The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American Independence, located in Independence National Historical Park. It is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and visitors alike. Although the Liberty Bell Center is currently closed, you can view the bell from outside and snap a quick picture.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country and has over 240,000 works of art. It is famous for its "Rocky Steps" and the statue of Rocky Balboa. You'll need more than a day to see everything, but you can check out some of their outstanding exhibits.
If you're looking for local cuisine and an authentic Philadelphia experience, Reading Terminal Market is the place to go. It's the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the United States and has over 80 vendors selling everything from cheesesteaks to donuts.
The Adventure Aquarium is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Philadelphia. With more than 15,000 aquatic species, including the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, it's an excellent place to spend a few hours.
The Eastern State Penitentiary is a fascinating, eerie, and haunting National Historic landmark. It's a former prison, known for its harsh treatment of inmates and for its revolutionary system of confinement. Guided Tours are available and usually last around 1 hour.
The One Liberty Observation Deck is the tallest observation deck in Philadelphia, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. At 883 feet height, it is a great opportunity to see the beautiful city skyline at night.
You can travel to each location by Uber or Lyft or walk if you prefer. The estimated travel time and cost range from $7-$15 for each ride or about $4-6 for a one-way trip on the bus/train per person. However, many of the sites are located within blocks of each other, so walking may not cost you anything, and it's an excellent way to see the city itself.
Start with an early breakfast to make the most out of your trip. Consider purchasing advance tickets to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Adventure Aquarium. If you have more time, you can do a Philadelphia historical walking tour or check out more local cuisine options. If you have less time, you can cut out a location or two from this itinerary.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the primary airport for Philadelphia and is located about 11 miles from downtown, and takes about 20 - 25 minutes to get there. All major airlines operate out of this airport, and it offers both domestic and international flights.