Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s largest city, is renowned for its remarkable history, including Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were ratified in 1776, alongside numerous National Historical Landmarks—totaling 67! The city garners over 39 million domestic visitors each year (as of 2013), drawn by its rich culture, historical significance, artistic offerings, and maritime legacy. Philadelphia is also recognized as the birthplace of the United States Marines. Let’s explore the top attractions in Philadelphia!

1. Independence National Historical Park

A visit to Independence National Historical Park is a wonderful opportunity for the entire family to gain insights into the historical significance of this city. Esteemed as the birthplace of American democracy, the park welcomes over 3.5 million visitors annually, many of whom aspire to see its most iconic attraction, the Liberty Bell. In 1776, the Founding Fathers convened here to sign the Declaration of Independence. Today, the park’s centerpiece includes Independence Hall, Congress Hall, Franklin Court, the Bishop White House, the New Hall Military Museum, and of course, the Liberty Bell, all of which offer complimentary entry. Guided tours are available year-round.

2. Philadelphia Museum of Art

A visit to this venue offers a splendid chance for the whole family to appreciate some of the world’s most stunning and remarkable artworks. Ranked as the third largest museum in the nation, the Philadelphia Museum of Art houses an extensive collection featuring works by some of the most significant artists, including masterpieces from the Renaissance, Impressionist, American, and Modern art movements. Be sure to explore the museum’s upper level, which displays artifacts from distant societies through 80 period rooms representing diverse cultures, from Indian temples to medieval cloisters.

3. Philly Cheesesteaks

Philadelphia is renowned for several iconic offerings, including the Liberty Bell, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the Philly Cheesesteak—a delectable crusty roll filled with expertly sautéed rib eye beef and typically topped with Cheez Whiz sauce. Patrons also have the option to include onions or not! This iconic culinary creation made its debut in 1930 when hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri innovated various ingredients. The city takes this beloved tradition seriously, and if patrons feel their meal lacks the appropriate flavor profile, they will not hesitate to express their concerns. Indulge in one of these mouthwatering delights at numerous steak shops, food trucks, delis, and even select pizzerias scattered throughout the city.

4. The Oval

If you are visiting Philadelphia during the summer, you and your family can enjoy a delightful experience at The Oval! This eight-acre outdoor venue transforms into a pop-up entertainment arena focused on family-friendly activities. Engage in giant games of Connect Four, chess, and checkers before enjoying delicious refreshments from local food trucks. Additionally, there is an outdoor beer garden for adults to relax with a cold beverage. The Oval also hosts daily community events and activities for both residents and visitors.

5. Franklin Square

Franklin Square offers an array of family-oriented attractions, including an 18-hole miniature golf course adorned with several representations of Philadelphia’s beloved icons, allowing families to enjoy a round of putt-putt while learning about local history. The square features a picnic area, a popular burger restaurant, and the Liberty Carousel, which pays tribute to Philadelphia’s rich carousel-making heritage. Children will enjoy riding on some of the carousel’s local racehorse champions, such as Smarty Jones and Afleet Alex, both of whom are Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winners. The square, one of the original five designed by William Penn, features the Franklin Square Fountain, built in 1838 and surrounded by beautiful wrought iron fences.

6. Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary (ESP), as it is colloquially known, once housed some of America’s most infamous criminals, including bank robber Willie Sutton and notorious gangster Al Capone. Operational from 1829 to 1971, this facility pioneered the concept of separate incarceration, emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. At its peak, the penitentiary was the largest public building of its time, serving as a model for more than 300 prisons worldwide. Now recognized as a U.S. National Historic Landmark, a guided tour provides valuable insight into historical prison life. It can be an intriguing visit for families, although it may be advisable to leave younger children at home due to some intense subject matter.

7. Shane Confectionery

For family members with a sweet tooth, a visit to this delightful candy store is highly recommended. Shane Confectionery is a beloved establishment in the city and holds the title of Philadelphia’s oldest candy producer. The shop’s staff even don traditional attire, which reflects its history dating back to 1863. As you enter, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked chocolate confections and the sight of handcrafted sweets made with historical equipment create an enchanting atmosphere, promising your family a delightful experience.

