BLOGCitiesDestinationsNorth AmericaType of TravelU.SYour next trip
Must-Do in your first visit to Philadelphia
What to do: Philly
Table of Contents
Must-Do in your first visit in Philadelphia
My first visit or trip to Philadelphia (or better known as Philly) was a complete surprise. It wasn’t in my bucket list for a long time until it basically got in the way as I had a trip from NY to Boston, so I decided to take the train and make a stop. So, if this is your first you visit Philadelphia these are the spots and places you can’t miss
First things first
Even though I’ve heard of Philly, I wasn’t aware, until I got there, of how many worldwide known things this city had. From the popular stairs where Rocky ran in his movie, to one of the creepiest penitentiaries where a very popular criminal was locked, Philadelphia has it all.
My partner and I only went for a couple of days and this was our itinerary, I hope it help you.
Where to go: Philly
Reading Terminal Market
Once we arrived to the city and got ourselves installed we were starving! So what better moment to try their famous cheese steak than this. We head to the Reading Terminal Market which is a busy market accommodated in what was once the terminal station of the Reading Railroad (of Monopoly fame). Today, you can find tons of food spots that sell all types of food, including the famous cheese steak, which by the way you can find vegan options in several of their shops. Definitely take some time to wander through this amazing market.
Tour Independence Hall
This is one of the most symbolic places in the whole country as it was in 1776 where the American independence was ratified and signed. These buildings were used as the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court (Old City Hall) in the late 1700s.
Liberty Bell Center
This is one of the most iconic symbols in the USA, the Liberty Bell which represents not only the independence but the abolition of slavery which rang in 1776 to gather all their citizens to hear the Declaration of Independence. Its story is very interesting as this bell has a crack, but no one know exactly when it was fractured. This place is free, although it gets a bit packed, I recommend to go as earlier as possible.
Cemetery of Christ Church
If you want to visit the tomb of Benjamin Franklin you’ve got to go to the cemetery of Christ Church, you can go inside for $2 but you can actually see it from outside.
The Betsy Ross House
This was actually one of the places I had more fun as I thought it pretty original. The Betsy Ross House is an old house that was turned into a museum where the woman who sew the first USA flag used to live. Once you go inside you encounter several moments with Betsy Ross (an actress guys, not the ghost) where she tells you tells about her story and answers any questions you might have. Remember to play the part as well, that makes it real fun.
https://www.historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/what-to-see/
Elfreth’s Alley
Close to the Betsy Ross House, you can find the Elfreth’s Alley a very cute cobbled little street that is full of charming and colorful historical houses. This alley is the oldest inhabited street in the U.S. dating back to 1702. You can get a very good idea of how Philadelphia’s residential areas would have looked like a long time ago. A perfect spot for all your Instagram photos.
Ver esta publicación en Instagram
Eastern State Penitentiary
This is my favorite place in Philly! Kind of creepy but absolutely interesting. This terrifying old prison opened more than 180 years ago and was the first real penitentiary designed to actually give penitence in order to give a true regret on their inmates. It was known for its impressive architecture and strict discipline. Very popular people where prisoners here, like the famous Al Capone.
After its construction this place became the biggest public structure and expensive in the country, which help more than 300 inmates al around the world.
Today this place is considered a National Historical Monument and you can visit most of their original cells. If you like terror you can’t miss their scary tour “Terror Behind the Walls” considered one of the most terrifying of the country.
Get tickets here
https://tickets.easternstate.org/webstore//shop/viewItems.aspx?cg=Store&c=TICKETS
Ver esta publicación en Instagram
Rocky Statue and Stairs of the Museum of Arts
If you’re into the film industry or just loves movies, you can’t miss this spot, known for the famous scene from the movie “Rocky”. So, once you go up the stairs and fell all the power you can always visit the Museum of Arts or take a selfie with the Rocky Statue below.
One Liberty Observation Deck
The tallest observation deck in Philly in Center City. This observation area has 360-degree view over the whole city. Great place to take a break and enjoy the view.
Ver esta publicación en Instagram
If you visit Philadelphia, I’m sure you’re gonna love it. Let me know in the comments what places have you visited.
This might interest you: Washington
