I have always been a believer that the best way to learn about something is to actually experience it. I hate to admit it, but I didn’t really retain a lot of what I was taught in grade school history class. So, as I got older I wanted to make sure that I had at least a basic understanding of how my country was founded.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is vibrant historic city, the original capital of the USA and the place where our Constitution was written. It’s also a thriving modern city with a lot going on. There are a lot of different neighborhoods to see, all with a unique feel. Here is how I recommend spending 24 hours.
Note: 24 hours is very quick to see this city, so it is going to be a full day! Make sure to wear your walking shoes (and bring a stroller for the kiddos).
MORNING
Start your day at Washington Square
Take a quick walk through Washington Square. It’s a beautiful park with lots of trees. It was one of the original sites that William Penn (Pennsylvania’s founder) set aside to be a city park. You can get a look at the Washington/Unknown Soldiers Memorial, and try to find the Moon Tree.
Explore Independence National Historic Park
Since the purpose of this trip was a visit to a historical place to learn about American history, I started my trip in the old historic city center. Specifically, I spent time in Independence National Historic Park. It spans about 6 city blocks in the shape of an L, and there are loads of thing to see and learn through-out. The best thing to really learn about the history is take a tour. If you go to the visitors center you can get free tickets for the tours which will then depart from Independence Hall. You will see the original seat of the United States government, and the place where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were drafted.
The Liberty Bell is also in this park. To be honest, it isn’t really all that exciting, but I feel like it’s a rite of passage to get a picture with it. Also make your way to Congress Hall to see the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Franklin Square
If you have kids with you, a stop in Franklin Square is fun. There are playgrounds, mini golf, a carousel, a snack bar, and a pretty fountain that does shows every 30 minutes from noon – 2pm and 6pm – close.
The Chinese Festival happened to be going on when I was there. They had all sorts of decorations and cultural sights. It was a really fun and colorful event to walk through. They have different events there depending on when you go.If you don’t have kids, I think this square/urban park can be skipped.
Elfreth’s Alley and the surrounding area
The Old City has some of the best shopping in the city, so if you want to browse, this is the place to do it. It also has some of the most charming streets. If you continue walking around The Old City you’ll be sure to see what I mean. One of the best streets is Elfreth’s Alley. It’s the oldest residential street in the United States, and really charming. I was surprised by how narrow it was, and that real people were living there.
I’d then recommend strolling through the rest of the area, stopping at what interests you. Some things I found interesting were the first bank, Betsy Ross’s House (where she stitched the first American flag), and the first post office. You’ll also find little courtyard terraces while walking. My favorite was the 18th century garden.
Afternoon
The Waterfront
The area surrounding the Delaware River boasts scenic views and popular attractions. The Spruce Street Harbor Park has a flea market and different LED art and tons of food trucks. It’s a fun place to walk through, but it can be extremely crowded.
Society Hill Neighborhood
Society Hill is another picturesque neighborhood to walk around. It’s mostly a residential area, but you can find restaurants and shops as well. Yes, it’s a visit to a historical place, but like I said, you’ve got to experience the whole city!
South Street
South Street has soul. There are so many different stores lining the street for a wide range of items. There are some old murals on the street that give you an idea of what the neighborhood looked like in the old days. This was one of my favorite places to walk around.
Also be sure to check out the Magic Gardens Mosaic. It has artwork inside and a mosaic labyrinth in the courtyard.
Evening
Rittenhouse Neighborhood
Rittenhouse is a place to find food, drinks, and high end stores. It’s an entertainment hub. You’ll probably want to get a taxi there after walking so much in the day. You walk around here and get dinner. But what you shouldn’t miss is the Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk. You can take the path over the water and get an awesome view of the city all lit up at night.
If you have more time
The Fairmount Neighborhood has Fairmount Park which is the 2nd largest urban park in the United States. There is so much to do here. You can go for a walk, ride a bike, or row along the river. The Belmont Plateau is a good place to get a view of the city skyline. It is kind of far out from the Old City, so I wouldn’t go if I only had 24 hours, but I include it in case you have more time or if you’re a park person.
Fairmount also houses museums. I am told that Philadelphia has some good museums, so if you are a museum person you might want to check those out.
A Visit to Philadelphia: Where to Eat & Drink
Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest markets and has food stalls from all over the world. You’ll find that the best food is the one with the longest lines. Market East Neighborhood – 12th Street
Jim’s Steaks has an absolutely delicious true, authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak. The lines might be long, but remember if the lines long you know it’s good. They have seating upstairs. Society Hill Neighborhood – Southstreet
V Street is a vegan restaurant, and so good. Even if you aren’t vegan, you will love their food. It’s a quaint little spot, and the drinks are delicious too. Rittenhouse Neighborhood S 19th Street
Tria Café Rittenhouse is a café/ wine bar. The menu is interesting and filled with mostly small bites. I like the truffle egg toast. Every wine that I tried was also good, and the waitstaff is very knowledgeable to help you decide. Rittenhouse Neighborhood – S 18th Street
Federal Donuts follows the theme of if there is a line out the door you know it will be good theme. They serve great unique donuts (like lemon bar) and Korean fried chicken. Pennsport Neighborhood – 2nd Street
The Philadelphia Brewing Company brews up some delicious local craft beer. I would definitely recommend trying one even if you don’t go directly to the tap room. Almost every restaurant or bar will have something from PBC on tap. Fishtown Neighborhood – Amber Street
Standard Tap is a local spot with a great beer local beer selection. They also have fresh locally sourced pub food. Northern Liberties Neighborhood – 2nd Street
Famous 4th Street Delicatessen is a Jewish deli that has been around for a long time. It serves huuuge portions and is delicious! Queen Village Neighborhood – 4th Street
Sabrina’s Café is the place to be for brunch. It has amazing food, a great atmosphere AND it’s BYOB. The only problem is that it is VERY popular. The waits can be extreme. So you’ll want to find something else to do while you wait. Bella Vista Neighborhood – Christian Street
Bar Ferdinand is a Spanish lover’s dream serving tapas and lots of drinks (wine, beer and spirits). It’s delicious and affordable. Northern liberties neighborhood – 2nd Street
Have you already taken a visit to Philly? Looking for other places in America to visit? Try looking through my US posts. And as always, don’t forget to subscribe!