Things to do in Philadelphia
30th Street Station
30th Street Station in Philadelphia is the United States’ largest and second most active railway station. The station is on the National Register of Historic Places. Find Best Western Philadelphia Lodging nearby.
Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
Academy of Natural Sciences
A museum of Natural history operating since 1812, undertakes research and education that focuses on the environment and its diverse species. Hosting nearly 250,000 families, school children and tourists each year, the museum is one of the city's top cultural attractions and is famous for its Dinosaurs, live butterflies and historic dioramas. Find Best Western Philadelphia lodging nearby. Call 215-299-1000 for more information.
1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA
African American Museum of Philadelphia
The African American Museum in Philadelphia is dedicated to collecting, preserving and interpreting the historical and cultural experiences of African Americans in the Philadelphia area. Best Western Philadelphia lodging is nearby. Call 215-574-0380 for more information.
701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
American Helicopter Museum & Education Center
The mission of the center is to collect, preserve, research, publish and exhibit the objects, artifacts and documents relating to the origins and development of rotary-wing aircraft in the United States. This mission is accomplished through an active schedule of public educational programs, exhibitions, events, air shows, workshops and publications designed to teach the principles of flight, celebrate the pioneers of aviation and encourage and inspire future generations of engineers, scientists, innovators, pilots, mechanics and inventors! Open Wednesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday noon - 5pm. Call 610-436-9600 for more information.
1220 American Blvd., Philadelphia, PA
American Swedish Historical Museum
Twelve galleries created by Swedish and Swedish American architects in a variety of styles, art deco to international, tell the story of the Swedish presence in the Delaware Valley from 1638 to present day. Open Tuesday - Friday 10am – 4pm; Saturday & Sunday noon – 4pm. Call 215-389-1776 for more information.
1900 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Arch Street Meeting House
This active Quaker meetinghouse was built in 1804 on land granted to William Penn. The meetinghouse features dioramas, a slide show on Penn, displays of Quaker artifacts and a special exhibit entitled - "Philadelphia Quakers - Politics and Government. Call 215-627-2667 for more information.
320 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
Arch Street United Methodist Church
Founded in 1862, this white marble, Gothic revival building houses a Stanbridge organ built in 1870. Worship at 5pm Wednesdays, 8:30am (praise) and 11am (formal with special services: Native American, African Heritage and AIDS Awareness Days) Sundays. Call 215-568-6250 for more information.
55 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Atwater Kent Museum
The city's official history museum is currently showing a new exhibit, "A Legacy for Philadelphia," which presents the remarkable gifts of radio manufacturing pioneer Atwater Kent and the hundreds of men and women who have donated extraordinary objects for its collections. Visitors also can see "Cover Story - Norman Rockwell's America. Call 215-685-4830 for more information.
15 South Seventh Street, Philadelphia, PA
Betsy Ross House
This historic house provides insight into the lives of Colonial-era working class citizens and the history of the American flag. Call 215-686-1252 for more information.
239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
Carpenters' Hall
Built and owned by the oldest trade guild in America, Carpenters' Hall is the place where America began building its history. The first Continental Congress met here in 1774; French and American spies gathered in Ben Franklin's second floor library in 1775. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1976, and the Association of Inspectors General convened here in 1996. Call 215-925-0167 for more information.
320 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia
Thrilling concerts by Philadelphia’s world renowned Chamber Orchestra and international soloists Call 215-545-5451 for more information.
Christ Church
"The Nation's Church," where Colonial patriots, loyalists and heroes worshiped, is celebrated for its historic, architectural and ecclesiastical importance. It is the founding church of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States. Services are held at 9 & 11am on Sunday; noon Wednesday. View Ben Franklin's grave though Christ Church Burial Ground fence at 5th and Arch Streets. Call 215-922-1695 for more information.
2nd Street above Market, Philadelphia, PA
Civil War Library and Museum
Founded in 1888, this is America's oldest chartered Civil War institution. Located in a Civil War-era town house, the library and museum contain three floors of exhibits, including uniforms, flags, weapons, fine art, and artifacts related to President Abraham Lincoln and Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. An extensive research library has more than 12,000 volumes, photographs, microfilm, and archival/manuscript materials. Call 215-735-8196 for more information.
1805 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA
Cliveden of the National Trust
Site of the Battle of Germantown and National Historic Landmark with guided tours available.
