Things to do in downtown philadelphia free#

While locals continue to inhabit these residences, two of the 32 houses are the designated museum and gift shop. Each of the alleyway’s 32 colorful homes tells a story of pre-industrial livelihoods and has for the past 300 years, making it the oldest street in America. Stroll along Elfreth’s Alley A house in Elfreth’s AlleyĮlfreth’s Alley is where historic Philly comes alive, capturing a time before large factories when artisans and tradespeople worked out of their residential first floors. Stop for coffee at Menagerie Coffee, a fantastic sandwich at Freebyrd Chicken, and lots of other delicious options. If you’re seeing the sites of historic Philadelphia, the Bourse Food Hall is a good place to take a break for something to eat. Grab a bite at The Bourse Stands at the Bourse Food Hall

Things to do in downtown philadelphia free#

Today, the bell is free for all to visit in Old City.

Many recognize Philadelphia as one of the most historic cities in the U.S. Nothing symbolizes the city more than the Liberty Bell. See the Liberty Bell The Liberty BellĪ symbol of freedom, human rights, and liberty, this monument answers the city’s call for brotherly love. On a guided tour, visitors can see the original drafts of both documents prominently displayed and explore the very courtroom that our nation’s founding fathers once occupied. This iconic building hosted the creation of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence, and it’s the center of the Philadelphia historic district. Several of the most important meetings in America’s history happened at Independence Hall. Its large stone is almost always covered with pennies left by visitors–an homage to Franklin’s adage that “a penny saved is a penny earned.” Tour Independence Hall Independence Hall Make sure to stop at Benjamin Franklin’s grave at the northwest corner of the burial ground. A walk among the headstones is a who’s who of people who shaped the early days of the United States. It is the final resting place of many Revolutionary War figures and early leaders. The burial ground is a fascinating place to visit. See Christ Church Burial Ground 18th-century headstones at Christ Church Burial GroundĬhrist Church Burial Ground is located at 5 th and Arch, a few blocks away from the main church site. Don’t miss the plaques marking the pews frequented by George Washington, Betsy Ross, and the Penn family, among other notable parishioners. Take a stroll through the sanctuary to learn about the history of the building, which dates from 1744. Ranking among the ten most visited sites in Philadelphia, Christ Church offers daily talks and tours of the grounds located at 2 nd and Church. These walls have seen the likes of presidents, signers of the Declaration of Independence, and other notable figures among its worshipers. The birthplace of the American Episcopal Church, Christ Church was founded in 1695. Visit historic Christ Church The sanctuary of Christ Church These are the best things to do in Old City Philadelphia. The following list will guide your trip through the historic things to see in the city, highlighting both the old and the new places that make this district worth noting. Many recognize Philadelphia as one of the most notable cities in American history but cannot name more than two of its historical sites. If you grew up in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, you’ve probably taken the obligatory school field trip to Philly–first stop: Liberty Bell, then Independence Hall, then cheesesteaks. Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).