Exploring Philadelphia: Must-See Attractions for History Buffs

Philadelphia boasts a rich history. From the First Continental Congress held in Carpenters’ Hall to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and Betsy Ross' creation of the American flag, The City of Brotherly Love has deep roots that date back to the founding of America.

Whether you want to snap a selfie with the Liberty Bell or visit the site where the nation's first two presidents lived, you can count on Philadelphia's must-see attractions to show you the past is alive and well.

Philly’s top historical attractions

With historical reenactments, lively tour guides and a public transportation system that takes visitors around the historic district, the city offers plenty of opportunities to go exploring any day of the week. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, you can't miss these historical hotspots.

The Liberty Bell

Once intended for use at Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell — with its famous crack — is a national symbol of independence. Now located at the Liberty Bell Center opposite Independence Hall in Independence National Historical Park, the bell is open for visits seven days a week. Admission is free and you should allow an hour to make the most of the surrounding area.

Independence Hall

Independence Hall was at the center of the American Revolution as the site of early congressional meetings and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. After the war, it housed the three branches of the U.S. government.

Explore the original rooms just as they were laid out in the 1700s and be sure to take a peek at George Washington's "rising sun" chair in the Assembly Room. The building is a free museum open every day except Christmas, with tickets available onsite and online.

Inside, enjoy perusing the Great Essentials Exhibit, where you can view artefacts from the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. We recommend joining a guided tour for the complete experience.

Betsy Ross House

Originally the home and upholstery shop of Betsy Ross, the seamstress of America's first national flag, the Betsy Ross House is now a thriving museum. Whether you want to experience cooking like a colonial or making five-point stars, you can take advantage of numerous interactive exhibits featured in the home. The site also features several personal items belonging to the Ross family and the tour guide version of Betty Ross is onsite most days to entertain children with tales of the colonial era.

The museum is open every day except Tuesdays. As an iconic part of American history, the house has been restored to its former glory so you can experience its beauty in full.

The President's House

The President's House sits on the site of the original presidential house where George Washington and John Adams lived. The open-air museum honors the enslaved African Americans who lived and worked at the site. The free exhibit showcases illustrated timeline panels and powerful short videos that take visitors through the property's history, how the nation was built and the paradox of slavery under the roof of a house that stood for freedom.

Celebrate the Philadelphia spirit with food and sports

Visiting Philly also comes with an opportunity to explore its passionate food and sports culture. We've included some of our favorite spots to visit between soaking up the history and exploring the city.

City Tavern

If historical sightseeing makes you hungry, stop by City Tavern to experience colonial dining at its finest. The tavern's entire menu focuses on authentic 18th-century dishes. Try delicious turkey pot pie or West Indies pepperpot served by friendly waiters dressed in authentic period garb. Don't forget to try some colonial baked goods with your meal and stop by the gift shop after dining. City Tavern has rotating hours depending on the season, so be sure to call or reserve a table online in advance.

Fuel up with some Philadelphia classics

Philadelphia takes its food as seriously as its history. Home to great dishes like delicious, soft chewy pretzels and sandwiches such as the hoagie and cheesesteak sandwich, it's imperative that you get your grub on when you visit the city.

Perfect for a spot of fulfilling, savory food on the go, start by getting a cheesesteak as you explore the city. Although you can get a cheesesteak in almost every sandwich and local food outlet across Philly, you should try and experience the authentic flavors by seeking out the best.

Pat's King of Steaks, John's Roast Pork and Max's Steaks offer some of the best cheesesteaks in the city, so be sure to stop by. If you’re not a fan, you can always grab a hoagie instead – soft deli rolls packed with thinly sliced Italian meat, cheese and salad.

For a more refreshing treat on a sunny day, try some water ice available across the city. A refreshing combo of crushed ice topped with fruits and syrups, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a light, hydrating snack on the move.

Embrace Philly’s love of sports

Being home to several iconic sports teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles, 76ers and Philly Flyers, the city has an incredibly passionate and dedicated fanbase.

Delve into its iconic sports culture by visiting the home of the Eagles, Lincoln Financial Field and the Wells Fargo Center, which hosts games for Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia 76ers and Philadelphia Wings. Remember to grab a jersey of your favorite player while you’re in town!

For a fictional twist on sports, work up a sweat running up the iconic steps from the 1976 movie Rocky, found at the bottom of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Take a photo with the statue of Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa, representing perseverance against all odds.

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