3-Day Philadelphia Itinerary: Local Sightseeing and Nightlife with Friends
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
3 days
About Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As the birthplace of American democracy, Philly offers iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to the famous "Rocky Steps". Explore the bustling Reading Terminal Market for diverse food offerings or savor a classic Philly cheesesteak. Wander through charming neighborhoods like Old City and Rittenhouse Square, showcasing the city's architectural beauty. Enjoy the lively nightlife in Northern Liberties or take a stroll along the scenic Schuylkill River. For families, the Philadelphia Zoo and Please Touch Museum offer interactive fun. Philadelphia combines the charm of a small town with the excitement of a big city, making it a must-visit destination.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Science, Food, and Music
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Franklin Institute, a science museum with interactive exhibits.
Lunch
Grab lunch at the Reading Terminal Market, a historic food market with a wide variety of cuisines.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Philadelphia Zoo, the first zoo in the U.S.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant in the trendy Fishtown neighborhood, known for its food scene.
Evening
Experience Philadelphia's music scene with a live show at one of the city's many concert venues.
Day 3
Impressionist Art and Relaxation
Morning
Start your final day with a visit to the Barnes Foundation, home to an extensive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces.
Lunch
Have lunch at a restaurant in the charming Chestnut Hill neighborhood.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Rodin Museum, which houses the largest collection of sculptor Auguste Rodin's works outside Paris.
Dinner
Enjoy your final dinner in Philadelphia at a restaurant in the stylish Washington Square West neighborhood.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to Spruce Street Harbor Park, a seasonal pop-up park with a beer garden, food stalls, and hammocks.
Attractions in Itinerary (10)
1Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the largest art museums in the world
2Rocky Steps
The Rocky Steps, located at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, are a cultural icon, made famous by the 'Rocky' film series. They offer a challenging workout and a fantastic view of the city's skyline.
3Liberty Bell
Historic symbol of American independence
4Independence Hall
The birthplace of the United States
5Franklin Institute
One of the oldest centers of science education and development in the U.S., the Franklin Institute is an interactive museum dedicated to science education and research. It features a planetarium, IMAX theater, and exhibits on everything from space and flight to electricity and the human brain.
6Reading Terminal Market
One of America's largest and oldest public markets
7Philadelphia Zoo
America's first zoo
8Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation is an art collection and educational institution promoting the appreciation of art and horticulture. Originally in Merion, the art collection moved in 2012 to a new building on Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia.
9Rodin Museum
Houses the largest collection of sculptor Auguste Rodin's works outside Paris
10Spruce Street Harbor Park
A pop-up park in the Penn's Landing Marina. It offers food stalls, beer gardens, and a variety of recreational activities. The park is well-known for its colorful hammocks, floating gardens, and beautiful lights.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Philly Cheesesteak
A sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll, a must-try food when visiting Philadelphia.
Soft Pretzel
A type of baked bread product made from dough most commonly shaped into a twisted knot, a popular snack in Philadelphia.
Scrapple
A mush of pork scraps and trimmings combined with cornmeal and wheat flour, often spiced with sage, thyme, and others. A traditional dish in Philadelphia.
Roast Pork Sandwich
A sandwich filled with thinly sliced roast pork, often served with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone, a local favorite in Philadelphia.
Water Ice
A sweetened frozen dessert made with fruit or other natural or artificial food flavorings, similar to sorbet, a summer favorite in Philadelphia.
Tomato Pie
A type of pizza created in the early 20th century by Italian-Americans in the Philadelphia metropolitan area.
Stromboli
A type of turnover filled with various Italian cheeses and cold cuts or vegetables. The dough used is either Italian bread dough or pizza dough. A popular food in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Sushi Roll
A sushi roll that typically includes raw or smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber. It is named after Philadelphia cream cheese.
Philadelphia Pepper Pot
A thick stew of beef tripe, vegetables, pepper and other seasonings. The dish was traditionally a staple of family meals in the winter in Philadelphia.
Shoofly Pie
A molasses pie or cake that was developed by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the 1880s. A traditional dessert in Philadelphia.
Yuengling Lager
A traditional amber lager from America's oldest brewery located in Pennsylvania, a must-try for beer lovers visiting Philadelphia.
Citywide Special
A popular drink special in Philadelphia that includes a shot of whiskey and a beer, typically a Pabst Blue Ribbon.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is most pleasant, and the city's parks are beautifully vibrant. Additionally, these seasons offer a variety of festivals and events. However, if you're interested in less crowded attractions and lower hotel rates, winter could also be a good time, provided you don't mind the cold. Summer is also popular for tourists, but it can get quite hot and humid.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
SEPTA
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates a network of buses, trains, and trolleys throughout the city and surrounding areas. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around Philadelphia.
Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop
This bus service runs a loop through Philadelphia's most popular tourist destinations. It's a great option for sightseeing.
Ridesharing
Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Philadelphia. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Biking
Philadelphia is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and trails. The city's bike share program, Indego, has stations throughout the city.
Walking
Philadelphia is a walkable city, especially in areas like Center City and Old City. Many of the city's top attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Driving
While driving is an option, it can be difficult due to traffic and limited parking. If you do choose to drive, be aware of parking regulations to avoid tickets.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked in advance.
RiverLink Ferry
The RiverLink Ferry offers scenic trips across the Delaware River, connecting Philadelphia's Penn's Landing with the Camden Waterfront in New Jersey.
Amtrak
Philadelphia's 30th Street Station is a major Amtrak hub, providing rail service to destinations throughout the region and across the country.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as a first time visitor
1
Philadelphia is known as the 'City of Brotherly Love'.
2
The city is the largest in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous U.S. city.
3
Philadelphia has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.
4
The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 85°F (29°C).
5
Winter (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below 32°F (0°C), and snowfall is common.
6
The city is known for its rich history and played a crucial role in the American Revolution.
7
Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of cultures, which is reflected in its food, music, and festivals.
8
The city is famous for its cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies.
9
Public transportation is widely available and includes buses, trolleys, and the subway.
10
Philadelphia is a walkable city with many neighborhoods to explore on foot.
11
Tipping is customary in Philadelphia, with 15-20% being the standard for restaurants.
12
Sales tax in Philadelphia is 8%, which is higher than the Pennsylvania state sales tax of 6%.
13
Philadelphia is home to several professional sports teams including the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Phillies (MLB), and Philadelphia 76ers (NBA).
14
The city has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and music venues.
15
Philadelphia is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University.
16
The city has a strong commitment to green initiatives and has many parks and green spaces.
17
Philadelphia is located near other major cities, including New York City and Washington D.C., making it a good base for exploring the East Coast.
18
The city has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
19
Philadelphia is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), and observes daylight saving time.
20
The city is served by Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which offers flights to destinations around the world.
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or Jacket
Pajamas
Swimwear (if your hotel has a pool)
Accessories (hat, sunglasses, etc.)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Travel documents and essentials
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Maps and guidebooks
Public transportation cards or passes
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Power bank
Travel adapter (if coming from a different country)
Laptop and charger (if needed)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks and water bottle
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Umbrella or raincoat
Reusable shopping bag
Laundry bag
Weather Conditions
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year, so it's important to plan your visit accordingly. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Philadelphia, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). However, it can be quite rainy, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 85°F (29°C). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Fall (September to November) is another lovely time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). The city is particularly beautiful as the leaves change color. However, similar to spring, it can be a bit rainy, so pack accordingly. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to around 25°F (-4°C) and occasionally snowfall. If you're planning to visit during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for the weather conditions. Enjoy your visit to the City of Brotherly Love!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 6° / -4° | January is the coldest month in Philadelphia, with snowfall common, so pack warm clothing. |
February | 7° / -3° | February is still quite cold with occasional snow, but the days start to get a bit longer. |
March | 12° / 1° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise, but still expect some chilly days. |
April | 18° / 6° | April is a pleasant month with more sunshine and warmer temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. |
May | 24° / 11° | May brings beautiful spring weather, with plenty of sunny days and mild temperatures. |
June | 29° / 16° | June marks the beginning of summer, with long, warm days and plenty of outdoor events. |
July | 31° / 19° | July is the hottest month in Philadelphia, so be prepared for high temperatures and humidity. |
August | 30° / 18° | August is still quite hot, but you can cool off at one of the city's many pools or parks. |
September | 26° / 14° | September sees the start of fall, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. |
October | 19° / 8° | October is a great time to visit for comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall colors. |
November | 13° / 3° | November is a bit colder, but still a good time to visit for Thanksgiving celebrations. |
December | 8° / -1° | December is chilly with shorter days, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays. |
Did you know?
Places near by Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Longwood Gardens
One of the world's great horticultural displays, Longwood Gardens consists of 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
The site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army. The park commemorates the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation.
Princeton University
A private Ivy League research university with a picturesque campus that is worth exploring.
Atlantic City
Known for its casinos, boardwalk, and beaches. It is also the home to the Miss America pageant.
Gettysburg National Military Park
The site of the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the Civil War. The park protects and interprets the landscape of the 1863 battle.
Hershey Park
A family theme park situated in Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States, about 15 miles east of Harrisburg, and 95 miles west of Philadelphia.
Amish Country
Experience the Amish lifestyle and culture. Enjoy beautiful farmland views, visit an Amish farm or shop for handmade goods.
New York City
The most populous city in the United States, known for its status as a financial, cultural, transportation, and manufacturing center, and for its history as a gateway for immigration to the United States.
Baltimore
Famous for its Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and its historic neighborhoods.
Washington D.C.
The capital of the United States and home to iconic landmarks and monuments like the U.S. Capitol, White House, and National Mall.
