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A Comprehensive Guide to Greater Philadelphia's Museums & Attractions

Explore some of the can't-miss things to do in Philadelphia and the Countryside...

It’s no secret (or surprise) that Philadelphia offers a wealth of authentic and top-notch experiences.

And with so many museums, attractions, parks, markets and more in this vibrant city and region, it’s challenging to know where to begin.

Do you pick:

  • Dinosaurs ( The Academy of Natural Sciences ) or daylilies ( Longwood Gardens )?
  • Vincent van Gogh ( Barnes Foundation ) or Count von Count ( Sesame Place )?
  • Revolutionary history ( Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell ) or outdoor reveling ( Wissahickon Valley Park and Fairmount Park )?

Below, find a look at the can’t-miss attractions and museums that make Greater Philadelphia an amazing place to explore.

Note: This article was last updated on April 1, 2022.

Old City

01

Liberty Bell Center

The Liberty Bell was originally cast in Great Britain and recast in 1753 in Philadelphia to adorn the State House (now known as Independence Hall). It was soon adopted by abolitionists, suffragists and other justice-seeking groups as an enduring symbol of freedom. Fun fact: Many historians believe the 44-pound clapper caused the bell to famously crack on its first use. Visitors can tour the Liberty Bell Center for free year-round.

Where: Liberty Bell Center, 526 Market Street

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02

Independence Hall

The exterior of Independence Hall in Philadelphia The exterior of Independence Hall in Philadelphia
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Independence Hall is the centerpiece of the renowned Independence National Historical Park . In 1776, the Founding Fathers came together to sign the Declaration of Independence in this historic building. Eleven years later, representatives from a dozen states met here to lay the framework for the U.S. Constitution. Guided tours are available year-round. Note that visitors must reserve tickets online or by phone in advance for tours of Independence Hall.

Where: Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut Street

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03

The President's House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation

The exterior of The President's House in Philadelphia The exterior of The President's House in Philadelphia
— Photo by M. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

Presidents George Washington and John Adams each lived here during their tenures as president. While the original President’s House has since been demolished, the foundation remains and now serves as part of an outdoor museum where looped videos give a special focus to the lives of the nine enslaved men and women who lived and worked here during Washington’s time in office.

Where: The President's House, 600 Market Street

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04

Independence National Historical Park

Aerial view of Independence Mall and Independence Hall Aerial view of Independence Mall and Independence Hall
Independence Mall — Photo by We Film Philly for Visit Philadelphia

Independence National Historical Park , also known as America’s most historic square mile, is a must-see to learn more about America’s origins. Visitors can explore more than two-dozen sites — many of them free — throughout the park, including the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, The President’s House, Carpenters’ Hall and many more. The park is administered by the National Park Service.

Where: Various locations including Carpenters' Hall, 320 Chestnut Street

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05

National Constitution Center

A couple visits the National Constitution Center A couple visits the National Constitution Center
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Dedicated to the four most powerful pages in America’s history, the National Constitution Center examines “We the People.” Museum-goers can explore exhibits and artifacts, view an original Bill of Rights, walk among 42 life-size bronze statues of the delegates who attended the Constitutional Convention in 1787, and learn more about amendments to the Constitution that ended slavery (13th Amendment) and granted the right to vote to Black men (15th Amendment) and some women (19th Amendment).

Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street

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06

Museum of the American Revolution

Museum of the American Revolution Museum of the American Revolution
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Opened in 2017, this compelling museum brings to life the world-changing American Revolution through an unmatched collection of artifacts, including weapons, documents, personal items, works of art and General George Washington’s headquarters tent. With powerful films, digital touchscreens and historical vignettes, the museum recreates the drama and the details of the country’s dramatic birth.

Where: Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. 3rd Street

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07

The African American Museum in Philadelphia

The African American Museum in Philadelphia The African American Museum in Philadelphia
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Founded in 1976, The African American Museum in Philadelphia is the first institution built by a major U.S. city to preserve, interpret and exhibit the heritage and culture of African Americans. The museum takes a fresh, bold look at the roles of African Americans in the founding of the nation through the core exhibit Audacious Freedom. Visiting exhibitions and frequent programs reveal the history, stories and cultures of those of African descent throughout the African diaspora.

