Philadelphia offers many exciting attractions for visitors to see and do, such as The Franklin Institute, Historic Old City, and Rittenhouse Square are top priorities. These neighborhoods boast historic structures and offers art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants to visit.
The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is Philadelphia's premier science museum and center for education and research. Named for American scientist Benjamin Franklin, science enthusiasts and families should not miss this attraction. The museum boasts permanent interactive exhibits, live science programs, and the Fels Planetarium, as well as special exhibitions like Harry Potter: The Exhibition as well as numerous educational resources.
Historic Old City
Historic Old City lies at the center of Philadelphia. It is one of America's most significant square miles, featuring sites integral to founding our country and various historical museums. Explore Philadelphia's fire history at the Fireman's Hall Museum, housed within an 1892 building that once served as its firehouse. Tickets to visit are free, though you must reserve them ahead of time online.
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square, one of William Penn's five square parks, is an exquisite oasis in Philadelphia's city center. A perfect combination of gorgeous residences and exquisite retail options. Rittenhouse Square Park has long been at the center of community life in Philadelphia. Residents have fought to preserve it as their own, safeguarding green space against parking garages, grazing animals and other developments.
Love Park
Love Park in Center City of Philadelphia features the famous LOVE sculpture and is a popular spot for taking photos and wedding ceremonies. Recently, the Conservancy led a revitalization project at the park that featured new activities, programs and amenities designed to promote inclusivity and engagement.
City Hall
City Hall stands as one of Philadelphia's most prominent landmarks at the corner of Broad and Market streets, housing its executive (the Mayor's Office), judicial, and much of Philadelphia's government operations.
Alexander Milne Calder created this statue of William Penn - who established Pennsylvania. This statue stands atop the tower.
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is an expansive urban green space covering more than 2,000 acres along the Schuylkill River, boasting numerous big and small parks offering miles of trails, waterways, sports grounds and museums.
Philadelphia's historic and cultural attractions make the neighborhood one of its most desirable spots, from Boathouse Row to Zoobilation. Read ahead for our must-see spots here in this lovely Philadelphia neighborhood!
Schuylkill River Trail
The Schuylkill River Trail is an attractive multi-use path along the Schuylkill River that's popular with hikers, bicyclists, and runners alike.
Starting from Center City and following the Schuylkill River for 30 miles, the trail offers scenic vistas along its course and includes a 2,000-ft boardwalk which spans across to South Street.
Franklin Square
Franklin Square, one of Philadelphia's original five squares, offers children an ideal setting for outdoor fun! Complete with fountain, carousel, and Philly Mini Golf courses - Franklin Square makes a fantastic destination for family outings!
Franklin Square was initially known as North East Publick Square when William Penn established it to establish a commercial center and foster social discipline among settlers. Benjamin Franklin is one of America's founding fathers and became an inspiration to Penn as he worked to shape American society.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary was the first prison to utilize isolation, using this form of punishment as a means to reform rather than intimidate prisoners.
Al Capone and Slick Willie Sutton were both imprisoned at Eastern State, among many other notorious criminals. Today, however, Eastern State continues to operate and hosts various activities and attractions; its "Terror Behind the Walls" fundraiser remains particularly popular.
Philadelphia Zoo
America's inaugural zoo is an absolute must for visitors of all ages! Offering animals, thrilling activities, and breathtaking views - the Philadelphia Zoo makes an excellent day trip destination!
At the center of the zoo is a brand-new dining area called Urban Green. Featuring outdoor seating and an 132-foot mural, it offers plenty of dining opportunities and is sure to keep guests satisfied!
