Philadelphia Trip Planner
Why Visit Philadelphia: Top Reasons & Highlights
Travelers love Philadelphia for its rich history and vibrant urban atmosphere, as highlighted in reviews praising iconic sites like the Liberty Bell and diverse food markets. Visitors consistently enjoy exploring museums, sampling local cheesesteaks, and strolling through charming neighborhoods. Pilot simplifies planning by curating itineraries for a seamless experience.
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What to do in Philadelphia
With so much to do and so much to see, use Pilot to make your plan to make the most of your trip.
Explore top things to do
- 🏛️ Explore the rich history at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. - 🍽️ Taste the local flavors at Reading Terminal Market. - 🎨 Engage with art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for the "Rocky Steps." - 🌳 Relax in Fairmount Park or stroll along the Schuylkill River Trail. - 🧀 Dive into a quintessential Philly cheesesteak from Pat's or Geno's. Use Pilot to craft a seamless Philly itinerary with ease.
Find the perfect neighborhood to stay in
- 🏙️ Rittenhouse Square: Upscale, vibrant, with elegant shopping and dining. - 🏛️ Old City: Historic, charming, rich with museums and cobblestones. - 🎨 Fishtown: Trendy, artsy, with live music and creative eateries. - 🏠 Northern Liberties: Laid-back yet lively, featuring beer gardens and boutiques. - 🚶♂️ Passyunk Square: Local's favorite, with authentic Italian market and eateries. Pilot helps you find the ideal hotel deals and spots to stay.
Discover the best food and drink
🍔 Enjoy the famous Philly cheesesteak. Travelers love the ones from John's Roast Pork. 🍟 Explore the hearty roast pork sandwich. DiNic's is a crowd favorite. 🍕 Try soft pretzels, a classic Philly snack. 🌭 Delve into scrapple, a regional breakfast meat special. 🌮 Visit Reading Terminal Market for diverse tastes. 🗂️ Use Pilot to explore and plan your Philadelphia cuisine journey easily.
In popular culture
🎬 Rocky's legendary steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art make it an iconic stop for film buffs. 📺 It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia adds a comedic flair, showcasing local bars and spots like Paddy's Pub. 🎥 The movie Philadelphia, starring Tom Hanks, shines a light on the city's legal environment and urban scenery. 📽️ Creed adds modern depth to the Rocky saga, further rooting the city as a boxing backdrop. 🎶 Bruce Springsteen's Streets of Philadelphia brings musical recognition, capturing the city's essence. 📹 Many scenes from The Sixth Sense were filmed in University City and Society Hill.
Philadelphia at a glance
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What reviews say
- Philadelphians appreciate their food scene, with mentions of unique cheesesteak spots. - The city's history is a big draw, from Independence Hall to the Liberty Bell. - Some find it walkable but suggest caution in certain neighborhoods. - Art lovers recommend the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Murals. - Locals suggest visiting Reading Terminal Market for diverse eats. - Parking can be tricky; public transit is often preferred.
What reddit says
- Redditors love exploring Philadelphia's rich history at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. - People rave about local eats, recommending cheesesteaks, Reading Terminal Market, and roast pork sandwiches. - Hidden gems include the Mutter Museum and Magic Gardens. - Walking is often touted as the best way to explore neighborhoods like Fishtown and Old City. - Other fun activities include visiting museums and catching a game. - Caution: parking can be difficult, so consider using public transit.
Travel tips and safety
- Philadelphia is known for its genuine hospitality. People may greet you with a nod or 'hello' on the street. - Expect to pay about $10 for a craft beer or $20 for a nice mid-range meal. - Tipping is customary, usually 15-20%. - Public transportation is affordable and reliable. - Strange law: it’s illegal to sing in the bathtub. - Stay respectful at major historical sites. Philadelphia is generally safe. Consult travel advisories for updated information as situations can change.
Getting around
- SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys: affordable, reliable - Rideshare/taxis: easy, but pricier than transit - Walkable city: Center City and Old City ideal - Indego bike rentals: accessible and convenient - Pilot can help plan routes and logistics for a smoother visit.