Where: The African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch Street

08

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Guests walk on the first floor of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish Adults Guests walk on the first floor of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish Adults
— Photo courtesy Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Take a journey through 360 years of Jewish history in the U.S. at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, which is filled with more than 1,200 artifacts and documents, 2,500 images, 30 original films and 13 state-of-the-art interactive media displays — and is free to visit (with a suggested donation) beginning in May 2022. The experience delivers a rich tale that traces the path of the nation’s Jewish population from struggling immigrants to integral citizens. While you’re there: Snap a picture of the cheeky OY/YO installation , on display outside of the museum through May 2023.

Where: Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall East

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09

Betsy Ross House

Betsy Ross House Betsy Ross House
— Photo by J. Fusco for Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

America’s most famous flag maker greets guests at her 18th-century upholstery shop, part of a tiny dwelling where visitors learn about Ross’ life and legend, and enjoy programs, storytelling and activities.

Where: Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch Street

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10

Franklin Square

— Photo by J. Fusco for Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

Enjoy the outdoors at this fun-filled park named in honor of — who else? — Benjamin Franklin. Take a mini-tour of Philadelphia as you putt-putt your way through the city’s iconic sites at Philly Mini Golf, or enjoy a nostalgic ride on the Parx Liberty Carousel, a classic tribute to Philadelphia’s great heritage of carousel-making. There’s also a fountain (renovated in 2019 to now feature seasonal fountain shows and nighttime light shows!), a SquareBurger food stand and lots of open space to lounge or run around.

Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street

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11

Elfreth’s Alley

Elfreth’s Alley boasts 300 years of history on its charming cobblestone road lined with quaint row houses. While a modern city has sprung up around it, the alley preserves three centuries of evolution through its old-fashioned flower boxes, shutters, Flemish bond brickwork and other architectural details. Two adjacent houses, built in 1755, are now a museum open to the public.

Where: Elfreth's Alley, 124-126 Elfreth's Alley

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Delaware River Waterfront

12

Spruce Street Harbor Park and Blue Cross RiverRink

Roller skating rink at Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia Roller skating rink at Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia
Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Spruce Street Harbor Park , the wildly popular spring-to-fall destination on the Delaware River, attracts impressive crowds with bocce and shuffleboard, tree-slung hammocks and colorful lights, floating barges with over-the-water seating, beer and food options, and a variety of events. A five-minute walk along the river takes visitors to Blue Cross RiverRink, where there’s roller skating in the summer and ice skating in the winter .

Where: Spruce Street Harbor Park, 301 South Christopher Columbus Boulevard

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Blue Cross RiverRink, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard

13

Race Street Pier & Cherry Street Pier

Race Street Pier features two levels for recreation, a multi-tiered seating area for watching the tide roll in and — of course — absolutely transcendent views of the Delaware River and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Located just next door, Cherry Street Pier — opened in 2018— is an indoor-outdoor mixed-use public space, home to artist studios, a marketplace, and alfresco food and beverage purveyors.

Where: Race Street Pier, Race Street & North Columbus Boulevard

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Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard

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14

Adventure Aquarium

Children looking at a hippo at Adventure Aquarium Children looking at a hippo at Adventure Aquarium
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Adventure Aquarium — located just across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey — delights visitors with hippos to marvel at; a Shark Bridge to cross; penguins to meet; stingrays to feed; and horseshoe crabs, starfish and sharks to touch. The big wow exhibit: a massive tank of sea turtles, stingrays, schooling fish and sharks, including a great hammerhead.

Where: Adventure Aquarium, 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ

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Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Logan Square & Fairmount

15

Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rodin Museum

A couple laughing at the Philadelphia Museum of Art A couple laughing at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
— Photo by Elizabeth Leitzell for the Philadelphia Museum of Art

One of the nation’s largest art museums rises majestically at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway . Inside are vast collections, including Renaissance, American and impressionist art, plus big0deal rotating special exhibitions. The one-acre Sculpture Garden extends the museum’s galleries to the outdoors. Just down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the Rodin Museum , housing one of the largest public collections of Auguste Rodin’s works outside of Paris, including bronze casts of The Thinker and The Gates of Hell.

Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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Rodin Museum, 2151 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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16

The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps

The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps — better known as the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art — are two of the most popular attractions in Philadelphia. Visiting the statue, running up the steps and taking a picture at the top — with that picture-perfect skyline in the background — is pretty much a must on your first visit to Philadelphia.