8. Battleship New Jersey

For a unique family experience, a visit to the impressive 45,000-ton Battleship New Jersey is a must! This historic vessel, measuring 887 feet, is a significant symbol of American naval history, currently stationed at the waterfront. Decommissioned for the fourth and final time in 1991, the battleship is now open for tours. As you navigate its narrow corridors, you will gain insight into what life was like onboard. Experience the Combat Engagement Center featuring sonar and radar systems, and even relive a WWII aerial dogfight over Iwo Jima through the immersive 4D flight simulator’s “Seahawk” program. Some tour guides even served onboard the “Big J,” sharing captivating stories from their time in service.

9. The Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell, relocated next to Independence Hall, was initially cast in Great Britain and recast in Philadelphia in 1753 to adorn the State House. Originally used to summon the Pennsylvania Assembly for meetings, it later became a symbol for suffragists, civil rights advocates, war protestors, Native Americans, immigrants, and others. The 44-pound clapper famously caused the bell to crack on its first day of service, a defect that remains evident today despite several recasts. The bell, made from approximately 70% copper, 25% tin, and traces of other metals, bears the inscription: “Proclaim Liberty throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof.” This is an essential experience for families visiting the city.

10. The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps

The iconic movie “Rocky” has made the Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps (often referred to as the Art Museum Steps) integral parts of Philadelphia’s cultural landscape. This larger-than-life sculpture, originally crafted for “Rocky III,” became an enduring tribute to the fictional hero, Rocky Balboa, when it was gifted to the city by actor Sylvester Stallone in 1980. Visiting the statue and running up the steps has become a rite of passage for many, making it a must-see for families.

11. Please Touch Museum

Since its inception in 1976, the Please Touch Museum has established itself as Philadelphia’s premier children’s museum, occupying 157,000 square feet across six interactive exhibit zones. The museum’s mission enhances children’s lives through cultural exposure and hands-on learning, offering joy to kids of all ages, including four specially designed areas for toddlers aged three and under. Each engaging area features delightful activities, from playing croquet with the Queen and enjoying tea with the Mad Hatter in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” to interactive nursery rhymes in the “Fairytale Garden.” This museum promises a perfect family day out!

12. Adventure Aquarium

Located in Camden, the Adventure Aquarium presents an opportunity for families to explore marine life. With more than 8,500 aquatic species across two million gallons of water and the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, this venue is an exciting destination for all. Uniquely, it is the only aquarium worldwide to feature hippos, Button and Genny, both above and below water in their 60,000-gallon pool. Families can also come face-to-face with turtles, stingrays, and an array of intriguing aquatic creatures, including 15 playful African penguins residing on Paradise Island. If visiting with young children, don’t miss KidZone, a dedicated area that encourages hands-on interaction with nature.

13. National Museum of American Jewish History

This extraordinary museum houses over 20,000 artifacts, some dating back more than 300 years, illuminating the 360-year history of Jewish Americans. Through evocative objects, the National Museum of American Jewish History narrates the stories of Jewish immigrants while inviting visitors to share their own experiences. Notable exhibits include significant items such as Irving Berlin’s piano, Einstein’s pipe, and thirteen state-of-the-art interactive media displays that engage the audience.

14. LOVE Park

LOVE Park is a highly frequented destination for both residents and tourists alike, serving as an entryway to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Officially named John F. Kennedy Plaza, it acquired its nickname due to the iconic LOVE sculpture. The plaza, originally constructed in 1965 by the father of actor Kevin Bacon, city planner Edmond Bacon, included beautifully curved granite steps and a striking fountain. The sculpture was procured in 1965 by the Chairman of the Philadelphia Art Commission and was returned to its permanent location in the park in 1976. Visitors can also find the Fairmount Park Welcome Center and Gift Shop nearby, as well as some of the city’s top food trucks for grabbing a meal on the go.

15. Benjamin Franklin Museum

This remarkable museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Philadelphia’s famous founding father and provides a splendid opportunity for families to learn about his life and contributions. The museum features personal artifacts and interactive displays that delve into Franklin’s multifaceted role as a statesman, scientist, printer, diplomat, and founder of various civic institutions. The engaging exhibits present fun and informative ways for visitors of all ages to explore Benjamin Franklin’s life and the realities of the 18th century.

