Philadelphia

Planning Your Trip to Philadelphia

Country and State

• United States, Pennsylvania

Timezone

• GMT -4 (Eastern Daylight Time) or GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time)

Languages Spoken

• English (primary)

Currency

• US Dollar (USD)

Weather and Climate in Philadelphia: A Monthly Snapshot

• January-February: Bundle up! It’s cold, with temperatures averaging 30-40°F (-1 to 4°C). Snow is definitely a possibility.
• March-April: Spring is in the air! Temperatures range from 40-60°F (4-16°C). Expect some showers – bring an umbrella.
• May-June: Ah, perfect weather! Pleasant and warm, averaging 60-80°F (16-27°C). Get outside and enjoy.
• July-August: Hot and humid – it’s summer in Philly! Temperatures often reach 80-90°F (27-32°C). Stay cool and watch for thunderstorms.
• September-October: Mild and beautiful autumn, with temperatures between 60-70°F (16-21°C). The fall foliage is stunning.
• November-December: Cooling down again, averaging 40-50°F (4-10°C). Chance of rain and snow – time for cozy sweaters.

Philadelphia: A Quick City Overview

Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love,” is a city bursting with history and modern energy. It’s one of the oldest cities in the United States, and you can feel the history everywhere you go. Think Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell – these are places where America’s story really began.

But Philly isn’t just about the past! We’ve got a fantastic arts and culture scene with amazing museums, theaters, and live music. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, from the lively Italian Market to the chic Rittenhouse Square. And the food? Forget about it! From classic cheesesteaks to cutting-edge cuisine, you’ll find it all here.

Getting around is easy thanks to our public transportation system. Philadelphia offers a perfect mix of old and new, making it a fun and welcoming city for everyone.

When is the Best Time to Visit Philadelphia?

• Spring (April-May):
  • Pros: Lovely weather, flowers blooming everywhere, and fewer crowds than in the summer months.
  • Cons: You might experience some occasional rain showers.
• Fall (September-October):
  • Pros: Mild temperatures, gorgeous fall foliage, and lots of festivals and events.
  • Cons: Can get a bit crowded during the peak foliage season.
• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Warm and sunny weather, tons of outdoor events, and long daylight hours to explore.
  • Cons: Can be hot and humid, more tourists, and higher prices for hotels and flights.
• Winter (November-March):
  • Pros: Fewer tourists mean you can avoid long lines, lower prices on accommodations, and festive holiday events.
  • Cons: Cold weather, and the possibility of snow and ice.

Getting to Philadelphia and Visa Information

• Flights: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is a major airport with flights from all over the world.
• Trains: Amtrak trains arrive at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, with service from many cities in the Northeast and beyond.
• Visa Details: Visa requirements depend on your country of citizenship. Please check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest information.
• Airport Transfers: You can easily get from PHL to the city center by taxi, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or via SEPTA’s Airport Line train.

Philadelphia Fun Facts and Famous People

Fun Historical Fact

Did you know Philadelphia used to be the capital of the United States? From 1790 to 1800, while Washington, D.C., was being built, Philadelphia served as the nation’s capital. All the branches of government were located here!

Famous Personalities

• Benjamin Franklin (Statesman, Inventor)
• Will Smith (Actor, Rapper)
• Tina Fey (Actress, Comedian, Writer)
• Kevin Hart (Comedian, Actor)

