15 Things to Do in Philadelphia in 7 Days

What to do in Philadelphia in a week? Where should you go, and which places are worth seeing whether travelling solo or in a group? What is the weather in Philadelphia like in November, and is it actually worth visiting? Read on for my real-life experience guide to the must-see Philadelphia attractions and things to do in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia is the place where it all began — the heart of the American Revolution, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. Known as the “City of Brotherly Love”, it is one of the most important locations in America’s rich history. It’s no surprise that nearly 30 million people visit every year.

This vibrant city of over 1.6 million residents is located less than three hours from JFK Airport in New York City, making NYC to Philly a convenient trip for visitors. Beyond its historic landmarks, Philadelphia is also celebrated for its thriving food scene, buzzing arts and culture, passionate sports spirit, and world-renowned universities. Add to that the charming colonial neighbourhoods and leafy green parks, and you’ll see why it’s one of the top Philadelphia places to visit.

Where It All Began: How to Get to Philadelphia from New York JFK Airport

Three ladies set out to experience some brotherly love in Philly. Two were travelling to the city of Philadelphia for work, while the third — me — felt the need for a little charm of luck. After a connecting flight from Hamburg, I joined them in Vienna, and together we boarded a plane to one of the busiest and most iconic airports in the United States: JFK in New York.

The flight was smooth, and the views of the New York City skyline from the window were unforgettable. But once we landed, the not-so-long, yet somewhat stressful, journey to Philadelphia began. Travelling from NYC to Philly can take anywhere between two to four hours depending on your chosen mode of transport.

The cheapest option is usually the bus, but we opted for the train — slightly more expensive, yet about an hour faster. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to get from New York JFK Airport to Philadelphia by train:

1. Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station in Queens.
2. From Jamaica, board the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Penn Station in Manhattan.
3. At Penn Station, transfer to Amtrak for the onward journey to Philadelphia.
4. Once in Philadelphia, continue your journey by metro or bus (we chose the metro on Halloween night — and believe me, it was quite an experience!).

And what about the price? The cost of getting from JFK to Philadelphia by train can vary widely, ranging anywhere from around $20 to over $500, depending on the season, departure times, and seat availability. From memory, we paid approximately $100 for a one-way ticket.

What Is the Weather Like in Philadelphia in November?

Very moody, folks — very moody indeed. We arrived in Philadelphia on 31st October, right in time for Halloween night, and stayed for eight days and seven nights.

The start of our trip was sunny, with daytime temperatures around 20°C, cooling off a bit at night. Then the weather shifted suddenly — rainy, windy, and between 15–17°C during the day, dropping to around 10°C at night. The sun returned for the last days of our trip, with a pleasant 25°C, making for a rather dramatic mix of weather conditions.

This naturally raises the question: what should you pack? Since we had planned some shopping, our suitcases were mostly empty, leaving plenty of room for new clothes. I packed only the essentials: jeans, shorts, long- and short-sleeved tops, one dress, and a few jumpers. Honestly, even without the extra sneakers and crop tops I bought, I could have managed with just jeans and a T-shirt.

Important accessory: a scarf. This proved a lifesaver on the rainy, windy days, especially when we took the famous hop-on hop-off bus and sat on the open roof. Luckily, the rain didn’t start until later.

For those sensitive to the cold: bring a light hat or head cover. Temperatures can swing dramatically — one day might be 22°C and the next just 15°C — and Philadelphia’s proximity to the ocean means it can get quite windy.

15 Things to Do in Philadelphia in 7 Days for First-Timers

Alright, alright — what does the city of Philly have up its sleeve? In short: plenty. From iconic Philadelphia attractions to hidden gems, the city is packed with exciting experiences and things to see in Philadelphia. Whether you’re a sports fan, foodie, culture enthusiast, or history buff, there’s always a must-see in Philadelphia to keep you entertained.

If you know my usual style of guide writing, you might expect a complete day-by-day itinerary (like the Madeira one). But this time I’m keeping it simple. Think of this as a little appetiser — a hand-picked selection of the best Philadelphia sightseeing activities. And if you’d like more ideas, just drop me a comment!

1. Get Amazing Views on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

I know, it doesn’t get more “tourist attraction” than this — but honestly, hopping on the City Sightseeing bus is one of the best ways to explore Philly! We tried it, and it turned out to be a fantastic experience. Even though the weather was windy, we grabbed seats on the open-top deck of the double-decker bus. It was a little chilly, but the panoramic views of the city were absolutely worth it.