Where: Rocky Steps, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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17

Barnes Foundation

Visitors at the Barnes Foundation Visitors at the Barnes Foundation
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

The Barnes is home to one of the world’s most important collections of impressionist, post-impressionist and early modernist paintings by renowned artists like Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso and Van Gogh. The museum also showcases American paintings and decorative arts, metalwork, African sculpture and Native American textiles, jewelry and ceramics — all presented in Albert C. Barnes’ distinctive arrangements.

Where: Barnes Foundation, 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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18

Eastern State Penitentiary

A look down a long hallway of prison cells at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia A look down a long hallway of prison cells at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, the massive Eastern State Penitentiary operated from 1829 to 1970, introduced Americans to the concept of solitary confinement, and housed criminals like Al Capone and Willie Sutton. Today, the historic site offers self-guided tours that explore the attraction’s history, along with modern social justice issues that surround incarceration.

Where: Eastern State Penitentiary, 2027 Fairmount Avenue

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19

The Franklin Institute

Kids crawl inside the Giant Heart, one of many interactive elements at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia Kids crawl inside the Giant Heart, one of many interactive elements at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

The Franklin Institute , one of the leading science centers in the country, showcases the science involved in every aspect of life. In addition to hands-on permanent exhibits like the highly interactive Your Brain and the iconic Giant Heart , a rotating roster of special exhibitions adds to the museum’s appeal.

Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street

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20

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Dinosaur Hall at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia Dinosaur Hall at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia
— Photo by M. Servedio for The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is America’s oldest natural history museum. Visitors of all ages can wander through a tropical garden filled with live butterflies, meet live animals, see three continents of wildlife in their natural habitats and get face to face with towering dinosaurs.

Where: The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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Center City

21

Reading Terminal Market

— Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

Center City ’s iconic railway terminal turned epicureanr haven is a one-stop shop for local produce, meats, artisanal cheeses, desserts and more. The public space also provides open seating where customers can enjoy meals from dozens of diverse merchants, including popular Amish vendors. Want to know what to eat? We can help with that .

Where: Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street

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22

City Hall & Dilworth Park

Dilworth Park Dilworth Park
— Photo by M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s City Hall — the largest municipal building in the country — has been the city’s government headquarters for more than 100 years. Once the tallest building in the U.S., the elaborate 14.5-acre masonry structure remains the country’s largest municipal building, and its exterior features more than 250 sculptures, including the 37-foot-tall, 27-ton bronze statue of William Penn atop the iconic clock tower. And Dilworth Park — City Hall’s popular western-facing front yard — is a modern and welcoming outdoor space tree groves, benches, two cafes and a large programmable fountain that transforms into an ice rink in the winter and a roller rink in the summer.

Where: City Hall, 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard

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23

Mütter Museum

— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

The Mütter Museum is one of America’s finest museums of medical history. Its “disturbingly informative” displays help the public understand the mysteries of the human body and to appreciate the diagnosis and treatment of disease. One of the most popular displays: slides of Albert Einstein’s brain.

Where: Mütter Museum, 19 S. 22nd Street

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24

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Visitors looking at art at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art Visitors looking at art at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art
— Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

The first art museum and school in the nation, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts features elaborate Frank Furness architecture that’s as compelling as the American art on display within. One of Gilbert Stuart’s portraits of George Washington is a highlight, as are other well-known paintings by both classic and contemporary artists such as Winslow Homer, Kehinde Wiley, John Singer Sargent, Jacob Lawrence, Edward Hopper and Cecilia Beaux.

Where: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 118-128 N. Broad Street

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25

LOVE Park

A woman dances beside the Love sculpture in Love Park A woman dances beside the Love sculpture in Love Park
— Photo by Margo Reed for Philadelphia Parks and Recreation

A favorite destination for tourists and locals alike, John F. Kennedy Plaza gets its nickname — LOVE Park — from Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture that sits within the public space. Renovated in 2018, LOVE Park serves as the grand entrance to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway . Just a short walk away from LOVE Park stands the equally grand AMOR sculpture, the Spanish edition of the LOVE sculpture, on display at Sister Cities Park .

