Make the Most of Your Time in Philadelphia - America's Birthplace and Most Historic City!
Independence Hall in Philadelphia's Historic District. The final version of the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress at Independence Hall, the birthplace of the United States of America, on July 4, 1776. Eleven years later, Independence Hall would also witness the creation of the U.S. Constitution, on September 17, 1787.
Philadelphia is a city brimming with attractions, sports, arts, culture, and hotspots. This site is for anyone who would like to make the most of their time in the city and region- whether it's for:
a day;
a weekend;
a week;
a month;
a year;
or a lifetime.
We hope to make it a unique resource, for anyone traveling, studying, or living in the city or region.
If you're looking for something in particular, you can use the Google Custom Search box below, to search all of the constantly growing pages, of Enjoying Philadelphia - there are currently 265 pages and counting.
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The colony of Pennsylvania - then consisting of only three counties - was founded by William Penn in 1682 - that is, nearly a century, before the thirteen American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain.
Accordingly, the richly textured history of Philadelphia - Pennsylvania's first and largest city - is second to none. To use only the most prominent examples:
In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was vigorously debated and signed here. Eleven years later, in 1787, the U.S. Constitution was debated with equal vigor, and written here.
You can visit the Pennsylvania State House - now known as Independence Hall - where both documents were adopted. Of course, just across the street, you can also see the Liberty Bell, perhaps the most lasting symbol of the nation's freedoms.
However, the city and region have a great deal more to offer than their boundless, authentic history. They have world-class museums and cultural institutions, countless restaurants and nightclubs, and a full, year-round calendar of sporting events - to name just a few.
There are so many things to do in the city and region, that even a lifelong native of the area, could never hope to directly experience all of them.
And for that reason, the challenge is even more daunting, for a visitor who is here for a day, or a week.
In summary-
The mission of Enjoying Philadelphia is to help you - the visitor, student, or resident - enjoy the city and region to the utmost. Accordingly, throughout site construction, we'll be seeking to assemble the ultimate guide to various attractions and offerings.
And hopefully, each time you visit, you'll find something else new and exciting to do, in the City of Brotherly Love.
This is the Visitor Site Map, for our site. We continue to constantly add content on Philadelphia tourist attractions, hotels, etc. This page will help you find what you’re looking for, quickly.
If you’d like to learn more about enjoying Philadelphia, just fill out this short form. You can ask questions about visiting the city, or sign up for e-mail updates.
December 2010 things to do in Philadelphia – at Macy’s, the beloved Light Show, and entering the life-sized version of A Christmas Carol at Dickens Village.
July 2011 Philadelphia events include the Welcome America Festival, fireworks, concerts, patriotic parades to celebrate July 4, and American independence.
October 2010 things to do in Philadelphia – ghost tours, tours of the Gothic fortress of Eastern State Penitentiary, and the Cleopatra exhibit at the Franklin Institute. Read more.
Getting around Philadelphia - there are many ways, but which is right for you, to see the most attractions and places to visit in Philadelphia? Read more.
SEPTA is the Philadelphia mass transit system. This guide is designed for visitors, explaining Regional Rail travel, the Blue Line, the Broad Street Subway, fares, tokens, and all the rest. Read more.
Find everything about SEPTA Regional Rail train travel, in and around Philadelphia and its suburbs- whether you are a visitor, or a resident who is taking the train for the first time in a while.
The Liberty Bell is the best known symbol of Philadelphia – and it has a brand-new pavilion for visitors. Read some tips about touring its new home, and making the most of your trip.
Franklin Court - the home of Benjamin Franklin - is fascinating and highly memorable- find out more about this hidden glimpse into his life and times in Old City...
Eastern State Penitentiary is the eeriest of the Philadelphia attractions. The prison resembles a fortress in enemy territory, awing the visitor - and that design was not by accident.
Eastern State Penitentiary is off the beaten path for travelers to Philadelphia– read the best ways to get there via SEPTA, the Phlash, car, and by foot.
Philadelphia restaurants, among the finest in America, offer a superb variety of cuisine and options, making Philadelphia nightlife uniquely enjoyable.
The Philadelphia Craft Beer scene has all sorts of ales and lagers, with so many microbreweries and bars and restaurants, offering the rarest and most exotic brews. But which places should you visit?
Philadelphia hotels are plentiful in Center City, for every location, taste, and budget, and near all of the popular places to visit in Philadelphia. But which one is right for you? Read more.
Looking down from William Penn's hat- experience the best aerial view of the city by a visit to Philadelphia City Hall Tower, from atop the gigantic statue of the founder.
Penn's Landing is the riverfront entertainment district of Philadelphia, with many worthwhile places to visit on both sides of the Delaware River, with frequent ferry crossings to the New Jersey side.
The Philadelphia Mint, the oldest in America, has existed since 1792. It has the capacity to strike 32 million coins a day – but it’s a free place to visit. Read more.
A guide to enjoying the many Philadelphia Museums, such as the Museum of Art, The Franklin, The Academy of Natural Sciences, the Independence Seaport Museum, as well as many others.
Independence Seaport Museum offers an unbeatable look at the maritime past of the port of Philadelphia- you can also tour two historic Navy ships- the cruiser USS Olympia and the submarine USS Becuna
The Academy of Natural Sciences, in Philadelphia, is the oldest institution devoted to natural sciences, in the entire Western Hemisphere – it is nearly two centuries old. Read more.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art Offers World-Class Art Collections and Exhibits - Not Just the Rocky Steps and Statue. If You Have Time, Go Inside, Also.
The Franklin Institute has the biggest heart in the world- literally. Read more about the premier science museum in Philadelphia, and its stunning exhibits…
Lights of Liberty is well worth its price- a dazzling, after-dark, cutting-edge multimedia experience, which places the visitor in the midst of the thrilling events of 1776 - Read how.
Get the most out of your one day visit to Philadelphia – tour the most memorable historic attractions in Old City – the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Franklin Court, among others. Read how.
There are many free places to visit in Philadelphia, especially in Old City, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. And some less famous ones, which are equally cool to tour. Read more.
Northern Liberties - a steadily gentrifying neighborhood – has superb choices for restaurants, nightclubs, and - especially - craft beers in Philadelphia. But which places are best for you to visit?
Society Hill does more to take the visitor back to the 18th century, than any other neighborhood in Philadelphia – or in America. Imagine yourself in colonial times, discussing the latest intrigue in
South Street, the southernmost street in Center City, is among the coolest streets in Philadelphia, particularly on weekend nights. Its vibe has always been unique and distinctive.
Fairmount and the Art Museum Area – different names for the same Philadelphia neighborhood – offer arts and culture, hipness, and a variety of quality bars and restaurants to visit. Read more.
Main Street in Manayunk has among the best foot traffic anywhere, if you’re looking for a dynamic, hopping place to visit in Philadelphia. But which bars and restaurants should you visit? Read more.
There are many Philadelphia travel guides out there – but comparatively few Philadelphia guidebook reviews. Learn which ones are worth the money and space in your travel bag on your next trip here.
There are many other Philadelphia web sites, which can be helpful in learning more about places to visit in Philadelphia. Here are some of the best ones, which we highly recommend, for the visitor, st
A guide to the best downtown Philadelphia ice cream. The nation’s birthplace can be hot and humid in the summer, but these are great places to visit, year-round.
The Broad Street Subway, also known as the Orange Line and the Broad Street Line, are different names for the same SEPTA transit line in Philadelphia. Read this guide for visitors.
Philadelphia fireworks displays rank among the best in the nation, especially during the annual Welcome America events, a multiple day patriotic festival, celebrating the Fourth of July. But you can s
Taking SEPTA to Citizens Bank Park may seem confusing at first, especially if you’re not familiar with SEPTA. But you’ll find it far easier than driving and parking there. Read more.
Traveling to Manayunk – a vibrant, hip neighborhood – is a great choice, when you are visiting Philadelphia. But with parking scarce, here’s how to get to the hopping nightlife scene on Main Street.
The Manayunk craft beer scene is located in one of the most popular neighborhoods in Philadelphia. However, Manayunk can be confusing to new visitors, and this guide helps you find your way around.
A Citizens Bank Park Guide, for those fortunate enough to obtain tickets to cheer on the Phillies in person. What to see, eat, and visit, while you’re there at the magnificent ballpark. Read more.
Getting Phillies Tickets? Nearly impossible, nowadays, given the long string of consecutive sellouts. However, this guide will improve your chances of getting into Citizens Bank Park. Read more.
SEPTA Regional Rail fares can be confusing at best, especially since SEPTA recently revised the rules. Learn more, on how to take the train to and from the major Philadelphia tourist attractions.
Philadelphia Irish Pubs are among the city’s most popular bars and restaurants, especially given its high number of Irish-Americans. Whether you’re Irish or not, enjoy the wide range of choices.
The Avenue of the Arts is Broad Street in Philadelphia, primarily south of City Hall. You can tour the historic Academy of Music, the Kimmel Center, and other fine and performing arts venues.
Old City Philadelphia Hotels – you should stay in the heart of America’s most historic square mile. Plus, after dark, the area heats up with scintillating nightlife you won’t want to miss. Read more.
Pennsylvania Convention Center hotels are the most abundant anywhere in Center City, for obvious reasons. But which one is the best for you– and for seeing Philadelphia tourist attractions? Read more.
Rittenhouse Square Hotels are densely packed in a small area in downtown Philadelphia. They provide easy access to the many museums and performing arts venues in the area. Read more.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway Hotels will put you within an easy walk of many Philadelphia tourist attractions – but there aren’t as many to choose from, as in the rest of Center City. Read more.
Penn’s Landing Hotels offer an opportunity to stay near major Philadelphia tourist attractions like the Independence Seaport Museum, as well as the RiverLink Ferry to Camden Waterfront attractions.
Philadelphia Bed and Breakfasts are small, compared to the huge, modern hotels around the Pennsylvania Convention Center. But if you’d like a distinctive, historic hotel for your visit - read more.
Amtrak Philadelphia train service makes it easy to visit here, from anywhere in the Northeast Corridor. Learn how best to reach your hotel, restaurants, and tourist attractions, once you arrive.
SEPTA tokens are often the most convenient, fastest, and cheapest way to travel on the Blue Line, the Broad Street Subway, buses, etc. But are they the best deal for you, on your visit? Read more.
Three days in Philadelphia can be an extraordinary travel experience, providing you some time to see the museums and historic sites and take some tours. But how do you plan your visit? Read more.
Philadelphia travel offers stunning museums, unmatched historic sites, and rollicking nightlife, in a tremendous, world-class city. Plan your visit here, to make the most of your visit. Read more.
Driving to Citizens Bank Park brings a unique set of challenges. There are several ways of doing so, each with advantages and drawbacks: I-95, I-76, I-676, the Blue Route, Broad Street. Read more.
Harry the K’s Restaurant is known formally as Harry the K’s Broadcast Bar and Grille. This an independent review of the experience, and how it can enhance your enjoyment of a Phillies game. Read more.
Citizens Bank Park, the home of the Philadelphia Phillies, opened in 2004. Possibly the finest ballpark in North America, CBP offers a plethora of entertainments to any baseball fan. Read more.
The Philadelphia City Hall Tower tour provides the opportunity for visitors to literally stand in the brim of William Penn’s hat, and look out over the city he founded over 300 years ago. Read more.
The Villanova SEPTA options are tremendous, with train, trolley, and bus service all available, directly on campus. But what are the best, safest, and fastest ways to travel to the city? Read more.
Philadelphia frequently hosts the Army Navy Game, and remains its traditional home. Find the best hotels and restaurants to try, as well as tips for getting to Lincoln Financial Field. Read more.
Taking SEPTA to Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia is often the best way to travel there, given the football stadium’s huge capacity. Here are some tips for taking the Broad Street Subway.
Center City District has many convenient, easy-to-navigate, color-coded disks, maps, and directional signs posted, pointing the way to Philadelphia tourist attractions. Read more on how to use them.
The Philadelphia Historic District is the home of the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Betsy Ross House, and many other tourist attractions. Read more, on how best to walk around and explore it.
The Rittenhouse Square District is centered around the square, and many top Philadelphia hotels and restaurants line it. Read more about how to explore the area during your visit to the city.
The Convention Center District is based around the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and many of the top Philadelphia hotels are located, nearby. Read more about what to see there, when you visit.
The Ben Franklin Parkway Museums District has some of the top Philadelphia museums- on a grand, wide boulevard, ending at the Art Museum steps that Rocky made famous. Which sights are best for you?
The Washington Square District has some of the finest Philadelphia restaurants, right near the Avenue of the Arts attractions – and plenty of history, too. Read more, about exploring the area.
The Chestnut Hill Philadelphia neighborhood was the first suburb in America, and today, its tree-shaded Germantown Avenue offers a pleasant mix of shops, restaurants, and places to visit. Read more.
The Battle of Germantown – fought in 1777, during the Revolutionary War – is re-enacted with stunning accuracy, each October. See the 18th-century soldiers in action, at the Cliveden historic site.
The Phillies schedule has 81 home games, annually. Since 2007, it has often included more October games than normal, due to their recent success. Find out when the games are, at Citizens Bank Park.
Terror Behind the Walls, staged at the Gothic, historic Eastern State Penitentiary in Fairmount, is one of the most popular haunted houses in America. Find the schedule, tickets and dinner packages.
October Things to Do In Philadelphia offer haunted happenings for every taste and age, from eerie Spirits of ’76 Ghost Tours in Old City, to Terror Behind the Walls at Eastern State Penitentiary.
College Day on the Parkway – on one Saturday every September since 1987 – offers free admission to all Parkway Museums for college students with valid ID, along with free shuttle buses. Read more.
The Barnes Foundation is the largest private art collection in America, and the art museum will move to the Ben Franklin Parkway, at some point in 2011. Read more.
Taking SEPTA to Eastern State Penitentiary can be tricky, especially if you are visiting Philadelphia and you aren’t familiar with the city. Learn the best ways of traveling there.
This Battle of Germantown history describes Washington’s attempt to defeat the British at Cliveden, a historic estate, during the Revolutionary War in October 1777, and re-enacted annually.
Taking SEPTA to Chestnut Hill is easy, as there are two Regional Rail Lines that travel there, and both are convenient for visitors. Which is best for you?
The range of Benjamin Franklin inventions is astounding, ranging from the lightning rod to the Glass Armonica to swimming fins. Read more about the extraordinary figure, and his legacy for visitors to
The Philadelphia Flower Show comes alive, with a new theme, each March, on 10 acres of the Convention Center. It is the oldest indoor display in America – since 1829, it has been a city institution. A
Terror Behind the Walls 2011 at Eastern State Pen- the most popular haunted house in America: VIP After Dark tours, schedule, tickets, dinner packages.
Shakespeare’s Globe London Cinema Series Henry VIII Review – a stellar cast brings the Tudor court to life on movie screens worldwide – it’s just like being there.
A Phillies/Cardinals 2011 NLDS history, from the perspective of a heartbroken Phillies fan who hoped for more October baseball and a World Series title.
2012 Philadelphia Flower Show - Islands Of Aloha bring Hawaii home, as a trip to the newly expanded Convention Center takes you to a tropical paradise.
Barnes Foundation Philadelphia Opening Press Preview – the magnificent art collection’s new Parkway home features stunning architecture and landscaping.
Taking SEPTA to Terror Behind the Walls at Eastern State Penitentiary, is difficult, because of reduced service at night. If you’re going to take SEPTA up, take a taxicab back to the train station.
4 Lads From Liverpool Review – Get Back to Act II Playhouse in Ambler to see it - the Fab Four in an intimate, cabaret setting, and experience the Beatles.
This Is The Week That Is: The Election Special: A hilarious skewering of the political scene, featuring Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, as befitting 1812 Productions.
2012 Army Navy Game Recap – The Navy Midshipmen defeated the Army Black Knights, 17-13, to capture the Commander-in-Chief’s trophy for the first time since 2009.
Oh, What Fun! is a hilarious, all-original Christmas comedy variety show, starring Tony Braithwaite, along with Howie Brown, Will Dennis, and pianist Sonny Leo, at Act II Playhouse in Ambler.
Irish Christmas in America Review Sellersville Theater – This group of Celtic performers brought an authentic Celtic Christmas variety show of singing, dancing, music, and comedy, to Bucks County.
The spectacle and songs of Les Misérables wow audiences on its 25th Anniversary tour, at the historic Academy of Music in Philadelphia, to kick off the New Year. Read our review.
The Franklin Institute hosts Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition through April 7. Experience the feeling of boarding the doomed Titanic, the world’s most famous ship, in 1912.
It’s “Last Call” for The Roaring ‘20s, which come alive at the National Constitution Center’s American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition. See amazing artifacts from this extraordinary era.
