Fora’s Take
Discover the gritty charm of Philadelphia, a city brimming with history and iconic experiences perfect for a weekend getaway. From the unforgettable moment of running up the Rocky steps to exploring the foundational stories of America at the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical sights. The city's compact size and convenient public transit make it easy to explore its diverse attractions, including the vibrant culinary scene beyond the famed Philly cheesesteak, found at places like Reading Terminal. Ideal for those who appreciate a city with character and history, Philadelphia promises an immersive experience over a weekend visit.
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Things to do in Philadelphia
Reading Terminal Market: Explore one of the oldest and largest public markets in the United States, featuring a wide array of merchants selling everything from quilts and fresh produce to exotic meats, seafood and prepared foods. Notable stops include Hershel’s East Side Deli, Termini Brothers and DiNic's Roast Pork.
City Hall and Love Sign: Visit the iconic Love Sign and take a stroll around City Hall. The sign is a symbol of the city's embrace of art and culture, designed by Robert Indiana and permanently placed in the plaza by popular demand.
Wanamaker Organ: Experience the world's largest playable organ located inside a Macy's department store. The organ is an architectural and musical marvel with regular performances that showcase its incredible power and sound.
Independence Hall and Liberty Bell: Dive into America's foundational history by visiting the site where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, and see the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence with its famous crack.
Benjamin Franklin’s Grave & Elfreth’s Alley: Pay respects at Benjamin Franklin's grave and explore Elfreth's Alley, the oldest residential street in the United States, showcasing historic homes and cobblestone paths.
Penn's Landing: Enjoy the waterfront area of the Delaware River, featuring bars, restaurants and memorials like the Korean War Memorial. A great place to relax and enjoy some food and drinks.
Rocky Statue and Philadelphia Museum of Art: Recreate the iconic "Rocky Steps" scene and visit the Rocky Statue. For art lovers, the museum itself is a treasure trove of artworks and exhibitions.
Eastern State Penitentiary: Tour the historic prison with an audio guide voiced by Steve Buscemi, learning about its history, architecture and the broader issues surrounding the American prison system.
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens: If time allows, visit this unique outdoor art gallery and labyrinth showcasing the mosaic art of Isaiah Zagar, made from diverse materials and spanning three city lots.
Places to eat & drink in Philadelphia
Hershel’s East Side Deli: Located in Reading Terminal Market, this deli is praised for its amazing pastrami sandwiches, embodying the authentic taste of traditional deli cuisine.
Termini Brothers: A must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, Termini Brothers offers delicious cannolis among other Italian pastries, showcasing a rich heritage of Italian baking.
Beiler's Doughnuts: Also in Reading Terminal Market, Beiler's is renowned for its fresh, handcrafted doughnuts in a variety of flavors, a perfect treat for those looking for something sweet.
Tommy DiNic's: Famous for its roast pork sandwiches, DiNic's has been recognized by the Travel Channel as offering the “Best Sandwich in America.” The combination of juicy pork, sharp provolone and bright green broccoli rabe creates a memorable meal.
Mac's Tavern: A cozy pub where visitors can enjoy a variety of beers and pub fare. The atmosphere is enhanced by its connection to the TV show "It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia," making it a fun spot for fans.
Sonny’s Famous Steaks: A key player in the Philly cheesesteak scene, Sonny’s offers the classic cheesesteak experience, making it a great place to indulge in this iconic Philadelphia dish.
Sabrina’s Café: Ideal for brunch, Sabrina's Café serves up hearty and delicious dishes like huevos rancheros, along with a selection of mimosas to kickstart the day.
Pat’s King of Steaks: Engage in the age-old debate of who makes the best cheesesteak by visiting Pat’s, known for following tradition by chopping its steak for sandwiches. This is the quintessential Philly experience.
The Dandelion: This British-style pub offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a juicy cheeseburger and a selection of beers, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Philadelphia. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Katie Fornataro's guide, Shortlist of Best Things to do in Philadelphia