Things to do in Philadelphia

Best Things to do in Philadelphia

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Philadelphia? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2026.

With over 221 activities in Philadelphia, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 539, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Philadelphia in January and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Best Things to Do in Philadelphia for Every Traveller

About Philadelphia

Philadelphia isn’t just about history books and monuments, it’s a city people live in and use every day. You’ll pass Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, but then turn a corner into neighbourhoods filled with street art, small bars, and food trucks. That mix is what gives the city its energy.

The most recognised tourist things to do in Philadelphia include walking through Independence National Historical Park, climbing the steps at the Museum of Art, and spending time with the Liberty Bell. But there’s more than landmarks here, like murals that cover entire blocks, smaller museums that focus on everything from science to magic, and the food scene is big enough to keep you busy for days.

If you’re here in summer, expect outdoor concerts and festivals. Winter draws people indoors to cosy cafés, museums, and long market halls. And on weekends, there’s always a fair, a food event, or a neighbourhood gathering, plenty of things to do in Philadelphia, no matter your style.

Unique Experiences

Philadelphia Murals and Street Art Tour with Magic Gardens

You’ll explore South Philly’s mural-rich neighborhoods like Queen Village and Bella Vista, then step into the sculptural wonder of the Magic Gardens. It’s a creative slice of the city and one of the unusual things to do in Philadelphia that truly surprises and delights.

• Where: Begins on South Street near the Magic Gardens
• Pricing: It starts from INR 4,000 per person
• Timing & Duration: Approx. 2 hours; starts at 2:00 PM
• When to Visit: Spring through autumn, when walls are bright and weather is walkable

Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour

A sweet escape through the city’s best doughnut spots, tasting snacks in Reading Terminal Market and beyond. It’s fun, relaxed, and one of the most fun things to do in Philadelphia for adults or families with a sweet tooth.

• Where: Starts at Reading Terminal Market
• Pricing: It starts from INR 5,800 per person
• Timing: 2 hours approx.; slots available at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM
• When to Visit: Year-round, but mornings are best to catch fresh doughnuts

Explore Philadelphia with a Unique Scavenger Hunt by Zombie Scavengers

This smartphone-based scavenger hunt sends you through the city solving themed clues to "survive the zombie apocalypse." It’s one of those things to do in Philadelphia that blends creativity, challenge, and cityscape.

• Where: Begins at a central meeting point, app provided after booking
• Pricing: It starts from INR 1,800 per person
• Timing: About 1 hour of playtime; 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• When to Visit: Any season, but spring and fall are most comfortable for exploring on foot

Top Attractions

Independence Hall

This UNESCO World Heritage site is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed. Standing in the Assembly Room gives you a real sense of history, and it remains one of the most important things to do in Philadelphia.

• Where: Chestnut Street, Old City
• Pricing: It starts from INR 100 per person (ticketed entry for timed tours)
• Timing: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with guided tours offered every 20 to 30 minutes
• When to Visit: Best from spring to autumn when walking around Old City is comfortable

Liberty Bell

Just across from Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell is a symbol recognised worldwide. The cracked bell sits in a glass pavilion where you can view it up close while learning its story. It’s among the most iconic tourist things to do in Philadelphia and fits easily into any visit.

• Where: Liberty Bell Center, Independence National Historical Park
• Pricing: Free entry
• Timing: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• When to Visit: Mornings are quieter, especially on weekdays

Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Museum of Art is one of the biggest cultural draws in the city. Its collection covers European painting, American modern art, and rotating exhibits that keep things fresh. Outside, the famous “Rocky Steps” attract as many visitors as the galleries themselves, making it one of the best things to do in Philadelphia.

• Where: Benjamin Franklin Parkway
• Pricing: It starts from INR 1,800 per person (general admission)
• Timing: Wednesday to Monday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Fridays open until 8:45 PM; closed on Tuesdays
• When to Visit: Fridays for extended evening hours, or quieter mornings during the week

Sightseeing Tours

Philly By Night Double-Decker Bus Tour

You’ll ride an open-top bus through the city as it lights up, passing Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Rocky Steps, and more. Seeing these highlights at night feels different, more alive. It’s one of the simplest yet special things to do in Philadelphia at night.

