01

Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell

— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

There are few more iconic historic sites in Greater Philadelphia than Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. These two Philadelphia stalwarts — some of the most popular attractions in the city, and some of the most famous historic sites in the country — make for must-visits whether it’s your first or 50th time in the city. And they’re both free! Visit Independence Hall to see where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the U.S. Constitution took shape. Across the street, the Liberty Bell still stands as a symbol of independence that resonates with abolitionists, suffragettes, immigrants and other freedom-seekers. Check out our guide for the best visitor experience at both attractions.

Where: Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut Street

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02

The President's House

— Photo by M. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

The President’s House: Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation is an open-air, free exhibit located next to the Liberty Bell Center. At the site, visitors explore the paradox of slavery and freedom at the nation’s first executive mansion, where Presidents George Washington and John Adams lived during their terms — and where nine enslaved people served the first president.

Where: The President's House, Market Street between Fifth and Sixth streets

03

Khyber Pass Pub

The flavors of the Gulf meet gastropub cookery at the Khyber Pass Pub. Muffuletta, gumbo and all manner of po’ boys (even vegan fried chicken!) accompany modern spins on the hurricane and Sazerac. Go big or small on the menu; delicious, filling appetizers like mac & cheese are as little as $6, and a $16 large serving of vegan nachos is perfect for sharing.

Where: Khyber Pass Pub, 56 S. 2nd Street

04

Betsy Ross House

— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Get the scoop on America’s most famous flag maker as she greets guests outside her interactive 18th-century upholstery shop, part of a tiny dwelling where visitors learn about Ross’ life and legend, and enjoy programs, storytelling and activities. Tickets for self-guided tours are $6 – $7 as of July 2021.

Where: Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch Street

05

Elfreth's Alley

— Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

The free-to-stroll-through Elfreth’s Alley was home to the 18th-century artisans and tradespeople who were the backbone of colonial Philadelphia. While a modern city has sprung up around it, the alley now preserves three centuries of evolution. Philadelphia citizens still occupy these homes, with their old-fashioned flower boxes, shutters, Flemish bond brickwork and other architectural details. Two adjacent houses, built in 1755, are now a museum and are open to the public (for a small fee).

Where: Elfreth's Alley Museum, 126 Elfreth's Alley

06

Pizzeria Stella

Restaurateur Stephen Starr ups the ante on the classic neighborhood pizza place with Pizzeria Stella, offering specialty and creative takes on brick oven pizzas that are easy on the wallet. Innovative concoctions such as the pistachio with red onions, fontina cheese and rosemary or the “tartufo” with black truffle, egg and fontina are just a couple of the daring but delicious takes on traditional pizzas.

Where: Pizzeria Stella, 420 S. 2nd Street

07

Reading Terminal Market

— Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

One of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets is home to some of Philly’s best food. Find cheesesteaks and roast pork sandwiches, Pennsylvania Dutch dishes, wait-in-line-worthy salmon curry and ice cream from a locally-based 19th-century company. If a meal feels like too big of a commitment, opt for a snack or sip. Candy vendors, coffee shops and distilleries have Reading Terminal Market stalls ready to satisfy any craving you can muster.

Where: Reading Terminal Market, 51 N. 12th Street

08

Cheesesteaks

— Photo by C. Smyth for Visit Philadelphia

The ultimate iconic Philly food is the cheesesteak. Invented by Pat Olivieri of Pat’s Steaks in 1930 and imitated by many, a true Philly cheesesteak requires thinly sliced beef and a crusty roll. But the choice of cheese — provolone, American or Cheez Whiz — is a matter of great debate. So is the choice of sandwich shop. Use our guide to the best cheesesteaks in Philadelphia to pick your shop and expect to pay about $8 – $12.

Where: Various locations including Campo's Philly Cheesesteaks, 214 Market Street

09

Hoagies

— Photo by C. Smyth for Visit Philadelphia

The hoagie, Philly’s signature answer to the sub or hero, comes stuffed with fresh meats, cheeses and veggies (or some variation of these ingredients). The quality of the bread is paramount, with local bakeries like Amoroso’s or Sarcone’s delivering fresh rolls daily to shops all over the city. Our guide to the best hoagies in Philadelphia includes 13 satisfying shops. Prices can vary based on how you load up the roll.

Where: Various locations including Angelo's Pizzeria, 736 S. 9th Street

10

Southeast Asian Food Market at FDR Park

One of Philly’s best-kept food secrets thrives in one of the city’s top green spaces. On weekends in FDR Park, food vendors prepare and serve delicious flavors of Southeast Asia. Charred beef, fresh seafood, flavorful rice, and desserts made with mango and papaya are available in spades at the open-air market. Taste dishes from Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and other countries prepared and sold by members of South Philadelphia’s immigrant and refugee communities. Pro tip: Bring cash.

