy DiNic’s and Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine like shoo fly pie at Dutch Eating Place to Little Thai Market’s salmon curry, there’s something for everyone’s palette at Reading Terminal Market.
When you’re not eyeing the piping-hot chicken and waffles someone just bought at Ma Lessie’s, you can get your fill of shopping by visiting any of Reading Terminal Market’s 80-plus merchants. Just make sure you have enough space to bring home your new treasures!
7. Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens is located in Chester County, PA, about an hour away from Philadelphia, but it’s worth the drive if you can swing it. This mesmerizing botanical garden boasts more than a thousand acres packed with over 9,000 species of flowers, bushes, trees, and other plants just waiting to wow you. While you’ll see the most plants at their peak in the spring and summer, Longwood Gardens’ holiday lights will make your wintertime visit magical.
8. Philadelphia Zoo
Did you know Philadelphia is home to America’s first zoo? Built in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo spans 42 acres and is home to almost 1,300 animals, like Galapagos tortoises and Amur tigers. You can visit the zoo daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Remember to reserve your tickets ahead of time and check for any special holiday hours or closures before you visit.
9. Delaware River Waterfront
The Delaware River waterfront has seen incredible development in recent years and has become a hot spot for new eateries, beautiful parks, and exciting festivals for residents and visitors alike. If you plan to explore the area, try to stop by at the beginning of the month to enjoy the First Friday festivities on Cherry Street Pier.
10. Citizens Bank Park
Philadelphia is a testament to the United States’ culture and history, and there’s nothing more American than a game of baseball. If you head to the City of Brotherly Love during baseball season, make a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park the cherry on top of your trip. You can grab a hot dog and soda or tap into your adventurous spirit by ordering some Chickie’s & Pete’s Crabfries.
Plan Your Next Adventure in Philadelphia, PA, With Safeguard Self Storage
We hope our Philadelphia travel guide has left you feeling ready to dive into your next—or first—trip to the city! From must-see attractions to delicious local bites, you can always discover something new every time you visit Philly.
Additionally, if you fall in love with Philadelphia so much that you move to town, you can make your transplant process easier with convenient storage units from Safeguard Self Storage. Enjoy visiting any of the top places in Philadelphia!
