What To Do For 36 Hours In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Day 1: Afternoon

Fuel up at the Hungry Pigeon

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

After your journey to Philadelphia, you’ll no doubt want to fuel up before hitting the city. Hungry Pigeon is open from early morning until late at night, giving you ample window to pop by its South 4th Street location. Its menus, which change regularly to accommodate local ingredients, include everything from sweet Amalia oysters to rose veal cutlets. There are also vegetarian options. Time your trip right and your visit may be lucky enough to coincide with special events involving guest chefs, for that added unique experience.

Hungry Pigeon

Address: 743 South 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Website: Hungry Pigeon

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8am - 11pm; Fri: 8am - 12am; Sat: 9am - 4pm, 5pm - 12am; Sun: 8am - 4pm, 5pm - 11pm

Indulge your inner artist at Fleisher Art Memorial

Following your hearty meal, it’s time to get stuck into Philadelphia’s cultural and historic scene. Fleisher Art Memorial’s roots date back to the late 19th century when a local businessman - Samuel Stewart Fleisher - began offering free art classes to children. Moving into its current location in the early 20th century, its ethos continues to be to make art accessible to all, regardless of background. Today, it teaches some 5000 students every year and offers a range of exhibitions and shows, as well as serving as a hub providing a range of art classes.

Fleisher Art Memorial

Address: 719 Catharine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Website: Fleisher Art Memorial

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 9.30pm; Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 3pm (closed Sun)

Marvel at the mosaics in Philadelphia Magic Gardens

Sticking with the artistic theme, Philadephia’s Magic Gardens is sure to linger long in your memory. Fuelled by the imagination of creator Isaiah Zagar, who was determined to rejuvenate the South Street neighborhood, the gardens feature huge mosaics featuring everything from bottles and mirrors to bicycle wheels - and are sure to prove a tempting target for your camera. Originally just empty lots, Isaiah used a range of found objects to transform the urban landscape and created a flourishing art hub into the bargain.

Philadelphia Magic Gardens

Address: 1020 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Website: Philadelphia Magic Gardens

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 11am - 6pm (closed Tue)

Price: Adults: 10 USD; Students/Seniors/Military: 8 USD; Children aged 6 - 12: 5 USD; Under 5s: Free

Day 1: Evening

Take a stroll on Race Street Pier

After enjoying some of the city’s art, it’s time to marvel at its waterfront and the Race Street Pier. Enjoying superb views of the towering Ben Franklin Bridge, which sits alongside it, this pier was the subject of major renovation work and opened in its current form in 2011. Split across two levels, the pier’s upper “sky promenade” features a tree-lined ‘avenue’ in which to take a stroll, go for a run or simply relax on one of the many benches and take in the view - which is made even more spectacular at night, thanks to uplighting LEDs set into the deck. This picnic and dog-friendly pier even features a spacious lawn on which to unwind, and it hosts occasional special events.

Race Street Pier

Address: North Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Website: Race Street Pier

Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)

Relax in Spruce Street Harbor Park

Fancy kicking back and relaxing? Well, why not take a break from your sightseeing by lounging in a hammock and watching the world go by at Spruce Street Harbor Park? It features dozens of colorful homemade hammocks - perfect for chilling out on your own or with loved ones on summer days or evenings. Little wonder then, that this unique experience, the waterfront views, floating garden, stall-lined boardwalk, and local eateries and craft beers, have won the park a host of plaudits. Lauded in the US press as being one of Philadelphia’s must-see spots, the park is a particularly popular destination for visitors and locals.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Address: 301 South Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Website: Spruce Street Harbor Park

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 1am

Grab some cocktails, coffee or sushi at Double Knot

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Double Knot (@doubleknot_phl)

After enjoying the sights and sounds of the waterfront and its parks, it’ll be high time for another bite to eat. Located roughly a kilometer (0.6 miles) from the waterfront, and not far from City Hall in the City Center area, The Double Knot enjoys an excellent reputation. Split over two distinct floors, this spot’s mix of coffees and cocktails on one level and robatayaki and sushi bar on the other has won plenty of fans. Tempting dishes range from chicken teriyaki and braised Berkshire pork belly to the various specialty sashimi and more than 20 sushi offerings. This is a venue that will likely appeal to those seeking a place to enjoy a good chat among friends.

Double Knot

Address: 120 South 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Website: Double Knot

Opening hours: Sun - Tue: 8am - 10pm; Wed - Thu: 8am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 12am

Day 1: Night

Grab some gastropub fare at Mac's Tavern

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mac's Tavern (@macstavern__)

Now we’re into your first evening and you’ll likely want to find a place to experience the Philly nightlife. Mac’s Tavern, which is co-owned by It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia stars Rob and Kaitlin McElhenney, is located on Market Street in the historic Old City, and it offers a huge range of bottled beers and draughts for ale fans to enjoy. Its four plasma TVs also make it an option for catching up on your favorite sport. Mac’s Tavern also serves a range of gastropub fare - including burgers, a mix of sandwiches, fries and soups - for you to sate your hunger before heading to the final destination of your night.

