Historical Things to do in Philadelphia

By Dom Bewley
Benjamin Franklin's grave covered in pennies, one of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia

Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. This phrase, uttered by Winston Churchill in the years following the Second World War, is as true today as it was back then. America is a nation with a short yet rich history, and Philadelphia was at the center of it some three hundred years ago. It's no wonder, then, that Philadelphia is full of historical things to do and see! So, if you're in town and feeling historical, we've put together a guide to the best historical things to do in Philadelphia. These are our top picks.

Including:

  • Eastern State Penitentiary
  • Museum of the American Revolution
  • National Liberty Museum
  • Christ Church Burial Ground
  • National Constitution Center
  • and more!
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Live like a criminal at Eastern State Penitentiary

If you've always wondered what it feels like to 'do time', you needn't break the law to find out. After all, there's a certain sense of finality to getting locked up. Instead, head to Eastern State Penitentiary, an old prison where some of the most famous criminals in the U.S. once lived.

It played a big part in modernizing the judicial system in the country, with many states now banning capital punishment. It even had running water and central heating before the White House. An astonishing fact and great news for the likes of Al Capone.

Yes, the late not-so-great mobster spent 8 months in this infamous prison, and you can even visit his cell! But he's just one of the many famous names you may spot as you wander the prison. Of course, your self-guided tour will let you fill in all the blanks - the who's, the what's, and the where's - and let you go at your own pace. There's even an art installation about the prison, if you need a little distraction after all that incarceration business. If you're looking for historical things to do in Philadelphia, Eastern State Penitentiary is full of it.

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Feel patriotic at the Museum of the American Revolution

Philly played a massive part in the American Revolution, with many of the key players living there back in the 18th century. So it's hardly surprising that a museum dedicated to the revolution and the War of Independence can be found in the city. That museum is the Museum of the American Revolution. And if you're looking for historical things to do in Philadelphia, it doesn't get much better than that.

You'll explore this rich and complicated era and its connections to our world today. Thanks to a massive collection of Revolutionary-era weapons, personal items, documents, and works of art, you'll not get a more in-depth look at the time period than right here.

Go check out the massive collection for yourself and get immersed in that revolutionary spirit!

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Learn about liberty at the National Liberty Museum

Speaking of the War of Independence, liberty is something America has strived for ever since. It's also a big deal in Philadelphia, where one of the city's most iconic sights is called the Liberty Bell. Liberty is clearly something Philadelphia celebrates, which is why you'll find the National Liberty Museum within the city's limits.

Paying tribute to liberty across the globe, you'll find exhibits dedicated to heroes that fought against tyranny. Whether it's a faithful recreation of the secret floor where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis, or another of the jail cell Nelson Mandela spent nearly 30 years for taking a stand against racial apartheid, you'll be moved by the countless offerings in the museum.

And because it's Philadelphia, of course you'll find a copy of the Liberty Bell and information all about the Revolutionary War too.

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Pay your respects at Christ Church Burial Ground

Given Philadelphia's importance to the war efforts against the British, you might guess that many important faces from the war lived their lives in the city. It's also where many of them were laid to rest. So why not go pay your respects at Christ Church Burial Ground?

This self-guided tour will take you around all the famous remaining gravestones that still stand in the graveyard. Listen and you'll learn more about the brave men and women buried beneath your feet. In fact, it's the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most famous faces of the war, and one of the names on the Declaration of Independence. if you have any pennies handy, toss one onto his grave. It's a Philly tradition.

But he's just one of the many names you'll see as you walk the yard. So keep an eye out and see who you spot. You wanted historical? It doesn't get much more historical than a graveyard.

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Get constitutional at the National Constitution Center

After the war was won and the British were done, there was a matter of an entire country to run. Where do you begin with such a mammoth endeavor? Well, rules help, so they should come first. And that's what they did. They wrote down a load of rules which became the U.S. Constitution back in 1787. And guess where they wrote said document? That's right, Philly, baby! Don't believe us? Head down to the National Constitution Center and be proven wrong.

