Philadelphia is one of the actual American metropolitan cities and top destinations for tourists around the world. Often labeled as “New York’s sixth suburb,” Philly, or better known as The City of Brotherly Love, is an emerging tech hub that is loaded in culture, cuisine, sports and American history. For a city to visit that truly has it all, reading this article about Philadelphia should be on your schedule.
An Ode to the Past
Even though Philadelphia is a big city, it has a small town feel that is wrapped up in American history. Did you know that Philadelphia was the original capital of the United States? It makes sense, considering that Independence Hall in the heart of downtown Philly is where the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Don’t pass up the chance to take a private tour at Independence Hall and sit in the very rooms where the Declaration of Independence was signed. And after a short walk, you can soak in more American history for lifelong memories by visiting the Liberty Bell. The Liberty Bell gets its current name from the Civil War to fight to end slavery.
However, its legendary crack continues to draw visitors from around the world to appreciate the tremendous sacrifices that the early American patriots made for our freedoms. Take a short walk on the ancient cobbled stone from the 1700s to experience another piece of American history – the Betsy Ross House.
Betsy Ross sewed and helped design the first American flag, and you can treat yourself to an unforgettable trip by taking a private tour of her home. You can also take courses about how sewing was done during the American Revolution.
Family Leisure in Philadelphia
Besides offering fantastic American history venues and comfort food, Philadelphia is also a great travel destination for the family.
Family-Friendly Attractions
From the zoo to sporting events and more, the City of Brotherly Love has plenty of family-friendly activities to try out.
- Philadelphia Zoo: Besides being one of the oldest zoos in the country, the Philadelphia Zoo features well over 1,000 animals and plenty of exhibits that are sure to make the kids very happy on the trip.
- Franklin Institute: To honor one of America’s greatest inventors, the Franklin Institute is a must-visit destination for the family, especially with interactive displays about the human body.
- Philadelphia Museum: What better way to celebrate a family vacation than by running up the same steps as Rocky Balboa? Right outside the Philadelphia Museum, you and your kids can have a rocky moment.
- Parks and Recreation Areas
Of course, you can get your fill of fabulous parks and museums to discuss all the fantastic American history and other family attractions. Of course, you can devour one of the large and soft pretzels that Philadelphia is famous for or an authentic cheesesteak.
- Fairmount Park: Fairmount Park spans more than 2,000 acres. Take your family for a quiet picnic for some unforgettable family time. Or you can go biking throughout the park.
- Rittenhouse Square: Go tree-watching at Rittenhouse Square. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants to grab coffee and unwind.
- Franklin Square: Take the family on a mini-golf adventure. Franklin Square also has a carousel for the kids.
- Indoor Activities and the Night Life
Philadelphia loves visitors, and it loves its sports teams. Catch a Phillies game by yourself or with the family. Or root for the Eagles to repeat as Superbowl Champions. The 76ers and the Phlyers are also main draws. Don’t forget the elite college sports teams like Villanova on the Main Line, a short train ride from downtown Philly.
For those who love the nightlife, Philadelphia doesn’t disappoint. Venture to the Old City neighborhood to mingle with locals at McGillin’s Olde Ale City. With plenty of bars and casinos near you, Fishtown has the whole shebang when it comes to the nightlife. Frankford Hall offers games and plenty of draft beer to easily pass the night away.
Planning Your Dream Philadelphia Trip
Philadelphia is a city that has all four seasons. If you don’t mind the bitter cold and snow, Philly offers plenty of ice skating activities and snow sports in nearby towns. For those looking to explore the parks and amazing amusement parks, the best time to visit Philadelphia is during the spring through the fall.
