Philadelphia is one of the best cities in the US for travelers interested in the history and government of America. The short name of Philadelphia is “Philly.” With its glittering culture and rich history, the city also has the charm of a small town while offering all the amenities of a big city. Philly is a World Heritage City, founded in the late 17th Century by the British Quaker William Penn. There are several historic places and hidden stories present in the local streets of Philly. Excellent museums are devoted to the constitution, the American Revolution and Benjamin Franklin. Tourists can also visit the historic Independence Hall or see iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell. Read below about what you can do while visiting this small town.
Listed below are some of the best things to do in Philadelphia and where you should spend your vacation's best moments. This list will help you plan your shore excursion while you go on your dream cruise. Hopefully, this list helps you have the most fun during your trip to Philadelphia.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is the heart of the city. It is a place where creativity plays a huge role and surprises visitors around every corner. The museum has a world-renowned collection of arts from across the globe and through the ages, including American, East and South Asian, Renaissance, Impressionist, and Contemporary masterpieces. It will take around 1 to 2 hours to explore the whole museum. This museum is one of the most significant art museums in the country and a must-see attraction in Philly.
The Liberty Bell is the iconic symbol of American Independence and justice and was previously called the State House Bell or Old State House Bell. It was made in 1752 for the Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall. The bell was cast in London and was shipped to Pennsylvania. Soon after it arrived, it cracked because the metal was too brittle. Tourists can read a Bible verse on Bell “Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants.” Moreover, the information about the bell maker and the Pennsylvania Assembly is also present.
United States government maintains Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia as a federally protected historic district. It is a symbol of the founding principles of the nation. It preserves all national and international symbols of freedom and democracy, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. It is located on Chestnut Street, between 5th and 6th Streets. The major highlights of this park are –Liberty Park, Congress Hall, the National Constitution Center, the Benjamin Franklin Museum, and the Independence Visitor Center. Today the building is the centerpiece, and guided tours are available to visitors year-round.
The tallest building in Philadelphia is the City Hall. The building is 548 feet above the ground. The views of the building – the largest municipal building in the United States is pretty impressive. Visitors can enjoy tours of the artfully designed interior and another of the tower. You can find the annual Christmas Market on its doorstep during Christmas in Dilworth Park.
Delaware River Waterfront is a historic spot where you can find a series of piers and parks with their own personality and drawing. The nonprofit corporation of Delaware River Waterfront has been slowly transforming the stretch of the riverfront between Oregon and Allegheny Avenues since 2012. They have added public parks, biking and running trails, and spaces for cultural and recreational activities. Visitors can easily hop to a couple of piers in one day.
Philadelphia is a city that graces visitors with its beauty in all four seasons. Suppose you wish to escape the cold in winter and go ice skating at Dilworth Plaza or take a stroll at Independence National Historical Park in spring. In that case, this city has everything to offer all year long. Here in this city, you can enjoy the beauty with or without crowds. So, if you consider yourself a budget traveler, consider visiting the city from October through February. Suppose you’re looking for some exciting sightseeing. In that case, the best time is from March through May, and for enjoying outdoor festivals, visit in June through September.
