Start Your Day at Independence National Historical Park
Begin your unforgettable day in Philadelphia at the heart of American history: Independence National Historical Park. Start at the Independence Visitor Center (6 N 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106), where friendly staff will provide maps, tickets, and helpful tips for exploring the historic district. The visitor center also features an observation terrace overlooking Independence Mall, perfect for photos and orientation.
Independence Hall and Liberty Bell
Your first major stop is Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and adopted. Tickets to Independence Hall tours are free but must be reserved in advance through the National Park Service website (NPS Independence Hall). The tour is approximately one hour and provides in-depth historical insight.
Just across the street, pay a visit to the Liberty Bell Center to see the famous cracked bell, a powerful symbol of freedom and abolition movements. Access to the Liberty Bell is free and available all day, with special exhibits inside sharing stories of American liberty.
Christ Church Burial Ground
Nearby, discover Christ Church Burial Ground (5th & Arch Streets), where Benjamin Franklin and other founding fathers are buried. Entrance is free, and the quiet atmosphere provides reflective context to Philadelphia’s colonial past.
- Location: 5th & Arch Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (varies seasonally)
- Google Maps Directions
Midday Meal at Reading Terminal Market
For lunch, walk to the historic Reading Terminal Market (1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107), a vibrant indoor market established in 1893. Here, you’ll find over 80 vendors offering iconic Philly foods and international flavors. Must-try items include the classic Philly cheesesteak (try Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies or Price’s Steaks), Pennsylvania Dutch specialties at the Dutch Eating Place, and the famous Beiler’s Donuts for a sweet treat.
- Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily
- Google Maps Directions
- Official Website
Afternoon Discoveries: Philadelphia City Hall & Dilworth Park
After lunch, stroll to nearby Philadelphia City Hall (Broad & Market Sts), an architectural marvel topped by the statue of William Penn. Take a guided tour or simply admire the building’s intricate stone carvings and historic sculptures.
Just steps away is Dilworth Park, a lively green space with seating, fountains, seasonal gardens, and food trucks. In fall, the park hosts beautiful autumn displays and occasionally ice skating rinks in winter. It’s a perfect place for a relaxed break before exploring the museums on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Explore the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Museums
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia’s cultural artery often called “Philly’s Champs-Élysées.” Here, you can choose from several world-class museums depending on your interests:
Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps
No visit to Philly is complete without the Philadelphia Museum of Art (2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130). Climb the famous Rocky Steps outside the entrance, then explore the museum’s vast collections spanning Impressionism, American art, armor, and Asian artifacts.
- Admission: $25 (Adults), free for children under 12
- Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed Tuesdays)
- Buy Tickets
- Google Maps Directions
The Rodin Museum
Nearby, visit the tranquil Rodin Museum (2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy), home to an exceptional collection of sculptures by Auguste Rodin, including the iconic The Thinker.
- Admission: $12 (Adults), Children under 18 free
- Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed Mondays)
- Buy Tickets
- Google Maps Directions
The Barnes Foundation
If time permits, the Barnes Foundation (2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy) offers a stunning collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Early Modern paintings paired with African and Native American art.
- Admission: $25 (Adults), free for children 12 and under
- Tickets & Info
- Google Maps Directions
Dinner at Jim’s South Street
As evening approaches, treat yourself to an authentic Philadelphia experience with dinner at Jim’s South Street (400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147), famed for its legendary cheesesteaks.
- Classic order: “Whiz wit” (Cheez Whiz and onions)
- Hours: 11:00 a.m. – Midnight
- Cash Only (bring cash or use on-site ATM)
- Google Maps Directions
South Street is also perfect for an evening stroll, filled with eclectic shops, street performers, and vibrant nightlife.
Evening Entertainment: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
End your day at the spectacular and surreal Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (1020 South St), a folk art environment featuring mosaics made from tiles, mirrors, bottles, and found objects. Created by artist Isaiah Zagar, it offers a magical and photogenic space that’s open until 6:00 p.m.
- Admission: $15 Adults, $12 Seniors, $10 Students and Children
- Buy Tickets
- Google Maps Directions
Philadelphia offers an unparalleled blend of American history, world-class art, culinary delights, and vibrant street culture—all accessible within a single stimulating day. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of the founding fathers or savoring a prized cheesesteak, the city’s rich tapestry invites exploration and deep connection.
By following this itinerary, visitors can maximize their time and absorb Philadelphia’s unique spirit—from revolutionary landmarks to modern art galleries to festive markets and neighborhoods—making for a day full of discovery and inspiration.
Plan, book your tickets in advance, and prepare for a captivating journey through the City of Brotherly Love.
For more travel tips, attraction details, and local resources, visit MyPhillyConnection.
Summary of Key Stops:
| Time of Day | Location | Key Details | Tickets & Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Independence National Historical Park | Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Christ Church Burial Ground | Free / Reserve at NPS |
| Lunch | Reading Terminal Market | Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, Philly cheesesteak, donuts | Free entry |
| Afternoon | City Hall and Dilworth Park | Iconic architecture, public fountains | Free |
| Mid-Afternoon | Benjamin Franklin Parkway | Philadelphia Museum of Art, Rodin Museum, Barnes Foundation | Varies – Book online |
| Evening | Jim’s South Street | Famous cheesesteak | Cash only |
| Night | Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens | Mosaic art installation by Isaiah Zagar | Tickets from $10 |
Enjoy your 1-day journey experiencing the top highlights and surprises that make Philadelphia a standout American city.