The Pennsylvanian city of Philadelphia played a key role in the early years of the United States, and was the home of many of the country’s early leaders, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. The City of Brotherly Love still has a number of attractions which belie its historical roots, including the iconic Liberty Bell, the Independence National Historical Park and the impressively elaborate Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania Masonic Temple. History buffs can also enjoy the nation’s first prison, the Eastern State Penitentiary, and two of the finest museum in North America. Once the city’s old buildings have been exhausted, visitors can also enjoy the tranquil Fairmont Park, one of the largest green spaces in the whole of the USA.
What you’ll love most about Philadelphia
- Step back in time at Independence National Historical Park, where you can explore iconic landmarks like Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted, and the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American freedom
- Immerse yourself in world-class art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the country. Explore galleries showcasing masterpieces from diverse cultures and time periods, including works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet
- Indulge in culinary delights at Reading Terminal Market, one of America’s oldest and largest public markets. Sample a diverse array of foods from Amish bakeries, cheesesteak stands, ethnic eateries, and gourmet vendors, and shop for fresh produce, meats, and specialty goods
- Escape the city hustle in Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, spanning over 2,000 acres along the Schuylkill River. Enjoy scenic trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as historic landmarks, picturesque gardens, and outdoor recreation areas
- Discover a hidden gem at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, a whimsical mosaic art environment created by artist Isaiah Zagar. Explore indoor and outdoor galleries adorned with intricate mosaic murals, sculptures, and installations, and marvel at the dazzling array of colours and textures
- Uncover the history of crime and punishment at Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison turned museum. Take a guided tour of the eerie cellblocks and crumbling ruins, and learn about notorious inmates like Al Capone and Willie Sutton, as well as the prison’s innovative architecture and reformist principles