Philadelphia Travel Guide

With impressive food, music and art scenes, diverse neighbourhoods, and oodles of fascinating history, Philadelphia is one of the best-loved cities in the US. Endearingly known as the 'City of Brotherly Love' and the 'Cradle of Liberty', Philadelphia is a fun and interesting destination, associated with lofty and inspiring moments in the history of the US. The many famous historic attractions are the main lure for travellers, but Philadelphia really does boast something for everybody.

A holiday in Philadelphia is a delightful exercise in exploring the city's many diverse districts. The Old City is where the Liberty Bell takes pride of place; the city centre is filled with shopping malls and museums; South Philly is Italian-flavoured; and the the North Liberties district is trendy and arty. Rich history and a lively student population combine to ensure a lively Philadelphia holiday. Regarded as one of the nation's most dynamic destinations, a holiday in Philadelphia offers enough to please any age group.

Best time to visit Philadelphia

No matter what time of year travellers visit Philadelphia, there will always be a plethora of attractions to enjoy. In spring the city is bedecked with spectacular cherry blossoms, and summer, especially around 4th July, is especially festive with many celebrations centred in the historic district. In autumn the cultural calendar is in full swing with numerous concerts and theatrical productions. In winter it can be very cold, but this is a good time to travel to Philadelphia to take advantage of the city's excellent shopping.

What to see in Philadelphia

-Visit Franklin Court, the former site of Benjamin Franklin's home.

-Enjoy perusing the celebrated collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

-See the iconic Liberty Bell, displayed in the historic Independence Hall.

-Wander around the Christ Church Burial Ground, where many US leaders are buried.

What to do in Philadelphia

-Explore Philadelphia's most visited museum, the Franklin Institute Science Museum.

-Treat the kids to a fun day at Philadelphia Zoo, the oldest zoo in the US.

-Take an excursion to Hershey's Chocolate World, heaven for chocoholics.

-Spend a day wandering the Historic District of nearby Doylestown.

Beyond Philadelphia

Many attractions await visitors just beyond the city limits. The Brandywine Valley is full of scenic beauty as well as many cultural attractions; Dutch Country is one of the most rewarding summer road trip destinations in the US; and the famous Gettysburg National Military Park lures military history buffs.

Getting there

Philadelphia International Airport, located seven miles (11km) from downtown, is the main air traffic hub in the region, and one of the busiest airports in the US.

Did you know?

-The first American flag was designed in Philadelphia, by Betsy Ross.

-Philadelphia is considered to be one of the most haunted cities in the US.

-The first American stock exchange and the first American newspaper originated in Philadelphia.