Things To Do
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Our first apartment overlooked the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the most iconic destinations in the city. The museum contains a diverse collection of art from all eras and cultures around the world (the arms and armor wing is not to be missed). Admission tickets are $30 and the museum can be explored in 2-3 hours. At the very least, channel Rocky and run up the steps for free.
Barnes Foundation
If you're looking for a quicker art fix, the Barnes Foundation is right around the corner from the Philadelphia Museum of Art and contains one of the most extensive collections of original paintings by Renoir, Matisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, and more. Admission tickets are $30 and the museum can be explored in 1 - 1.5 hours.
Rodin Museum
There aren't many more beautiful places in the city than the courtyard of the Rodin Museum. The Thinker sits at the gate, and the small museum contains additional original works by the French sculptor. Admission tickets are $15 and the museum can be explored in 30 minutes - 1 hour.
Independence Hall
You can't visit Philadelphia without seeing its most famous building. Independence Hall sits on national park land at the gateway to Old City. Admission is free before 10:30am, but there are guided tours offered throughout the day. The Liberty Bell center is directly across the street and also offers free admission. Both destinations offer great photo opportunities and educational exhibits.
Elfreth's Alley Museum
Elfreth's Alley provides a scenic glimpse into life on a colonial street three hundred years ago. The street is free to visit, but the museum is worth exploring and only costs $3 for admission.
Reading Terminal Market
Another iconic Philadelphia destination that is just a couple blocks away from City Hall and the hotels. If you can't decide on somewhere for lunch, Reading Terminal has endless options. Even if you're not there for the food, The Famous 4th Street Cookie Company is a must try and right by the 12th street entrance.
Rittenhouse Square & Walnut Street
Walnut Street is the main shopping district in Philadelphia, with several stores and restaurants on the four blocks between Broad Street and 18th Street. Be sure to stroll through Rittenhouse Square as the park is beautiful in the fall.
Jim's Steaks South St.
Don't be tempted by Pat's or Geno's, you can find them in the airport. Jim's is the real deal if you're looking for a Philly cheesesteak while in town and they're just a few blocks south of Independence Hall. You may hear folks in line order "cheesesteak wiz wit" which just translates to cheesesteak with cheese whiz and fried onions. There are more options available, just make sure you have your order ready when you get to the counter. Eat your cheesesteak with ketchup and thank us later.
More Food Options
If cheesesteaks aren't your thing, we've included a list of additional restaurant options close to the hotels in center city: Butcher Bar - 2034 Chestnut Street The Continental Mid-Town - 1801 Chestnut Street Di Bruno Bros - 1730 Chestnut Street The Dandelion - 124 S 18th Street The Love - 130 S 18th Street Good Dog Bar - 224 S 15th Street Green Eggs Cafe - 33 S 18th Street (cash only) Pizzeria Vetri - 1615 Chancellor Street Bluestone Lane - 1701 Locust Street Mission Taqueria - 1516 Sansom Street Trattoria Carina - 2201 Spruce Street
Gamecocks @ Alabama - Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse
Head to Cavanaugh's Rittenhouse if you're trying to catch the noon kickoff. Even if the Gamecocks aren't your team, Cavanaugh's is our favorite sports bar in Philly and will almost certainly be able to put your team on a screen.