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Home > Things To Do in Philadelphia
Things to do in Philadelphia
Founded in 1682 and home to a metropolitan area population of more than 5.8 million; Philadelphia is an old city with a lot of history and culture. There are thriving arts communities with many performing arts and visual arts centers, while history buffs can find plenty of historic sites and interesting old buildings to keep them going for days. Its people, like any major center in the US, are diverse in culture and creed, providing a mosaic of various ethnic groups and a wide range of proud backgrounds. Overall, this city is a unique center with a pace of its own, some swinging hot spots, and tasty treats!
Attractions and Sights
The Philadelphia Zoo is billed as the first zoo in the United States and is home to 1300 animals; many near extintion.
Eastern State Penitentiary was the first to use the Separate System used in over 300 prisons in the world. It now operates as a museum.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Morris Arboretum is home to over 13,000 plants and spans 92 acres with many themed areas such as the Rose Garden.
Fairmount Park is a municipal park system in Philadelphia containing properties like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Fairmount Water Works.
Landmarks
Trocadero Theatre has been around since 1870. Today, it is a live performance venue where names like Radiohead, Foo Fighters and Pearl Jam have played.
Built in 1809, Walnut Street Theatre shows live performances from musicals and dramatic theatre to concerts.
Shopping
Chestnut Hill is a quaint Philadelphia neighborhood filled with boutiques of all kinds, from antiques to clothing to music.
Old City is one of Philadelphia's beautifully preserved historic areas, featuring a thriving community and a lively shopping district.
Festivals and Events
Philadelphia Folk Festival is a four-day music event featuring talent from across the country, campgrounds and lots of fun!
Philadelphia's Mummers Parade happens every New Year's Day and features huge floats and people in elaborate costumes.
Arts and Entertainment
Kimmel Center is on the Avenue of the Arts and is home to the Philadelphia Orchestra, Philly Pops, Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, PHILDANCO and other arts organizations.
The Mann Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia has hosted CATS, Riverdance, Sarah Brightman and many other performances.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest in the country, featuring famous works such as Van Gogh's "Vase With Twelve Sunflowers" and Monet's "Japanese Bridge and Water Lillies".
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is the oldest art school and museum in the United States, and features a fine gallery.
Nightlife
Ortlieb’s Jazzhaus is a small venue known for great food and great live music.
World Cafe Live is one of Philadelphia's hot spots for great live music of all genres, and just to come hang out.
Convention Centers
Pennsylvania Convention Center (PACC) is one of the countries largest, hosting many events throughout each year.
Arenas and Stadiums
Citizens Bank Park is home to the Philadelphia Phillies of Major League Baseball.
Lincoln Financial Field, or "The Linc" is home to the NFL's Philadelphia Eagles.
Food and Drink
Butcher and Singer restaurant provides an evening of classy post-prohibition Hollywood-style atmosphere with fantastic food.
Morimoto restaurant in Philadelphia is the original of several restaurants owned by former Iron Chef Japan Masaharu Morimoto.