Where: LOVE Park, 15th & Arch streets

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26

Rittenhouse Square Park

Crowds at Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia Crowds at Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia
— Photo by J. Smith for Visit Philadelphia

The one-square-block park that gives the neighborhood of Rittenhouse Square its name is more popular with sunbathers, readers, families, artists and even dogs than city founder William Penn ever could have imagined. It’s the city’s best-known — and, perhaps, most enjoyed — park.

Where: Rittenhouse Square, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square

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27

Schuylkill River Trail & Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk

The view of the Schuylkill River and the Philadelphia skyline from the South Street Bridge The view of the Schuylkill River and the Philadelphia skyline from the South Street Bridge
Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk — Photo by C. Smyth for Visit Philadelphia

The Schuylkill River Trail — a 30-mile recreational path running along the Schuylkill River from Center City Philadelphia to Parker Ford in Chester County — is a favorite for bicyclists, families, runners and walkers. The Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk , a 15-foot-wide, 2,000-foot-long, ADA-compliant concrete path that juts out above the Schuylkill River, provides runners, bikers and pedestrians with a trail connection between Locust Street and the South Street Bridge.

Where: Various locations including Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk, South 25th & Locust streets

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28

Masonic Temple

Masonic Temple Masonic Temple
Masonic Temple — Photo courtesy Masonic Temple

Towering and majestic, the Masonic Temple has stood tall near City Hall since 1873, representing a secret fraternity with 14th-century roots and a membership that included Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, whose statues pose outside its entrance. The temple’s Freemasonry artifacts and opulent decor wow visitors.

Where: Masonic Temple, 1 N. Broad Street

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South Philadelphia

29

Italian Market

Italian immigrants established this open-air spot in the late 19th century, which lays claim to being America’s oldest outdoor market. Though it’s still called the Italian Market , the historic strip in South Philadelphia now reflects the neighborhood’s multicultural makeup, offering Mexican, Vietnamese and Korean spots alongside Italian restaurants, bakeries and markets selling cheeses, meats, produce and more.

Where: Italian Market, 919 S. 9th Street

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30

Pat’s and Geno’s

Eating a cheesesteak is essential when visiting Philly. Pat’s King of Steaks claims that its founder, Pat Olivieri, invented the city’s signature sandwich back in 1930. The popular shop on Ninth Street and Passyunk Avenue grills 24 hours a day, as does Geno’s Steaks , the rival across the street that opened in 1966. For more than half a century, Pat’s and Geno’s have waged a (mostly) friendly competition, with visitors often ordering from both shops to see which they deem the winner.

Where: East Passyunk Avenue and South 9th Street

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31

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

People enjoying Philadelphia's Magic Gardens People enjoying Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Mosaics bloom at this fantasy-like art showplace on South Street, presenting and preserving the work of artist Isaiah Zagar. Visitors can take a tour and snap a selfie in a  wonderland constructed from bicycle spokes, bottles and other knick-knacks.

Where: Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, 1020 South Street

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West Philadelphia

32

Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

America’s first zoo and a foremost conservation organization is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered. Zoo360, a first-in-the-world animal travel and exploration train system, enables primates and big cats to move above and across the main visitor pathway. The 42-acre campus is home to a variety of exhibits, including Big Cat Falls and Water Is Life.

Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue

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33

Penn Museum

This renowned museum — which has undergone a massive renovation to its West Philly home in recent years — is known for its collection of art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Greco-Roman World, Asia, Africa and the Americas (including a Native American exhibit). Artifacts include Sumerian cuneiform clay tablets (some of the world’s oldest writing), 4,500-year-old jewelry of a Mesopotamian queen and the massive, 3,000-year-old Sphinx of Ramses II. Gardens, fountains and a koi pond make the outside quite impressive as well.

Where: Penn Museum, 3260 South Street

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34

Institute of Contemporary Art

Open to the public free of charge, the Institute of Contemporary Art has been instrumental in showcasing the work of emerging and under-recognized artists since 1963. It led the way with the first-ever museum shows of Andy Warhol, Laurie Anderson, Agnes Martin, Robert Indiana and other influential artists.

Where: Institute of Contemporary Art, 118 S. 36th Street

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35

Bartram's Garden

North America’s oldest botanical garden (1728) belonged to Quaker John Bartram, Sr., self-taught botanist to King George III from 1765-1777, who collected, cultivated and sold plant specimens from North America and England. Prior to Bartram, the land served as seasonal fishing grounds for the Lenape. Today, the site includes the 18th-century Bartram family house and outbuildings, a 17-acre meadow, public access to the Schuylkill River, and an array of naturalistic, woodland and formal gardens. Garden admission is free.