Congregation Mikveh Israel
Founded in 1740, The "Synagogue of the Revolution" is still going strong, maintaining its unchanged tradition. Join the service as Hayim Salomon, Rebecca Gratz and other illustrious Jews did. Call 215-922-5446 for more information.
44 North Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA
Congregation Rodeph Shalom
Founded in 1795, this is one of the oldest Ashkenazix congregations in the Western hemisphere. The building's Byzantine-Moorish architecture was modeled after the Great Synagogue of Florence, Italy. A collection of more than 500 works of Jewish ritual and ceremonial art dating back to the 1700s is on display. The Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art features three original exhibits of contemporary artists. Call 215-627-6747 for more information.
615 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Eastern State Penitentiary
Constructed in the 1820s as part of a radical movement to rehabilitate criminals through solitary confinement, Eastern State has held some of America's most famous criminals in its vaulted, sky lit cells, including Willie Sutton and Al Capone. Abandoned in 1971 - 142 years after it opened, the prison is now a lost world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Call 215-236-3300 for more information.
2124 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Elfreth’s Alley Museum
Explore our nation’s oldest residential street and do not miss the Alley’s Tricentennial Festival, May 31 – June 2. Call 215-574-0560 for more information.
Fireman's Hall Museum
This incomparable collection of memorabilia restored 1902 firehouse is a stirring tribute to the human side of firefighting. This unique experience showcases firefighting history and equipment. See hand drawn (by Benjamin Franklin), horse drawn and motorized apparatus; "living quarters" of firefighters; and the inside of a fireboat. This is a must see museum for people of all ages. Call 215-923-1438 for more information.
147 North Second Street, Philadelphia, PA
First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia
Founded in 1698, this historic church is known for its worship service rich in tradition. The building, constructed in 1872, is a fine example of Victorian Gothic architecture, including Tiffany windows. Visitors are welcome for service on Sunday morning or by appointment. Worship services: 11am September-May; 10am June-August. Tours by appointment only. Call 215-567-0532 for more information.
201 South 21st Street, Philadelphia, PA
First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia
Established in 1796, it was the first church in North America to call itself Unitarian. The current church building, a registered landmark, was built in 1885. The only Center City church designed by famous Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, it exhibits the congregation's religious philosophy and the architect's unique style. Tours are by appointment only. Services are held at 11am Sunday from September – June; July - August 10am. Call 215-563-3980 for more information.
2125 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Fort Mifflin on the Delaware
Site of the greatest bombardment of the American Revolution in 1777. Call 215-492-1881 for more information.
Fort Mifflin Road, Philadelphia, PA
Franklin Institute Science Museum
The most visited museum in Pennsylvania, The Franklin Institute offers exciting new attractions including the 3D Theater, an indoor SkyBike, and the Sports Challenge, plus the giant walk-through heart, four floors of interactive, electrifying exhibits, the Mandell Center, thrilling Tuttleman IMAX movies and Fels Planetarium shows. Call 215-448-1396 for more information.
20th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA
Gardens at Morris Arboretum
This 92 acre tranquil Victorian garden contains a spectacular collection of rare and unusual trees, a formal rose garden, a swan pond, elegant fernery and thousands of blooming plants. This official arboretum of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania features the Garden Railway Display, June-October; call for an event calendar. Call 215-247-5777 for more information.
100 Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Gardens Collaborative
This is the site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle and later served as a Civil War federal prison. There are 13 restored Colonial and 19th century buildings to explore, as well as dungeons, a moat, a riverside picnic area and nature trails. Daily-guided tours are available with uniform and weapon demonstrations. Call 215-782-3520 for more information.
100 Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Glen Foerd on the Delaware
1850’s mansion on 18 acres of waterfront. A formal art gallery can also be found on this estate. Call 215-632-5330 for more information.
5001 Grant Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Historic Bartram's Garden
America's oldest living botanical garden includes 18th century house coach house and barn. Do not miss the wildflower meadow flower garden and the River trail wetland water garden. Museum shop is available with books, gifts, children's items, snacks and soft drinks. Group tours, education programs, annual plant sale and annual greens sale. Call 215-729-5281 for more information.
54th Street and Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA
Historical Society of Pennsylvania
This premier research library emphasizes Colonial, early national, regional Pennsylvania and family history. Founded in 1824, the Society holds many of the nation's most important historical documents. Open to the public, ages 14 and older. Call 215-732-6200 for more information.
