Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

Delve into the history of Philadelphia's Chinatown, experience the sights and smells of its markets and create some unforgettable memories using our guide for inspo!

By Dom Bewley
chinatown's friendship gate in philadelphia

China played a massive part in the creation of the United States, so it's no wonder that you'll find Chinatowns in many of America's biggest cities. But what about Philadelphia? Does Philly have its own Chinatown, and if it did, what could you do there? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia and find out!

Including:

  • Does Philly have a Chinatown?
  • How Old is Philly's Chinatown?
  • The Friendship Gate
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Grab some authentic Chinese food
  • and more!

Does Philly have a Chinatown?

Philadelphia does have a Chinatown, which is just as well, given we've written this article about it! In fact, Philly's Chinatown is the second largest on the East Coast. So you'll be well served there!

How Old is Philly's Chinatown?

At over 150 years old, it's one of Philadelphia's oldest neighborhoods. And you can see that history on nearly every street corner.

Go see the Friendship Gate

Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

One of the first things that greets you as you arrive in Philadelphia's Chinatown is the Friendship Gate. This 40-foot arch is covered in bright carvings and red and white colors. The gate itself was donated by Philadelphia's Chinese sister city of Tianjin back in the mid-Eighties. Since then, the arch has had work done on it to keep it at its best, but it's still very much the same arch from way back when. 
It's one of the city's most photographed landmarks, so why not go ahead and add it to your collection? It's sure to inspire envy from your four social media followers. 

Find a bargain at Reading Terminal Market

Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

Another of Chinatown's most beloved mainstays is Reading Terminal Market. It's a massive indoor market where you'll find more than one hundred vendors selling everything from fresh produce to delicious cheesesteaks. If you're staying in an Airbnb and need to do your own cooking, or simply want to sample the market's many cooked delights, you should check it out. Here are some things to keep an eye on while you're there!

Campo's is one of the most popular spots in the market, known for its delicious Philly cheesesteaks. When in Philly and all that. If you're looking for something sweet, be sure to try a mooncake from Termini Brothers Bakery.

Dienner's Country Store is a great place to grab some fresh produce, and the Headhouse Shops are full of gift ideas for your loved ones back home. There are also plenty of food stalls throughout the market serving up everything from tacos to BBQ, so you're sure to find something to your taste.

And finally, if you're lucky you may catch some live performances during your visit. These can come about from pretty much nothing, so you might stumble upon some music or theatre if you keep an eye out!

Grab some authentic Chinese food

Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

Unsurprisingly, you'll find Philadelphia's best Chinese food in Chinatown. Here are our picks of the best places and dishes!

The Dim Sum House is one of Chinatown's most popular spots for, you guessed it, dim sum. Inside, you'll find an extensive menu of traditional dim sum dishes, all of which come fresh and piping hot. If you can't decide what to order, try the Dim Sum House Special, a selection of eight dim sum dishes that give you a little taste of everything.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to Han Dynasty. This restaurant serves Sichuan-style cuisine, so if you like a bit of spice, you know where to go. The menu features both traditional and modern dishes, so there's something for everyone. We recommend the Spicy Cumin Lamb, a dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

If you're looking for a quick and easy meal, look no further than Beijing Chinese Restaurant. This restaurant specializes in noodles and dumplings, all of which are made fresh to order. The menu is small but mighty, and we highly recommend the beef noodle soup. On colder days, it's sure to warm your cockles!

Hit up one of Chinatown's brilliant cafes

Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

It may surprise you, but Chinatown is quickly becoming one of the best places in Philadelphia to get your caffeine fix. So, if you need a pick-me-up, head to one of our favorites.

A La Mousse combines great coffee with some of the best sweet treats in the city. Just a stone's throw from Reading Terminal Market, it would be criminal not to try one cafe's pastries with your joe. Their matcha cake is simply divine.

Ray's Cafe is another excellent choice for coffee in Chinatown. Known to whip up some of the strongest brews in the neighborhood, you can also chow down on some noodles and soup.

