Two-Day Itinerary for Exploring Philadelphia's Best City Experiences

  • Day 1: Independence National Historical Park
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from City Hall

    Start your day with a visit to the Independence National Historical Park where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were both signed. You can experience the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Take a guided tour and learn about the stories behind some of America's most iconic landmarks.

  • Day 1: Reading Terminal Market
    7 minutes (0.5 miles) from Independence National Historical Park

    Take a short walk to the Reading Terminal Market, located in the heart of the city. This indoor market features a vast array of local specialties and international cuisine. Satisfy your hunger by grabbing a Philly cheesesteak, homemade donut, or a fresh cup of coffee. Take some time to stroll around and experience the lively ambiance of this market.

  • Day 1: Barnes Foundation
    22 minutes (2.2 miles) from Reading Terminal Market

    After a satisfying meal, visit the Barnes Foundation, home to an extensive collection of Post-Impressionist paintings. See works by artists like Renoir, Cezanne, and Matisse, among other post-impressionist masters. The museum's layout is designed to replicate the original setting of how the art was once displayed in a residential building.

  • Day 2: Philadelphia Museum of Art
    23 minutes (2.9 miles) from Barnes Foundation

    Your second day should start with the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art, where guests encounter an enriching collection of American and international art. Made famous by the "Rocky" movie franchise, the main patron entrance includes a massive set of steps known as the "Rocky Steps."

  • Day 2: John F. Kennedy Plaza (Love Park)
    6 minutes (0.3 miles) from Philadelphia Museum of Art

    Enjoy a quick break at John F. Kennedy Plaza (Love Park), located near the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Take a walk around this funky Philly landmark and take a photo with the famous "LOVE" sculpture as your backdrop.

  • Day 2: Rittenhouse Square
    9 minutes (1.3 miles) from John F. Kennedy Plaza (Love Park)

    End your trip on a high note with a visit to Rittenhouse Square. This vibrant area features an array of local shops, cafes, and bars where you can unwind. Enjoy the city's showcase of public art or take in the uniquely styled architecture of the surrounding homes.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Independence National Historical Park: 2-3 hours (free)
  • Reading Terminal Market: 1-2 hours ($10-$15)
  • Barnes Foundation: 2-3 hours (adults $25; students $5; free for children under 18)
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art: 2-3 hours (adults $25; students $14; free for children under 12)
  • John F. Kennedy Plaza: 30 minutes (free)
  • Rittenhouse Square: 1-2 hours (free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $75-$84 (excluding travel and lodging costs)

Transportation

Philadelphia is a walkable city filled with bike lanes and plenty of available public transportation options. The city's official Philadelphia Indego bike share allows you to take out a bike for a daily usage fee. The cost of both trolleys and buses is a reasonable $2.25 per ride. Taxis and Ubers are also easy to find and are available 24/7.

Travel Costs: Public transportation is estimated to range from $2.25-$10 depending on the number of trips needed. Ubers and taxis average from $10-$30 each way.

Useful Tips

If you have more time in the city, be sure to visit the Philadelphia Zoo, Eastern State Penitentiary or the Museum of the American Revolution, all great choices for some unique Philly experiences. If you have less time, consider choosing either The Philadelphia Museum of Art or The Barnes Foundation if your time is limited to one spot in the city.

Airports

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the primary airport serving the Philadelphia metropolitan area. It is located approximately 7 miles southeast of downtown Philadelphia, PA, and typically takes 20-25 minutes to travel to or from the airport.

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