Top 10 Philadelphia Attractions

• Independence Hall
  • Description: Where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. A must-see for history buffs!
  • Address: 520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Liberty Bell
  • Description: An iconic symbol of American independence. Get up close to this famous bell.
  • Address: 6th St & Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Reading Terminal Market
  • Description: A historic public market with diverse food vendors and local produce. Come hungry!
  • Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • Description: One of the largest art museums in the United States, famous for the “Rocky Steps.” Run up them and take a selfie!
  • Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• Eastern State Penitentiary
  • Description: A historic prison that once housed some of America’s most notorious criminals. A chilling and fascinating experience.
  • Address: 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• The Barnes Foundation
  • Description: An art museum with an impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings. Art lovers, rejoice!
  • Address: 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• Mural Arts Philadelphia
  • Description: Explore the city’s vibrant murals through guided tours or self-guided walks. A colorful way to see the city.
  • Address: 1727-29 Mount Vernon St, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• Spruce Street Harbor Park
  • Description: A waterfront park with hammocks, floating gardens, and food vendors. (Seasonal – best in warmer months) Relax by the river!
  • Address: 301 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Rodin Museum
  • Description: Houses the largest collection of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures outside of Paris. A beautiful and inspiring museum.
  • Address: 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130
• Please Touch Museum
  • Description: An interactive museum for children with exhibits designed to encourage learning through play. Perfect for families with kids!
  • Address: 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131

Philadelphia Hidden Gems

• Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
  • Description: A mosaic-covered wonderland created by artist Isaiah Zagar. A truly unique and unforgettable experience.
  • Address: 1020 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
• The Mütter Museum
  • Description: A medical museum with anatomical specimens, models, and medical instruments. Not for the faint of heart!
  • Address: 19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Elfreth’s Alley
  • Description: One of the oldest residential streets in America, dating back to 1703. Step back in time on this charming street.
  • Address: Elfreth’s Alley, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
  • Description: A peaceful oasis for birdwatching and nature walks. Escape the city and enjoy some fresh air.
  • Address: 8601 Lindbergh Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19153

Local Festivals & Events in Philadelphia

• Philadelphia Flower Show (March): The nation’s largest and oldest horticultural event.
• Macy’s Christmas Light Show (November-December): A dazzling holiday light show at Macy’s Center City.
• Philadelphia Folk Festival (August): A celebration of folk music and culture.
• Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market (November-January): Outdoor market with crafts, gifts, and food at Dilworth Park.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions from Philadelphia

• Valley Forge National Historical Park (30 minutes): Site of the Continental Army’s winter encampment during the Revolutionary War.
• Longwood Gardens (1 hour): Stunning botanical gardens with fountains, conservatories, and horticultural displays.
• Lancaster County (1.5 hours): Experience Amish culture and countryside scenery.
• Cape May, New Jersey (2.5 hours): Victorian seaside resort town with beaches and charming shops.

Instagram-Worthy Photography Spots in Philadelphia

• Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps: Recreate the iconic “Rocky” scene. #RockySteps #PhiladelphiaMuseumOfArt
• Boathouse Row: A picturesque stretch of boathouses along the Schuylkill River. #BoathouseRow #Philadelphia
• Elfreth’s Alley: Capture the charm of a historic cobblestone street. #ElfrethsAlley #HistoricPhiladelphia
• Magic Gardens: Colorful mosaics create a unique backdrop. #MagicGardens #IsaiahZagar
• City Hall: A grand architectural landmark. #PhiladelphiaCityHall #CityHall

Where to Stay and How to Get Around Philadelphia

Recommended Length of Stay

• 3-5 days is perfect for experiencing the city’s major attractions and neighborhoods.

Top Places to Stay in Philadelphia

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Apple Hostels of Philadelphia: 32 S Bank St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Alexander Inn: 301 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
• The Windsor Suites Philadelphia: 1700 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Mid-Range Hotels

• The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square: 220 S 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• Hotel Monaco Philadelphia: 433 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
• Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia: 123 S 17th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton: 1 Logan Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Luxury Hotels

• The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia: 10 Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA 19102
• Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center: 1 N 19th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• The Rittenhouse Hotel: 210 W Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103
• AKA University City: 2929 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Getting Around Philadelphia

• Public Transport: SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) runs buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail.
• Taxis: Available throughout the city.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are easy to use and readily available.
• Bikes: Indego bike-sharing program is a fun way to explore.
• Walking: Philadelphia is a great city for walking, especially in the historic areas.

Preparing for Your Philadelphia Trip

What to Pack for Philadelphia

• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• Layered clothing: Be prepared for changes in temperature.
• Rain gear: An umbrella or raincoat is always a good idea.
• Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from the sun, especially in the summer.
• Adapters: If you’re traveling from outside the United States.

