City

Philadelphia

United States. Philly is the birthplace of America. It's where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Liberty Bell rang. But it's also a gritty, passionate city famous for its cheesesteaks, its sports fans, and the 'Rocky Steps'.

Country guide: United States
Vibe: History • Rocky • Cheesesteak
Philadelphia — city view
Photo: Designism · license
In Short: History and hustle
  • Independence Hall is a UNESCO site—stand in the room where America was born.
  • The Liberty Bell is right across the street—it's smaller than you think but iconic.
  • Run up the 'Rocky Steps' at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (and see the statue).
  • Reading Terminal Market is a food paradise—try a roast pork sandwich or pretzels.
  • The Magic Gardens is a stunning mosaic labyrinth on South Street.

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When to go: Spring or Fall

March-May and September-November are mild and walkable.

Summer is hot and humid. Winter can be cold and snowy.

  • Best: Spring/Fall.
  • Summer: Hot.
  • Winter: Cold.

Getting there: Train

Philadelphia International (PHL) is close. SEPTA train takes 25 mins to Center City.

Amtrak connects Philly to NYC (1.5 hrs) and DC (2 hrs).

  • Airport: PHL.
  • Train: SEPTA.
  • Amtrak: 30th St Station.

Where to stay: Center City

Center City is the best base. Rittenhouse Square is upscale. Old City is historic.

Fishtown is the cool, hipster neighborhood with great bars.

  • Center City: Convenient.
  • Old City: History.
  • Fishtown: Hipster.

What to see: Bell and Steps

Tour Independence Hall (tickets required). See the Liberty Bell (free).

Visit the Art Museum (Rocky Steps) and the Barnes Foundation (Impressionist art).

  • Independence Hall: History.
  • Liberty Bell: Icon.
  • Art Museum: Rocky.
  • Barnes: Art.
Philadelphia — travel photo
Photo: Michael Barera · license

Food: Cheesesteak vs Pork

Cheesesteak (Pat's or Geno's) is the tourist choice. Roast Pork (DiNic's) is the local favorite.

Soft pretzels and water ice are Philly staples.

  • Cheesesteak: Whiz wit.
  • Roast Pork: Broccoli rabe.
  • Pretzel: Soft & salty.
  • Water Ice: Rita's.

Getting around: Walk and SEPTA

Center City is very walkable. SEPTA buses and subways cover the rest.

Indego bike share is good for the river trail.

  • Walk: Grid system.
  • SEPTA: Bus/Subway.
  • Bike: River trail.

Budget: Moderate

Cheaper than NYC or DC. Food is affordable.

Many historical sites are free or cheap.

  • Food: Good value.
  • History: Often free.
  • Hotels: Mid-range.

2 Days in Philly

Day 1: History. Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Old City. Lunch at Reading Terminal Market.

Day 2: Culture. Art Museum (Rocky Steps). Walk along the Schuylkill River. Dinner in Fishtown.

  • Day 1: 1776.
  • Day 2: Art & River.
  • Evening: Hipster bars.

FAQ

Pat's or Geno's?

They are across the street from each other. Try both. Or go to Dalessandro's.

Is it safe?

Center City and tourist areas are safe. North and West Philly can be rough.

What is 'Whiz Wit'?

Cheez Whiz with onions. How you order a cheesesteak.

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