Where: Bartram's Garden, 5400 Lindbergh Boulevard

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36

Please Touch Museum

Families playing at the Please Touch Museum Families playing at the Please Touch Museum
— Photo courtesy J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Recognized as one of the nation’s top children’s museums, this major kids’ attraction includes two full floors of interactive exhibit zones, plus a fully restored century-old carousel. Kids can play and pretend amid Alice’s Wonderland, Rocket Room and other hands-on fun, all inside Fairmount Park’s National Historic Landmark Memorial Hall.

Where: Please Touch Museum, 4231 Avenue of the Republic

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North and Northwest Philadelphia

37

The Rail Park

A quarter-mile section of Callowhill ’s The Rail Park — the city’s expansive planned overhead greenway — boasts a simple, meandering pathway, rustic plantings, and plenty of places to relax and take in the views. The design of the park maintains an industrial feel with steel platforms, benches and guardrails.

Where: The Rail Park, Entrance on Callowhill Street between 11th and 12th streets

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38

Kelly Drive & Boathouse Row

Boathouse Row in Philadelphia Boathouse Row in Philadelphia
— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Note: As of March 20, 2023, Boathouse Row’s iconic lights are undergoing maintenance, and will remain dark through the end of 2023. Read more here .

Boathouse Row , a National Historic Landmark, consists of 10 charming boathouses on the banks of the Schuylkill River. At night, the glittering lights that frame the buildings make for idyllic scenery as they reflect off of the river’s surface. Boathouse Row sits on scenic Kelly Drive, a prime spot for outdoor recreation that runs along the east side of the Schuylkill River from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to Lincoln Drive.

Where: Boathouse Row, 1 Boathouse Row

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39

Fairmount Park

Endless trails, historic houses, the Philadelphia Zoo, Shofuso Japanese House and Gardens and Treetop Quest Philly are among the pleasant surprises that await explorers of one of the nation’s largest urban parks , stretching from Boathouse Row to West Philadelphia, Strawberry Mansion, Chestnut Hill and Northeast Philadelphia. Tip: Head to Belmont Plateau (above) for unreal skyline views.

Where: Various locations including Belmont Plateau, 1800 Belmont Mansion Drive

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40

Wissahickon Valley Park

With more than 50 miles of rugged trails, Wissahickon Valley Park ’s thousands of acres are great for hiking, cycling and exploring. Wissahickon schist bedrock, sliced through centuries ago, has created steep hills punctuated by a creek, with paths for both climbers and horseback riders. Also on site: Philadelphia’s last covered bridge. Especially accessible is Forbidden Drive, a five-mile packed gravel trail with stunning views.

Where: Wissahickon Valley Park, Valley Green Road

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Philadelphia's Countryside

41

Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

This Chester County botanical garden attracts visitors from around the globe to its 1,000-plus acres filled with outdoor and indoor gardens, 9,000 different species of plants, spectacular fountains, and picturesque meadows and woodlands. The horticultural haven also hosts many events each year, including flower shows, gardening demonstrations, educational programs, children’s activities and concerts.

Where: Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square

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42

Brandywine River Museum of Art

People looking at artwork at the Brandywine River Museum of Art People looking at artwork at the Brandywine River Museum of Art
— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

The grounds are as breathtaking as the art at the bucolic Brandywine River Museum of Art , housed in a renovated 1864 gristmill and surrounded by wildflower gardens and the meandering Brandywine River. Inside, works by Andrew Wyeth sit beside other beautifully detailed illustrations, paintings and installations, as well as special exhibitions that have showcased more works from the talented Wyeth family, photographs from the civil rights movement and works by Winslow Homer.

Where: Brandywine River Museum of Art, 1 Hoffmans Mill Road, Chadds Ford

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43

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Bikers in Valley Forge National Historical Park Bikers in Valley Forge National Historical Park
— Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

No battles were fought in Valley Forge, but the time the Continental Army spent here went down as one of its most trying periods. Today, a national park on this site honors those who helped secure freedom for the United States. Replicated huts and the original headquarters tell the story of the pivotal winter that George Washington and his troops endured, and a visitor center — renovated in 2021 and 2022 — includes artifacts and a lifesize statue of Washington. The 3,500-acre park also includes recreational trails and picnic areas.