Useful Apps for Visiting Philadelphia

• SEPTA App: For public transportation schedules and trip planning.
• Uber/Lyft: For ride-sharing services.
• Yelp: For restaurant reviews and recommendations.
• Google Maps: For navigation.

Philadelphia Safety Tips and Cultural Etiquette

• Be aware of your surroundings: Especially in crowded areas and at night.
• Avoid scams: Be wary of street vendors selling suspicious goods.
• Respect local customs: Be polite and courteous to the locals.
• Tipping: Tipping is expected in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services (15-20%).
• Don’t be afraid to ask for directions: Philadelphians are generally friendly and happy to help.

Philadelphia Food, Fun, and Finds

Top Restaurants in Philadelphia

• Zahav (Israeli): Award-winning modern Israeli cuisine.
  • Description: Experience modern Israeli cuisine with a focus on wood-fired cooking and shared plates. Reservations are a must!
  • Address: 237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106
  • Location: Society Hill
• Reading Terminal Market (Diverse): A variety of food vendors offering everything from cheesesteaks to Amish specialties.
  • Description: A bustling public market offering a huge range of food options. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
  • Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
  • Location: Center City
• Talula’s Garden (American): Farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Description: Enjoy contemporary American cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a charming garden setting.
  • Address: 210 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA 19106
  • Location: Washington Square West
• Parc (French): A classic Parisian-style bistro with outdoor seating.
  • Description: A lively French bistro with classic dishes and a great atmosphere. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
  • Address: 227 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
  • Location: Rittenhouse Square
• City Tavern (Historical American): Authentic 18th-century tavern serving colonial-era cuisine.
  • Description: Step back in time at this historic tavern serving traditional colonial dishes in a setting reminiscent of the 18th century.
  • Address: 138 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
  • Location: Old City

Must-Try Philadelphia Dishes

• Cheesesteak: A Philadelphia classic – thin slices of steak with melted cheese on a long roll. Order it “wit” (with onions) or “witout”.
• Soft Pretzel: A Philadelphia staple, often served with mustard.
• Water Ice: A refreshing frozen treat, similar to Italian ice. Perfect on a hot day!
• Roast Pork Sandwich: A flavorful sandwich with roasted pork, broccoli rabe, and provolone cheese.
• Scrapple: A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dish made from pork scraps and cornmeal. Give it a try!

Nightlife & Entertainment in Philadelphia

• World Cafe Live (Live Music): A venue hosting a diverse range of musical acts.
  • Description: Live music venue with a restaurant and bar, showcasing a variety of genres. Check their schedule for upcoming shows.
  • Address: 3025 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
  • Location: University City
• The Raven Lounge (Bar): A cozy bar with a wide selection of drinks.
  • Description: An intimate and dimly lit bar with a great selection of cocktails and craft beers.
  • Address: 1324 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
  • Location: Midtown Village
• Franky Bradley’s (Bar/Cabaret): Offers drag shows and burlesque.
  • Description: A lively bar and restaurant with a cabaret stage featuring drag shows, burlesque, and other performances. A fun night out!
  • Address: 1320 Chancellor St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
  • Location: Midtown Village

Where to Buy Souvenirs in Philadelphia

• Reading Terminal Market: Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, local produce, and Philadelphia-themed gifts.
  • Description: Explore this historic market for a wide variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and unique food items.
  • Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
  • Location: Center City
• Old City: Historical souvenirs, art galleries, and boutiques.
  • Description: Find historical souvenirs, art, and unique gifts in the charming shops of Old City.
  • Address: Various locations in Old City, Philadelphia, PA
  • Location: Old City
• South Street: Eclectic mix of shops, vintage clothing, and quirky souvenirs.
  • Description: Browse the eclectic shops on South Street for vintage clothing, quirky souvenirs, and unique finds.
  • Address: Various locations on South Street, Philadelphia, PA
  • Location: South Street