Weekend Itinerary: Here are 5 Local Attractions Every Philadelphian Should Visit

Philadelphians pride themselves on finding undiscovered gems and hidden hotspots in the city, but maybe it’s time we looked at Philly through the lens of a tourist.

You probably know that Philadelphia is the birthplace of American democracy (seriously, you really should know that), but did you also know that it’s the birthplace of the country’s first lending library, fire department, zoo, fine arts museum and school, and so much more.

Philadelphia attracts visitors from around the world thanks to these historic sites and world-class attractions, and as a local, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit them, too. Here are five places topping every tourist’s Philly to-do list that all locals should visit:

1. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell

If you didn’t get the chance to tour Independence Hall on an elementary school field trip, you absolutely need to visit this revered American landmark. Reserve tickets online in advance; they’re only $1. And, located across the street, the Liberty Bell is free. If you want to avoid crowds, skip the summer months and visit during the fall, winter or spring.

2. City Hall

Did you know that City Hall is the largest municipal building in the world? Did you know that the architectural marvel is adorned with Alexander Milne Calder statues, including the Billy Penn one on top. Did you also know that there’s an observation deck at the base of the Billy Penn statue that offers sweeping city views? If you took a tour of the building, you’d learn all of this and more.

3. Love Sculpture

Robert Indiana’s 1976 sculpture in Love Park is iconic. A photo of yourself and a loved one in front of it? Also iconic.

4. Mural Arts

Philadelphia is called the Mural Capital of the World thanks to Mural Arts Philadelphia’s 4,500 works of public art on buildings and other structures. Take one of the self-guided walking tours of Mural Mile (13th Street)—one north of Market, one south, both perfect.

5. Philadelphia Museum of Art

The crowning structure atop Ben Franklin Parkway, the Philadelphia Museum of Art completed a $233-million-dollar Frank Gehry renovation in 2021. In addition to its world-class galleries and diverse range of works, the museum opens its doors late on Friday nights for special programming—the perfect arts and culture combo for date night. Bonus: No visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art is complete without a run up the Rocky Steps. Sure, it’s cringe, but can you call yourself a Philadelphian if you haven’t done it yet?

If you need added inspiration for your greatest-hits itinerary of the city, we’ve got you covered. Philadelphia magazine partnered with the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau to produce 2025’s Official Visitors Guide. And in honor of the 50 years of Best of Philly, this year’s guide features some of the city’s “best” attractions, restaurants, hotels and more that have been highlighted by the magazine over the last half century.

So whether you want to check out the “best” the city has to offer, find its most intagrammable spots or discover seasonal activities, the Official Visitor Guide can help you explore Philly like a tourist.

This is a paid partnership between Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau and Philadelphia Magazine