Mac's Tavern

Address: 226 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Website: Mac’s Tavern

Opening hours: Mon: 4pm - 2am; Tue - Sun: 11am - 2am

Have a laugh at the Philly Comedy Club

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @phillycomedyclub (@phillycomedyclub)

Cap your evening in side-splitting style with a little live comedy entertainment in the Old City District. Philly Comedy Club, which is located inside the Infusion Lounge above Cuba Libre, hosts shows most Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights - giving you ample chance to enjoy the local comedy scene. What’s more, as well as the best local talent, the club also plays host to special guests from all over the States, including acts who have appeared on the likes of Comedy Central, The Daily Show and The Late Show. Who’ll be on the bill during your visit?

Philly Comedy Club

Address: 16 South 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Website: Philly Comedy Club

Opening hours: Showtimes vary, see website

Price: From 15 USD

Day 2: Morning

Grab a breakfast bite at Middle Child

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Middle Child (@middlechildphiladelphia)

You’ll, no doubt, want to maximize your limited time in Philly, so an early stop at this sandwich shop will likely appeal. Open from 7 am on weekdays (bar Monday) and 8 am at weekends, its menu features a range of food options inspired by the Jewish delis, Greek restaurants and the Italian hoagies of the Philadelphia scene. Most of the food is made in house, and vegetarian and vegan options are available. At the time of writing, Middle Child also professed to be “totally nut-free”, should you be wary of any allergies. All you need to decide is whether to grab your food to go, or sit down and enjoy the stylish white diner decor.

Middle Child

Address: 248 South 11th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Website: Middle Child

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 7am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 3pm (closed on Mon)

Learn about US history at the Museum of the American Revolution (from USD 24.0)

1/5 36 hours in philadelphia | learn about us history at the museum of the american revolution

2/5 learn about us history at the museum of the american revolution

3/5 learn about us history at the museum of the american revolution

4/5 learn about us history at the museum of the american revolution

5/5

Show all photos

Philly is rightly regarded as the birthplace of the USA, the continental congress having signed the Declaration of Independence in the city. So you’ll no doubt want to slot Museum of American Revolution into your itinerary. It’s galleries, exhibits and historical scenes that detail the years leading up to the conflict, through the signing of the Declaration and the years of the Revolutionary War. Located in the historic core of the city, the museum’s collections include thousands of artworks, manuscripts and rare books, as well as weapons and textiles from the time of the conflict - including the campaign tent used by future president George Washington.

Philadelphia Museum of the American Revolution Admission

Duration: 3 to 4 hours

155 reviews

from USD

24.0

Book Now

Walk in the footsteps of history at Independence Hall

After learning about the revolution, you’ll no doubt want to visit one of the very places where history was made. Independence Hall, which owes its name to the fact that it was the location where the Declaration of Independence was signed, is a must-see for any visitor. Tours of this iconic building take place every day (and admission is by tour only, although these are free). Visitors will get the chance to stand in the very Assembly Room where history was made and major US figures added their signatures to the parchment. And don’t forget to stop off at the famed Liberty Bell outside, for a selfie next to this enduring symbol of freedom and protest.

Independence Hall

Address: 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia

Website: Independence Hall

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

Day 2: Afternoon

Tuck into home-made deli delights at Schlesinger's

After a busy morning exploring Philly’s famed revolutionary past, you’ll no doubt have worked up an appetite. Schlesinger’s Restaurant & Delicatessen is located just 1 mile (1.6km) away from Independence Hall and has been delighting diners for almost a century with its home-cooked deli and baking - it even smokes its own meat. The eatery’s extensive menu boasts breakfast, lunch and dinner options and includes a host of sandwiches, bagels, grilled meat meals, burgers, smoked fish, egg dishes, griddle offerings and homemade soups for you to eat in or dine out. If you decide to eat in, you’ll enjoy a traditional atmosphere that has made Schlesinger’s a popular spot.

Schlesinger's

Address: 1521 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

Website: Schlesinger’s

Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)

Gaze upon a stagecoach at Wells Fargo Museum

The Wells Fargo Museum, located in the lobby of venerable financial institution of the same name, is home to a number of exhibits detailing the history of the US in the past couple of centuries, and Wells Fargo’s role in it. These include an example of the stagecoaches which were so vital for the development of the company and nation in the 19th century, telegraph equipment from the era and currency and clothing from past generations. Visitors will also learn about the history of the Gold Rush and Philadelphians who risked all to strike it rich. Fans of more recent celluloid history may also enjoy the site’s use in the classic 1980s comedy, Trading Places, starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd.

