I LOVE when local (I’m just south of Boston) friends say: We’re going on a family trip to Philadelphia!!!! Talk about music to my ears. So, in one such Facebook thread, I got a bit ahead of myself and just started listing places I want to go back to. I miss home… or what became home when I lived in South Philly. Of course I’m a suburban-belle, but I mastered the R2 Warminster, and can name most of the stops from Willow Grove to Suburban Station. My heart is Philadelphia.
There are so many amazing places to see, but what popped out of my head are these 25 Must-Sees on your next family vacation to Philadelphia!
1. Franklin Institute By far, this is my favorite place in Philly. I remember trips as a kid with my grandmother to see the IMAX movies about anything space or water. School trips, running through the giant heart, playing with all the train controls. It’s the best place on earth. I swear. Dave loves going every time we are in the area, too… for the kids, of course. There are planes and trains, you can ride ET’s bike on a wire, learn about the physiology of sports. There is just so much. If there ever was a number one place to go at any age in Philadelphia, this it it!
2. Philadelphia Zoo It is one of the best zoos in the country! Sadly, we haven’t been in the area when the weather has cooperated with us going as a family… but I’m hoping this summer!
3. The Please Touch Museum The museum is awesome for kids around the age of 8 and younger. It really teaches kids though interactive exhibits and special events throughout the year.
4. Mütter Museum This is more of an older kids (teens +) activity, but it’s beyond interesting in a morbid way. There are multiple collections, including a few full skeletons, including the tallest on display at 7’6″, and wet collections, which include cysts, tumors and other pathology from every part of the body.
5. Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site This preserved home was once rented by Edgar Allen Poe, who actually lived in many houses over several years in Philadelphia, but this is the only one which still stands.
6. Philadelphia Museum of Art It’s one of the largest in the country… and home to the Rocky Steps (yes, you have to run up them). There are over 80 period rooms, from the medieval cloister to the Indian temple, as well as impressive holdings in Renaissance, American, Impressionist and Modern art, some standouts include a great Rogier van der Weyden altarpiece, a large Bathers by Cezanne, a room devoted to Philadelphia’s own Thomas Eakins, and Marcel Duchamp’s notorious mixed-media Bride Stripped Bare by her Bachelors (The Large Glass).
7. Sabrina’s Cafe A personal favorite… there are multiple locations- all feel like you’re having a nice family meal with friends at different tables. My favorite is in the Italian Market area!
8. Betsy Ross House Purported to be the site where the seamstress and flag-maker Betsy Ross lived when she sewed the first American Flag- you really have to check out this most historic site!
9. Penn’s Landing The Delaware River Waterfront, just a short walk from Old City and Historic Philly, has views like no other… as well as festivals, shows and entertainment throughout the year.
10. Independence Hall This is the history you’ve been looking for. If you travel to Philadelphia and don’t take the family, you’ve missed out on a beautiful opportunity. Don’t forget to check out the Liberty Bell, too… even if the line is long! Totally worth it- pretty cool to say you’ve seen it! I love it so much, I have it tattooed on my arm.
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11. Reading Terminal Market The famous indoor farmer’s market offering diverse fare, housewares, and area specialties since 1892. You have to go- just being there is an experience!
12. Italian Market This area, also known as South 9th Street Curb Market, is an area of South Philly with strong Italian influence, featuring many grocery shops, cafés, restaurants, bakeries, cheese shops, butcher shops, and so much more! I used to live in the area, and coming home to the market is when I feel most as ease- forgo the strollers, however- maneuvering them through the crowds isn’t worth the back ache!
13. Cheesesteaks I don’t want to hear you’ve had one before. If it wasn’t in Philly, “wit wiz”, you’ve had nothing. Lots of local places to checkout, so make sure you do… Pat’s and Geno’s being the most popular. Jim’s is also awesome!
14. South Street Restaurants, bars, culture, diversity, a melting pot of life. Just walk the street- an amazing site in the snow, rain, or heat of summer… and perfect in the Spring and Fall. Iconic Philly is alive on South Street!
15. Magic Gardens A South Street gem- you will never find another place like it on Earth! Sure to capture all ages in it’s beauty and quirkiness.
16. Rodin Museum Open to the public in 1929, this remarkable ensemble of architecture, landscape, and sculpture, designed by architect Paul Cret and landscape architect Jacques Gréber, is now restored to its original splendor. Galleries and garden paths, you can explore one of the world’s most distinguished collections of works by Auguste Rodin, the father of modern sculpture. Take a tour or wander to learn more about such masterpieces as The Gates of Hell, The Thinker, and Eternal Springtime and new collections changing with the seasons.
17. Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (fondly known as PAFA) I actually had the pleasure of working here in catering for special events after college. There is no job like it… surrounded by students at the first and oldest art school in the country, art being shaped and created everyday around you. Magnificent. The academy’s museum is internationally known for its collections of 19th- and 20th-century American paintings, sculptures, and works on paper. Its archives house important materials for the study of American art history, museums, and art training.
