Philadelphia Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & Logistics
Q: How do I get from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Center City?
A: The SEPTA R1 (Regional Rail Airport Line) runs directly from the airport to stations like Penn and 30th Street Station, which is often the best and cheapest way. Taxis and ride-share apps like Uber/Lyft are also readily available.
Q: Is Center City Philadelphia walkable?
A: Yes, Center City is very walkable, and many major tourist attractions, particularly the historic sites, are clustered together.
Q: Should I rent a car for a trip to Philadelphia?
A: Generally, no. Center City is very walkable, parking is expensive and difficult, and public transportation (SEPTA) or ride-share services are better for getting around.
Q: What is the best way to get around the city?
A: Walking is best for the core Center City area. Use SEPTA (subway/bus/trolley) for longer distances, or Uber/Lyft for convenience, especially to areas like the Art Museum or South Philly.
Q: How many days should I spend in Philadelphia for a first-time visit?
A: 2 to 3 days is generally recommended to cover the major historical sites and a few key museums/neighborhoods.
Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance for Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell?
A: Yes, reserving a timed ticket for the ranger-led tour of Independence Hall is highly recommended and often necessary. It usually costs a small fee (like $1). The Liberty Bell is free and doesn’t require a ticket, but you may have a wait.
Q: What is SEPTA?
A: SEPTA stands for Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, which is the public transit system (subway, bus, trolley, regional rail).
Q: Where should I stay for easy access to tourist sites?
A: Center City (Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, Old City, Society Hill) are all highly recommended, offering safety and walkability to attractions and restaurants.
Q: Is the area around City Hall safe?
A: The immediate City Hall/Dilworth Park area is very central, but some recommend staying closer to Rittenhouse Square or Old City, as the area can be a bit more “dodgy” or have more homelessness, although it is busy during the day.
Q: Are there any specific areas of Philadelphia I should avoid?
A: Tourists are generally advised to stick to Center City, South Philly, Old City, and the Museum District. Areas like Kensington and parts of North and West Philly are often mentioned as places where tourists wouldn’t have a reason to go and should be avoided.
Attractions & Sightseeing
Q: What are the absolute “must-see” historical sites?
A: Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Museum of the American Revolution.
Q: Where is the “Rocky Steps” and Rocky Statue?
A: They are at the base and entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Q: What is the Reading Terminal Market?
A: It’s one of America’s oldest and largest indoor farmers’ markets, famous for a huge variety of food vendors, produce, and local goods. It’s a must-visit for lunch.
Q: What are the best art museums in Philadelphia?
A: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation (famous for its impressionist and post-impressionist art), and the Rodin Museum.
Q: What is Elfreth’s Alley?
A: America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, great for a quick, charming walk and photo op in Old City.
Q: Should I visit the Eastern State Penitentiary?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended for its haunting, ruined architecture and history as the world’s first true “penitentiary.”
Q: What’s a good place for a unique museum experience?
A: The Mütter Museum, which is a medical oddities and anatomy museum (check its operating status/future, as some threads mention uncertainty).
Q: Where can I see the famous ‘LOVE’ sculpture?
A: LOVE Park (JFK Plaza), located near City Hall on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Q: Where can I see Ben Franklin’s grave?
A: The Christ Church Burial Ground, in the Old City/Historic District.
Q: Is the National Constitution Center worth visiting?
A: Yes, it is the only museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution and is often highly praised for its engaging exhibits, especially the Signers’ Hall.
Food & Drink (The Big Questions)
Q: Where should I get a cheesesteak?
A: Locals often recommend avoiding the famous tourist spots like Pat’s and Geno’s. Highly recommended spots are John’s Roast Pork, Jim’s Steaks (on South Street, or their other locations), and Angelo’s Pizzeria.
Q: What is a “Whiz wit”?
A: A cheesesteak order for Cheez Whiz cheese, “wit” (with) fried onions.
Q: What is the most authentic Philly sandwich besides the cheesesteak?
A: The Roast Pork Sandwich (often with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe). John’s Roast Pork and DiNic’s (in Reading Terminal Market) are top recommendations.
Q: What food should I try at the Reading Terminal Market?
A: DiNic’s Roast Pork, soft pretzels from Miller’s Twist, apple dumplings from the Dutch Eating Place, and Beiler’s Donuts.
Q: What is “water ice”?
A: A Philadelphia regional frozen treat, similar to Italian ice but with a finer, fluffier consistency. Not shaved ice, not sorbet. Try John’s Water Ice.
Q: Where is a good place for fine dining or an upscale meal?
A: Zahav (modern Israeli, James Beard winner, very hard to get a reservation), Parc (French bistro on Rittenhouse Square), and restaurants along East Passyunk Avenue.
Q: What is a “soft pretzel” in Philly?
A: A distinctive, often figure-eight shaped, chewy soft pretzel, commonly bought from street carts or specific shops. Best served with mustard.
Q: Where can I find good craft beer/a good gastropub?
A: Monk’s Cafe, Standard Tap, and Good Dog Bar are often mentioned as great spots in the city’s strong gastropub scene.