Or, if you want a little Parisien style with your coffee, Paris Baguette has you covered. Offering authentic French pastries, cakes, bread, and sandwiches, you'll have plenty of things to pair your coffee or tea with when you visit!

Grab a drink at one of Chinatown's bars!

Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

Need something a little stronger than coffee? Don't we all? Well, Chinatown has you well served in that department, with some of Philadelphia's best bars contained within. These are our favorites!

Let's kick off this booze cruise at Hop Sing Laundromat. Located on Race Street, it's known for its dim lighting and strong drinks. The bartenders are also very friendly and knowledgeable, so don't be afraid to ask for recommendations. And if you ask nicely enough, they're sure to rustle you up whatever you like.

The second pick is Sampan, a place where you'll find both refreshing drinks and delicious food courtesy of chef Michael Schulson. Sit for a dish in its upmarket front, or head through the Graffiti Bar at the back. You get the same selection in this open-air patio as you would front-of-house, but with a more laid-back atmosphere, sports on the TVs, and some glorious sunshine (if you're lucky).

And last but not least, our third pick is Bar-Ly Chinatown. This one's for the beer lovers, with over 60 taps featuring beers from all over the world. Sports lovers can also catch their favorite games on one of the myriad TVs in the joint. They even do some supremely delicious sushi, if you need a bit to eat.

Here endeth our guide to the best things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia! Wondering what else to check out on your 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. So grab a Philadelphia attraction pass and go see the city's best bits!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Old City Philadelphia - go visit Betsy Ross house
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The Best Things to do in Old City Philadelphia

They say history is written by the victors. Well, they aren't wrong. Take Old City Philadelphia, for example. This historic neighborhood is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Philly. Everywhere you turn, you'll find ounces of revolutionary history. From its brick colonial buildings, narrow streets, and abundance of restaurants, bars, and attractions, it's hardly surprising. So, enough chit-chat. Let's explore what makes this neighborhood so freaking great! Here are our picks of the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia. Including: Betsy Ross House Museum of the American Revolution Independence National Historical Park Christ Church Burial Ground The areas best restaurants and more! Betsy Ross House Let's kick things off with an American legend. And not the mystical, metaphorical kind, but an actual one-living legend! You probably already know the name Betsy Ross - her needlework helped create the stars and stripes themselves (allegedly, we must stress). So why not go look around her house and see where this unmistakable symbol came about? Unsurprisingly, the Betsy Ross House is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Old City Philadelphia. No longer a home but rather a testament to her life, the house is a museum that contains furniture and other belongings from the Ross family. Visitors can also see a replica of the flag that Betsy Ross sewed. You'll even get to meet the dame herself. Well, they might be an actor playing the part, but squint, and you won't even know the difference. Museum of the American Revolution But Betsy Ross was a cog in the independence machine. Who were the other cogs, what did it take to beat the evil, devious Red Coats, and what did the War of Independence mean for the future of America? Find out at the Museum of American Revolution. Appropriately located a stone's throw from Independence Hall, this museum tells the story of the American Revolution through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive experiences. Visitors can learn about the Causes of the Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Battle of Bunker Hill. The Museum of