• Where: Starts near Market & Filbert (outside Marriott)
• Pricing: It starts from INR 3,500 per person
• Timing: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes; slots available at 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM
• When to Visit: Spring through autumn evenings, when the air is pleasant and the city lights are bright

Philadelphia 2 Hour Electric Cart Tour

This relaxed cart ride takes you through Old City, City Hall, Chinatown, South Street, and the mosaic Magic Gardens. It’s comfortable, personal, and one of the most fun things to do in Philadelphia for adults.

• Where: Central Philly (various pickup zones)
• Pricing: It starts from INR 6,200 per person
• Timing: Around 2 hours; slots available at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM
• When to Visit: All year round, though spring and autumn offer the best comfort

Day Trips

Driving Tour of Valley Forge National Park from Philadelphia

Just outside the city, you follow Washington’s footsteps at Valley Forge, see the training grounds and historic sites, and learn stories of endurance and courage. A solid pick for anyone looking to connect history with things to do in Philadelphia beyond the city core.

• Where: Pickup in central Philadelphia
• Pricing: Approx. INR 10,390 per person
• Timing: About 4 hours and 30 minutes; slots available at 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• When to Visit: Spring to fall, when the grounds are open and weather is manageable

Guided Day Trip to Amish Country from Philadelphia

Spending a day in Amish Country takes you out of the city and into a quieter rhythm of life and you’ll see open farmland, horse-drawn buggies, and simple wooden houses that reflect traditions carried for centuries. Along the way, you can stop for handmade goods and classic Amish cooking, which gives the trip a warm and authentic feel and it’s one of those experiences that shows a very different side of Pennsylvania, far removed from the city bustle.

• Where: Departing from Philadelphia, travelling through Lancaster County.
• Pricing: It starts from INR 17,500 per person.
• Timing: Departs at 09:00, total duration is approx. 8 hours.
• When to Visit: Best from April to October when the countryside is at its greenest, though winter visits offer a quieter atmosphere.

Boat Tours

City Cruises Philadelphia: Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet

You’ll float down the river while enjoying a buffet and commentary. It offers a tourist things to do in Philadelphia feel with a relaxed start to the afternoon.

• Where: Boards at Penn’s Landing
• Pricing: It starts from INR 11,100 per person
• Timing: About 2 hours and 30 minutes
• When to Visit: Spring to autumn when the riverfront breeze is welcome

Getting Around

• Subways and trolleys: The subway lines and trolley cars cut across the city and are handy for reaching big stops like Old City and University City. They’re reliable when you’ve got a list of tourist things to do in Philadelphia lined up in one day.
• Regional trains: If you’re heading out to Valley Forge or suburbs like Ardmore, the local train system saves time. It’s also a good way to break up your plan of things to do in Philadelphia today by mixing in something outside the centre.
• Buses: Cover neighbourhoods not served by rail. They’re slower, but useful for local markets and mural walks.
• Taxis and rides: Easy to grab in central districts, especially if you’re catching late-night food or heading back after exploring Philadelphia things to do at night.
• Cycling: The city has bike lanes along the river and through central areas. If the weather is good, it’s a flexible and fun way to get between sights.
• Walking: Many main attractions are close together. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Reading Terminal Market can all be linked on foot.

Traveller Tips

• Start early for history: Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell can draw crowds. Arriving in the morning means shorter lines and more time to explore nearby tourist things to do in Philadelphia like Old City streets.
• Use evenings well: Don’t leave evenings empty. The city has a strong mix of food and live music, and planning a couple of Philadelphia things to do at night, whether that’s jazz in a basement club or a walk past lit-up murals, shows you a different side of the city.
• Mix in neighbourhoods: Rittenhouse Square, Fishtown, and South Street all have their own feel. Stepping into these spots shows you more than just the top things to do in Philadelphia, and often makes for the most memorable moments.
• Keep it family-friendly: If you’re travelling with children, the Franklin Institute and the Philadelphia Zoo are reliable picks. They’re some of the best things to do in Philadelphia with kids and break up the heavier historic stops.
• Look for the unusual: Beyond the big names, the city has smaller gems like the Magic Gardens or quirky museums. Adding these into your plan brings in some of the most unusual things to do in Philadelphia.