Philadelphia is one of the United States’ most visited cities due to its rich historical heritage. Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution were signed.. Moreover,Renaissance man Benjamin Franklin once called this city home. And before Washington, D.C became more prominent, Philadelphia served as the country’s capital.
Despite all of these achievements in American history,the city is far from being stuckin its glorious past.” Today’s Philadelphia is home to a number of world-class museums, a raucous nightlife, legendary sports teams, and an expanding restaurant scene that includes more than just the well-known cheesesteak. nAre you unsure where to begin your trip? Join a guided tour and let a local show you around.
Philadelphia Travel Tips
Best Months to Visit
Philadelphia is most charming in the springtime, when room rates are moderate and flowers are in full bloom. However, those looking for a bargain may want to visit during fall or winter, when temperatures are colder but hotel prices drop. To avoid crowds, it’s best to plan your trip outside of peak summer season.
How to Save Money in Philadelphia
- Take advantage of the complimentary activities Several of the most popular sights, such as the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, and Rittenhouse Square, are entirely free to visit. You may also save a lot of money by purchasing the Philadelphia Pass or CityPASS for attractions that aren’t included in it.
- The Kimmel Center has a variety of free performances, and the Walnut Street Theatre sometimes provides $35 standby tickets for same-day events.
- If you plan on using SEPTA public transportation in Philadelphia and have a family, buy a SEPTA family pass for $30. The pass covers one day of unlimited travel on SEPTA for five people.
Take advantage of hotel concierges to save money in your destination. For even more cost-savings suggestions, contact with local professionals.
Philadelphia is known as the City of Brotherly Love due to its acceptance and ethnic diversity. In fact, it has been nicknamed the City of Brotherly Love since 1682. Philadelphia contains a large number of ethnically diverse neighborhoods and one of the largest gay populations in America. Outside Independence Hall, one of the first gay rights demonstrations occurred; and during one period, the tourism board ran an advertising campaign that stated “Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay.”
Philadelphia is a city rich in culture, and that extends to its public art. There are murals, sculptures and fountains peppered throughout the streetscape – all commissioned with an aim to make Philadelphia a ‘museum without walls.’ This initiative is emblematic of Philly’s grassroots vibe. It’s perhaps no surprise then that residents here have a well-earned reputation for being passionate about their communities and local activities.
What to Eat
With new dining businesses springing up all around Philadelphia in recent decades, the city’s eating scene has undergone a culinary revolution. The more expensive places are concentrated in trendy Old City and Rittenhouse Square (The Dandelion and The Love are two relatively new favorites). In Center City, French, Indian, and Japanese cuisine is available. For basic Italian food or farm-to-table cuisine, head to South Philly or Center City
A hoagie-like sandwich made with thinly sliced steak and cheese, onions, peppers, and mushrooms all served on a long roll. But you haven’t had a real Philly cheesesteak until you’ve been to South Philly. If you want the best of the best when it comes to this famous sandwich, go to the Italian Market where recent travelers say they make it just how you like it. Other popular places are Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. Another great place that has everything is Reading Terminal Market.
In Philly, it is common to find restaurants that allow you to bring your own alcohol. This can save you money since buying drinks at the restaurant can be expensive. If you are unsure if a certain establishment has a BYOB policy, give them a call ahead of time.
Safety
Although most of Philadelphia is generally safe for tourists, parts of the city (like South, North or West Philly) can be dangerous. To stay safe during your trip: Keep your valuables close to you at all times and hidden from view if possible. If you’re unsure about how to get somewhere, take a cab or drive rather than walking, especially at night.
Getting Around Philadelphia
The best way to explore Philadelphia is on foot or by PHLASH bus. Although certain attractions, such as the Philadelphia Zoo, require a different mode of transportation, most sightseeing is centered in the Old City, Rittenhouse Square, and Society Hill neighborhoods, all of which are very pedestrian-friendly. You may use a tangle of trolleys, buses, and subways to travel between Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and around the city. A round-trip cab ride from the airport to Center City costs $28.50 flat rate.
The purple PHLASH buses are also available during this time period, allowing you to explore outside of the city center. Hailing a taxi is an alternative, but fares can quickly add up or you may use a ride-huling service like Uber or Lyft if you want to save money on your journey. If you – like most Philadelphians – arrive by automobile, invest in a decent map and be prepared for some driving and parking difficulties.
If you’re coming from another city to Philadelphia, it might be cheaper and more convenient for you to take Amtrak into 30th Street Station. For New Yorkers specifically,You can save some money by taking a combination of New Jersey Transit and SEPTA trains.