It’s a fun and convenient way to explore, with several stops at key Philadelphia places to visit. Many of my best photos and videos were taken on this tour, so I can wholeheartedly recommend it. Tickets cost around $36 (at least in November 2024), and you can hop on and off throughout the day.

2. Check Out the Liberty Bell

If there’s one thing Americans do well, it’s museums. They can create one about practically anything — even a bell! But not just any bell: the Liberty Bell is one of the most important Philadelphia tourist attractions, a true must-see in Philadelphia.

Located near Independence Hall — where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were debated and adopted — the Liberty Bell stands as an enduring symbol of freedom and American independence. Though it no longer rings, its crack and its story continue to inspire millions of visitors each year.

3. Eat Great Food at Reading Terminal Market

(Yes, it’s Reading Terminal Market, even though it looks like “Redding”!)

Have you ever seen the sitcom Ghosts, where the quirky characters can only enjoy food by smelling it? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I stepped inside Reading Terminal Market. We wandered around, absolutely stunned by the aromas and dazzling displays of food — from sizzling cheesesteaks and Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels to gourmet doughnuts and farm-fresh produce.

If you skip the sightseeing bus or even the Liberty Bell, that’s your choice. But skipping Reading Terminal Market? That would be an absolute mistake. It’s not only one of the most vibrant Philadelphia attractions, but also one of the top things to do in Philadelphia if you’re a foodie. Just be warned — it’s easy to lose track of time (and money) here, and you’ll leave with both a full stomach and a heavier bag of treats.

4. Soak in the Theatre District’s Vibe

Where better to enjoy live drama than in a city with the oldest continually operating theatre in the United States? The Walnut Street Theatre, founded in 1805, is just one highlight of Philadelphia’s bustling performing-arts scene. Along Broad Street — known as the Avenue of the Arts — you’ll find world-class theatres, concert halls, and performance spaces, making it a perfect destination for Philadelphia sightseeing beyond history and food.

Catching a show was high on our list of things to see in Philadelphia. We had our hearts set on Hamilton — though buying tickets online with our European debit cards didn’t work out. Instead, we headed straight to the historic Academy of Music and secured tickets in person. The result? A magical night out in the heart of Philly’s theatre district, full of energy and creativity.

5. Get Hyped at a Sports Event

You really haven’t experienced the United States properly without attending at least one sports event — and Philadelphia is the perfect place to do it! With teams like the Eagles (NFL), 76ers (NBA), Phillies (MLB), and Flyers (NHL), the city is home to passionate fans and a team in every one of the four major US professional sports leagues.

We managed to grab tickets for an NBA game with the 76ers, and let me tell you — it was an experience like no other. The sheer energy, the noise, and the atmosphere all in one place were unforgettable. And here’s the funny thing: we’re not even big basketball fans.

What did surprise me, though, was the big number of breaks — timeouts, commercials, and endless interruptions. Sometimes the action stopped after just a couple of minutes, which made it tricky to stay focused on the game itself. Still, for the atmosphere and the once-in-a-lifetime vibe, going to a sports event in Philly was absolutely worth it.

As for the food? Let’s just say it was very American — salty, fried, and deliciously unhealthy!

6. Learn About History at the Museum of the American Revolution

Museums and galleries in the US are definitely not to be missed, especially when it comes to their own history. The dedication to storytelling is impressive, and the Philadelphia attractions truly shine here. I was particularly amazed by the attention to detail at the Museum of the American Revolution.

The entire ground floor was devoted to a special exhibition about George Washington’s tent. I only realised just how much there was to explore after spending an hour and a half wandering among the tents and wondering if this is a tent museum! 😃

This was my solo day during the Philadelphia trip, and immersing myself in America’s past felt like a meaningful and enriching experience.

Tickets cost around €25 for a two-day pass, giving enough time to explore the exhibits and discover intriguing facts about George Washington, the Revolutionary War, and… yes, even his tent! For history lovers, this is unquestionably one of the top things to do in Philadelphia.

7. Have a Run at Rocky’s Steps

This one is a classic! The iconic 72 stone steps, immortalised in one of the most famous movies of all time, are located at the East Entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. At the bottom right of the steps stands a bronze statue of Rocky Balboa, created by A. Thomas Schomberg. Installed in 1980 for Rocky III and later donated by Sylvester Stallone, the statue gives you two perfect photo opportunities: one with Rocky himself and another on the famous stairs!

