Top 17 Things Philadelphia Is Famous For - Updated 2025

1. Mummers Parade

Philly makes its New Year’s Day celebrations by introducing the flamboyant Mummers Parade. There is a New Years Associations, consisting of local clubs, that compete in one of the following categories: String Bands, Fancies, Comics, Fancy Brigades, and Wench Brigades. Larger-than-life costumes are worn, in addition to performances of elaborate group routines and movable sceneries. This parade dates back to the 17th century and is associated with the Mummers Play tradition in the UK and Ireland. Clubhouses on 2nd Street in South Philadelphia’s Pennsport district serve as the venue for the sceneries and members.

2. Murals

Philadelphia is perhaps one of the US cities with the most vibrant arts and culture scenes. There are thousands of murals in Philly, and this particular display of public art is ignited and strengthened by Mural Arts Philadelphia, an art center promoting mural-making to transform spaces to reflect and honor all human identities and experiences. The group was established in the 1980s as an anti-graffiti initiative and has since been an advocate of public art that serves the community for the better. The murals, one of the main attractions in Philadelphia, are scattered all over the city, and there are plenty of guided walking tours that visitors can join.

3. Comcast Center

One of the mighty structures that make up the beautiful skyline of Philadelphia is Comcast Center in the central business district. Formerly known as the Comcast Tower, the building has 58 levels and comes second to Comcast Technology Center as the tallest building in Philly. The structure was named after the lead tenant, cable company Comcast, making it the headquarters. Comcast occupies almost 90% of the building, with the rest taken up by various retail shops, restaurants, and a connection to a nearby rail station. Comcast Center is made to be environmentally friendly and is a certified building by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

4. Valley Forge National Historical Park

One of the most historic sites in Philadelphia is Valley Forge National Historic Park. From December 1777 until June 1778, it was the site of a Continental Army encampment during the Revolutionary War. Valley Forge, which sprawls to about 3,500 acres (1,400 hectares), became a U.S. National Historical Park in 1976. Displayed at the park are monuments, a visitor center, a museum with original artifacts, and restored and reconstructed structures like log huts. There are ranger programs at the site, as well as walking and trolley tours and activities.

5. Peddler's Village

Shopping has never been this cozy. Try out a new environment when you want to splurge and make your way to Peddler’s Village, a 42-acre (17-hectare) old village-type shopping mall about an hour from Philadelphia’s city center. This unique place with a small-town colonial vibe was established in 1962 and is home to over 70 independent stores, restaurants, and specialty shops. If you feel like staying and exploring more of this charming attraction, Peddler’s Village also has Golden Plough Inn, a 3-star hotel ready to welcome you at any time.

6. Fairmount Park

Fairmount Park is to Philadelphia what Central Park is to New York City. The park is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also a common place for visitors and locals alike to take a walk, exercise, or have a picnic. In such a huge park, one of the biggest urban green spaces in the U.S, there is much to see and do. You can walk around Concourse Lake, visit the small organic farm, Carousel House Farm, and look at many art sculptures.

Fairmount Park

Address: Reservoir Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA

Website: Fairmount Park

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)

7. Philadelphia Orchestra

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

Experience the captivating melodies and harmonies of the Philadelphia Orchestra, one of the most esteemed musical institutions in the world. Founded over a century ago, this world-renowned symphony orchestra has garnered international acclaim for its exceptional musicianship and captivating performances.

Immerse yourself in the exquisite sounds as the orchestra brings to life a repertoire that spans classical masterpieces, contemporary compositions, and innovative collaborations. From beautiful symphonies to stirring concertos, each performance is a testament to the orchestra’s unrivaled talent and artistry. Situated in the culturally vibrant city of Philadelphia, the orchestra performs at prestigious venues such as the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, captivating audiences with its unmatched precision, passion, and ability to stir emotions.

8. Elfreth's Alley Museum

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

Among the many fun and engaging things to do in Philadelphia, a visit to Elfreth’s Alley Museum features at the top of the list. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the place. Located in the heart of the city, Elfreth’s Alley is renowned as the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America.

Step back in time as you explore this living museum, which showcases the preserved homes and artifacts of the 18th and 19th centuries. Wander along the charming cobblestone street and admire the well-preserved Georgian and Federal-style houses, each telling a unique story of Philadelphia’s past. Inside the museum, you’ll find exhibits that provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the early residents, their traditions, and their contributions to the city’s development. Learn about the craftsmanship of the era, the challenges they faced, and the cultural heritage that shaped Philadelphia.

