Philadelphia, the fifth largest city in the U.S. is conveniently located between New York City and Washington, DC (only 1.5 hours from New York City and two hours from Washington, DC). Known for its history, arts and culture, vibrant street life, world-class restaurants and outdoor life, Philadelphia offers a budget-friendly metropolitan experience for all travelers. Discover Philadelphia, a modern renaissance city where history meets innovation and culture.

Snapshot of Things to Do

History
Known as the birthplace of America, Philadelphia offers a vast array of historic activities. Starting with a guided tour of Independence National Historical Park – America's most historic square mile – you will learn about where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were drafted, debated and adopted, and where the nation's first executive mansion, Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site stood. But before you leave, be sure to snap a photo and also learn about the Liberty Bell, a globally recognized symbol of freedom and visit the Betsy Ross House, the historic house commemorates the life and accomplishments of Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia patriot believed to have made the first American flag.

Arts and Culture

From ballet to theatre to the orchestra and beyond, it's no wonder Philadelphia was ranked America's No. 1 city for culture by Travel + Leisure magazine. Explore Museum Mile on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, home to some of the nation's most iconic museums and institutions.

Marvel over 200,000 examples of art and craft spanning more than 2,000 years in history at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is also home to the “Rocky Steps” and Rocky statue featured in the Academy Award-winning film Rocky. The Rodin Museum is home to the largest Rodin collection outside of Paris and is where iconic statue “The Thinker” remains. The impressive Barnes Foundation is where you will see one of the finest collections of post-Impressionist and early Modern paintings with extensive works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.

While in Philadelphia, you can also experience the world's largest outdoor art museum and one of the U.S.'s most innovative art programs, the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program. Philadelphia is the Mural Capital of the World and boasts over 3,600 murals as well as outdoor sculptures.

With the largest city-owned urban park system in the world, Philadelphia is the greenest city in America. Fairmount Park offers a 9,000 acre park system with 215 miles of recreation trails. Endless adventure trails, riverfronts, bicycling trails and walking/running paths are woven through the city unlike anywhere in the U.S. Named “one of the world's 10 best cities for parks” by Frommer's, Philadelphia offers a wide range of outdoor activities and urban adventures.

Dining & Nightlife
World-class cuisine prepared by celebrity and award winning chefs can be found throughout the many diverse neighborhoods that make up the downtown area. Options abound as PHL is home to more than 2,500 restaurants, 250 outdoor cafes and over 200 BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) style restaurants. James Beard-winning Chefs Michael Solomonov and Jeff Michaud along with Iron Chefs Morimoto and Jose Garces serve up culinary masterpieces for visitors from across the globe. Home to nationally recognized breweries and festivals, and historical brewpubs and tours, it comes with no surprise that Philadelphia is named among the best beer drinking cities and late night capitals in the U.S.

Shopping in Philadelphia
Dubbed the #2 shopping city in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Philadelphia offers a shopping haven for visitors with all tastes. From high-end boutiques like Rittenhouse Row to discount outlets like Philadelphia Premium Outlets, shoppers can indulge in Philadelphia's tax-free shopping on all clothes and shoes. With the largest shopping mall in the country, King of Prussia Mall, globally-recognized Macy's, and trendy local shops, Philadelphia is simply a shopping mecca for all.

Weather

• Winters are moderately cold with some snow (average high temperature, 43°F, 6 °C).
• Summers are warm and sunny with some humidity (average high temperature, 83°F 28 °C).
• Spring and fall moderate and comfortable.
• Average yearly rainfall, 42 inches.