Things To Do
Reading Terminal Market
If you want to eat your way through Philadelphia without walking more than 50 feet between bites, this is your place. Reading Terminal Market is a historic indoor food hall where the acceptable itinerary is: wander, snack, repeat. Best for: Lunch with options for literally everyone People watching Pretending you’re on a Food Network travel show Buying snacks you swear are for later but eat immediately What to know / who it might not be for: Small kiddos & strollers Those who aren’t comfortable in closed spaces with medium-large crowds. Anyone needing to sit down/unable to stand on their feet for an extended period of time
Philadelphia Zoo
If you want to see lions, giraffes, and penguins without leaving the city limits, this is your spot! The Philadelphia Zoo is the oldest zoo in the country and somehow manages to feel both classic and surprisingly modern. Don't be frighten if you look up and see a big cat above you as they have the cat walk which allows them to explore their home through tunnels all around the zoo. Expect lots of walking, lots of animals, and lots of interesting smells! What to know / who it might not be for: A LOT of walking (wear comfy shoes) Weather dependent Crowded on weekends and nice-weather days Not ideal if you’re short on time or need frequent places to sit
Boathouse Row
If you want one of the most iconic Philly postcard moments, this is it. Boathouse Row is a stretch of historic rowing clubs along the Schuylkill River which is especially magical at sunset or after dark when the buildings light up and suddenly everyone feels very cinematic main character. Unfortunately, you’re about 10 years too late to see Taylor rowing or coxswaining a racing shell down the course… but she will absolutely show you pictures. Best for: Scenic walks, runs, or bike rides Sunset strolls & nighttime views Photos that immediately scream “Philadelphia” What to know / who it might not be for: The famous nighttime lights are best viewed from the MLK Drive / I-76 side of the river (not from the boathouses themselves) More of a walk-by than a destination with activities Limited seating and amenities Can be chilly or windy near the river Not ideal if you’re looking for food, restrooms, or structured plans
Main Street
If you want charming neighborhood vibes with just enough chaos to feel alive, welcome to Main Street Manayunk. Lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and coffee spots, it’s one of those streets where you come for one thing and accidentally spend the whole afternoon. Best for: Strolling, shopping, and casual bar hopping Brunch dates that turn into dinner plans Feeling like a local instead of a tourist A laid-back Philly day with personality What to know / who it might not be for: Parking can be… an adventure - the Philadelphia Parking Authority is a ruthless racket & will wait for your meter to expire. Feel free to stop by The Little Apple & pick up a F*ck the PPA keychain to support the resistance! We're also coin-less here in Philly so you'll need to download the Park Mobile App. Gets busy on weekends and nice-weather days Hilly streets nearby (very on brand for Manayunk) Extra Wilson-Potts lore: Just off Main Street is the towpath, where Taylor & Fred got engaged!
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Part world-class art museum, part cardio workout, the PMA is where you can admire priceless masterpieces and sprint up 72 steps pretending you’re Sylvester Stallone. Bonus: PMA just got a whole rebrand. Before you visit, google the drama regarding the new name, former director/ceo & how Philadelphians really feel. What to know / who it might not be for: The Philadelphia Museum of Artis very ADA accessible, offering barrier-free entrances, elevators, accessible restrooms, wheelchairs, and specific programs for visitors with disabilities, though the famous Rocky Steps don't have a ramp (you can go through the museum to the top instead).
Chubby's & Delisandro's Steaks
If you want to eat a cheesesteak and witness a legendary Philly rivalry in real time, this is the move. Chubby’s Steaks is Taylor & Fred’s favorite local cheesesteak spot—and conveniently, it sits directly across the street from its longtime rival, Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies (aka “Delis”). Their feud has been raging for as long as time itself (or at least since someone decided rolls matter). Best for: Taylor & Fred–approved local favorites Turning lunch into a very serious taste test Sitting down with your cheesesteak and a drink Feeling like you’ve unlocked a true neighborhood spot What to know / who it might not be for: Chubby’s has seating and a full bar (a huge plus) Delis is walk-up window only, famously curt, but holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand You absolutely can grab one from each and compare for yourself (highly encouraged) Lines form fast, especially at Delis—patience required
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
If you want to wander through a full-blown art daydream, this is your spot. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a mosaic-covered maze of mirrors, tiles, bottles, and found objects that somehow feels chaotic and calming at the same time. It’s quirky, colorful, and unmistakably Philly. Created by local mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar, the space is part immersive art installation, part lifelong love letter to creativity, community, and South Street itself. No two corners are the same, and you’ll keep noticing new details the longer you look. Best for: Art lovers and creative souls Photos that do all the talking A quick but memorable stop on South Street - stop by Jim's Steaks (see below) Anyone who loves maximalist, “how did someone think of this?” energy What to know / who it might not be for: Timed tickets are required (book ahead) Narrow walkways (not ideal for strollers or large groups) Not a long visit if you’re looking to kill a lot of time
Jim's South St.
If you want to enter Philly’s most sacred debate, welcome. Jim’s Steaks is a no-frills, classic cheesesteak spot that’s been fueling strong opinions for decades. You can walk every block in Philadelphia and someone will confidently tell you a different place has the best cheesesteak. Somehow they’ll all be correct and incorrect at the same time. Best for: A true Philly rite of passage Late-night eats and post-bar cravings Watching locals order with alarming confidence Anyone ready to pick a side (or pretend they already have) What to know / who it might not be for: They’re called cheesesteaks (not “Philly cheesesteaks”) if you want to cosplay a local Lines can get long, especially on weekends Limited seating—this is very much a grab-and-go situation Not ideal if you’re looking for a quiet or leisurely meal
Independence Hall
If you want to stand where American history actually happened (and pretend you paid attention in 5th grade), this is the place. Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated, drafted, and signed. Best for: History buffs and trivia lovers First-time Philly visitors A meaningful walk through Old City Saying “wow, this room changed everything” at least once What to know / who it might not be for: Timed tickets are required (they’re free, but plan ahead) Security screening is required to enter Guided tours mean limited wandering at your own pace Not ideal if you’re trying to squeeze it in last-minute or avoid structured activities
Mona
The vibe: a luxe, Mediterranean-island–inspired atmosphere. Think whitewashed & floral-accented walls, olive trees, chandeliers, stone arches. A mix of coastal glam and urban dinner-club energy. The menu is “néos-Mediterranean”. Meaning modern Mediterranean, with Greek influences. Expect dips & spreads (like hummus, dips, pita), mezze-style small plates, kebabs / gyros / seafood / pasta What to know / who it might not be for: On busy nights it can be loud, crowded. Maybe not ideal for a quiet dinner