Elfreth's Alley Museum

Address: 126 Elfreth’s Alley, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States

Website: Elfreth’s Alley Museum

9. h Street Italian Market

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Like most of Philadelphia, this market is historic for being the oldest outdoor market in America. Open all year round, the market spans about 10 blocks of food vendors and stores selling mouthwatering delicacies and treats. From baked goods to fresh produce, meat and cheeses, as well as fish and poultry, there is so much to buy and taste at this market. This tour brings you on a two-hour walking tour with a local guide who can give you the inside scoop on the ins and outs of this historic market.

10. Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the iconic places in Philadelphia. Not only is this a great place for that Instagram-worthy shot, but it is also known as “the Rocky Steps” for its feature in the famous Hollywood film. The 72 stone steps leading up to the museum entrance became famous after the scene in the film where Rocky triumphantly climbs up the stairs. Many tourists and Rocky fans love to recreate this scene by the steps. Besides the steps, another great place to take a photo would be with the bronze Rocky statue at a grassy patch near the bottom of the stairs.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Address: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA

Website: Philadelphia Museum of Art

Opening hours: Tue, Thu, Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Wed, Fri: 10am - 8.45pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 14 - 20 USD

11. Independence Hall

What is Philadelphia known for when it comes to US History? The Independence Hall! It is the centerpiece and the most iconic building in the Independence National Historical Park in the city. It was in this iconic red-bricked building that the Declaration of Independence was signed and the United States Constitution was adopted. Many regard it as the birthplace of the United States as we know it today! Besides being a place that is so rich in history, the beautiful design and architecture make it a great place for a photo.

Independence Hall

Address: 520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA

Website: Independence Hall

12. Rodin Museum

Rodin Museum, not to be confused with the museum of the same name in Paris, is named after the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. The museum has the most number of works by said sculptor outside of Paris. Right before you enter the museum, you can view arguably the most well-known of Rodin’s works, The Thinker, which sits right outside of the museum in the courtyard. Entry to the museum is ‘pay as you wish’, however, suggested admission is 10 USD for adults.

Rodin Museum

Address: 2151 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130

Website: Rodin Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10am - 5pm (closed on Tue)

Price: 10 USD

13. Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is a monumental sign of America’s independence and located right in Philadelphia. It used to be housed within the Pennsylvania State House. While this thing Philadelphia is known for was used for making announcements or calling lawmakers in the past, today it is a tourist attraction, found right in Liberty Bell Center in Independence National Historical Park, the same park as Independence Hall. Here, not only can you get a close-up look at the bell, but also learn about its significance in history through videos and exhibits.

Liberty Bell Center

Address: Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA

Website: Liberty Bell Center

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

14. Reading Terminal Market

Besides the 9th Street Italian Market, another great market that you have to visit is the Reading Terminal Market. This huge market offers a wide array of the best locally grown produce and locally sourced meats. They also sell the freshest fish and other seafood, cheeses, baked goods, and so much more. You can also find the widest variety of restaurants, with all sorts of different cuisines and styles. Located right in the commercial centre of the city and just a block away from City Hall, the market is extremely accessible.

Reading Terminal Market

Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

Website: Reading Terminal Market

Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)

15. City Hall

City Hall is located right in the heart of the city and is the largest municipal building in the city. The building is certainly a sight to behold, with its Second Empire style. One of the tallest buildings in the city, the entire exterior is decorated with sculptures of iconic figures, with the statue of William Penn at the very top. You can go on a guided tour of the building, which brings you to the observation deck at the very top of the building. Here you can get a beautiful birds-eye view of the city.

City Hall

Address: 1400 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

Website: City Hall

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free entry

16. Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles are the home American football team of the city, with their home stadium being the Lincoln Financial Field. The pride and glory of the city, be sure to catch them in action if you happen to be in the city during the football season. Make sure to get your tickets early, they have a history of selling out every game since 1999. Pre-season starts in August, and the actual season starts around September. There are also a few post-season games, which happen in January.

17. Philly cheesesteak

The classic Philly cheesesteak consists of beef slices and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. This popular fast food can be found all over America, but where else to try the best cheesesteaks than the city where it was founded? In fact, the original diner where the cheesesteak was invented is still standing! Head on down to Pat’s King of Steaks, which is one of the best places to eat aand try this Philly favourite for yourself.

Enjoy Philadelphia

The iconic Philadelphia is home to some of the most beautiful and amazing historical places, especially those of U.S. history. This one is an amazing city to visit with so much to see, do and also shop for!