Q: Where can I get a great hoagie (sub/hero)?
A: Sarcone’s Deli (or Sarcone’s Bakery for the bread), Paesano’s, or Lil Nick’s are favorites.
Q: Where should I go for coffee?
A: La Colombe is a local giant, but smaller, highly-rated spots include Menagerie, Re-Animator, and Function Coffee Lab.
Q: What is the Italian Market?
A: A historic, outdoor market along 9th Street in South Philly, famous for Italian foodstuffs, produce, cheese shops, and now also a diverse mix of Asian and Latin American vendors.
Q: What is “tomato pie”?
A: A distinctively regional square-shaped, thick-crust bakery item, topped with a thick, sweet tomato sauce and often served cold or at room temperature (not a typical pizza). Try Iannelli’s or Sarcone’s Bakery.
Q: Is Fishtown a good neighborhood for food and drinks?
A: Yes, Fishtown is a popular neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, and unique bars.
Q: What is a “Wawa”?
A: A beloved local convenience store chain, famous for its made-to-order hoagies and coffee (a strong local favorite).
Q: Where can I find good Vietnamese food?
A: The area around Washington Avenue in South Philly (sometimes called “Little Saigon”) is excellent. Pho Ha and Pho 75 are highly recommended.
Neighborhoods & Culture
Q: What is Rittenhouse Square like?
A: It’s an upscale, beautiful park and surrounding neighborhood known for high-end shops, dining, and a lively, chic atmosphere. Great for people-watching.
Q: What is Old City like?
A: Historic, charming, with cobblestone streets, red brick buildings, and most of the Revolutionary War sites. It has a good mix of restaurants and bars that “die early” compared to other neighborhoods.
Q: What is the Gayborhood?
A: The area in Center City, largely around 13th Street south of Market, known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, restaurants, and bars.
Q: Should I visit South Street?
A: Yes, it’s known for being eclectic, with unique shops, bars, and the famous Jim’s Steaks. It can be a bit gritty but is generally a popular spot.
Q: What is Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens?
A: A fascinating, mosaicked visionary art environment and gallery by artist Isaiah Zagar, a unique and popular stop.
Q: What’s a good park to visit?
A: Fairmount Park (one of the world’s largest urban park systems), Rittenhouse Square, and Washington Square Park are all popular.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Philadelphia?
A: Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October) offer the best weather for walking. Summer is hot and humid, and winters can be cold.
Q: Is Philadelphia a good city for solo travelers?
A: Yes, it’s very walkable, easy to navigate, and has a dense core with plenty to see and do alone.
Q: Is the city generally friendly to visitors?
A: Yes, Philadelphians are known for being straightforward, passionate, and generally welcoming, though perhaps less overtly cheerful than other cities.
Q: What is the vibe of Center City?
A: Busy, bustling, historically rich, and relatively compact with a mix of modern and colonial architecture.
Beyond the Core
Q: Is there anything worthwhile to see outside of the main Center City area?
A: Yes. Longwood Gardens (a spectacular botanical garden, though a drive away), Valley Forge National Historical Park, and neighborhoods like Fishtown and East Passyunk Ave.
Q: Where can I see the Boathouse Row?
A: Along the Schuylkill River near the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for its historic boathouses illuminated at night.
Q: Is it worth visiting the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) campus?
A: Yes, the University City area is a nice spot with interesting architecture and the Penn Museum (formerly the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology).
Q: Where can I find good street art or murals?
A: Philadelphia has one of the largest public art programs in the US, Mural Arts Philadelphia. Murals are everywhere, but the South Philly and Italian Market areas are particularly dense.
Q: What about sports? Can I catch an Eagles/Phillies/76ers game?
A: If a home game is on, it’s a great authentic Philly experience. The sports complexes are in South Philadelphia and easily reached via the SEPTA Broad Street Line.
Q: Where can I get a good Philly soft pretzel?
A: Miller’s Twist in Reading Terminal Market is highly recommended.
Q: Is the Mutter Museum moving or closing?
A: Discussions about its future have been noted, so it’s best to check its official site for current status before visiting.
Q: What is the best historical museum besides Independence Hall?
A: Museum of the American Revolution.
Q: Is there a children’s museum in the city?
A: The Please Touch Museum is great for younger children (in Fairmount Park).
Q: What is the best area for boutique hotels?
A: Rittenhouse Square and Old City.
Q: Can I see the Liberty Bell without a tour?
A: Yes, it’s in the Liberty Bell Center, which is free to enter, though there may be a line.
Q: What’s a good free activity?
A: Running the Rocky Steps, walking through Independence National Historical Park, or visiting LOVE Park.
Q: What is the name of the SEPTA subway line in Center City?
A: The Broad Street Line (N-S) and the Market-Frankford Line (E-W).
Q: Is there a big city park near the historic area?
A: Washington Square Park is right next to the historic area.
Q: Where should I go for a cocktail?
A: The Old City or Rittenhouse Square areas have many great cocktail bars.
