Things To Do
Philadelphia is an historic city with a variety of attractions to please everyone. Whether you want to learn more about our nation’s history, visit famous sites, or just have fun, Philadelphia has what you are looking for.
The first things most people want to see when they arrive in Philadelphia are Independence Hall and the most famous Liberty Bell. Take a guided tour through Independence Hall and watch a re-enactment of the Declaration of Independence being signed. Then gaze upon the cracked bell and learn about its history and significance to America.
The National Constitution Center has exhibits about the US Constitution and American history. And don’t forget to visit Betsy Ross’s house and see re-enactments of the famous flag maker.
If you want to check out some local specialties such as foods and arts and crafts, you should visit some of the local marketplaces. The merchants there might be even willing to negotiate prices or even barter with you. One good place to start looking for these local markets would be the classifieds section of the newspapers.
For some family fun, head over to the Philadelphia Zoo. There are dozens of animal activities and feedings to enjoy and plenty of activities for the children. And check out the all new Amazon Rainforest Carousel!
Sesame Place is an outrageous theme park based on Sesame Street. There are 15 water attractions, the Vapor Trail roller coaster, parades, music and all your children’s favorite characters. It’s a day of fun for the whole family!
The Adventure Aquarium is an all new aquatic experience. Some new attractions are the West African River Experience, Shark Realm, and Jules Verne Gallery. Spend the day “under the ocean” with hundreds of sea creatures.
If you would rather take a leisurely tour of the city, there are walking tours to suit your preference. Walk through Welcome Park, where William Penn wrote his famous “Charter of Privileges” in 1701. Stroll through the Thomas Bond House, a restored 18th century house. Hungry? Stop into the City Tavern Restaurant where the staff all dresses in colonial attire to make your visit more realistic.
In the summer, given the right water conditions you could even do some watersports at Lake Erie. You’d have to head north a bit to the Pennsylvania coast but once you get there you might even get the chance to use your wakeboard or even go surfing. If worse comes to worse, you could go fishing or jetskiing.
Give your eyes and your nose a treat at Longwood Gardens, the nation’s foremost horticultural garden. Stroll through 1,050 acres of gardens, meadows and woodlands. Visit the 20 outdoor gardens and 20 indoor gardens. Gaze at the Main Fountain Garden, as well as numerous other fountains throughout the park.
If nightlife is what you are looking for, there is plenty to be found. Market Street hosts most of the hot spots, but there are reasons to venture past City Center. Continental and Five Spot are excellent places to dance the night away.
For the dedicated shopper, The King of Prussia Mall and the shops at Liberty Place are a great place to start. There is no sales tax on clothes purchased here so shop till you drop!
And when you are done shopping and just want to relax and eat dinner, Cucina Forte and Mainland Inn are just a few top rated restaurants. Make sure you try a world famous Philly cheese steak sandwich while you are visiting.
Philadelphia is also a popular business destination, hosting a number of conferences and expos each year. When traveling to Philadelphia on business, make sure to keep track of all of your expenses, including dinner receipts and parking receipts, so that you can write off those costs on your taxes. If you need more time to sort out all of your business write offs consider using a federal tax extension form.
Whether you are passing through or spending several days in Philadelphia, you will find everything you need to learn about the history of our nation, be entertained, or just plain have fun! So come visit Philadelphia Pennsylvania today.