20 Best Things to Do in Philadelphia, PA

Pronounced “Redding”, after the American singer-songwriter Otis Redding, is one of the largest and oldest urban markets in the country. At Reading Terminal Market, you’ll find a wide selection of delicious things to eat, like ethnic foods, ice cream, farm-fresh produce, and of course, cheesesteaks. Since there’s almost too much food to choose from, you won’t be leaving the market without your top button unbuttoned on your pants! The indoor farmer’s market is also a superb place to find gifts or souvenirs made by small businesses. Visitors with a sweet tooth are sure to enjoy the donuts from Beiler’s Donuts and the mouthwatering frozen treats from Bassetts Ice Cream.

Looking for a picturesque stroll? Look no further than the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Philadelphia’s most picturesque (and photogenic!) boulevard was modeled after the Champs-Élysées in Paris. It stretches all the way from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to City Hall, and is lined with water fountains and green space. Along the parkway, travelers will also find some of the city’s very best museums like the Academy of Natural Sciences, where families can come face-to-face with gigantic dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. The Franklin Institute, a science lover's dream, is also located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

This former prison was once the most expensive in the world, housing infamous criminals like Slick Willie Sutton and Al Capone. The Eastern State Penitentiary was open for 150 years but closed in 1971, and now, visitors can wander through the eerie halls and explore the empty cells. There’s even an audio guide, narrated by Steve Buscemi, that guests can listen to as they enjoy the creepy prison. If you’re visiting during the fall, the Eastern State Penitentiary turns into a spooky attraction named Halloween Nights -- but like the Mutter Museum, this is not for the faint of heart!

Found at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, this world-class art museum is one of the largest guests will ever experience. Visitors can enjoy artworks like paintings, sculptures, textiles, furniture, and medieval architecture. Among the famous artists with works displayed are: Cézanne, Picasso, Brancusi, Modigliani, Kahlo, Eakins, and Duchamp. Tickets are required for entry.

There are dozens upon dozens of cheesesteak restaurants worthy of a visit -- Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop, Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop, Oh Brother Philly, John’s Roast Pork, Gooey Louies, and Cleavers. You just cannot go to Philadelphia without sinking your teeth into at least a couple of cheesesteaks.

This very expansive park spans more than 2,000 acres, making it the perfect spot for a run, afternoon stroll, or picnic with the family -- the options are endless! What sets Fairmount Park apart from others is that it’s considered the largest park in the United States. In addition to picturesque trails, you’ll find historic homes, woodlands, and wetlands scattered within the park. Because it's so big, it’s divided into two portions: East Park and West Park. There’s also a Japanese house and garden, spots where you can view the city’s skyline, the Philadelphia Zoo, zip lines, playgrounds, greenhouses, and more just waiting to be explored.

Not all of Philadelphia is brand new -- there are older, historic neighborhoods as well. In Old City, visitors can go cafe-hopping or stop for a sweet at Shane Confectionery, which is located in a historic building that looks as if it’s straight out of a movie. It’s the go-to place for bean-to-bar chocolate. Dessert enthusiasts can also enjoy a selection of taffies, fudge, and chocolate truffles, all made with Shane family recipes that date back centuries. This neighborhood is best known for its Colonial-era homes and sites, and there are even some swanky nightlife spots for those who like to stay up late.

You can’t visit Philly without snapping a picture of the LOVE art installment that’s found northwest of City Hall. One of the most iconic and notable Philadelphia images was created by Robert Indiana, which now serves as an entry point to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (another spot that’s likely on your itinerary!) Around the sculpture, you’ll find comfortable seating, a green space, and a water fountain.

If you love visiting obscure and out-of-the-ordinary attractions when you travel, you’ll have to swing by the Mount Moriah Cemetery. The abandoned cemetery is filled with ruins and is surrounded by forest, giving it an incredibly eerie feel. It looks as if it’s straight out of a gothic fairytale and what many people don’t know is that it isn’t owned by anybody, making it truly abandoned. This is a must-see if you’re visiting the city around Halloween.

This art deco memorial fountain is wildly interesting to look at as it features three turquoise Native Americans reclining among several jets of water. The Swann Memorial Fountain was dedicated to a man who loved designing and building fountains himself, Dr. Wilson Cary Swann. He was the founder of the rather specific group: the Philadelphia Fountain Society. The gorgeous fountain was designed and constructed in 1924 by Alexander Stirling Calder, and has since become a popular Philly landmark.

If you’re traveling with children, hitting up a zoo is always a good idea as it’s an easy and entertaining way to tucker them out! Plus, who doesn’t love oohing and ahhing over adorable animals? The Philadelphia Zoo houses nearly 1700 animals, many of which are endangered or rare species. Some of the animals you can expect to see include African Lions, Flamingos, Cheetahs, Hippos, Penguins, Giraffes, Gorillas, Alpacas, and several types of Turtles. This popular tourist spot is open daily, but it’s best to visit during a weekday (if you can) to avoid pushing your way to the front of the exhibits for a clear view! Tickets are required for entry.

Did you know that there are some companies in Philly that offer donut tours? If you don’t want to pay for a guided tour, simply create your own! Popular donut joints include: Haegele’s Bakery, Duck Donuts, Suraya, Hello Donuts, Frangelli’s Bakery, Federal Donuts, Slice, Zeppoli, Beiler's Doughnuts, and Buddakan.

After you’ve grabbed a to-go box of donuts, take a walk to Philadelphia City Hall -- this is where all the municipal government action happens. It is considered to be the largest free-standing masonry building in the world, making it an impressive sight for visitors. The massive building is made with white marble, brick, and limestone, and you can even pay for a guided tour throughout the inside. Otherwise, it’s still pretty cool to admire from the outside.

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