1300 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA
Independence Seaport Museum
Explore the Delaware Valley's maritime heritage with family-oriented, interactive exhibits, magnificent ship models, and more than 14,000 artifacts. Climb aboard Admiral Dewey's 1892 cruiser Olympia, tour the WWII submarine Becuna, both National Historic Landmarks, and search for treasures in the nautical gift shop. Call 215-925-5439 for more information.
211 South Columbus Boulevard & Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)/ University of Pennsylvania
Part of the University of Pennsylvania, ICA is Philadelphia's leading venue for recent developments in the visual arts. ICA presents the innovative work of established and emerging artists through acclaimed exhibitions, educational programs and publication. Call 215-898-7108 for more information.
118 South 36th Street, Philadelphia, PA
James A. Michener Art Museum
Housed in the renovated 1884 Bucks County Prison, conveniently located in the cultural hub of Doylestown, the museum holds a collection of 20th century art, sculpture and national and international changing exhibitions. The museum also houses the finest collection of Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings on public display. Customized group. Call 215-340-9800 for more information.
Japanese House and Garden
The Japanese House and Garden is an oasis of beauty and peace. The elegant building is an excellent example of 17th century Japanese architecture. The garden, which is landscaped in the traditional style, mirrors the mountains, streams, and forests of Japan. Admission. Closed from November – April. Call 215-878-5097 for more information.
4700 States Drive, Philadelphia, PA
Johnson House Historic Site
Philadelphia's only remaining underground railway station open to the public. Call 215-438-1768 for more information.
6306 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
Philadelphia’s spectacular new cultural landmark, presenting music, dance and more! Call 215-893-1999 for more information.
Liberty Bell Pavilion
The Bell is made up of 70% copper, 25% tin, and small amounts of lead, zinc, arsenic, gold and silver. The weight (originally) was 2080 pounds. The length of the visible hairline fracture is approximately 2' 4". The Pavilion is open daily 9am - 5pm with extended hours during July and August. The bell is visible 24 hours a day. Call 215-597-8974 for more information.
Market Street between 5th & 6th, Philadelphia, PA
Lights of Liberty Show, Inc
The world's first walking sound and light show is a high tech way for visitors to immerse themselves in the drama of the American Revolution-as it happened and where it happened. Five story projections on historic buildings and wireless headsets equipped with 3D sound make it all seem real. Shows take place throughout Independence National Historical Park. Admission. Shows takes place beginning at dusk; reservations required Call 215-LIB-ERTY for more information.
150 South Independence Mall West, Philadelphia, PA
Masonic Temple
Home of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania. Since its dedication in 1873, this architectural wonder has attracted millions of visitors to the mother city of Freemasonry in America. Free-guided tours of the Temple's seven ornate lodge halls and museum. Call 215-988-1900 for more information.
One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania
Unusual trees, a rose garden, unique Fernery, swan pond, guided tours, café and gift shop. Call 215-247-5777 for more information.
100 Northwestern Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Mummers Museum
Visit the museum where every day is New Year's Day. Come learn the Mummers strut, see fantastic, prize-winning costumes and hear the string band sound. Find a little bit of Philadelphia you will not see in any other gift shop in town. Tuesdays from May-September a free outdoor string band concert is held at 8pm (weather permitting). Closed holidays and Sunday in July and August. Admission. Call 215-336-3050 for more information.
1100 South Second Street, Philadelphia, PA
National Constitution Center
A new attraction scheduled to open July 4, 2003, on Independence Mall in Philadelphia, featuring interactive exhibits, movie theater and programming that brings to life the U.S. Constitution and how it affects our everyday lives. Call 215- 923-0004 for more information.
111 S. Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, PA
National Museum of American Jewish History
The Museum's purpose is to connect Jews more closely to their heritage and to inspire in people of all backgrounds a greater appreciation for the diversity of the American experience and the freedoms to which Americans aspire. Call 215- 923-3811 for more information.
55 North Fifth Street, Philadelphia, PA
Old First Reformed Church
United Church of Christ One of the oldest German Reformed churches. The church, established in 1727, is now housed in a restored 1837 Federal style building. Sunday service is at 11am; 10am during the summer. Call 215-922-4566 for more information.
