Do you know Philadelphia is known as the “city of first”? The independence hall association touts Philadelphia, as the city of first because it is where the first zoo, first bank, first children’s home, first university and first Mint were built.
The Pennsylvanian city is the nation’s fifth largest and is home to over 12 million people. The city is considered the birthplace of the United States of America. It was here that the nation’s declaration of independence was readback in 1776.
As a tourist wishing to tour the city be sure to visit the famous museums, the liberty Centre Rittenhouse Square, the Eastern State Penitentiary and finally take Instagram worthy photos rocky steps at the museum of art. There’s more to do in Philadelphia than eat a PhillyCheese Steak sandwich. Keep reading for the top 7 best things to do while visiting Philadelphia.
1. Visit the Liberty Bell Centre
The liberty bell is a symbol of the united states independence. Located in the Independence National Historic Park opposite independence hall sits the Liberty Centre. The liberty bell is 2,080-pound piece and is used to mark memorable critical occasions, most remarkably at the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence from the British in 1776.
This attraction is a must-see for all Americans as it marks the struggles the country endured to gain its independence. The Centre offers information video presentations in different languages that details the history of the bell. The liberty bell should be in your bucket list of the fun thing to see in Philly.
2. Enjoy the Famous Cheese Steak
If you are in Philadelphia, then you have to eat a Philly cheese steak. In Philadelphia, cheesesteaks are a civic iconic that attract visitors from all around the world. The Philadelphia cheese steak sandwich is one of the most delightful and beloved foods and can be found all over the city.
A cheesesteak is a long, crusty roll jam-packed with cut sautéed rib-eye steak and melted cheese. Boo’s Philly cheesesteaks & Hoagies has the best so be sure to visit the grill for some delicious cheesesteak. Check out some delicious options of cheesesteak to savor.
3. Museum of Art
As a tourist visiting Philadelphia, you cannot miss visiting the museum of art. The museum’s Rocky Statue and the rocky steps are irrefutable to of the most popular fascinations in Philadelphia. People visit the museum of art to take photos with the Rocky statue and then jostle up the museum’s grand stairs to try taking photos as they raise both their arms while doing a salute.
If you wish to learn while taking Instagram worthy photos, then the art museum of art is the best place to visit.
4. Take a Trip Down the Memory Lane at the Holocaust Memorial Plaza
The memorial commemorates the victim of the Holocaust tragedy, which was a dark period in the history of the United States. Inside the plaza is the Six Million Jewish Martyrs statue which tributes the millions of Jews killed by Nazi Germany. Each pillar represents a theme of the Holocaust, and neighboring it is another pillar that describes America’s core values.
Visitors can walk to the edge of the plaza where there is a tree grove. At the plaza, a tree sample was planted to commemorate children killed in a camp in Czechoslovakia
5. Visit the African American Museum
The African American museum was one of the museums that opened during the 1976 Bicentennial celebration in Philadelphia. The museum was built to preserve and display the culture and the heritage of the African-Americans. It shows the story of the African-Americans and their part in the establishment of the nation.
African American history, social issues are exhibited on a rotating schedule on the museum’s galleries through fine art, audiovisual aid displays, essential relics, and educational panels.
6. Spruce Street Harbor Park
If you are visiting Philadelphia, then Spruce Street Harbor Park should be in your bucket list. The harbor park is a hammock-filled sanctuary on the Delaware River waterfront oasis. Tourists have a chance to stretch on their hammocks while enjoying savoring foods from Philly.
You can also enjoy a cold beer in the beer garden. If you plan to visit Spruce Street Harbor Park this year, be sure to visit before closing on September 29.
7. Visit the Eastern State Penitentiary
The eastern state penitentiary is one of the most influential prisons built in the world. Once you pay the entry fee, wonder a prison that has a gorgeous gothic revival architecture and learn what it was like to serve a hard time there. The prison was in operation between 1829 to 1979.
One of the famous prisoners was Pep, the dog that served time for allegedly killing a cat. If you are a history fan, then the eastern state is the best place to feel right at home.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Philadelphia
Philadelphia is by far the best city to visit in the United States. The city of brotherly love is famous for its rich history, incredible culture, fantastic food, and beautiful street life.
If you’re visiting Philadelphia, check out the museums and the Bell Centre to learn more about USA history. Visit the Spruce Street Harbor Park for some amazing photos.
Do as the locals and explore the city by bus or hope on a public sightseeing bus. Don’t forget to enjoy the famous cheesesteak which are delicious sandwiches that consist of steak and fried onions or cheese that will leave you craving for more. For more travel tips, check out our page.