Inside, you'll learn everything you need to know about this key moment in American history. Thanks to hundreds of interactive exhibits, artifacts, and straight-up facts, you'll learn all about the process leading up to the document's release, how it's shaped America in the 300 years since, and how it's been amended as time's gone on. And that's not all; you'll see the OG document in all its glory, as well as the original Emancipation Proclamation that Lincoln signed. Constitutional stuff!

You'll even get to vote for your all-time favorite president, and take the presidential oath of office (maybe a little practice for a future career?)

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Do the walk of freedom on a Revolution and Founding Fathers Tour

And where better to end this historical jaunt through Philly than on a literal jaunt? Follow the history of the Founding Fathers and the roads the Revolution once walked on this Revolution and Founding Fathers Tour.

Learn about Philadelphia's many famous landmarks like the Liberty Bell, and enter the likes of Independence Hall. With your knowledgeable guide in tow, you're sure to learn a lot more than we could ever share. So go check it out if your feet are in a walking mood.

And those were our picks of the best historical things to do in Philadelphia! Looking for some modern marvels to complement your so-far historical vacation? See all of Philly's best bits with Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the city at your own pace.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Where To Stay in Philadelphia

Wondering where to stay over your vacation in Philadelphia? Wonder no more, because we've put together this handy guide to Philly's neighborhoods just for you! Whether you're looking to explore the city's historical landmarks or its impressive nightlife, we've got you covered. Read on, and check out our recommendations! Including: Old City Washington Square West Chestnut Hill Bella Vista West Philly and more! Is Philadelphia safe? Philly may have a reputation for being a relatively dangerous city, but that doesn't really paint the right picture. Most violent crime occurs in neighborhoods where tourists rarely step, and tends to be among residents. Therefore, for budding travelers such as yourselves, you won't really get mixed up in that. So, yes, Philadelphia is a city that's safe for travelers. With any big city, it's worth keeping belongings close, valuables at your hotel or Airbnb, and being mindful of your surroundings when out and about. Otherwise, go get on with the fun! Can I get around Philadelphia without a car? Cars are great and all, but if we're hopping on a plane to our vacation destination, sometimes the last thing we want to do is hire a car and drive about. Thankfully, Philadelphia has a fantastic transit system that means you can leave your car keys at home. Old City As the name suggests, Old City is where you'll find most of Philadelphia's historical landmarks and its oldest buildings. It played a massive role in the War of Independence, and as such, you'll find plenty of iconic landmarks on its streets. Highlights such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both drafted and signed, the Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House are all found in this historic neighborhood. It's also a charming neighborhood in its own right, with plenty of period buildings, delightful restaurants, and Independence-themed bars and attractions. For instance, you can take a walking tour that combines all the Independence highlights in one fell swoop. If you're in Philadelphia for the history, then Old City is the answer for where to stay in the city! Fishtown If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia and you're not really here for the history, then let's switch gears to something more quirky. Fishtown was once the industrial hub of the city that was abandoned many years ago as said industries moved away. In their wake, myriad buildings, warehouses, and even homes were left unclaimed. And, thanks to those crafty millennials (pun absolutely intended), this concrete limbo has been