Philadelphia pulls you in and doesn’t let go—though it’s not like you’d want it to.
It’s where you can follow in the footsteps of America’s founding fathers in the morning and then lose yourself in a maze of street murals by afternoon.
It’s also where every sandwich feels like it comes with a side of pride (and an unspoken requirement to pick cheesesteak loyalty).
This isn’t any old list of things to do in Philadelphia; it’s a rite of passage for anyone wanting to really experience the city.
Whether you’re climbing the Rocky steps, cheering at a Phillies game, or wandering the iconic Reading Terminal Market, these are the moments that make Philly, Philly.
So, grab your walking shoes and an appetite for adventure (and cheesesteaks), and take a peek into a city that’s as gritty as it is glorious.
Here’s where to start.
Grab a Philly Cheesesteak
Since you’re figuring out what to do in Philadelphia, let’s start with the obvious: a cheesesteak.
It’s practically a badge of honor in Philly.
The city’s most famous sandwich is thinly sliced beef, gooey cheese (pick your fighter: Whiz, provolone, or American), and onions if you’re feeling it (“wit” or “without”).
The epicenter of the cheesesteak debate lies at South 9th and Passyunk, where Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s have been battling it out for decades.
Pick a side—or better yet, try both and settle the score yourself.
That said, you’re not short of options for a solid cheesesteak around the city.
Tony Luke’s on Oregon Avenue and Shank’s Original on Columbus Boulevard are local favorites that deserve a taste test, too.
Philly folks have strong opinions about their cheesesteaks, so don’t be shy—ask a local, and you’ll get an impassioned recommendation (and probably a whole history lesson).
Pro tip: Don’t stop at the cheesesteak if you’re all in for a full-on Philly food tour. Make room for a roast pork sandwich, a soft pretzel, or a scoop of water ice.
When in Philly, your appetite should come prepared.
Take In the Liberty Bell
Perhaps you love a bit of history but don’t know what to do in Philly. If so, the Liberty Bell is a landmark you have to see.
Cracked but iconic, it’s embodied freedom and resilience for centuries and has the stories to back it up.
It is free to visit the Liberty Bell Center on Market Street, though a quick security check and occasional lines are part of the experience.
Once inside, you’ll get up close with the Bell’s famous crack and learn how it became a rallying cry for abolitionists, suffragists, and freedom movements worldwide.
And to top it all off, the Bell’s backdrop—Independence Hall—is as photogenic as it gets, so get your pics while you’re there!
Run the Rocky Steps and Snap a Legendary Shot
If you’ve been to Philly and haven’t run up the Rocky steps, I have a question: why?
The 72 steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art have been an international draw since Rocky hit the big screen in 1976.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a die-hard fan or simply up for a bit of fun; taking on the climb is a Philly tradition worth embracing.
Half the fun is reenacting the iconic scene—fists pumping, of course—before soaking in the sweeping views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the city skyline.
And when you’ve caught your breath, head back down to the base of the steps to snap a photo with the bronze Rocky Statue, a tribute created for Rocky III.
It’s a popular spot, so expect a bit of a wait, but the payoff is a quintessential Philly moment, that’s for sure.
Among the many things to see in Philadelphia, this combo of film nostalgia and unbeatable views is hard to top.
For even more Rocky-inspired adventures, check out The Yo Philly! Rocky Film Tour or test your stamina in the annual Rocky Run.
Catch a Phillies Game at Citizens Bank Park
Any list of what to see in Philadelphia wouldn’t feel right without Citizens Bank Park, so you should probably check it out—even if baseball isn’t your thing.
This is where Philly shows up big, from the cheers for the Phillies to the unbeatable food lineup that’s worth the trip alone.
First off, let’s talk snacks: Chickie’s & Pete’s Crabfries are non-negotiable (seasoned to perfection and oh-so-dippable).
Pair that with a slice of Manco and Manco Pizza or a donut from Federal Donuts, and you’ll be in game-day heaven.
Now, if you have kids in tow, head to The Yard, a mini baseball wonderland designed to keep little ones busy while you enjoy the action.
And if you don’t want to deal with the crowds, stuff those worries in a sack—ballpark tours are a great way to soak in the stadium vibes without the game-day hustle.
For $20, you’ll get 75 minutes of behind-the-scenes magic; even for kids under 3, you can tour for free.
