How to spend two days in Philadelphia

By Samuel Ford
Published: July 18, 2024
Two days in Philadelphia

How better to acquaint yourself with the good old US of A than with a trip to the ‘Birthplace of America’? That’s right, fabulous Philadelphia brims with things to do for travelers looking for urban adventures.

With city tours, views from skyscrapers, unending culinary delights, and glorious summer weather, you won’t be left wanting for things to do here. After all, they say it’s always sunny in Philadelphia...

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Day 1

Morning

Dive headfirst into exploring the city by boarding a hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour. This is the most efficient and exciting way of seeing the best that the city has to offer and getting your bearings of Philadelphia at the same time.

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Along the 25-stop route, your friendly Philly guide will let you in on the city’s history, culture, dining spots, and, of course, where to get the most authentic Philly cheesesteak. You’ll see Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (with the famous steps that Rocky climbed), the Eastern State Penitentiary, and much more. Your ticket is valid for 1 whole day, so you can explore the best of the city at your leisure.

All that sightseeing is sure to work up an appetite. En route your guide will point out where to get some of the best Philadelphia soft pretzels you can get your hands on, and not hopping off to get a bite would be criminal!

Lunch

Did you think you’d start reading about what to do in Philly and not be recommended a cheesesteak? Think again! And get straight down to Jim’s South Street to get your hands on a soft bread bun packed with prime beef, gooey cheese, pickles, and peppers.

They claim it’s the best cheesesteak you can find, and who are we to argue with their 80 years of experience churning out these mouthwatering subs?

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Afternoon

Enjoy a moment of calm in the center of the bustling city at Longwood Gardens. This 1,077-acre botanical paradise in the heart of Philadelphia presents lush flower displays, plants from across the globe, and awesome fountain shows over the summer months. What’s more, the center also incorporates a treehouse you can climb up to, waterlily gardens, topiary displays, and a living art gallery of miniature manicured bonsai trees.

Evening

An afternoon of perusing plant life will mean that you are re-energized to explore the city by night, and there are all sorts to be doing when the sun goes down.

Dine at Baology for the best dim sum this side of Taiwan, classic pizza at Stina Pizzeria, or Vedge where the upscale vegan within you will delight at the meat-free menu.

Later on, sip lurid libations at either Hop Sing Laundromat which serves classy cocktails with a speakeasy vibe, or enjoy a famously friendly welcome at the chic underground Franklin Bar.

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Day 2

Breakfast

Now that you’re settled into the City of Brotherly Love, it’s important to seek out the best breakfast to fuel the second day of adventures.

Sam’s Morning Glory Diner will more than suffice for your fill of classic American breakfast items. They serve up everything you could desire from bacon and eggs with sausage gravy to waffles with ice cream, pancakes, and fluffy French toast piled high with fruit. They even make their own ketchups and jams to accompany breakfast. The difficult part is choosing what you’ll order.

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Morning

Take a jaunt down to the riverside at Penn’s Landing and let your food digest with a view of the Delaware River glimmering in front of you and the skyscrapers of downtown reaching to the heavens behind.

This is the historic site where William Penn landed in 1682 and founded the Province of Pennsylvania. On the waterfront, you’ll also find the Independence Seaport Museum which provides visitors with an educational and interactive glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage.

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Afternoon

The afternoon calls for a taste of classic Philly culture, and how better to discover this fabulous city than by following in the footsteps of one of its most famous inhabitants? The Franklin Footsteps walking tour will lead you on a path forged by Benjamin Franklin, writer, philosopher, scientist, inventor, and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States.

Your guide in traditional colonial dress will take you past the Betsy Ross House where the first US flag was made, Franklin’s home, his final resting place, and the picturesque Elfreth's Alley lined with 32 original colonial-era homes.

Stroll down cobblestoned pathways, through pretty alleys, and learn all about the Founding Fathers and the forging of a nation.

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Evening

As evening draws in on your 2-day Philly break, why not step back in time in the Old City and learn some gruesome tales on a Murder by Gaslight walking tour? This spooky murder mystery trail teaches you about the darker side of the city's Victorian era.

Led by your guide - who just happens to be the victim of a 130-year-old murder - you will also be tasked with inspecting a crime scene, gathering clues, and questioning the suspects you meet along the way.

This rather unusual end to your trip might just intrigue you enough to want to extend your stay...!

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

So there’s our list of fun things to do in Philadelphia. Don’t forget – many of these top attractions are available with a pass by Go City, which will help you save on combined admission costs. We hope you enjoyed this list, and consider adding a few options to your vacation itinerary.

See the list of attractions on our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes.

