Things to Do in Philly
Washington Square
Grab a coffee from La Colombe near Independence Hall, then stroll through this tree-lined park, designated in 1682, that contains a memorial to George Washington and the eternal flame of the unknown soldier. (It's also a burial ground from the American Revolution.) Just across the street, you can check out the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
The Italian Market
Angelo's is world-famous for its pizza and cheesesteaks, but you really can't go wrong in this historic stretch of South Philly. Located along 9th Street, the Italian Market is America’s oldest continuously operating outdoor market. If you prefer sweet, like Roberta, stop by Isgro’s for pastries. Or if you prefer savory, like Dave, pop into DiBrunos for cured meats and cheeses.
Boathouse Row
One of our favorite spring activities is renting city bikes and riding along the Schuylkill River. You can rent bikes near Boathouse Row, a symbol of Philadelphia's rowing history built in 1858.
McGillin's Olde Ale House
No better place to grab a pint. The beer taps have been flowing since 1860, making it one of the oldest taverns in the country. Nearby is Philadelphia's City Hall, the largest in the U.S.
Jim's South St.
If you didn't get a cheesesteak in Philly, did you even go? Use the local lingo and order one “wiz wit”—translation: “a cheesesteak, with cheese whiz and fried onions, please.”
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Make like Rocky and run up the famous Art Museum steps while blasting "Eye of the Tiger." Then explore one of the country's oldest and largest art museums.
Reading Terminal Market
This massive food market (pronounced "redding") is a national historic landmark jam-packed with vendors. Don't miss a DiNic's roast pork sandwich and ricotta-filled cannolis from Termini Bros.
Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation houses one of the world's greatest collections of modern European paintings, with works by Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso and Van Gogh. Barnes arranged his collection in “ensembles,” which are unusual groupings of objects from different time periods and cultures.
Rittenhouse Square
Possibly the best people watching the city has to offer. Rittenhouse is a beautiful park and one of five original squares planned by William Penn in the late 17th century. It's surrounded by some of the finest (read: fanciest) shopping and food in Philly.