lions at Philadelphia zoo

Outdoor Activities in Philadelphia

By Dom Bewley

Isn't being outside fun? The calming call of birdsong, the sun washing over you, and the feeling of wind blasting you in the face. Nothing quite beats it. So, if you're vacationing in Philadelphia, make the most of the sunshine at the best outdoor activities in the city. But what are they? We know doing your own research is boring, so we did it for you. You are very welcome. Here are our top tips for some great outdoor fun in Philly!

Including:

  • Philadelphia Ghost Tour
  • Philadelphia Zoo
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour
  • Revolution and Founding Fathers Tour
  • Christ Church Burial Ground
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Serious spookums on the Philadelphia Ghost Tour

Let's kick your guide to the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia with some spooky shenanigans. Do you believe in ghosts? Do you think the dead walk this Earth, shuffling through dark streets and in the corners of video clips? Even if you don't, you may change your mind after this ghoulish ghost tour of Philadelphia's streets.

Spirits, haunted houses, eerie graveyards, and mysterious gardens are covered on this candlelit ghost tour of Philadelphia. Each guide is a masterful storyteller, weaving terrible tales at each and every stop. You'll learn all about the darkest secrets hidden in the shadows of America's most historic and most haunted city. If you're lucky, you may even see places where real ghost sightings and hauntings have taken place!

And best of all, if you are a parent, the trip is kid-friendly too. So, no reason to leave them at home or fear they'll be scarred for life. Just what you want as a parent.

If you're made of stern-enough stuff, this ghastly tour is easily one of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia!

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Walk and talk with the animals at Philadelphia Zoo

Animals, right? Everybody loves an animal, from the cute and tiny to the large and ferocious. We love them so much we even let some sleep in our beds, so it's no surprise we love to visit the less-domesticated sort at the zoo. And, if you're in Philly, why not check out the outdoor glory of the Philadelphia Zoo?

Get up close and personal with lions, gorillas, tortoises, snakes, and tons more at this state-of-the-art animal wonderland. Spread across 42 acres of space, you'll have the chance to meet over 1,300 species of rare and exotic creatures! With all that space, you can expect the residents of Philadelphia Zoo have plenty of space to stretch their legs. Which is good for them, of course, but it's also good for you. Nothing is quite as sad as a tiny zoo with mistreated animals.

Little ones will love the KidZooU, despite the name, where they'll be able to pet friendlier animals and learn all about the animal kingdom as a whole. Bigger kids will appreciate the Carnivore Kingdom, which is full of the bitey critters. A top day out for all and sundry.

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Explore your darker side on this Dark Philly Adult Night Tour

We're back with more spooky endeavors now, though you'll want to leave the children at home for this one. Because while ghosts, haunted buildings, and spooky cemeteries can be wholesome, this evening tour of Philly's seedy underbelly is far from it.

Featuring vampires, pirates, sex, torture, and, yes, even ghosts (but the terrifying kind) are all part and parcel of this chilling stroll through the city's unseen history.

Your trepidacious steps will take you past Independence Hall, the Library of Congress, and over twenty other sites, where unspeakable things have supposedly taken place. Well, unspoken of until now, at least.

Whipping posts, gallows, the red light district, public slave auctions, you'll see all the sites of these unthinkable events. The red light district?! What would the children think?!

Thankfully, aiding you on your descent into the underworld is a brave yet knowledgeable history expert who will expertly recant the city's darkest events. Together, you will peel back the layers of the city's rotten core and expose them to the world! Or, you'll simply never forget your time at one of the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia. It's up to you.

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Feel revolutionary on this Revolution and Founding Fathers Tour

Stepping away from the ghoulish once again, let's instead focus on something more patriotic. Philadelphia was one of the key cities in the fight against the English interlopers, and on this tour, you'll have the chance to walk the Revolutionary Road, and get a deeper understanding of the Founding Fathers and what they faced.

From the famous Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, you'll cover the most impactful sites of the Revolution. You'll also visit many locations linked to the Founding Fathers, including John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, and many more. You'll also see the house of the unknown George Washington. Not sure if you've heard of him, but he had a small hand in the War of Independence.

And the whole time, your learned guide will be on hand to sprinkle secrets and lesser-known facts into your ears. You'll never look at a one-dollar bill quite the same again.

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See where many famous faces lay at Christ Church Burial Ground

Speaking of Revolutionary legends, what about that Declaration of Independence? Such a simple sheet of paper holds such significance that Nicholas Cage is continuously keeping it out of the bad guys' hands. But what of the hands that signed it? Where are they now? Well, all of them are dead, but some of them are buried at Philly's own Christ Church burial ground. So why not go visit them, and pay your respects?

Look close enough, and you'll find the burial sites of four declaration signers, including Benjamin Franklin (and his wife), Francis Hopkinson, and George Ross, as well as many other famous faces from America's earliest days as a sovereign nation. Unfortunately, natural weather erosion means that thousands of those buried there are lost to time. But they're right beneath your feet if that's comforting at all.

And, while you're there, throw a penny onto Benjamin Franklin's grave for good luck. It's a tradition here in Philly. Don't think; just throw.

And that was our guide to the best outdoor activities in Philadelphia! In the market for some inside fun in Philadelphia? 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
Go City Travel Expert

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best museums in Philadelphia
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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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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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Things to do in Philadelphia with Teens

Vacations aren't fun when you're not interested in doing anything, a fact that rings more true for teens! Here are our suggestions to get your teen engaged when visiting Philly!
Karleen Stevens

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