the American Revolution is a must-see for anyone interested in American history. And presumably, history's the reason you're visiting Old City in the first place! Independence National Historical Park But where did it all begin? Where did these brave men and women first congregate to plan the revolution? And where were two of America's most important documents ever both drafted and signed? Lucky for you, they're all in one lovely place. And that place is Independence National Historical Park. It's home to some of the most important historical sites in the country, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Betsy Ross House. They're all must-visit sites for any budding historians. So add them all to your itinerary this instant! Of course, if you'd prefer a more curated experience, why not take a tour of the entire area? With a knowledgeable - and humorous - guide in tow, you'll learn even more about all the goings on back in 1776 and beyond. They might even clue you into some super secret secrets. Who knows? Only you will, when you embark on this epic tour! Christ Church Burial Ground Want to go pay your respects to some of America's heroes? Head to Christ Church Burial Ground and do just that! This historic cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures from Philadelphia's past, including Benjamin Franklin, his wife Deborah, and five other signers of the Declaration of Independence. Despite the morbid nature of cemeteries, it's a beautiful and peaceful place, and it's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in American history. Even if you're not, it's still an interesting place to walk around and take in the atmosphere. Plus, you can toss a coin on Ben Franklin's grave for good luck. It's just what they do in Philly! Delightful Eats All that sightseeing and patriotism might have left you a little hungry. Well, never fear o' famished one, we have picked our favorite Old City restaurants for you to try! Zahav is a modern Israeli restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience. The menu features small plates meant to be shared, so it's perfect for groups. But even on your own, you'll be delighted by the interesting and delicious options on the menu! Bistrot La Minette is, unsurprisingly, a French bistro. But boy, is it a good one, serving classic dishes like coq au vin and mussels. The atmosphere is casual, and the service is friendly. Nice. And, for some Mediterranean treats, check out Barbuzzo. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta, you'll find an enviable selection of dishes on its generous menu. Our top pick? The lamb meatballs. Divine. Delightful Drinks We'll end our picks of the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia with some refreshments. After all, you'll need something to alleviate that parched throat. You know, from all the joyous screaming of being in Old City. Here are our picks for the best bars in Old City. McGillin's is the oldest tavern in Philadelphia and has been serving up cold drinks since 1860. The bar is located on Drury Street and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. National Mechanics is a great place to get a drink and listen to live music. The bar is located on Chestnut Street and features a variety of local and regional beers on tap. The Bards is a wine bar you'll also find on Chestnut Street. They offer an extensive list of both red and white wines from around the world. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to help you find the perfect wine to pair with your meal. And that about does it for our guide to the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia. Whether you're interested in history, food, or just grabbing a drink, you'll find what you're looking for in this historic neighborhood. But what about Philadelphia's other districts? What delights await you throughout the city? See all of Philly's best bits with Go City! Our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass let you see the city at your own pace.
Dom Bewley
Getting Around Philadelphia
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Getting Around Philadelphia - the Best Ways to Travel