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18. Ben Franklin Museum The man, the legacy. A great place to learn more and enjoy some family time in the process! The museum reveals how Franklin embodied the spirit of the 18th century and how his ideas are still relevant today.
19. Academy of Natural Sciences This is the oldest natural science research institution and museum in the New World. I could say more, but why? This is a must see for you and the kids.
20. See a game… any game. We have beautiful sports facilities- you need to check them out. Our teams… well, they’re entertaining, even if they aren’t winning- I promise!
20. Eastern State Penitentiary It’s creepy, full of stories, hauntings and a tour is a must!
21. National Museum of American Jewish History This museum is Smithsonian-affiliated. Exhibits use pieces from the museum’s collection which includes over 20,000 objects and ranges from the Colonial period to the present day, focusing on Jews in America.
22. Warmdaddy’s Soul food, jazz, R&B, blues… and a place you will never forget. I actually went here on a field trip in 8th grade and can still remember how much we loved the atmosphere- like we were transported to a gentler time, with entertainment we’d never really encountered before. It made time stand still, each moment something to savor. I hope to bring my hubby here for date night next time we’re in the area, but it’s also perfect for a family night with older kids. There’s even a jazz brunch on Sundays.
23. Valley Forge This national park is, of all I’ve been to, my favorite. It’s haunting and eerie. I prefer to go when there is some chill in the air, if only to feel the true independence of it all. If you don’t know the history, Valley Forge was the site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. From the different statues (did you know their positioning means something- like whether they survived the war?), to the cabins and trails… this park is not one to miss. For the family, this park’s history is a true testament to being able to overcome adversity.
24. Fairmount Park You’ll never see the whole thing unless you move to Philadelphia. There are over 9,200 acres of of rolling hills, gentle trails, relaxing waterfront and shaded woodlands perfect for walking or hiking, miles of trails for horseback riding, off-road cycling and deep-woods hiking, tours of historic mansions, Japanese tea ceremonies and outdoor concerts, three environmental centers, as well as a wildlife refuge treatment center. There is something for everyone in the family here!
25. Camden Adventure Aquarium Though not in Philadelphia, it’s not too far, and it’s an amazing place! From hands-on exhibits to daily shows and beautiful indoor and outdoor areas for the kids to play, enjoy and learn. Start here early- the kids will want to see it ALL and it’s a huge place!
Bonus: Love Park… because. Love.
You cannot go wrong with food in Philly, but if you’re looking for the best, check out the Top 50 Best! Really, the city of brotherly love gets a bit of a bad rap for whatever reason… we’re a bit of a gruff crowd, but Philadelphia is a mecca of history, culture, hands on learning and a lot of colorful language waiting to be learned from taxi drivers anytime after 11pm. The nightlife is amazing (check out SugarHouse if you get some time without the kiddos) and the experiences waiting for you are what lifetime memories are made of.
I really enjoy tourism and travel blogs. Not all blogs are organized well that give unique information about different cities so I enjoyed your post because it provides a different outlook and viewpoint about a very old and beautiful city.
Love my Philly!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
We have never been to Philadelphia but have been in PA. There is so much to do there! We love visiting museums and such so I could see us having tons of fun. Thanks for sharing these!
Jess Benoit recently posted…Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Orlando Odditorium
You have to get to Philly!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
We’re planning a visit to the east very soon, but only when it gets warmer. Will keep this bookmarked for ideas!
Scott recently posted…Your Identity is Connected to Your Credit
I hope you get the Philly! I think you’d really love it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
One of my good friends is headed there next week for spring break. I will be sharing your great ideas with her.
Oh good!! Thank you for sharing! I hope she’s able to see some of these spots!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
I’ve only been to Philly once and it was such a short trip! I need to come back!
Yes you do!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
I really want to get to Philadelphia with my kids sometime. I have not yet had the opportunity sadly.
Heather Johnson recently posted…Family Fun in New York: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester
When you do, I know you’ll all love it!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
We haven’t been to Philly in a long time. Since before the boys were born. I would love to go back! I’ve gone to an Eagles game and Phillies game, so I should head back for a Flyers game! We also loved the Mütter Museum. I’ve wanted to go to the Please Touch museum since having kids! 🙂
Jennifer D recently posted…Gift Card Trends 2015: Year in Review
We should ALL go to a Flyers’ game together!!!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
I really love Philadelphia. I don’t go nearly often enough considering how close we are.
Denise C recently posted…The New Dyson Small Ball is Big on Efficiency
I wish I got into the city more when i am back in the area- I miss Center City!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI
Wow, so many great places to visit! If hubby and I ever get a chance to go to Philadelphia, I’d love to visit many of these attractions. Thanks for sharing the ideas and the pictures.
K. Lee Banks recently posted…Believe vs. Achieve – March 6 Inspiration
I hope you do- it’s such a great city!
Chelley @ A is for Adelaide recently posted…MiniLuxe Spa in Cranston, RI