Attractions
There is lots to see and do in the great city of Philadelphia. If you feel like spending some extra time exploring, here are some suggestions for things to do and see no matter what your tastes.
Philadelphia Art Muesum
Rising majestically at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Philadelphia Museum of Art stands among the great art institutions of the world. In the almost 125 years since its founding, the museum has grown far beyond the goals originally set for it. Today the Museum houses over 300,000 works of art encompassing some of the greatest achievements of human creativity, and offers a wealth of exhibitions and education programs for the public of all ages.
The Franklin Institute and Science Museum
Founded on February 5, 1824 and opened to the public on January 1, 1934, the Franklin Institute's original purpose was to honor Ben Franklin and advance the usefulness of his inventions. It has long since expanded to become one of the nation's premier science museums. The Museum's hands-on approach to science and technology, combined with the Fels Planetarium, make the Institute a popular spot. The Mandell Center, Tuttleman IMAX Theater, and Musser Theater have added greatly to the size and appeal of The Franklin Institute. The new exhibits, exciting Omnimax films, and interactive presentations continue the Institute's long tradition of making science and technology fun.
Philadelphia Zoo
Located in Fairmount Park and easily accessible from the Schuylkill Expressway, the Philadelphia Zoo is America's first zoo. It was opened to the public on July 1, 1874. In recent years the zoo has been undergoing major construction in an effort to house its animals in more natural settings. The PECO Primate Reserve which opened in 1999 is an excellent example of this effort to present the zoo's animals in a more respectful manner.
Constitution Center
Here, we tell the story of the Constitution’s past and explain the principles of its present to show how “We, the People” can shape the story of its future. What you see, touch, and hear at this remarkable place will inspire you to do just that.
Your visit will begin with “Freedom Rising”, a state-of-the-art multimedia theater experience designed to connect you - in a direct, engaging, and unforgettable way - with the story of the U.S. Constitution.
In the main exhibition, The Story of We the People, you will have the opportunity to participate in some of the great rites of democracy. Vote for your favorite President, serve on a jury, decide landmark cases at a replica Supreme Court bench, and even be sworn in as President of the United States. You can also walk among the life-sized bronze statues of 42 men - the 39 delegates who signed the Constitution and the three who dissented - in Signers’ Hall, a stylized evocation of the Assembly Room where the signers of the Constitution met on September 17, 1787.
Independence National Historical Park
Our nation began in Philadelphia when on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was ratified by members of the Second Continental Congress. Philadelphia is home to some of the most historic buildings and symbols of our liberty. In Independence National Historical Park you can tour Independence Hall, view the Liberty Bell, explore Franklin Court - the site of the home of Benjamin Franklin and visit the house where Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag.
Ride the Ducks of Philadelphia
Experience Philadelphia sightseeing fun from a duck's eye view on Philadelphia's original duck tour. Travel on land and water in one amazing vehicle. Tour historic Philadelphia and SPLASH into the Delaware River at Penn's Landing. Ride The Ducks is the fun thing to do in Philadelphia and it's the best Philly sightseeing tour.
