Known as the birthplace of the United States and the ‘City of Firsts,’ Philadelphia has a wealth of experiences during the year that make it a must-visit destination. And many of these experiences are just footsteps away from each other thanks to Philadelphia being one of the most walkable cities in the U.S. Here are ten can’t-miss experiences in Philadelphia.
- Discover Philadelphia’s essential sites
Become immersed in Philadelphia’s iconic attractions by snapping a selfie with the iconic LOVE Statue in LOVE Park. Then, enjoy a classic cheesesteak from Reading Terminal Market, a historic landmark dating back to 1893. Housing over 80 merchants, including numerous restaurants, this National Historic Landmark is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to experience the vibrant flavors of Philadelphia’s culinary scene. Catch the performing arts at Ensemble Arts Philly, home of The Philadelphia Orchestra, who recently completed a Canadian tour of Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal.
- Explore “America’s Most Historic Square Mile”
A trip to Philadelphia isn’t complete without visiting Independence National Historical Park, known as “America’s most historic square mile.” Step into Independence Hall – where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted – and see the Liberty Bell, the iconic symbol of freedom. Continue exploring the significance of the U.S. Constitution through interactive exhibits that tell its story at the National Constitution Center.
- Wish America a “Happy Birthday” at Wawa Welcome America
There’s no better place to celebrate America’s independence than in the city where it happened. Wawa Welcome America is an annual festival celebrating Juneteenth and the 4th of July across Philadelphia. Throughout Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, fireworks, block parties, and free museum days take place to bring everyone together. The festivities conclude with a star-studded concert on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
- Climb the Rocky Steps
Become the Italian Stallion and conquer the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, just as the underdog boxer did in the film. Then, strike a pose and take a picture next to the Rocky Statue. Stop at The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation’s Parkway Outpost to pick up exclusive Rocky gear and souvenirs at the legendary Sly Stallone Shop.
- Party with Pride in Philly
Philadelphia is home to one of the country’s oldest and largest LGBTQ+ communities, with many LGBTQ+ events and experiences hosted in the city throughout the year.
Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ community celebrates International Gay Pride Month, kicking off with the annual Philadelphia Pride March and Festival with live music, a Pride Walk through the city, and celebration in the Gayborhood.
- Dine at award-winning restaurants year-round and experience Restaurant Week
Savor the hottest menus of Philadelphia’s acclaimed dining scene. Discover the 2023 James Beard Award winner for Outstanding Restaurant Friday Saturday Sunday, an intimate cocktail and dining experience found in Rittenhouse Square. Philadelphia’s Ellen Yin – the force behind a.kitchen, Fork and High Street Philly – took home the 2023 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur. And Chutatip “Nok” Suntaranon – head chef and owner of Thai restaurant Kalaya —won the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic. Visitors will treat their taste buds during Restaurant Week — nearly 60 eateries offering prix fixe lunches and dinners — returning in Fall 2024.
- Celebrate 200 years of science!
Inspired by statesman, humorist, and inventor Benjamin Franklin — and home to his national memorial — this museum is known for its all-ages, hands-on exploration of key science concepts. 2024 marks its 200th anniversary and the museum plans to celebrate with new exhibits, special programming and much more!
- Have a spooky good time
For spooky fall fun in Philadelphia, visit Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary. This festival-style event features haunted walks, eerie beer gardens, and live performances, all within the walls of a historic prison. Discover the macabre past of Philadelphia’s most historic sites on a Ghost Tour of Philadelphia. These candlelit walking tours are led by knowledgeable guides who lead guests through historic sites at night and share stories of their chilling past.
- Embrace the winter season in Philadelphia
At the most wonderful time of the year, Philadelphia is home to events, activities, and attractions that energize the city. Dilworth Park hosts winter attractions, including the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink, beer garden, and holiday market. Historic Franklin Square transforms into a whimsical winter destination, complete with a charming carousel and electric holiday light show. Head over to Love Park, the holiday home of Christmas Village, an authentic German Christmas market.
- Longwood Gardens Reimagined
This fall, Longwood Gardens will open Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience, marking the most ambitious revitalization in a century. The horticultural center’s reimagined project will transform 17 acres to enhance the visitor experience and expand opportunities for exhibitions, programs, and events. The centerpiece of the reimaging is a new West Conservancy, featuring Mediterranean-styled gardens with an abundance of permanent and seasonal plant species on display.
Named one of the best cities in the world to visit in 2024 by Lonely Planet, now is the time to plan your trip to Philadelphia!