151 North Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA
Old Pine Street Presbyterian Church
The building, designed by Robert Smith, is the only remaining Colonial Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia. Home to John Adams and Dr. Benjamin Rush, the church sent 75 men to join the Revolutionary forces. William Hurry, who first read the Declaration of Independence, is buried in the churchyard. Sunday service is at 10:30am; 9:30am from mid-June to Labor Day. Call 215-925-8051 for more information.
412 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA
Old Saint Joseph's Church
Founded by Jesuits, this is the site where Catholic Mass was first legally celebrated in Philadelphia in 1733. The current church was built in 1838. Mass schedules: 12:05pm Monday-Saturday; 5:30pm Saturday vigil; 7:30am, 9:30am, 11:30am (High Mass) Sunday. Call 215-923-1733 for more information.
321 Willings Alley, Philadelphia, PA
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Discover America's first art museum, located one block west of the Pennsylvania Convention Center and two blocks north of City Hall. Opened in 1876 to celebrate the Centennial, the museum building is a National Historic Landmark. The academy's renowned collection of American paintings and sculpture spans three centuries and includes work by the country's greatest artist. Call 215-972-7600 for more information.
118 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Doll Museum
The museum has more than 300 black dolls in its collection that chronicles the ways people of color have been perceived throughout world history. The collection includes African, European and American folk arts, the Roberta Bell Collection, American manufactured dolls and doll artist's dolls. There is also a gift store open to the public during museum hours. Call 215-787-0220 for more information.
2253 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Showcasing more than 2,000 years of human creativity, the collections and special exhibitions presents masterpieces of painting, sculpture, decorative arts and architectural settings from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The striking neoclassical building is an oasis of beauty and enriching activities, including family programs, lectures, concerts and films. Call 215-763-8100 for more information.
Schuklkill Parkway and Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Zoo
America's first zoo, home of more than 1,600 animals, features white lions, polar bears, elephants, reptiles and magnificent birds from around the world. The PECO Primate Reserve houses 10 primate species, including gorillas, orangutans, lemurs, langurs and gibbons. The Philadelphia Zoo offers a variety of programs geared towards families, schools and adults. The 42-acre Victorian Garden can also host picnic, party or business affairs. Open February - November Monday - Friday 9:30am - 5pm daily; December & January 9:30am - 4pm daily. Closed June 13, Thanksgiving Day, December 24, 25, 31 and January 1. Call 215-243-1100 for more information.
3400 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Please Touch Museum®
Please Touch Museum is dedicated to enriching the lives of children by providing learning opportunities through play. Interactive exhibits designed for seven and younger include Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Barnyard Babies and The SuperMarket! Birthday party and membership packages available. Call 215-963-0667 for more information.
210 North 21st Street, Philadelphia, PA
Polish American Cultural Center Museum
The museum features displays about Polish history, culture and paintings. "Great Men and Women of Poland," a pictorial display of Poland arms, showcases World War II photographs from 1939-1944. Call 215-922-1700 for more information.
308 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
Quaker Information Center
Located in the lobby of Friends Center, a three building complex housing nine Quaker organizations, the Quaker Information Center provides information about the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), including history, beliefs, events and institutions. See displays of literature, maps, books, and catalogs. Tour including the 1856 Historic Race Street Meetinghouse, a National Historic Landmark, may be scheduled. Call 215-241-7024 for more information.
1501 Cherry Street, Philadelphia, PA
Rodin Museum
The Great French sculptor Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) brought monumental public sculpture into the 20th century and established a new sculptural freedom, which continues to haunt our imaginations. His stated aim was to be absolutely faithful to nature; he steadfastly refused to idealize his subjects, creating instead an unprecedented combination of outer realism and psychological insight. Rodin's uncanny ability to penetrate the masks of the men and women he portrayed, the bravura of his rough, light-catching modeling, and his extraordinary use and re-use of the same or similar figures, and even parts of them (torsos, limbs, and hands), have established his place among the greatest sculptors of all time. One of Rodin’s famous statues, the Thinker is perhaps his best-known monumental work, first conceived ca. 1880-1881 as the poet Dante. The image evolved until it no longer represented Dante, but all poets or creators. It can be seen outside the Rodin Museum. Call 215-763-8100 for more information.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway at 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA
Rosenbach Museum and Library
This 1865 town house, located near Rittenhouse Square, houses extraordinary collections of rare books, manuscripts and fine and decorative arts. Home of James Joyce's manuscript of Ulysses, the living room of modernist poet Marianne Moore, and the repository of the works of Maurice Sendak, the Rosenbach features changing exhibitions throughout the year. Admission. Call 215-732-1600 for more information.