transformed into a hipster's paradise. Now, you'll find quirky, millennial-style entertainment on every corner, from warehouses converted to theatres, to craft beer bars in old shopfronts. You'll also find plenty of converted lofts to stay in, if you want to be close to the warehouse parties, slapdash art exhibits, and neon-soaked boozy arcades. Northern Liberties Northern Liberties is Fishtown's neighbor, and it received an equal glow up during the invasion of the plat-shirt snatchers. Like its next-door neighbor, you'll find plenty of laid-back entertainment in Northern Liberties. If you want to be closer to nature during your visit, you'll find plenty of park space there to stretch out and make the most of it. Couple that with plenty of top restaurants, bars, and art galleries, and you've got yourself a top place to stay in Philadelphia! Washington Square West Washington Square West is Philadelphia's LGBTW+ hub, so if inclusivity is top of your list, look for a place in the neighborhood. Eschewing larger department stores and chains for small businesses, you'll find plenty of unique and delightful boutiques, jewelers, and heaps of food and drink opportunities. It's also the home of Washington Square Park, one of Philadelphia's most popular parks. Perfect if you want to have a picnic or go for a walk among the trees. Chesnut Hill If you want to be close to the center of Philadelphia but not right in the middle of it, then take a trip up to Chesnut Hill. Considered one of Philly's safest neighborhoods, its delightful name gives you some idea of what to expect. Known locally as 'the Garden District' due to its brilliant green spaces like Wissahickon Valley Park, you'll find plenty of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and even pubs. If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, and you're a sucker for the picturesque, then Chesnut Hill might just be perfect for you! Bella Vista With a name that literally translates to 'beautiful view', if you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, why not Bella Vista? If you like your food Italian, your vibe Italian, and your people Italian-American, then Philly's own Little Italy should be top of your list. On the outskirts of the city's Downtown, you'll find plenty of great eateries, places to have a quiet drink, parks to explore, and great people to meet. West Philly Known locally as University City due to the number of top higher education establishments that call it home, West Philly is a great place for younger travelers to go and kick back. Do bear in mind that you'll be rubbing shoulders with college students, for better or worse, when you head out to one of West Philly's many bars or eateries. But maybe their youthful exuberance will rub off on you, and you'll evolve (or devolve) into a hacky sacking wonder in no time. Graduate Hospital While its name might evoke a visit to the doctor, Graduate Hospital is actually one of Philadelphia's quieter, family-friendly districts. You'll find bars, restaurants, and entertainment opportunities on the neighborhood's South Street, but it's also far enough off the beaten path that you'll get a peaceful sleep too! The good news is that you can walk to Old City or the center of Philadelphia with relative ease, ensuring you'll hardly be bored. East Falls East Falls is ideal for you water-seeking wonders. Backing onto the delightful Schyukill River, you can spend many a morning walking or jogging along the river trail or wrangling up a picnic at the foot of Blue Bell Park. One of Philly's quieter areas, it's perfect if you're bringing the little ones along for your vacation. If not, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to keep adults happy too. And hey, if fishing's your game, you can even indulge as many do throughout the year. If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, hopefully this guide has given you some ideas! Wondering what to do on your vacation? Don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Philadelphia's best bits at your own pace.
Dom Bewley
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Best Museums in Philadelphia

