10 Sep Free Philadelphia
Your next trip takes you on the trail of the United States foundation, that is to say the great city of Philadelphia. If you did not know it yet, it was in Philadelphia that the Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution were signed. Jump in the streets of this metropolis, with these free activites!
An Historic City
Philadelphia is an important pillar in the the United States’ history. First mandatory stop: The Liberty Bell Center. The most famous bell of the United States, according to legend, sounded just after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Liberty Bell
Next door is Independence Hall, also home to the Congress Hall. At the same time, take a look at the exhibition The President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation. You can learn more about the paradox between slavery and freedom that shaped American history.
President’s House
Finish your visit with Carpenters’ Hall, where you can learn more about the early foundations of the United States before the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed.
Carpenters’ Hall
During your visit to the historic district, sit on the benches marked with the Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches sign to listen to short stories about the important characters that have marked Philadelphia’s history.
Valley Forge National Historical Park was the site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army. The 3,500-acres of monuments, meadows, and woodlands commemorate the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation. The park honors and celebrates the ability of citizens to pull together and overcome adversity during extraordinary times.
Dive into the Wild West at the Wells Fargo Museum. Explore the history of American ingenuity from the formation of the nation’s first banks to the region’s first ATMs.
Wells Fargo Museum
For nature lovers
Although Philadelphia is a big city, it is still possible to enjoy nature if you want to relax! You absolutely must go for a walk on the side of the Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk to admire the breathtaking view of Philadelphia.
Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk
Want a little break during your visit to the historic district? Head to Franklin Square for a little picnic and a dose of fresh air!
From April to December, visit Bartram’s Garden for a tour of the riverside gardens. Bartram’s Garden welcomes everyone to explore, connect to nature, participate in programs, celebrate personal journeys, relax, reflect, and experience something new.
Bartrams’ Garden (Photo by R. Kennedy for VISIT PH)
The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge is home to more than 300 species of birds, in addition to several other reptiles and mammals. Refuge trails are open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, free of charge.
For a unique activity, head for Cira Green, where you can sit back, relax, and take in panoramic views of Philadelphia. Open year-round, Cira Green is an elevated park in West Philadelphia’s University City District offering breezy lounge space, entertainment, food, and events.
Cira Green (Photo by R. Kennedy for VISIT PH)
To discover arts & culture
Philadelphia is a great city for arts & culture lovers! The first museum to have exhibited a work by Andy Warhol, the Institute of Contemporary Art is certainly a place to visit.
Institute of Contemporary Art (Photo by J. Fusco for GPTMC)
The Fabric workshop and museum is a museum of contemporary art that seeks to promote works using unique materials or media.
Fabric Workshop Museum
The Science History Institute brings together hundreds of artefacts from past centuries that showcase the scientific advances that have changed the world.
Science History Institute
If literature is your passion, you must go to the Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site where you can learn more about the life of this landmark author.
To discover more about the Latin American and Caribbean artistic culture visit the Taller Puertorriqueño.
At least half of the United States currency is produced at the United States Mint in Philadelphia. You must stop in this completely unique place!
United States Mint
Housed in a 1902 firehouse, the Fireman’s Hall Museum is the place to go with kids! The museum interprets the history of firefighting in Philadelphia through its collections of artifacts and archives, and promotes fire prevention safety. Kids will love to see the old fire trucks and try on fire coats & boots!
Firemans’ Hall Museum (Photo by J. Fusco for VISIT PHIL)
Get lost in the city
What’s better than walking the streets of a city in search of its hidden treasures?
Iconic symbol of the city, the famous “Rocky Steps” are certainly a place to go take some pictures, in addition to stretching your legs!
Rocky Steps – Philadelphia Museum of Art
Also make a stop to the John F. Kennedy Plaza — better known as LOVE Park.
Walk in Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in the United States. Nestled between Second Street and the Delaware River, thirty-two Federal and Georgian residences stand as reminders of the early days of Philadelphia.
Elfreth’s Alley
More than 70 sculptures are hiding in the city! Can you find them? Download the Museum without Walls mobile app to make it happen!
The Reading Terminal Market is a huge market that will certainly awaken your senses! Have fun walking there to discover the essence of the city!
Reading Terminal Market (Photo by R. Kennedy for VISIT PH)
Thanks to all these free activities, your visit to Philadelphia will certainly be more fun, without breaking your budget! Have a nice trip!