16. The Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo spans 42 acres of beautiful Victorian gardens and boasts an impressive history of “firsts,” including being the first zoo in America to be chartered (1859) and the first to showcase births of chimpanzees and orangutans. It also presented the first exhibition of white lions in 1957, as well as establishing the world’s first children’s zoo that same year. Additionally, the recently developed Zoo360 campus includes see-through mesh trails that allow various animals to roam above the grounds, enriching the visitor experience. KidZooU offers children the opportunity to pet and groom miniature horses and sheep, observe goats, ducks, and chickens, and explore an indoor education center filled with vibrantly colored parakeets and other fascinating creatures.

17. Sesame Place

A visit to Sesame Place guarantees a day filled with fun for the children! This is the only theme park in the nation completely dedicated to the beloved, award-winning television show, where kids can meet their favorite characters. The park offers an assortment of attractions for visitors of all ages, from a soft play area for toddlers to Cookie’s Monster Land featuring a three-story climbing structure and five thrilling rides. Water enthusiasts can enjoy attractions like Bert & Ernie’s Slip & Slide and The Count’s Splash Castle, while those seeking dry fun can explore Elmo’s World and various other interactive experiences.

18. The Betsy Ross House

A visit to the Betsy Ross House is essential for every family, as it is recognized as the birthplace of the American flag. Patrons can embark on a self-guided audio tour, including a version tailored for children, to discover this celebrated woman’s life while traversing the intimate rooms and narrow staircases of her 1740 residence. Visitors can listen to Betsy’s narration about life in 18th-century Philadelphia, understand her motivations for sewing the flag, explore her upholstery shop, and view the basement where she crafted musket cartridges for the Continental Army. Interactive exhibits allow children to experience colonial crafts, including the art of cutting a five-point star using a single snip of scissors!

19. The Franklin Institute

Recognized as one of the oldest and most esteemed science museums in the United States, a visit to the Franklin Institute guarantees an engaging experience for family members of all ages. With a multitude of interactive and virtual reality installations illustrating concepts ranging from the physics of sports to a simulated Earth orbit research station and a steam engine that visitors can board in the Train Factory, there is never a dull moment. Notable attractions include a walk-through exhibit that allows visitors to explore a “human heart” at a scale of 15,000 times lifesize, ensuring unforgettable memories.

20. Sister Cities Park

Sister Cities Park has been revitalized to feature a commemorative fountain, an inviting café, a boating pond, and an educational garden. Children can enjoy the Wissahickon-inspired Children’s Discovery Garden, which boasts winding pathways, gentle rocks, and a flowing stream. The boating pond offers shallow waters for wading, and families can even rent sailboats for added fun! The enclosed Sister Cities Fountain serves as a unique representation of the world, highlighting Philadelphia’s connections to its ten sister cities via ten water jets.

21. Valley Forge National Historical Park

Today, Valley Forge presents a picturesque 3,600-acre landscape of rolling hills adorned with flowering dogwood trees, providing an inviting setting for runners, picnickers, and history enthusiasts. However, this serene environment conceals a storied past; numerous monuments and statues within the park commemorate events such as the battles of Brandywine and Germantown, where over 2,000 soldiers lost their lives. A family visit to the various memorials and historical sites, including rows of cannons at Artillery Park, soldiers’ log cabins, and fortifications, offers an excellent educational experience. Visit the Welcome Center to engage with displays showcasing muskets and learn about life during the winter encampment through the “Determined to Persevere” exhibit.

22. Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

This prestigious museum, founded in 1812, is the oldest continuously operating institution of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. It is replete with fascinating exhibits, both live and preserved, having facilitated significant wildlife and fossil explorations across America. The museum is a valuable resource for biodiversity research globally, showcasing approximately 17 million specimens. Families will marvel at the fully constructed Tyrannosaurus Rex in the Dinosaur Hall, and the Outside-In nature center allows children to interact with nature through engaging activities like crawling through tree trunks, examining fossils under a microscope, and even touching insects like cockroaches or snakes.

23. Independence Seaport Museum

This engaging museum is dedicated to the maritime history of the Delaware River, featuring excellent exhibits on the local small craft and the China trade. In 1996, the museum became home to the BECUNA, a World War II submarine that served in the South Pacific, along with the OLYMPIA, the oldest floating steel warship in the United States, considered Admiral Dewey’s flagship during the victory at Manila Bay in the Spanish-American War. Both vessels are now recognized as National Historic Landmarks. Families can explore the Workshop on the Water, where artisans restore traditional wooden boats, while kids have fun pretending to be in command by sliding through the hatches of USS BECUNA.