Philadelphia was founded in the late 17th century by British Quaker William Penn. The city had developed into an industrialized city with an abundance of wealth by the late 19th century. It is fondly called ‘Philly’ by many and is today a thriving city full of culture and glamour. Visitors to the city would be delighted to know its rich history and experience a small-town charm that it exudes.
In 2015, this American city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage City. During your time spent in this city located in the state of Pennsylvania, you’ll get to explore its charming attractions. Here, we’ll take a look at some of them:
1. Independence Hall
This was the place where the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The Continental Congress had met here 11 years later to write the constitution of the United States. A major highlight of this building is the Assembly Hall.
George Washington was chosen as the Continental Army’s Commander-in-Chief here when the Declaration of Independence was signed. You can explore the Independence Hall without any entrance fee. However, the tickets are limited and timed.
2. Liberty Bell Pavilion
Yet another historical attraction that can be visited for free, the Liberty Bell Pavilion is a symbol of freedom. It tolled to mark the signing of the Constitution, but it developed a big crack in 1846. This happened when it rang to observe the birthday of George Washington. You can learn more about this historic bell from the exhibits.
A film shows how this bell became a symbol of freedom. It was mainly due to the efforts of the suffragists, abolitionists, and other groups. Later, preparations were were made to take over the divisions left by the Civil War. As a part of this endeavor, the bell was taken on a countrywide tour in the late 1800s. This bell concluded its journey in Philadelphia and has remained here since 1915.
3. Philadelphia Museum of Art
You’ll come across the country’s largest collections of painting and other artworks in this impressive museum. The Philadelphia Museum of Art has rooms that house artworks from 18th and 19th centuries. There are pictures by Renoir, Van Gogh, Cezanne, Monet, and Degas. Among the finest sections in the museum are the medieval galleries.
They’re home to pictures by van Eyck brothers and Rogier van der Weyden. This museum also features a collection of artworks from Chagall, Picasso, Paul Klee, Matisse, and other artists. During your visit to this museum, you can also witness the works of Thomas Eakins and other American artists. Additionally, the museum also houses fine collections of Asian art.
4. Independence National Historic Park
This is the park that houses some American sites of great significance. They include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Several other important historic attractions line the old area’s cobbled streets. To the north of Independence Hall, you’ll find the Independence Mall. Located at 55 North 5th Street is the National Museum of American Jewish History.
The Independence National Historic Park also houses the Ben Franklin Museum. It has a fabulous collection of exhibits that celebrate the great qualities of this revolutionary inventor. You can get some valuable information along with tickets and maps at the Visitor Center.
5. The Barnes Foundation
Dr. Albert Barnes, a renowned American chemist, writer, businessman, and art collector was behind the establishment of The Barnes Foundation. This museum is home to some of the biggest collections of French Impressionist and Post-impressionist paintings. This includes the largest collection of Renoir’s works. You’ll also find more of Cezanne’s works in the museum than there are in all of France.
The museum also houses several works of Modigliani, Degas, and Manet. Additionally, there are collections of modern artists, such as Picasso. Anyone can explore this museum free of charge on the first Sunday of the month. On the first Friday of the month, adults can spend the evening exploring the museum’s collections. They can also attend lectures and mingle with like-minded art lovers.
6. Reading Terminal Market
The Market at Reading Terminal has been in operation since the late 19th century. This was the time when the Reading Railroad Company had constructed this space beneath their new station. The purpose behind building the space was to accommodate the butchers and farmers.
They had been using the area for decades to operate their open-air markets. The Reading Terminal Market became a National Historic Landmark in 1995. Despite undergoing several renovations, it has retained its uniqueness. Many of the original features of the structure has remained intact.
You’ll find over 80 merchants in this market and most of them are small, independent businesses. The market receives a sizeable crowd of locals and tourists. You can buy some freshly-baked Amish breads, free-range meats, handmade crafts, and canned goods in this market.
7. Please Touch Museum
Kids of all ages can get to learn many things through play in this interactive museum. It gives them the chance to delve into history, space, and fantasy worlds. They can use some costumes in the kid-size city as they experiment with different professions.
The River Adventures exhibit is as educational as it is fun for kids. It encourages kids to learn about physics and science by using waterwheels, dams, locks, levers, and other equipment. Children would also love to explore the garden where the cafe of this museum grows its produce.
A Dentzel Carousel is located outdoors, which is over a century old. Its original place of operation was at the nearby Woodside Park. After some restoration work, it has now got back its old charm. If you have your family traveling with you, this museum would be an excellent place to spend an afternoon.
8. LOVE Park
LOVE Park has green spaces, walking paths, trees, benches, and paved areas. This mesmerizing park hosts several events and festivals. It is the scene of pop-up events that take place every year. The official name of this park is John F. Kennedy Plaza.
While exploring the park, you’ll come across an iconic sculpture of Robert Indiana. People call it the ‘LOVE Sculpture’. It was installed in the park for the Bicentennial celebration of America in 1976. LOVE Park marks the entrance to many attractions, such as the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.