Things to do in Philadelphia: 3 local trip ideas
3 ready-made day trips in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: cultural, family and foodie. Each one strings together a handful of stops in order.
Masterpieces, Milestones
Immerse yourself in Philadelphia's rich cultural legacy, moving seamlessly from the artistic masterpieces of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the historic landmarks and theater of Center City.
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Sabrina's Cafe
1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USAFuel up on their famous stuffed French toast in a cozy, art-adjacent neighborhood spot.
★ 4.6 on Google · about 1 hr 15 min · ~$20 per person · Directions - 2
Barnes Foundation
2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USAMarvel at an unparalleled, salon-style collection of Impressionist and Modern masterpieces.
★ 4.7 on Google · about 2 hr · ~$30 per person · Directions - 3
The Garden Restaurant Cafe at the Barnes Foundation
2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USAEnjoy a refined, garden-view sit-down lunch featuring seasonal, locally sourced dishes.
★ 4.4 on Google · about 1 hr 15 min · ~$28 per person · Directions - 4
Independence Hall
520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USAWalk where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed; book the $1 NPS reservation fee ahead of time.
★ 4.7 on Google · about 1 hr 30 min · ~$1 per person · Directions - 5
Walnut Street Theatre
825 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USACap off your day with a stage production at America's oldest, continuously operating theater.
★ 4.7 on Google · about 2 hr 30 min · ~$65 per person · Directions
Philly Science & Play Adventure
An easy-to-walk, completely west-to-east path across Center City Philadelphia, featuring interactive science exhibits, open-air carousels, and plenty of kid-friendly dining.
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Sabrina's Cafe
1804 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USATry their famous, kid-pleasing stuffed challah french toast in a loud, welcoming atmosphere.
★ 4.6 on Google · about 1 hr · ~$45 per person · Directions - 2
The Franklin Institute
222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USAWalk through the iconic Giant Heart and don't miss the hands-on Space and Sports zones.
★ 4.6 on Google · about 3 hr · ~$104 per person · Directions - 3
Reading Terminal Market
1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USAA massive indoor marketplace; choose between cheesesteaks, Amish donuts, or simple corn dogs.
★ 4.7 on Google · about 1 hr 15 min · ~$40 per person · Directions - 4
Franklin Square
200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USALet the kids play on the playground, ride the Parx Liberty Carousel, or play Philly-themed mini golf.
★ 4.6 on Google · about 1 hr 30 min · ~$32 per person · Directions - 5
Pizzeria Vetri
1939 Callowhill St, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USAEnd the day back near your start with gourmet wood-fired Neapolitan pizza that is highly toddler-approved.
★ 4.6 on Google · about 1 hr · ~$50 per person · Directions
Rittenhouse & Chinatown
Taste your way through Center City Philadelphia, starting with breakfast in Rittenhouse Square, exploring local history and world-class dim sum, and ending with award-winning wood-fired American fare.
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The Bakeshop on Twentieth
269 S 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USATry their famous gourmet morning pastries, small-batch coffee, or a signature breakfast sandwich [1.2.6].
★ 4.6 on Google · about 45 min · ~$15 per person · Directions - 2
The Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USAA uniquely fascinating museum featuring historic anatomical specimens and medical instruments.
★ 4.6 on Google · about 1 hr 30 min · ~$25 per person · Directions - 3
Dim Sum Garden
1024 Race St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USAA must-visit in Chinatown for legendary, fresh handmade Shanghai soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao).
★ 4.2 on Google · about 1 hr · ~$25 per person · Directions - 4
Reading Terminal Market
1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USAStroll one of America's best historic food halls; grab some local Dutch cookies, artisanal cheeses, or a quick sweet treat.
★ 4.7 on Google · about 1 hr 15 min · ~$15 per person · Directions - 5
Vernick Food & Drink
2031 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USAEnd your day with world-class, wood-fired American fare from James Beard Award-winning Chef Greg Vernick.
★ 4.7 on Google · about 2 hr · ~$95 per person · Directions
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