Getting there is easy. You can take buses 32, 38, 43, 48, 7, or 49, or hop on the tourist bus, Philly Phlash. We chose to make it a walking tour, which took about 50 minutes from our hotel at 400 Arch Street. Along the way, we passed the city centre, taking in the stunning Philadelphia City Hall, Logan Square, and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, lined with all 109 country flags. These flags celebrate Philadelphia’s global heritage and its role as an international city of culture, diplomacy, and diversity. We also saw our Slovak flag!

Climbing the steps and taking in the view from the top is a must for anyone on a Philadelphia sightseeing tour and one of the top things to see in Philadelphia.

8. Enjoy Art at the Barnes Foundation & Philadelphia Museum of Art

Not visiting this one is probably my biggest regret of the entire trip. That’s why I’m placing it high on the list of things to do in Philadelphia — I don’t want you to make the same mistake!

Why did I miss it? I kept postponing my visit to the Barnes Foundation and the Philadelphia Museum of Art because both are about a 50-minute walk from our hotel, nearby the Rocky Steps, which we had visited at the start of our trip. On top of that, the Barnes Foundation is closed on Tuesdays, while the Museum of Art is closed on Mondays and open for only five hours on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

My suggestion? Combine four key Philadelphia sightseeing stops into one day: the Rocky Steps, the Rocky statue, the Barnes Foundation, and the Museum of Art. The Barnes Foundation houses an extraordinary collection of French Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, American, and African art and sculpture, with notable works by Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is famous for its extensive collection, featuring pieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Duchamp.

Looking back, I can’t help but feel a pang of FOMO — missing out on all that artistic inspiration was a real heartbreaker! For anyone who loves art, these are must-visit Philadelphia attractions.

9. Spend Some Bucks at a Shopping Mall

As ladies, yes — we definitely spent several hours on shopping sprees, hopping between malls and individual stores. This was also a great activity in Philadelphia for solo travellers. Whenever I felt tired, ran out of ideas, or the weather wasn’t particularly sunny, stepping into a shopping mall was always a treat.

Even just after opening hours — which I deliberately chose to avoid the crowds while hunting for Christmas presents — the malls were surprisingly busy. It was fascinating to see so many people shopping for clothes, jewellery, and cosmetics during working hours. The rush to find the best deals, a distinctly American experience, felt exhilarating — and slightly guilty! Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, the atmosphere is like sugar in your coffee: you don’t need it, but it adds a little extra zing.

For a mix of experiences, you can explore:

• Upscale boutiques and luxury brands along Rittenhouse Row.
• The massive King of Prussia Mall just outside the city.
• Artsy and unique gifts in Old City.
• Popular retailers on Chestnut Street.
• Vintage and local treasures at the historic Italian Market.
• Don’t forget South Street for quirky finds and the Premium Outlets (about 30 minutes outside Philadelphia) for discounted designer brands.

Shopping in Philly is not just about buying — it’s an experience and a fun way to explore the city’s vibrant culture, making it one of the top Philadelphia places to visit.

10. Explore the Views from City Hall

For fellow travellers obsessed with views, Philadelphia offers plenty of ways to enjoy its skyline from above. There are rooftop bars and sky lounges, such as the Skyline Lounge at Assembly Rooftop Bar or The Bellevue’s Pyramid Rooftop Bar, as well as observation decks. We chose to visit City Hall to combine history with spectacular views.

Philadelphia’s City Hall is the largest free-standing masonry building in the world, built in the elaborate Second Empire style with countless ornate details. Atop its 548-foot tower stands a massive statue of William Penn, the city’s founder.

We took a guided elevator ride to the observation deck just below the statue, about 500 feet high (approximately 150 metres), offering sweeping 360° views of the Philadelphia skyline and beyond. Tours run Monday through Friday, from 10:00 AM to 2:45 PM, with departures every 15 minutes. We paid $15 for the combo tour, which included both the interior and the observation deck. While I don’t remember much of the interior — partly because it was a warm day and some areas have few windows — the views from above were absolutely worth it.

For anyone planning Philadelphia sightseeing, City Hall is one of the top Philadelphia places to visit, offering a unique mix of history, architecture, and panoramic city views.