Wells Fargo Museum

Address: 123 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19109

Website: Wells Fargo Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri: 9am - 6pm

Price: Free

Admire the Norman-style Masonic Temple

From one striking piece of historic architecture to another now. The Norman-style Masonic Temple in Philadelphia dates back to the 1870s and is directly across from City Hall - making it an easy spot to reach during your trip. This nationally recognized historic landmark, which is still a functioning Masonic hub, is one of the city’s most picturesque buildings - making it a tempting target for photographers. It also hosts numerous tours a day and is home to a museum charting the history of the Masonic movement, key US figures who were part of the movement, and associated memorabilia - including pieces belonging to the likes of President George Washington.

Masonic Temple

Address: 1 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Website: Masonic Temple

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed from Sun - Mon)

Price: Adults: 15 USD; Children under 12: 5 USD; Students and over 65s: 10 USD; Military and under 5s: Free

Day 2: Evening

Learn about the birth of the Stars and Stripes at Betsy Ross House

The birthplace of the US flag, Betsy Ross is purported to have lived in this building when she sewed the very first example of the iconic Stars and Stripes. Dating back to the 1740s, this historic piece of Philly’s cityscape is today a museum dedicated to Betsy Ross and features a number of period-specific rooms, furnished with the decor and objects of the time. A number of Betsy’s own items are also among the exhibits - including her Chippendale chair, bible and glasses. The museum is also home to a number of special exhibits detailing the life of women in 18th-century America and the specific story of Betsy and her upholstery and flag making work.

Betsy Ross House

Address: 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Website: Betsy Ross House

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily, March 1st to November 30); Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (December 1st - end of February, closed Mon)

Price: Adults: From 5 - 8 USD; Children/Students/Military/Seniors: From 4 - 7 USD

Enjoy a show at the Fringe Arts Theater

After thoroughly exploring the city’s past, you’ll no doubt also want to fit in some time for a little contemporary culture. FringeArts is at the forefront of Philly’s contemporary performance shows. The Theater, which is located in a refurbished historic building on the river waterfront, plays host to a range of shows and productions all year round - ranging from one-off events to annual fixtures like the Blue Heaven Comedy Festival. And if your trip happens to coincide with the annual Fringe Festival every September, then you’ll be well-placed for taking in one of the 1000 performances that are dotted around the city over the space of just 3 weeks. The venue is also home to the La Peg Restaurant & Bar as well as the Haas Biergarten, should you wish to enjoy a little socializing with friends.

Fringe Arts Theater

Address: 140 North Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Website: Fringe Arts Theater

Opening hours: Box office: Mon - Thu: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am - 5pm

Enjoy the tastes of Chinatown at Sang Kee Peking Duck House

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sang Kee Chinatown (@sangkeechinatown)

Speaking of food, you’ll no doubt be feeling peckish by now. Delighting Philadelphia diners for almost 40 years, this Chinatown restaurant’s Peking duck is a popular staple of the local food scene. It also boasts a huge menu that includes special dishes like spicy duck and pineapple fried rice alongside a wide array of noodle-based meals. Various meat dishes, seafood, vegetarian-friendly offerings, rice platters and even take-out only barbecued meats are just some of the myriad other options available - so you’ll likely find something that appeals to your own taste on the menu. Little wonder then that its huge portions and wide choice have proven a big hit with diners.

Sang Kee Peking Duck House

Address: 238 North 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Website: Sang Kee Peking Duck House

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 9.30pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 10.30pm

Day 2: Night

Have drinks at The Frankiln Bar

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

After a hearty feast, it’ll be high time to hit the town for a night on the tiles. The Franklin Bar - full name, The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company - takes its cue from the speakeasies of the 1920s prohibition era… right down to the unmarked “faux-secret” street entrance. Indeed, the bar’s name is a nod to one of the fronts employed by the alcohol rings. Operating for more than a decade, the present-day bar features a mix of seasonal craft cocktails, prohibition-era drinks and tasting menus that will appeal to the well-heeled among you. What’s more, if you can weather the queue for admission, you should be assured of a seat as patrons are only admitted if seating is available.

The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company

Address: 112 South 18th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Website: The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Company

Opening hours: 5pm - 2am (daily)

Listen to live music at The Fire

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by D'Laniger Boatwright (@db.xposures)

After the more up-market stylings of the last entry, you may want to let your hair down and enjoy some live music. This intimate grassroots rock club and bar hosts live music several nights every week and has been a fixture of the Philly nightlife scene for almost two decades. Eager to develop young talent, the nightspot also hosts up-and-coming acts and open mic nights and has been at the birth of some successful careers - including none other than John Legend, who took full advantage of the open mics in 2003, just a year before the launch of his debut album.

The Fire

Address: 412 West Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Website: The Fire

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4pm - 2am; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 2am

A tantalizing introduction to Philly

It may only have been a flying visit, but this packed itinerary should give you a small flavor of Philly’s many attractions - and is sure to provide a lot of inspiration for a longer visit in the future. When will you be back? Use our article to plan an unforgettable trip to Philly.