10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia (2024)

The most Populus city in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia is a must-visit for travelers and wanderers of all kinds. And if you are a history buff, you might not find a better city in the United States than Philadelphia. Anyone who has a fondness for culture, diversity, and history, this metropolitan in the commonwealth is no less than a paradise. You can be a museum seeker or park lover; your days here will never go out of the finest options.

Philadelphia provides several excellent opportunities to explore and learn about America’s most prominent history. One of the oldest cities and once the capital of America, Philadelphia has an influential role in shaping Pennsylvania. All thanks to the beauty and richness of the city, the State welcomes over 30 million visitors each year. Knowing all this, if you too want to explore historic Philadelphia, then take some quick tips from the article below:

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

Listed below are some the best tourist attraction in Philadelphia. Have a look:

1. Independence Hall

Independence Hall is a historic civic building known as the ‘Birthplace of America.’ Designed in Georgian architecture, the building dates back to the mid of 18th century. It is the place where the declaration of Independence and the American Constitution was debated and adopted. The most prominent feature here is the Assembly Hall, where the confidential meet for the Independence from Britishers took place. Independence Hall is a UNESCO world heritage and the masterpiece of the famous Independence National Historical Park. Though exploring here is free, tickets are limited and get out of stock by the morning itself.

2. Liberty Bell

An iconic symbol of American Independence, Liberty Bell is a must-visit landmark when in Philadelphia. Where some Americans believe that the bell marked the signing of the Constitution, others believe that the big crack came in 1846 during George Washington’s birthday. This massive piece of history was once mounted in the belfry of Independence Hall, but today it is within a vast glass gazebo near the Independence Hall. Despite the long, extended lines, everyone visiting Philadelphia makes sure to visit it repeatedly every once in a while. Liberty Bell Pavilion offers free entry all throughout the year from 9 am to 5 pm. 

3. Reading Terminal Market

The largest and oldest public market in America, the Reading Terminal Market, is indeed a popular spot to explore in Philadelphia. It is a prominent spot for locals to buy everything from goods, produce, unique merchandise, culinary treats, etc. Though a market, the reading terminal is marked as a tourist attraction at par with Independence Hall and Liberty bell. Since 1893, this public market has undergone several renovations, but the unique features and originality are still intact. Though there is a lot to do, shop, and explore in the market, our top recommendation is the traditional Pennsylvania Dutch food, a must-try.

4. Philadelphia Zoo

Noted amongst America’s best laid-out zoos, the Philadelphia Zoo is one of the must-visit Zoological destinations. It was initially opened with 1000 animals but today is home to over 1300 permanent animals. It is also noted as one of the premier zoos for breeding animals, specifically for captive breeding. From mammals to amphibians, reptiles, and birds, you can come across animals of all and every variety while exploring the zoo. Here, some of the prominent features include Zoo360, a one-of-a-kind animal trail system, Reptile and Amphibian House, penguin house, bear country, and the bird’s valley.

5. The Franklin Institute Science Museum

The Franklin Institute Science Museum is a popular place to visit in Philadelphia, a leading science museum and education center, especially for science enthusiasts. It is named after the founding father of the United States, Benjamin Franklin, and is amongst the oldest science center in the United States. It is also home to the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial, which is known for a 20-foot marble statue of Franklin himself. You can explore the museum complex and see the first stainless steel airplane and the Budd BB-1 Pioneer flying boat. Kids and adults who are curious about learning must definitely visit the Franklin Museum at least once in their lifetime.

6. Philadelphia Museum of Art

A top-rated attraction in Philadelphia, the Museum of Art is no less than heaven for all art and museum lovers. Located in the northwest of Centre city, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to over 240,000 art objects brought here from Asia, Europe, and several parts of America. All throughout the year, one or the other special exhibition goes around attracting experts and admirers from all over the Nation. Also, not just art, but the Philadelphia Museum of Art is well known for its architectural collection, which is worth viewing. Image Source:

7. Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary is a former American Prison that has always been the highlight of Philadelphia. During its operational years, it was notedly the most famous and expensive prison in the world. It is known that visitor’s instead of meeting the prisoners, often came here to explore the lavish prison from inside. Eventually, the prison closed in 1971, and since then, it has been serving as an architectural and historical museum in Philadelphia. Visitors here can take tours where the authorities will take you through several preserved sections, which is as splendid as they were in the past. If you happen to be here in the month of August or October, make sure you experience the Halloween haunted house, the Terror Behind the Walls.

8. Please Touch Museum

Not only for adult travelers, but Philadelphia has a lot stored for young travelers as well. The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is a world-class museum welcoming kid since 1976. It focuses on involving kids through interactive exhibits and special events. Both kids and adults here can be a part of several events, exhibitions, and programs, earning experience for life. Even though the admission price is a little high ($19 for 3 hours), every penny of that is worthwhile. Kids can ride the monorail and Alice’s Garden and slide, enjoy the Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel, and participate in several theatre and art programs.

9. Philadelphia’s City Hall

The largest municipality building in the United States, Philadelphia’s City Hall stands prominently on the map of the State. The city hall is built over the foundation of solid granite with 15 acres of floor space, a 548-foot tower, and a 27-ton statue of William Penn. It is notedly the tallest masonry structure lacking a steel frame in the world, and on reaching the observation deck on the top, one can grab a 360-degree view of the entire city. Apart from the architectural features, there’s so much to explore both inside and outside the building. You can either book yourself a guided tour or get along with the self-exploring flow.

10. South Street

If you are looking for some local shopping and fun in Philadelphia, then there isn’t a better place than South Street. Once known as the edgiest street in Philadelphia, it is where Philadelphia’s cultural and regional diversity meets. When here, you can vibe with the Bohemian and Punk atmosphere and shop a lot from the eclectic and funky stores. Evenings here are fast, celebrative, and entertaining, with music, art, culture, and food all vibing together. Do not forget to check out the Tattooed Mom bar and try the authentic Philly Cheesesteak at Jim’s.