Where: FDR Park, South Broad Street at Pattison Avenue

11

Water Ice

Where to cool off with the city's signature frozen treat...

While its name is somewhat confusing, water ice (“wooder ice,” as we like to pronounce it locally) is a perfectly logical dessert to eat on hot summer days in the city. Elsewhere known as Italian ice, the combination of fruit or syrup with finely shaved ice is a refreshing treat. John’s Water Ice, Mancuso & Son and Rose’s Real Italian Water Ice are just a few age-old favorites, while West Philadelphia-based Siddiq’s Water Ice operates a fleet of carts selling popular real-fruit water ice in addition to its year-round storefront.

Where: Various locations including Siddiq's Real Fruit Water Ice, 264 S. 60th Street

12

Craft Beer

Philly is an incredible beer city positioned at the forefront of the American craft brewing renaissance. The five-county Greater Philadelphia region is home to more than 90 breweries serving 1,000-plus pours. Find IPAs, stouts, saisons and more on draft and in bottles and cans at breweries throughout the area. In the mood for an alfresco brew? Beer gardens — some open seasonally and some year-round — are the ultimate casual hangout spot.

Where: Various locations including Philadelphia Brewing Company, 2440 Frankford Avenue

13

First Sunday at Philadelphia Museums

— Photo by Elizabeth Leitzell for the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Enriching art experiences don’t have to carry a high price tag. Two of Philadelphia’s most sought-after art museums welcome visitors at little to no cost on the first Sunday of each month. At the Philadelphia Museum of Art, guests can enjoy full museum access for pay-what-you-wish admission (also available every Friday night). And just down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Barnes Foundation marks PECO Free First Sunday Family Day with free admission, full museum access and family-friendly programming. Bonus: The Rodin Museum offers year-round pay-what-you-wish admission (with suggested pricing) and its garden is always free.

Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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14

Rocky Statue & Steps

— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art are two of the most visited attractions in Philadelphia — and they’re both free. Run up the steps, then turn around to cherish the spectacular view of the Philadelphia skyline. Then head back down to find the bronze statue of Rocky at the bottom that was originally commissioned for Rocky III. (For inexpensive ways to head inside the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art, see above.)

Where: Rocky Statue and Steps, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

15

The Lawn at LoveLuck

— Photo by Visit Philadelphia

New in 2021, this alfresco dining setup from Marcie Turney and Valerie Safran (known for Barbuzzo, Bud & Marilyn’s and many other Midtown Village restaurants and shops) is an excellent spot to relax and refuel in the shadow of the LOVE Statue, steps away from all the iconic public art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, and a menu of street food, sandwiches and drinks make this spot all about comfort.

Where: The Lawn at LoveLuck, 1500 John F. Kennedy Boulevard

16

Cool Public Art

Love Letter Murals — Photo by A. Ricketts for Visit Philadelphia

Home to one of the largest collections in the country, Philadelphia is a premier destination for public art. The city has thousands of free-to-view artworks thanks to organizations like the Association for Public Art and Mural Arts Philadelphia, the nation’s largest public art program. Stunning sculptures sit outside of museums and in parks, while captivating murals brighten the facades of skyscrapers in Center City and walls in quieter neighborhoods. And new free works are commissioned and added to the city’s collection all the time, joining well-established pieces by accomplished artists like Robert Indiana, Amy Sherald and Auguste Rodin in Philly’s giant outdoor art gallery. Peruse our guide to essential public art in Greater Philadelphia for more on where to see these works at no cost.

Where: Various locations including 52nd and Market streets

17

Taller Puertorriqueño

— Photo by S. Lopez for Taller Puertorriqueño

Taller Puertorriqueño, in El Centro de Oro’s El Corazόn Cultural Center, serves as a community center, art gallery and event space for symposia, readings, film screenings, artist workshops and more. Visit the Lorenzo Homar Gallery for free to see compelling exhibitions showcasing the work of Puerto Rican and Latinx artists.

Where: Taller Puertorriqueño, 2600 N. 5th Street

18

Restaurants in El Centro de Oro

Taqueria La Raza — Photo by Neal Santos

Centered at Fifth Street and Lehigh Avenue in North Philadelphia, El Centro de Oro is a major hub of Latinx culture in Philadelphia. Peppered with faux palm trees and “golden” details on the sidewalks, the distinctive block is home to residents from almost every Latin American country, and the food is no different. Here, hungry diners can find authentic tastes of Puerto Rico, Dominican baked goods, fresh Mexican dishes and mouthwatering barbecue eats. Check out our guide to some of the best restaurants in the neighborhood.