Samuel Ford
Go City Travel Expert

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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Philadelphia
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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Philadelphia

Over 60% of Americans have either served themselves, or have family who have served in the armed forces. That is an astronomical figure. It's no wonder, then, that Memorial Day is such a big deal here. A day when we all remember those who gave their lives for our country, Memorial Day gives ordinary folk like you and me a chance to show our gratitude to them. And if you're in Philadelphia, you might wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend? In this guide, we'll cover all the best events and experiences, as well as other fun things to get up to in the days before and after Memorial Day. Including: Philadelphia's History with Memorial Day Philadelphia's Memorial Day Parade The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall Special exhibits at the Museum of the American Revolution and more! So, if you were wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend in Philadelphia, now you know! If you're staying in town for a few days and want to fill out your itinerary with fun, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Philly's best bits at one low price. So grab a Philadelphia pass and save while you sightsee this Labor Day weekend!
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Philadelphia skyline with fall colors
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Best time to visit Philadelphia

Visitors to Philadelphia may be forgiven for feeling like they’re traveling through time in this former capital city, as they chart its evolution from the birthplace of the United States to the modern, cosmopolitan city it is today. No stone of history is unturned in its museums, and no corner of its streets devoid of its own work of art or world food café. You can also travel through the seasons, and it’s particularly vibrant in the summer months with its stacked schedule of outdoor festivals and events. But for those who prefer a little space, there’s plenty to enjoy in the cooler months too, with its abundance of galleries and restaurants to escape into, and of course a profusion of parks and gardens that are continually changing as the year goes by. So whether you prefer hot or cold, bustling or quiet, or are at the mercy of your schedule, you can be sure to find plenty of interest, and people ready to welcome you, in the city of brotherly love. Summer Summer is the busiest and most expensive time to visit Philadelphia, but if you love warm weather, outdoor festivals and the company of other extroverts then there’s no better place to be. June is Pride month, so be sure to hop onto an LGBTQ history tour, scope out restaurants serving LGBTQ themed food to support pride-related charities or go and see one of the city’s famous drag shows. If you find yourself in Philadelphia for the Independence Day celebrations in July, brush up on your history by visiting the National Constitution Center or the Museum of the American Revolution, or contemplate heroes from around the world at the National Liberty Museum. Beer, folk and food festivals continue well into July and August, and although they say it’s always sunny in Philadelphia this is also when the rain is most likely to roll in. Beat the humidity by escaping to Spruce Street Harbor Park, considered to be one of the best Urban beaches in America, or escape to Longwood Gardens where the water lilies will be in full bloom and the pond’s fountains dazzling crowds with water and light displays. Fall September is a refreshing time to be in Philadelphia, as temperatures cool, crowds disperse and the colors begin to change – so if you’re after some fiery photographs head to Independence Hall or the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, where the autumnal leaves contrast against the city skylines. A month-long Fringe Festival also kicks off this month, or if you’re a fan of all things fungi, check out the annual Mushroom Festival at Kennett Square, just outside the city. October is Halloween month and festivities abound, with German food and music taking center stage as part of several Oktoberfest celebrations. At Peddler’s Village, about 45 minutes out of town, a hundred scarecrows pop up every year, and visitors can vote for their favorite while exploring winding brick walkways and quirky restaurants. If you’re still in Philadelphia on the third Thursday of November you’ll be able to watch the country’s oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade, which runs from 20th Street to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Santa himself makes an appearance at the parade, which officially starts the winter holiday season. Winter If you like to save money, avoid crowds and don’t mind the cold, then Philadelphia in winter could be the perfect city for you. After the Thanksgiving Parade the dark evenings are brought to life with annual traditions such as the RiverRink Winterfest, the Philadelphia Christmas Village and Christmas at the Wanamaker Building. Franklin Square lights up with Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa celebrations every year and there are light displays in almost every park and public garden. The new year celebrations begin with a fireworks display on the Delaware River on New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day locals flock into the city once again to marvel at the lavish floats and costumes of the Mummers Parade, a much-anticipated annual tradition since 1901. January is the coldest month in Philadelphia, with an average temperature of just above freezing – but it’s also the best month for snow, so snow angels are your thing you’re in the right place! In February things begin to brighten a bit and you’ll start to see buds appearing on trees and hedges. Try wrapping up for an invigorating walking tour, then head indoors to the Aquarium or the Penn Museum to thaw out. If you’re feeling brave, liven up the dark evenings with a Dark Philly Adult Night Tour. Spring Although Spring in Philadelphia is still brisk with average temperatures rising from just the mid-30s in March to the 50s in May, it’s a good time to visit before the crowds – and accommodation costs – increase in summer. There’s plenty to do in spring, as outdoor markets start popping up and street festivals – complete with outdoor skating rinks, ferris wheels and carnival games – come back to life along the river. In April sports fans can cheer on Olympic hopefuls at the high school and collegiate Penn Relays, and in May many of the attractions that have been closed for winter begin to reopen, including the Delaware RiverLink Ferry which links the Camden and Philadelphia Waterfronts. Nature lovers will find plenty of inspiration in spring, as pops of color begin to appear on street corners in the form of tulips and other early emerging flowers. At the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden the cherry blossoms burst into life in a profusion of pink and white petals, reassuring walkers and passers by that warmer weather is on the way. See more with Go City Summer, winter, spring or fall, you’ll find plenty to fascinate you in Philadelphia. And whether you prefer indoors or outdoors, museums or tours, you’ll see and save more with Go City.
Karleen Stevens
Philadelphia skyline
Blog

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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