Museums are some of the best things about visiting a new place or country. Not only can they give you an insight into the history of the area, but they can also surprise you with unexpected delights. Philadelphia is no different, with a wide breadth of museums covering a multitude of exciting subjects, from the American Revolution to dinosaurs. So, if you're visiting Philadelphia, you'll want to know which are the best museums in the city! But doing your own research can be dull and time-consuming; we get it. That's why we've put together this guide to the best museums in Philadelphia. No research necessary. Now, sit back, and read about our top recommendations you should absolutely add to your itinerary! Including: Museum of the American Revolution Franklin Institute Science Museum Academy of Natural Science African American Museum Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial Image courtesy of EQRoy/Shutterstock Museum of the American Revolution Philadelphia was one of the cities at the heart of the American Revolution that sent those pesky red coats sailing across the Atlantic with their tails firmly between their legs. So it's no surprise you'll find a museum dedicated to the War of Independence in the city! Explore all the political, social, and complicated history of the era, thanks to an unrivaled collection of Revolutionary artifacts. You'll find authentic rifles and pistols, documents and personal items, military outfits, and items that tell the personal stories of those involved. Starting from the 1760s, you'll follow the collection in chronological form from the earliest rumblings of the Revolution through to the final victory, and learn how events shaped the America we know and love today. See George Washington's war tent, stand beneath a faithful recreation of Boston's Liberty Tree, and much more. Easily one of the best museums in Philadelphia, and one you absolutely must visit! Franklin Institute Science Museum If the crackle of electricity gets you giddy, then you likely know the name Benjamin Franklin. Widely regarded as the first person to harness lightning and electricity, he was one of the most lauded scientists of his era. So, of course, there's a museum named after him. And what a museum it is. The Franklin Institute is brimming with scientific oddities, wonders, and everything else that will satisfy young and old minds alike. Ever wanted to journey through a two-story heart like Dennis Quaid? Want to sit atop a 350-ton steam locomotive? Wondered what it feels like to become part of an electrical circuit? You can do all that and much more within this brilliant museum! You can even explore the life and times of the man himself, thanks to a brilliant collection of memorabilia and artifacts from Franklin's time on Earth. So, if you're curious about the world of science in the past, present, and future, go check it out. Image courtesy of Fotos593/Shutterstock Academy of Natural Science Now, let's switch gears from the fantastical world of science to the magical world of the past. Explore millions of years of history, and the many giant species that once walked the Earth, at the Academy of Natural Science. Step into Dinosaur Hall and see skeletons of more than 30 species, including Avaceratops, Chasmosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex, and more! Take a walk through the Butterflies exhibit and see dozens of beautiful species fluttering right around your head. Then, suit up and put on your goggles at the Big Dig, a little paleontologist's dream world where they can dig around for hidden behemoths and brush off their bones. If you're bringing the little ones on vacation to Philadelphia, they'll love it. African American Museum Let's swap ancient history for something more modern. If you're interested in learning about the history and culture of African Americans throughout the history of the United States, then head to the African American Museum and immerse yourself in some fascinating exhibits! You'll have plenty of content to chew on, including in-depth explorations of the Civil Rights movement, arts, politics, family life, and many other topics. You'll also learn about the African Diaspora, the African Americans of Philadelphia, and issues important to the African American community today. You'll find clothing from influential black artists and spokespeople, from Oprah Winfrey's iconic red suit to the late, great Nichelle Nichols' Lieutenant Uhura's Star Trek uniform. You'll also find artifacts from the dark period of segregation in the early to mid-20th century, including posters, protest banners, and leaflets. And, on a brighter note, you'll also explore the world of black music and how it changed the course of the music industry. Costumes like James Brown's iconic black jumpsuit are accompanied by instruments, records, and other memorabilia. Easily one of the best museums in Philadelphia; put it on your itinerary right now! Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial For the military fans out there, the thought of exploring the US's most decorated warship might send shivers down your spine. Well, prepare your spines with veritable glee because you can visit the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial and do just that. The USS New Jersey served during World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and even through the 1980s, so it's been around the block a bit. If you'd like to know more, take a self-guided tour around the vessel and explore what life was like onboard the ship, thanks to complete access to crew quarters, the mess hall, and other areas shared by generations of sailors. Then, head to the command center, where life-or-death decisions were determined, and explore the captain's quarters. You can even enter the massive gun turrets and see the kind of gear the gunners had to deal with! On top of all that, you'll find plenty of history adorning the walls, including sailor's artifacts, uniforms, eating and living utensils, and much, much more. An eye-opening look into the life of a sailor and this well-decorated vessel, it's a worthwhile trip for any history buff with even a passing interest in the US military. And that's our list of the best museums in Philadelphia! Looking for more Philly fun on your vacation? Check out all the city's best bits with Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see as much of the city as you like at your own pace.
Dom Bewley
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Free Things to do in Philadelphia

Friends, Romans, and would-be travelers. We all know what brought you here - Philadelphia. The city of liberty has one of the richest histories in all of America. Now that you've decided to vacation there, you'll want to find the perfect place to set up basecamp and begin exploring its many delights. Do you want to be right in the heart of the action, or a little off the beaten path? Are you looking for somewhere with a lot of history, or something a little more modern? With so many questions, where does one even begin? Well, here, of course! Right now. Because we've put together a list of some of our favorites. So without further ado, here are the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia! Including: Chestnut Hill Bella Vista West Philly Old City Washington Square West and more! Is Philadelphia a safe place to visit? Like any large metropolis, Philly isn't without its issues. However, if you stick to the neighborhoods we list below, you'll be away from the rougher areas. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close and your valuables out of sight, and you'll be right as rain. Which is the safest neighborhood in Philadelphia? That would be Chesnut Hill. With a prime location near the city but far enough away from the thick of it, it's easily one of the best neighborhoods to visit in Philadelphia. You'll be near a number of great places to eat and drink, and it backs onto Wissahickon Valley Park, one of the city's best green spaces. It's no surprise that its nickname is 'the Garden District'. And, with the lowest crime rates in the city, you'll feel at ease walking the streets and seeing all the district's beauty up close! Washington Square West If you're looking for inclusivity, then Washington Square West should be top of your list. With a historical connection to the LGBTQ+ community, expect plenty of like-minded folks and great vibes. Eschewing larger department stores and chains for small businesses, you'll find plenty of unique and delightful boutiques, jewelers, and heaps of food and drink opportunities. It's also the home of Washington Square Park, if you need to stretch out and catch some rays. Bella Vista With a name that literally translates to 'beautiful view', do you need any more encouragement that it's one of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia? If you like your food Italian, your vibe Italian, and your people Italian-American, then Philly's own Little Italy should be top of your list. On the outskirts of the city's Downtown, you'll find plenty of great eateries, places to have a quiet drink, parks to explore, and great people to meet. Stellar. West Philly Known locally as University City due to the number of top higher education establishments that call it home, West Philly is a great place for younger travelers to go and kick back. After all, being surrounded by like-minded folk never hurt. Or if you're young at heart and crave the company of Gen Z to make you feel less old - no judgments here. In a district full of art, food, and bars and clubs on every corner, you can't go wrong. Old City If you want to be close to Philadelphia's historical side, then Old City is one of the best neighborhoods in the city. Philadelphia is one of America's oldest cities, playing a huge part in the War of Independence. So, if you've come for the likes of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both signed), stretch your legs and your mind on a walking tour of the district's best bits. Then, when you've had your fill, go explore the neighborhood's beautiful architecture and ample nightlife offerings. Fishtown This concrete jungle was once the industrial center of the city. When industries moved out of the town - and eventually the country - the myriad buildings and warehouses were left a ghost town. That was until the hipsters caught a whiff of the real estate and started moving in en masse. Now, you'll find it refurbished to high heaven, with bucket loads of quirky entertainment opportunities. Bars now populate repair shops, and fishing warehouses have become slapdash theaters. So grab your beard oil and check it out. Northern Liberties And right next to Fishtown, you'll find the equally gentrified Northern Liberties. Its laid-back vibe is home to many local businesses and restaurants, and some of the best views in the city. And not just from the outside. Thanks to its enviable art scene, you'll find plenty of great eye candy in many of the neighborhood's pop-up galleries. And like many of the other neighborhoods on this list, you'll find plenty of parks and other green spaces to reconnect with a little nature. East Falls If you want to be near the water but prefer being away from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia's center, then East Falls will be one of the best neighborhoods for you! Backing onto the delightful Schyukill River, you can spend many a morning walking or jogging along the river trail, or wrangling up a picnic at the foot of Blue Bell Park. One of Philly's quieter areas, it's perfect if you're bringing the little ones along for your vacation. If not, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to keep adults happy too. Plus, thanks to the city's brilliant public transport infrastructure, you're only ever a bus, tram, or subway ride away from the busier bits! Graduate Hospital Don't let the name fool you. Graduate Hospital might sound like a bad reality TV show, but it's actually one of Philly's lesser-known wonders. Within walking distance of the historic Old Town as well as Center City, it's also one of the city's most family-friendly neighborhoods. So, if you're looking for a little peace and quiet at night, but with touristy stuff nearby, it should be top of your list. The neighborhood's South Street features a ton of restaurants and bars, so you'll be well served when the sun goes down. And those were our picks of the best neighborhoods in Philadelphia and where to stay! Now you've got some base camp ideas, you'll want to know about some of the experiences you can see in the city. Don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see Philadelphia at your own pace.
Dom Bewley

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