Where: Various locations including Taqueria La Raza, 227 W. Allegheny Avenue

19

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse

One of the oldest playgrounds in America is best known for the circa 1899 Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide and offers children (ages 10 and under) a free, safe place to play, jump, swing, climb and learn about nature. For children 5 and under, Tot Lot features more than 20 pieces of age-appropriate play equipment. Note that while the outdoor play areas remain open and active, the 16,000-square-foot playhouse is closed for renovations until October 21, 2021.

Where: Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir Drive

20

Franklin Square

— Photo by J. Fusco for Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

There are many reasons to love Philadelphia’s most family-oriented square. And while most of the activities (carousel, Philly-themed mini-golf, SquareBurger) require a small fee, hanging out in the delightful square is 100% free. It makes for a nice resting point while walking around Philadelphia’s Historic District.

Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street

21

Fireman's Hall Museum

— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

A circa-1902 fire station-turned-museum offers lessons in the history of firefighting via old trucks, ladders, helmets, photographs and a tribute to the heroes of September 11, 2001. Kids can try on firefighter coats and boots, play with puzzles and learn how to make emergency calls. Admission is free and donations are welcome.

Where: Fireman's Hall Museum, 147 N. 2nd Street

22

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest & Winterfest

— Photo by Maria Young for DRWC

While the roller skating and ice skating at this waterfront hangout come with a small price tag, Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest and Winterfest is an awesome spot to simply hang out, take a breather and soak up views of the Delaware River and Benjamin Franklin Bridge. A boathouse-style lodge, a play area for kids, food and drink options, and special events are all part of its charm.

Where: Blue Cross RiverRink, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard

23

Bartram's Garden

Stroll through the fragrant flower gardens and riverside meadows at Bartram’s Garden, the place where gardening first took root in America. With its riverfront location and beautiful view of the Philadelphia skyline, the free attraction creates a fielded oasis, rich in history and outfitted with 18th-century farm buildings.

Where: Bartram's Garden, 5400 Lindbergh Boulevard

24

Schuylkill Banks & Boardwalk

The Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk is a breathtaking, 2,000-foot-long pathway that extends the popular Schuylkill River Trail (named one of the best riverwalks in the U.S.) from Locust Street to South Street. The scenic path allows pedestrians, runners and bicyclists to literally walk over the river and enjoy some of the best skyline views around — for free. Also for free: lounging on the Schuylkill Banks overlooking the Schuylkill River.

Where: Schuylkill Banks, 2501 Walnut Street

25

Cherry Street Pier

— Photo by Society Hill Films

This riverfront destination, which opened in 2018, took an old indoor-outdoor pier and renewed it with artist and maker spaces (made out of shipping containers) and affordable food and drink options from Philly brands. The spot also features regular pop-up markets and plenty of year-round community programming. Note that seating reservations are required.

Where: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard

26

Workouts on Race Street Pier

— Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

A perfect way to start or end the day, free workout classes on Race Street Pier serve up incredible views and waterfront breezes that make breaking a sweat easy.  Typically held each summer and fall, class times vary by day, with morning and evening sessions that draw locals seeking a break from the workday and visitors looking to shake things up. Find peaceful yoga practices, strength training challenges, barre/pilates classes and more.

Where: Race Street Pier, North Christopher Columbus Boulevard & Race Street

27

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Facing the Delaware River, Spruce Street Harbor Park creates the ultimate spring-through-fall hangout spot at absolutely no cost, where residents and visitors can lounge riverside on colorful hammocks and Adirondack chairs. Have a few dollars to spare? Score a bite to eat from one of the many food vendors set up on the boardwalk or sip on a refreshing draft from the area’s beer garden.

Where: Spruce Street Harbor Park, 301 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard

28

Philly's Best Parks & Trails

— Photo by M. Edlow for Visit Philadelphia

Philly’s parks and trails are calling — and almost all of them are free to enjoy! Our guide to running and biking includes route lengths and recommended starting points for more than 20 scenic trails where you can catch up with friends, including the Schuylkill River Trail, Delaware Canal Towpath and more. And find acres of gardens, picnic spots, athletic fields and unbeatable skyline views in our guide to Philly’s top parks — a collection of restful spaces in Center City and beyond.

Where: Various locations including Rittenhouse Square, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square

29

Free Attractions & Things to Do in Greater Philadelphia

Valley Forge National Historical Park — Photo by R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

When it comes to visiting Philadelphia, some of the best things to see and do are entirely free. And there are plenty more ways to spend the day exploring the region on a budget! Valley Forge National Historical Park, the Fabric Workshop & Museum and the Science History Institute are among the many free attractions in Greater Philadelphia. In the Historic District alone, visitors can enjoy 15 totally free things to do like checking out Carpenters’ Hall and the Second Bank of the United States.

Where: Various locations including Valley Forge National Historical Park, 1400 N. Outer Line Drive

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