2010 Delancey Place, Philadelphia, PA
Saint John the Evangelist
Founded in 1830, the church of St. John is in the heart of Philadelphia. St. John Neumann, then Bishop, was consecrated here in 1852, and his funeral was held here in 1860. Thomas Penn Gaskell, great-great grandson of William Penn is buried in the graveyard next to the church. The 1857 statue of Mary survived a blaze in 1899. Call 215-563-4145 for more information.
21 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Saint Mary's Church
252 South Fourth Street, Philadelphia, PA
Saint Peter's Church
This Colonial Episcopal Church, built in 1761, has been virtually unchanged. Its rare layout, wine glass pulpit, ornate organ case and original box pews, including NO.41, where the Washington family sat with the Powel family, remains a testimony to the past. The churchyard is the resting place of many national and local figures. Call 215-925-5968 for more information.
313 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA
Sky Bike at First Union Science Park
Outside the Franklin Institute Science Museum, children ride the Sky Bike at First Union Science Park, a play-and-learn area attached to the Franklin Institute Science Museum and Please Touch Museum®. Eighteen feet above the rest of the science park, this demonstration of gyroscopic stability is a favorite among young visitors.
20th and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA
Society Hill Playhouse
Premier musical and cabaret style entertainment in this historic playhouse/theatre setting.
507 S. 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Society Hill Synagogue
When a group of small Jewish families seeking a new urban congregation took over this building in 1967, it became Society Hill Synagogue, a conservative congregation and a registered landmark. Services are held 8pm Friday and 9:15am Saturday. Visitors are welcome at other times. Call 215-922-6590 for more information.
418 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA
Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel
This is the only conservative synagogue in Center City. Founded in 1946, BZBI holds services twice daily and on the Sabbath, to which all are welcome. Visit the magnificent building - a true treasure of Center City. Services are held Monday - Friday 7:45pm; Monday – Thursday 5:30pm. Call 215-735-5148 for more information.
300 South 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Tenth Presbyterian Church
All are welcome to visit this historic landmark and distinctive symbol of spiritual strength serving Center City and beyond since 1829. Free Sunday parking is available at the garage at 17th & South Streets with church validation, Parking placards, available in the church, describe on-street parking privileges. Services: Sunday: 9:30am and 11am and 7pm. Bible school for all ages: 9:30am. Tours are available by appointments. Call 215-735-7688 for more information.
1701 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA
The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education
The Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education is a nonprofit educational institution with 500 acres of fields, thickets, ponds, streams, and woodlands. These habitats provide a unique haven for wildlife in Philadelphia. We offer year round seasonal activities with six miles of trails and a variety of guided programs and lessons. Open Monday - Saturday 8:30am - 5pm; Sunday 1 – 5pm. Call 215-482-7300 for more information.
8480 Hagy's Mill Road, Philadelphia, PA
Tindley Temple United Methodist Church
This is the home of the late Dr. Charles A. Tindley, the father of gospel music. Open Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm; Saturday 9am - noon; Sunday 8:30am – 2pm. Call 215-735-0442 for more information.
750 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology
Featured as one of the "10 great " science museums in Discover Magazine, the museum's many highlights include a 12 ton sphinx and monumental architectural remains from the ancient Egyptian palace of Merenptah; mummies; Sumerian cuneiform texts; and materials from Alaska and the American Southwest. Admission is charged. Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4:30pm; Sunday 1pm -5pm; Closed on Mondays and Holidays. Call 215-898-4000 for more information.
3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA
Wagner Free Institute of Science
This museum and educational institution has survived nearly unchanged from the 19th century. Founded in 1855, this National Historic Landmark houses a natural history collection including fossils, shells, minerals, skeletons, and mounted animals. The institute's science programs devoted to free adult education are the oldest of their kind in the United States. Free; donations encouraged. Call 215-763-6529 for more information.
1700 West Montgomery Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Woodmere Art Museum
Historic cobblestone Chestnut Hill is a spectacular setting for the Woodmere Art Museum, a 19th century stone mansion with an adjoining carriage house on six acres. In sky lit galleries and Victorian parlors, Woodmere showcases the art and artists of the Philadelphia area, past and present. A children's gallery features exhibitions for and by children. Donation. Call 215-247-0476 for more information.
9201 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA