Why Go to Philadelphia
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Philadelphia is where America was born. The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed at Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin made the city his home, and Philadelphia served as the nation's capital before Washington, D.C. That history makes it one of the most visited cities in the country.
Walk through Independence National Historical Park to see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, visit the Museum of the American Revolution and Betsy Ross House, and stroll Elfreth's Alley, one of the oldest continuously inhabited streets in the U.S. But Philly isn't stuck in the past. Run up the famous Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, explore the Barnes Foundation's world-class art collection, and graze through Reading Terminal Market. Taste a classic cheesesteak, then discover a restaurant scene that goes far beyond it. Philly is also a passionate sports town, with fans who love their Eagles, Phillies, 76ers and Flyers.
Philadelphia is easy to reach by train from New York and Washington. I'll plan a history-packed weekend with a great hotel near the action.
BEST FOR
History lovers, art and museum travelers, foodies, sports fans and families
BEST MONTHS
April–June and September–October for generally pleasant walking weather; summer can be hot and humid.
EXPLORE
- Old City / Independence Mall: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell and walkable colonial-era streets.
- Center City / Rittenhouse Square: Major hotels, dining, shopping and an inviting public square.
- Museum District / Fairmount: Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Parkway and riverside green spaces.
- University City: University of Pennsylvania, Drexel and diverse neighborhood dining.
- South Philadelphia / Italian Market: Food markets, sports venues and established residential neighborhoods.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Philadelphia
North America › Northeast › USA › Pennsylvania
Revolutionary history, great museums and neighborhood flavor.
Historical & Heritage
History
Museums
Culinary
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Reserve Independence Hall tickets ahead when required, especially on busy dates.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Timed tours may require tickets; check National Park Service procedures before arrival.
Independence Hall
Tour the building where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted.
Security screening can create queues; the bell may be viewed from outside the building.
Liberty Bell Center
See the Liberty Bell and exhibits exploring its history and symbolism near Independence Hall.
Allow time for multiple galleries; check the museum calendar for special exhibitions.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Explore major American and international art collections and the museum's landmark steps along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Visit outside the lunch rush for shorter lines and check individual vendor operating days.
Reading Terminal Market
Sample prepared foods, produce and specialty goods inside Philadelphia's bustling historic indoor public market.
Much of the experience is unheated or outdoors; wear comfortable walking shoes.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Walk the cellblocks and exhibits of a former prison renowned for its distinctive radial architecture and criminal-justice history.
Upscale stay facing the park with restaurants and shops nearby.
The Rittenhouse
Rittenhouse Square
Hotel Tags
High-rise luxury option with sweeping urban views and easy access to central museums.
Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center
Center City
Hotel Tags
Convenient base near the Parkway museums and major civic landmarks.
The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton
Logan Square
Hotel Tags
Boutique property close to Independence Hall and the historic district.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
Old City
Hotel Tags
Downtown hotel with quick access to City Hall, Reading Terminal Market and transit.
Loews Philadelphia Hotel
Center City
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Philadelphia
High 56°F · Low 40°F · Rain 3.4 in
Crisp weather and seasonal markets invite shorter walking routes and extended indoor museum time.
April through June and September through October typically bring comfortable walking conditions for the historic district and Parkway museums. Summers are hot and humid; winters can be cold.
Best Times to Visit Philadelphia
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Build time for dining into your Philadelphia itinerary. Look for independent neighborhood restaurants and regional specialties, check recent menus and opening hours, and reserve ahead for busy evenings.
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Walking
Center City and Old City are compact and best explored on foot, with Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell just steps apart.
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Indego Bikes
Indego bike-share stations make it easy to ride between Old City, Center City and the Schuylkill River Trail.
04
Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares are widely available throughout the city.
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SEPTA Subway & Buses
SEPTA's subway lines, trolleys and buses connect Center City with neighborhoods across the city.
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Trains
Amtrak and regional trains stop at 30th Street Station, with easy connections to New York and Washington, D.C.
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Flying In
Philadelphia International (PHL) is about 25 minutes from Center City on SEPTA's Airport Line train or by taxi.
Most visitors fly into Philadelphia International or arrive by train at 30th Street Station. Once you're here, Center City and Old City are very walkable, and SEPTA, Indego bikes and rideshares cover longer trips. Skip the car downtown: parking is expensive.
Getting Around Philadelphia
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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