Just a quick tip: traffic around South Philly’s sports complex can turn into a gridlock nightmare, especially on busy nights.
But thankfully, you can skip the stress by taking SEPTA’s Broad Street Line to NRG Station—it drops you a short walk from the action.
And if you’re driving, pack some patience and plan to get there early for parking.
Now, get out there and catch a game or explore the park––it’s a full-on Philly experience and one you’ll be glad you didn’t skip.
Walk Through History at Independence Hall
When it comes to places to visit in Philadelphia, Independence Hall holds a top spot for a reason—it’s the birthplace of the United States.
This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and where, just 11 years later, delegates gathered to draft the Constitution. If walls could talk, these would have some stories to tell.
Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a straightforward affair.
Free, timed-entry tickets are required and can be reserved in advance—essential if you want to avoid any last-minute letdowns.
You can also go on guided tours through the iconic Assembly Room, where history was literally made.
The Hall is part of Independence National Historical Park, a larger area packed with other must-see landmarks, so it’s easy to turn your visit into a whole day of exploring.
Get a Taste of Philly at Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is a foodie’s dream, so it’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Philadelphia.
This historic food haven, beneath a 19th-century train station, has fed locals and visitors since 1893.
No joke—this is a sensory overload of flavors, scents, and culture.
Start with DiNic’s roast pork sandwich, often touted as the city’s best, and then stop at Beiler’s Bakery for a doughnut.
Not to mention, you’ll find Pennsylvania Dutch classics like scrapple and pot pie alongside international food from vendors serving everything from Georgian khachapuri to Mexican street tacos.
And this doesn’t even scratch the surface of the delights you’ll find, so you can probably tell by now you’re in for a treat.
Of course, the food’s what you’re coming here for, but you’ll find local crafts and handmade goods, too. And you never know what’s around the corner.
You’ll also find plenty of seating, but half the fun is wandering the aisles; you know how it is at food markets.
Pro tip: Lines can get long, especially for favorites like Termini Brothers’ cannoli, so come early or bring your patience—it’s worth the wait.
See Philly from Above at One Liberty Observation Deck
If there’s one way to get a real feel for Philadelphia, it’s by seeing it from 57 floors up at One Liberty Observation Deck.
The 360-degree views are nothing short of breathtaking, with sights like City Hall and the Ben Franklin Bridge laid out before you.
Inside, the experience goes beyond just the view. There are interactive exhibits telling Philly’s story, diving into its architecture, history, and even its famous murals.
Benjamin Franklin himself gets a spotlight, which feels just right in the city he calls home. Plus, the free hourly tours are included with admission.
At $15 for entry—and discounts for families and kids—it’s one of the city’s more budget-friendly tourist attractions.
Whether you’re catching the skyline bathed in daylight or sparkling at night, it’s worth the elevator ride.
A little insider tip: Plan your visit around sunset. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like watching Philly light up as the day winds down.
Step Into the Magic Gardens
When exploring what Philly is known for, the Magic Gardens on South Street is a spot that hits differently.
Local artist Isaiah Zagar created this indoor-outdoor mosaic marvel, and it isn’t your average museum.
It’s part art, part autobiography, and a full-on feast for the senses, with every nook and cranny covered in handmade tiles, bottles, mirrors, and objects with a story to tell.
Zagar’s work stems from his personal journey, transforming broken pieces into something beautiful—a metaphor that I still ponder from time to time.
I can guarantee you’ll find yourself awestruck.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $15 for adults, $8 for kids aged 6-12, and free for those under 5.
- Timing: Entry is on a timed ticket system (book ahead online to secure your spot).
- Accessibility: The space is compact—no room for strollers—so plan accordingly if you’re visiting with little ones.
- Getting There: The closest subway stop is Lombard-South on the Broad Street Line, a quick walk away. Limited parking is nearby.
What Philly Is Known For: The Real Deal Moments
There’s just something about Philly that makes you never want to leave.
Perhaps it’s a bite into a cheesesteak so good you forget there’s a debate about who makes it best, or maybe it’s standing in Independence Hall and feeling the weight of history. Either way, the city is captivating.
The beauty lies in the little things: running up the Rocky steps (and maybe gasping for breath at the top), wandering through murals that turn city streets into galleries, or getting lost in the maze of flavors at Reading Terminal Market.
So, get out there and let the City of Brotherly Love show you what it’s all about.