Where: Valley Forge National Historical Park, 1400 N. Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia

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44

Peddler’s Village

With festivals for every season, stores (more than 60!) for every type of shopper and the just-for-kids Giggleberry Fair, Peddler’s Village packs a surprising number of activities in its countryside landscape. The Golden Plough Inn invites people to keep the fun going for multiple days.

Where: Peddler's Village, 2400 Street Road, New Hope

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45

Sesame Place

Big Bird, Elmo and the other stars of Sesame Street come out and play at Sesame Place , one of only two theme parks in the nation featuring the popular TV show’s most lovable characters. Parades and shows add to the fun.

Where: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

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46

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

A family playing with legos at LEGOLAND Discovery Center A family playing with legos at LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Fonthill Castle — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

This 33,000-square-foot plastic-brick heaven features a LEGO-themed ride, 4D cinema and 10 play areas, including a DUPLO Park for the toddler set. An onsite cafe and store ensure everybody walks away satisfied.

Where: LEGOLAND Discovery Center, 500 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting

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47

Fonthill Castle

Exterior of Fonthill Castle in Doylestown, Pennsylvania Exterior of Fonthill Castle in Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Fonthill Castle — Photo by K. Crawford

Winding stairways, turrets and balconies give a 13th-century feel to the eclectic Fonthill Castle , which boasts 200 windows of different shapes and sizes, as well as exquisite handmade tiles and mosaics from the adjacent Moravian Pottery and Tile Works .

Where: Fonthill Castle, 525 E. Court Street, Doylestown

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48

Mercer Museum & James A. Michener Art Museum

Interior of Mercer Museum in Doylestown Pennsylvania Interior of Mercer Museum in Doylestown Pennsylvania
Mercer Museum — Photo by Kevin Crawford Imagery

The towering castle that houses the Mercer Museum is full of themed rooms dedicated to the tools and crafts of American life before mechanization, like a whaling boat and a Conestoga wagon. Nearby, Pennsylvania impressionist paintings take center stage at the Michener Art Museum , named for Pulitzer Prize-winning writer James A. Michener. The galleries also host photography, sleek woodwork from nearby furniture maker George Nakashima Woodworkers, and other historical and contemporary works.

Where: Mercer Museum, 84 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

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Michener Art Museum, 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

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49

King of Prussia Mall

Women shopping at King of Prussia Mall Women shopping at King of Prussia Mall
— Photo courtesy Simon Property Group

With more than 450 stores, the King of Prussia Mall is the premier shopping destination on the East Coast. Find a nice mix of luxury, budget-friendly, national and international brands, as well as stores that cannot be found elsewhere in the region — all located just a 20-minute drive from Philadelphia.

Where: King of Prussia Mall, 160 N. Gulph Road, King of Prussia

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Old City

Liberty Bell Center
Independence Hall
The President's House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation
Independence National Historical Park
National Constitution Center
Museum of the American Revolution
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Betsy Ross House
Franklin Square
Elfreth’s Alley

Delaware River Waterfront

Spruce Street Harbor Park and Blue Cross RiverRink
Race Street Pier & Cherry Street Pier
Adventure Aquarium

Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Logan Square & Fairmount

Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rodin Museum
The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps
Barnes Foundation
Eastern State Penitentiary
The Franklin Institute
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Center City

Reading Terminal Market
City Hall & Dilworth Park
Mütter Museum
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
LOVE Park
Rittenhouse Square Park
Schuylkill River Trail & Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
Masonic Temple

South Philadelphia

Italian Market
Pat’s and Geno’s
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

West Philadelphia

Philadelphia Zoo
Penn Museum
Institute of Contemporary Art
Bartram's Garden
Please Touch Museum

North and Northwest Philadelphia

The Rail Park
Kelly Drive & Boathouse Row
Fairmount Park
Wissahickon Valley Park

Philadelphia's Countryside

Longwood Gardens
Brandywine River Museum of Art
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Peddler’s Village
Sesame Place
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Fonthill Castle
Mercer Museum & James A. Michener Art Museum
King of Prussia Mall
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