Philadelphia Holidays

History, hoagies, and a whole lot of attitude – Philly’s where the USA got its start, and the vibes haven’t slowed down since. It’s cool, cultured, and full of flavour.

Highlights

• 🔔 Snap a selfie with the Liberty Bell – it’s cracked, iconic, and free to visit.

• 🧀 The cheesesteaks are legendary – just don’t ask for cutlery.

• 🎨 Street art and murals galore – over 4,000 and counting.

• 🏛️ Walkable, historic and super photogenic – cobbled streets meet buzzing bars.

Getting around

Philly’s a breeze to explore, especially on foot – the city centre is compact and charmingly walkable. The SEPTA public transport system covers buses, trolleys and trains, making it easy to zip between neighbourhoods. Prefer two wheels? Grab an Indego bike and cruise along the scenic Schuylkill River Trail. If you're heading further out (like to the airport or King of Prussia Mall), hop on a regional rail. And bonus – it's one of the few US cities where you really don’t need a car.

Things to do for families in Philadelphia

Philly makes history fun for kids (really). Start at the Please Touch Museum, where little ones can play to their hearts’ content, then head to The Franklin Institute – think giant heart sculptures, planetariums, and science experiments they can actually touch. Philadelphia Zoo is one of the oldest in the US and still a favourite, thanks to its Zoo360 animal trail system and hands-on experiences. For something outdoorsy, Spruce Street Harbor Park is a seasonal delight with hammocks, arcade games, and floating gardens. Oh, and a family photo on the “Rocky Steps” outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art? Non-negotiable.

Things to do for couples in Philadelphia

Couples, prepare to swoon. Start with a romantic wander through Old City, where candlelit wine bars and cobbled alleys set the mood. Get artsy together at the Barnes Foundation, then share a quiet moment in Shofuso Japanese House and Garden – it’s like stepping into another world. Feeling fancy? Book a sunset cruise on the Delaware River or catch a rooftop film at Cira Green. For date nights with a twist, try a ghost tour through Philly’s haunted past – equal parts spooky and snuggly. And if you want to keep it chill? Split a cheesesteak on a park bench – simple, classic, delicious.

Things to do for groups in Philadelphia

Philly’s made for group adventures, whether you’re rolling deep on a mate-cation or planning a celebration. Start your day with a mural tour – the city’s basically an open-air gallery – then head to Reading Terminal Market to feast on local eats from over 80 vendors. Up for a challenge? Try a themed escape room or get competitive with some duckpin bowling at Brooklyn Bowl (bonus: there's live music, too). Sports fans can catch a game – Phillies, Eagles, Sixers, Flyers... take your pick. And when the sun goes down, hit the rooftop bars in Fishtown or Center City, where the cocktails are strong and the views even better.

Things to do for foodies in Philadelphia

Philly = food heaven. Start strong with a classic cheesesteak – whether you’re Team Pat’s or Team Geno’s (or smarter, and head to Dalessandro’s), it’s a must. Then move on to the good stuff: soft pretzels, roast pork sandwiches, scrapple (don’t ask, just try), and hoagies the size of your head. Reading Terminal Market is the holy grail – Amish donuts, soul food, Pennsylvania Dutch treats and more, all under one roof. Feeling fancy? Book a table at Zahav for award-winning Israeli cuisine, or check out the city’s booming BYOB restaurant scene (great food, no corkage fees – winner). Finish with a scoop from Franklin Fountain, an old-school ice cream parlour with proper 1900s vibes.