Philadelphia combines the birthplace of American independence with a gritty-chic food and arts scene, murals on every other block and a more affordable price tag than nearby New York. Walkable and compact, it's an easy weekend trip.
Good to know
- Book Independence Hall timed tickets in advance in peak season.
- Reading Terminal Market is a great lunch stop and closed Mondays.
- The Mural Arts program runs walking and trolley tours of the city's 4,000 murals.
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Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Where the Declaration and Constitution were debated; timed tickets for the hall, free Liberty Bell.
America's oldest continuously inhabited residential street, plus galleries and bars.
Run up the steps, then see the strong European and American collections.
Huge collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in a unique hanging arrangement.
Century-old food hall for roast pork, Amish pastries and fresh seafood.
Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's face off across the street; Dalessandro's and John's Roast Pork are local favorites.
Mosaic-covered mazes of glass, mirrors and bike wheels by artist Isaiah Zagar.
Walking or trolley tours of the nation's largest outdoor gallery.
Crumbling Gothic prison with an audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi.
Former industrial neighborhood with live music, breweries and cafes.
One of America's greatest gardens, with fountains, conservatories and holiday lights.