11. Feel Cute at Elfreth’s Alley

This was such a sweet street! At times, I felt like an intruder because people actually live in those charming colonial houses, but I couldn’t help falling in love with the alley. Colourful, romantic, and utterly adorable — it’s simply cute!

So, what makes this charismatic street a must-see in Philadelphia?

Elfreth’s Alley is America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, dating back to 1702. This charming cobblestone lane, lined with 32 historic brick and stone homes, offers a rare glimpse into colonial life, showcasing architecture and craftsmanship from the early 18th century. Walking down Elfreth’s Alley feels like stepping back in time, with history alive at every doorstep and window.

Today, it stands as a vibrant historic district, blending the past with a lively community spirit through quaint shops, museums, and seasonal events. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Philadelphia experience, Elfreth’s Alley is one of the top Philadelphia attractions and a perfect addition to your list of Philadelphia places to visit.

12. Walk Around Pine, Chestnut, Walnut & South Street

In my opinion, the best way to explore Philadelphia’s neighbourhoods is on foot — wander a little, get slightly lost (in the safe districts, of course!), and simply soak up the local vibe. While some residents may not be huge fans of tourists strolling through their streets, let’s be honest: if you live on a picturesque lane, you’ve got to expect a few curious visitors!

On my first solo day — while my fellow travellers were in the office — I decided to explore the area around Chestnut, Walnut, Cypress, Pine, and the streets leading to South Street on the east side of Philly.

The autumn colours were spectacular, and the charming Halloween decorations added an extra layer of magic to one of the prettiest residential areas in the city.

Walking these streets is one of the most authentic ways to experience the local culture and a must for anyone seeking Philadelphia sightseeing that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions.

13. Get Charmed by Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Magic Gardens on South Street are one of Philadelphia’s most unique attractions — iconic art landmarks that extend far beyond a typical museum experience. Spanning half a city block of indoor and outdoor space, they are covered in mosaics, sculptures, and found-object installations that continue to evolve under the founder’s vision.

Opened in 2008 as a non-profit museum, Magic Gardens captivates visitors with a variety of shapes and structures crafted from recycled materials: mosaics, mirrors, tiles, bicycle wheels, bottles, and other found objects. The museum includes both an indoor gallery space and a massive outdoor labyrinth-like sculpture garden that visitors can wander through.

At $15 for entry, it may seem slightly pricey at first glance. However, as a non-profit institution dedicated to sustainability and creative reuse, the cost is well worth it. Transforming “trash” into art is a concept that never grows old, and wandering through this fantastical environment truly feels like stepping into another world. Walking through Magic Gardens, I felt completely immersed — a tiny part of this enchanting, creative universe.

For anyone seeking truly offbeat Philadelphia places to visit, Magic Gardens is a must-see and a highlight of Philadelphia sightseeing.

14. Eat a Philly Cheesesteak (or Just Eat!)

Now we’ve entered the delicious culinary part of the trip! Whether you enjoy a cheesesteak at the previously mentioned Reading Terminal Market or at one of the city’s famous spots — Pat’s, Geno’s, Dalessandro’s, Jim’s on South Street, or John’s Roast Pork — you’re already one step closer to exploring Philadelphia like a pro.

A Philly cheesesteak is a famous Philadelphia sandwich made of:

• Thinly sliced beef (usually ribeye)
• Melted cheese (typically Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese)
• Served on a long hoagie roll
• With or without onions (your choice!)

Why is it so popular? First, it’s absolutely delicious. But it also has a fascinating backstory. The cheesesteak was invented in the 1930s by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philly. One day, he grilled some thinly sliced beef on his cart and placed it on an Italian roll. A passing cab driver caught the aroma, ordered one, and loved it. Word spread quickly, and the steak sandwich became a hit.

Pat and his brother Harry eventually opened Pat’s King of Steaks, which still operates today at 9th & Passyunk. Cheese was added later, reportedly by a manager in the 1940s. Cheez Whiz became the most iconic version in the 1950s, though some purists prefer provolone or American cheese.

Why it took off:

• The sandwich was cheap, hot, hearty, and portable — perfect for Philly’s industrial workers.
• It quickly became part of the city’s identity, growing into a local icon and a national legend.

No foodie visit to Philly is complete without indulging in this iconic Philadelphia attraction and one of the essential things to do in Philadelphia.