So, you've planned your vacation to Philadelphia. Maybe its rich history has drawn you to it like a moth to flame. Or, maybe you simply want to see its vibrant spirit up close. Whatever your reason, you'll want to know about getting around Philadelphia, right? Read on, and discover our picks for the best ways to get around the city. Including: Is it easy to get around the city? Can you ditch the vehicle and explore on foot? Is it safe to walk the streets at night? Cycling in Philadelphia Is Philly PHLASH the way to go? and more! Is getting around Philadelphia easy? Yes! Thanks to SEPTA, or the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, it's relatively cheap and easy to get around the city in a pinch. But there are plenty of other ways to traverse Philly. So, let's talk about them all! Is getting around Philadelphia on foot possible? Indeed it is. In fact, it's one of the top 5 most walkable cities in America! Why is that? Well, it's because the city was designed that way. Architect William Penn, whose name you'll find adorning many buildings, street signs, and areas of the city, is responsible for its simple 25-block grid design. The city center sits between two rivers, the Schuylkill and the Delaware. And, to make it even easier to understand, north-to-south streets are numbered, and east-to-west streets are named after trees found in the region. Keen-eyed observers will also spot many 'Walk Philadelphia' signs all around the city. These aren't simply requests or suggestions; they pinpoint places where walking is the preferred mode of transport! You'll even find Community Street Representatives - or CSRs - wandering the streets. They'll be happy to answer any questions you have or direct you to points of interest close by. They'll even administer first aid or radio the authorities in a pinch. Heroes, one and all! Is getting around Philadelphia on foot safe at night? Yes, Philadelphia is safe to walk around during its vibrant evenings. Like any other city, just be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings close as you navigate its many amazing bars, restaurants, and other night festivities! Getting around Philadelphia by bike If you're a fan of the two-wheeled wonders, you're in luck. Philadelphia is one of the most bike-friendly big cities in America. Cyclists will find dedicated bike lanes on city streets and miles of bike-specific trails. If you don't fancy lugging your bicycle all the way to Philly for your vacation, simply hire one. You'll find thousands of rental bikes throughout the city, and it's easy to hire one for an hour, a day, or even a week. So no excuses, get on your bike, and stay active while you explore! Getting around Philadelphia in a PHLASH Looking to see all of Philly's biggest landmarks in one fell swoop? Introducing the Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop, your one-stop shop for all things Philadelphia. This amazing bus service is not only cheap, but it conveniently stops by all of the best bits in the city. Looking to see the likes of Penn's Landing, Independence Mall, The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Philadelphia Zoo? Philly PLASH. Image courtesy of Tippman98x/Shutterstock If you're looking to see other attractions, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Eastern State Penitentiary, and Betsy Ross' House, try a hop-on, hop-off bus tour instead! Stay on the bus to see them all, or hop off to get a closer look and catch the next bus when you're done. It's one of the easiest ways to get around the city while making the most of Philly's fantastic landmarks! Getting around Philadelphia with a pass If you've modern sensibilities and feel like paying for travel tickets with money is for old-timers, why not pick up a pass? They're the cool, trendy way to get about cities these days. As far as Philly is concerned, you've got a few choices. Let's explore them. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) Key SEPTA keys are cards you can load up with cash to bypass buying tickets and tokens. Utilizing 'state-of-the-art' chip technology, they allow you to tap in and out of turnstiles or on buses to catch a ride. You can put what you want on them or load them up with set amounts. Want to travel for the week? Select Weekly TransPass at a kiosk and load up the exact amount you need for your seven days of splendor. There are other options, of course, including monthly and even daily denominations. Independence Pass The Independence Pass allows unlimited travel on SEPTA buses, trams, trains, and subways. These are best if you're traveling for a single day, and you can even get a family of five deal for a decent discount. Getting around Philadelphia by train Whether above ground or beneath the surface, trains are a great way to cover large distances in the shortest amount of time. Philly is loaded with options, so take a look at this interactive map to see which works for you. But if you want to know more about them, let's do it. Regional Rail Lines These above-ground trains will get you from the furthest reaches of the city into the center, with multiple lines intersecting at various points. For instance, if you're flying into Philly, you can get the Airport Line right into 30th Street Station. Subway Lines There are three subway lines that connect the northwestern, northern, and northeastern districts of the city. They're called the Market-Frankford Line (blue), the Broad Street Line (orange), and Norristown (purple). The Market-Frankford line is especially useful, as it will take you right through the city's central areas, where Philadelphia's main attractions are focused. Tram Lines Depicted in green on the transport map, the tram is the slowest way to get around the city. However, being overground and running through the city itself, it gives you the chance to sightsee as you go. They also run out to the southwestern corner of the city, if you're staying further from the center. And that's everything you need to know about getting around Philadelphia and the best ways to travel the city! Now you know how to get about, you might want to know what to do while you're there. Thankfully, Go City has you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the city at your own pace.
Dom Bewley
best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia
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The Best Things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia

There are three inevitabilities in life; death, taxes, and gentrification. For the sake of levity, let's focus on the third one. No city is safe from the artsy, techy glow-up gentrification brings these days. Just look at Fishtown. Once Philly's industrial hub, this long-abandoned neighborhood has become the haunting ground of hipster millennials and their unique brand of entertainment. Craft beers, pop-up markets, and art installations are in, and you should be too. Fishtown demands a visit, and thanks to our tips on the best things to do, you'll know what to try on your Philadelphia vacation! Including Fishtown's top craft joints The best eats in the neighborhood Get artsy Lounge in Penn Treaty Park Get thrifty at the local shops Fishtown's best watering holes If you're looking for historical experiences or classicly touristy things to do in Fishtown, then you're probably in the wrong part of Philadelphia. Instead, Fishtown is known for its gentrified offerings. Take the bar scene, for example. It's great. So great that you should tour the neighborhood's best watering holes! But where to begin? Well, the first stop on your bar crawl should be Johnny Brenda's. This cozy spot has a great beer selection and an intimate setting that's perfect for enjoying a few drinks with friends. Next up is Frankford Hall, a German beer garden that's perfect for spending a sunny afternoon drinking outdoors. There's also plenty of food to soak up all the refreshments, including pretzels, sausages, and burgers. If you're looking for something a little more low-key, head to Fishtown Tavern. This local favorite has a relaxed atmosphere and serves up classic American pub fare. Finally, no bar crawl in Fishtown would be complete without a stop at Kraftwork. This industrial-chic spot has a large selection of craft beer and a menu that features locally sourced ingredients. Then, drink a load of water and go to bed. You'll thank us in the morning. Fishtown's best restaurants With all those inebriation opportunities, you'll need to line the ol' stomach with some sweet sustenance. Thankfully for you, Fishtown has plenty of eating opportunities, and it would be irresponsible to miss out on them, so check out our recommendations. Numero uno on our list is Suraya. Its middle eastern delights will water the mouth and trigger the happy bits in your brain. Do yourself a favor and grab some fatteh and kafta kebab before your journey to Fishtown's boozy underworld begins. If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, then be sure to check out Kensington Quarters. This farm-to-table restaurant is known for its excellent steak and seafood dishes. The roasted chicken is our pick for a standout dish, especially when paired with one of their delightful wines. Or, if you be needing a hit of sweet, sweet pizza, try Pizzeria Beddia. This no-frills pizzeria is all about the pizza, and they make some of the best pies in town. The menu may be limited, but each choice yearns to be tasted. Simply yearns. And finally, if you crave the sweet embrace of Philly's classic cheesesteak, head to the humbly delightful Joe's Steaks + Soda Shop. Generous portions, great service, and juicy steaks covered in cheese and wrapped in bread await you. Explore the neighborhood's brilliant street art As soon as you enter Fishtown, you'll realize that the neighborhood itself has become the canvas for its residents. Trashcans, air-con units, fire hydrants, and other typical urban sights have been given a rather atypical glow-up thanks to the artsy crowd that calls Fishtown home. But the best bits are the myriad murals you'll find adorned on walls across the district. Some of these are DIY jobs, but many were actually commissioned by the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, which supports local artists and helps them get their work into the public eye. The Front Street Walls display, for instance, is a rotating roster of street art you can find throughout the year. If you've an eye for street art, or just self-expression in general, be sure to check it all out. Park your buns and pay homage to William Penn Need to take a load off and want to admire some amazing views of the Ben Franklin Bridge while doing so? Head to Penn Treaty Park, and get among all the green! Built on the site of William Penn's treaty with the Native Americans, this delightful spot offers you acres of space to stretch out and relax, a place to let your furry friends loose, and even fishing spots on the Delaware, if Deadliest Catch is up your alley. You can also see a statue of the park's namesake if you want to add a little history to your park visit. Bring a boozy picnic and toast to the big man himself. Even Penn would agree it's one of the best things to do in Fishtown on your Philadelphia vacation! Bargain hunt at the local thrift stores What would an artsy, gentrified neighborhood be without its fair share of thrift shops? Nothing. It would cease to exist, pulled into the chasm of oblivion where even light fears to tread. For our final tip of the best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia, we're talking thrift stores. So, if you're in the market for some rare goodies, golden oldies, or hipster attire, check out our recommendations! The Dumpster Diver is a goldmine for those who love a good bargain. They sell items donated by local businesses and residents, which gives the place a lovely sustainable vibe. Everything from clothes to furniture to electronics can be found here, and it's all priced incredibly cheaply. Fishtown Second-Hand is run by a local non-profit organization, and all of the proceeds go towards supporting their programs. More brilliant schemes! They sell a wide variety of items, including clothes, furniture, books, and more. The Philly Free Store is exactly what it sounds like - a store where everything is free. They accept donations of gently used items and then make them available to the public at no charge. This is a great place to find unique treasures. Magnifique, non? And those were our picks of the best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia! Keen to explore the other delights Philly has to offer? With Go City, you can choose All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, and see the city at your own pace. So what's stopping you?
Dom Bewley

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