How much it costs to visit
- Philadelphia is a fantastic city to explore with its rich history and culture. - For a budget traveler, you can spend around $70 to $100 per day. - Accommodation: $30 to $50 (hostel or budget hotel) - Meals: $20 to $30 (local eateries) - Attractions/transport: $20 - A mid-range traveler may spend $150 to $250 daily. - Accommodation: $80 to $150 (mid-range hotel) - Meals: $30 to $50 (nice restaurants) - Attractions/transport: $40 to $50 - For luxury travelers, costs rise to $400 or more. - Accommodation: $200+ (luxury hotel) - Meals: $100+ (high-end dining) - Attractions/transport: $100+ Prices vary at different times of the year and during large events. Check Pilot to find current rates for hotels and activities.
What to do if you only have one day to visit
🇺🇸 Start at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell to dive into American history right away. 🥨 Grab a pretzel and head to Reading Terminal Market for a quick yet authentic lunch. 🖼️ Stroll through the Philadelphia Museum of Art, but don't miss the Rocky Steps out front. 🍺 Visit a local brewery like Yards Brewing Company to unwind with a handcrafted beer. 🧀 Cap it off at Jim's Steaks on South Street for an iconic Philly cheesesteak. 🛍️ Explore the unique shops and street art in South Street for souvenirs. 🏙️ End with a nightcap at a rooftop bar for views of the city skyline. Use Pilot to easily generate and map an itinerary like this for you for free in just a few clicks.
What to do if it rains
🌿 Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art for world-class exhibits. 📚 Visit the Barnes Foundation for unique collection views. 🔍 Discover the Franklin Institute and its hands-on science exhibits. 🎭 Catch a show at the Kimmel Center for performing arts. 🍕 Dive into Reading Terminal Market for food and local treats. 🎨 Spend time at the Rodin Museum, it’s small yet impressive. 🖼️ Check out the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. 🏛️ Wander through the National Constitution Center for history buffs. 📜 Explore the Museum of the American Revolution for intriguing exhibits. 🥨 Relax with coffee or a fresh pretzel while people-watching indoors.
When to visit and how many days to spend
- Philadelphia's best to visit in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) - Spring temperatures: 7-20°C (45-68°F) - Fall temperatures: 10-21°C (50-70°F) - Avoid peak summer (July) due to high humidity and temperatures—up to 31°C (88°F) - Winter can be chilly, occasionally dropping to -6°C (21°F) - The city features a humid subtropical climate transitioning towards humid continental - You're in a mix of urban landscape and nearby deciduous forests - These influence moderate winters and warm, humid summers
How to find events during your stay
- Visit Philadelphia’s official site for a calendar of events, including festivals, markets, and local happenings. Check it regularly: visitphilly.com/events. - phillymag.com has articles on upcoming cultural events and concerts. It’s great for insider tips on where to go and what's trending now. - Follow Time Out Philadelphia for the latest event coverage: timeout.com/philadelphia. - Check out local blogs like uwishunu.com for previews of events, plus recommendations on less-known happenings. - Keep an eye on the city’s main newspaper, The Philadelphia Inquirer. They share detailed event listings and reviews: inquirer.com. - Use social media: Instagram @phillychitchat or @philly.curbed for announcements and community highlights. - The local NPR station, WHYY, also features community events. Their website is whyy.org. - Discover festivals and unique experiences on the official Visit Philly Instagram: @visitphilly.
Before your trip, read the history
Philadelphia, founded in 1682 by William Penn, was established as a haven for religious freedom and named using the Greek words for "brotherly love." The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people long before European settlement. Its natural history includes the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, which played a vital role in trade and transportation. Visitors can explore the lush Fairmount Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks. Culturally, Philadelphia is famously home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. The city has a rich political history, associated with major events of the American Revolution and later as a political hub. Known for civic engagement, it leans Democratic in contemporary elections. Historic figures like Benjamin Franklin, who contributed to its development, are celebrated throughout the city. First-time travelers will find attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the historic district offer a tangible connection to its past. Expect a city that embraces its roots and fiercely preserves its story.