15. See the Precious Artefacts at Penn Museum

After enjoying your well-earned Philly cheesesteak, a visit to the Penn Museum is the perfect way to walk off some calories while immersing yourself in human history and culture.

One of the most fascinating aspects for me was discovering how much the museum’s prominent figures have influenced archaeological and societal studies. As both a research hub and educational resource, the museum has led over 400 international archaeological expeditions, pioneered ethical collection practices (including the 1970 Pennsylvania Declaration), and remains deeply committed to community outreach and academic engagement.

Formally known as the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, this world-class institution was founded in 1887. It houses over 1.3 million artefacts spanning ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Mesoamerica, Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean.

I particularly enjoyed the Asian and Native American exhibitions, which are rarely covered in European museums I’ve visited. A bonus was grabbing the best street hot dog I’ve ever had from a food truck right outside the museum, followed by a stroll around the beautiful University of Pennsylvania campus — truly an honour to study in such inspiring surroundings!

For history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike, the Penn Museum is a must-visit Philadelphia attraction and a fitting final stop for your Philadelphia sightseeing itinerary.

First Timer in the US? Get Ready for These Shockers

Visiting the US for the first time comes with a few surprises — some fun, some practical, and a few you might not expect. From tipping culture to big-city quirks, here’s what every first-time traveller to Philadelphia should know before you go.

1. Tipping Is Big

Be prepared: tipping in the US is unavoidable — at least socially, if not officially. While we tip in Slovakia and Germany too, in the US the recommended amount is usually 20–30%. This applies in restaurants, bars, taxis, Ubers, hairdressers, beauticians, and other service industries. Factor this into your budget, as it can take a significant chunk out of your expenses.

2. Big Cities Come With Surprises

Philadelphia, like many large cities, faces social challenges. Some areas of the city centre and certain neighbourhoods are not always shiny and bright. You may encounter people on the streets who are homeless, under the influence, or facing mental health issues. This is a global issue in bigger cities, and while I live in Hamburg, it was still a new experience for me. After dark, some streets and corners felt uneasy, including the metro. I felt safer on buses and waited for my fellow travellers before going out for dinner at night.

3. (Un)Practical Tips for Your Stay

• Water and other in plastic: Most restaurants serve tap water in plastic cups. Plastic can be found anywhere.
• Portion sizes: Everything is bigger — a “small” coffee in the US is often larger than in Europe.
• Cards: Make sure you carry a valid credit or debit card. Check ahead if yours will be working in the US. German EC card won’t work there.
• Internet: You can get WiFi nearly everywhere, even on a plaza. For safety and comfort reasons I opted also for e-Sim Card Airlo which was very handy especially during my solo days.
• Airport Immigration: Airport immigration was smooth but it can take time. Be patient and ready for all sorts of questions.
• Hotel deposits: Nearly every hotel requires a deposit at check-in.
• Showers and heating: Plumbing, showers, basins, and heating systems may work differently than what you’re used to.
• Friendly locals: People often strike up conversations on the streets.
• Safety: Be mindful at night and avoid certain areas.

• Homeless and addiction: You may expect to see a slightly more significant number of homeless or addicted individuals in the bigger cities than in Europe (this one is possibly very individual, but Philadelphia seemed to have this issue).
• Baggage: Be generous with luggage space for purchases. Don’t pack too much, enjoy your shopping spree!
• Shopping: Some clothes are generally cheaper than food.
• Taxes: Not all prices include tax. Be careful when reading menus and receipts.
• Food and drink quirks: Coke at a restaurant or bar may taste different than a usual canned code, and portion sizes are often larger.
• Transport vibe: Amtrak trains feel very “military-like” in structure and organisation. This one shocked me a bit!

Wrapping It Up

Philadelphia is a city full of history, culture, and surprises around every corner. From iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Rocky Steps to hidden gems such as Elfreth’s Alley and Magic Gardens, there’s something for every type of traveller — whether you’re exploring solo, with friends, or as a family.

Add in the delicious food, lively arts scene, and friendly (if sometimes surprising!) locals, and it’s easy to see why this city leaves a lasting impression. Plan your trip wisely, dress for the unpredictable November weather, and don’t forget to leave a generous tip — because Philly is a city that rewards curiosity, adventure, and a little bit of courage. No matter how you explore it, Philadelphia is sure to steal a piece of your heart.