Q: Are there any good Vietnamese bakeries for Banh Mi?
A: Ba Le and Artisan Boulanger Patissier are frequently mentioned.
Q: Is the Betsy Ross House worth visiting?
A: It’s a quick, historic stop in Old City and worth a brief visit if you are interested in the story.
Q: What is the best place for an Italian dinner in South Philly?
A: South Philly has countless Italian restaurants; check the Italian Market or East Passyunk areas for top picks.
Q: What is the main visitor center?
A: The Independence Visitor Center on Independence Mall.
Q: Should I get a cheesesteak “wit” or “wit-out” onions?
A: The traditional Philly order is “wit” (with).
Q: Is there an iconic place to shop for souvenirs?
A: The Independence Visitor Center gift shop or Reading Terminal Market.
Q: What’s a good place for lunch near the Art Museum?
A: Fairmount neighborhood cafes or places on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Q: What is the significance of the Barnes Foundation?
A: It holds one of the world’s most significant collections of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings.
Q: Is there good public transportation to Valley Forge?
A: No, it’s outside the city and best reached by car.
Q: Where can I see the Declaration of Independence being signed?
A: Inside Independence Hall (the room itself).
Q: What local snack should I buy at Wawa?
A: A hoagie (sandwich) or a Tastykake (a local brand of packaged snacks).
Q: Is the Franklin Institute good for adults?
A: Yes, it’s a world-class science museum with rotating exhibits and is enjoyable for all ages.
Q: Are there many BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle/Beverage) restaurants?
A: Yes, Philly has a strong culture of excellent mid-range BYOB restaurants, particularly in South Philly.
Q: Is the waterfront area (Delaware River) developed for visitors?
A: Yes, sites like Penn’s Landing, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Cherry Street Pier offer seasonal activities and views.
Q: Is taking a Hop-on-Hop-off bus worth it?
A: Many tourists find it useful for hitting all the major landmarks, especially if time is limited.
Q: What is a good area for nightlife?
A: Fishtown, Old City (for bars), and Midtown Village/Gayborhood are popular for varied nightlife.
Q: Where can I get a good cup of tea?
A: There are numerous local tea and coffee shops, especially around Rittenhouse Square.
Q: What’s a lesser-known historic site in the core area?
A: Carpenters’ Hall (site of the First Continental Congress) or the President’s House.
Q: Is the zoo worth visiting?
A: Philadelphia Zoo is America’s first zoo, but some visitors find it a bit dated or small compared to others.
Q: What is the name of the street that has the famous “two cheesesteak places” (Pat’s and Geno’s)?
A: East Passyunk Avenue.
Q: Where is a great place to people-watch?
A: Rittenhouse Square Park.
Q: What is the main convention center area called?
A: The Pennsylvania Convention Center, located near City Hall/Chinatown.
Q: Should I take a historical walking tour?
A: Highly recommended, as the historic district is dense with stories and guides can bring the history to life.
Q: What local baked goods are unique to Philly?
A: Soft pretzels, Tastykakes, and tomato pie.
Q: Is it safe to walk from Old City to the Art Museum?
A: Yes, it’s a long but pleasant walk along the main Market Street/Benjamin Franklin Parkway route.
Q: Where can I find good, affordable, late-night food?
A: Chinatown is often a great source for cheap and late-night eats.
Q: What’s the main train station?
A: 30th Street Station (Amtrak and SEPTA Regional Rail).
Q: Is the area around 30th Street Station safe?
A: Yes, it’s located in the University City area, which is generally safe.
Q: Are there any good places for outdoor dining/patio seating?
A: Rittenhouse Square and Old City neighborhoods have many options, including Talula’s Garden.
Q: What’s the best time to run the Rocky Steps for a picture without a crowd?
A: Early morning, right at sunrise.
Q: Can I easily get a SIM card at the airport?
A: While vendors exist, many travelers suggest using an eSIM app like Airalo for simplicity.
Q: What’s a good place for families with young children?
A: Franklin Square (carousel, mini-golf) or the Franklin Institute.
Q: Is Philadelphia a good hub for day trips?
A: Yes, easy access to New York City, Washington D.C., and the Jersey Shore.
Q: Where is the best place for a traditional Italian hoagie?
A: Many locals swear by Lil Nick’s or Antonio’s in South Philly.
Q: What is the “Gayborhood” famous for visually?
A: Rainbow-colored street signs and crosswalks.
Q: Do I need a reservation for the Barnes Foundation?
A: Highly recommended, as tickets are often for timed entry.
Q: What is a classic Philadelphia dinner option?
A: A traditional mid-range BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) Italian restaurant.
Q: Is the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center worth the trip?
A: Yes, it’s a beautiful, authentic Japanese house and garden in Fairmount Park, a peaceful retreat.
Q: What’s the local term for the main downtown area?
A: Center City.
Q: Where should I look for hidden gems/non-touristy spots?
A: Explore the tiny, quaint streets around Rittenhouse Square/Society Hill, or dive into the diverse food scene along Washington Ave. in South Philly.