Known as the City of Brotherly Lovе, Philadelphia is a pedestrian-friendly city, with most sights within a couple kilometers of City Hall and on pleasant, tree-lined streets. The city boasts a rich blend of architecture, ranging from Colonial to Victorian to Bauhaus а sometimes within the same block.
Getting there
Located just eight kilometres southwest of the city, Philadelphia International Airport receives international services from Europe, Canada and connections from Asia, as well as many internal US flights. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation System (SEPTA) runs rail lines from the airport into the city every 30 minutes. Philadelphia is on Amtrak’s northeast corridor route with services from New York City, Washington, Boston and Richmond. Greyhound has bus services from New York City and Washington, DC, among other cities. No shortage of national travel deals can be found here.
Philadelphia is easily accessible by car rental via a series of interstate highways. The main north-south highway of the eastern seaboard, I-95 passes the south and east sides of the city, while the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276) runs along the northern edge.
Key attractions
Independence National Historic Park, promoted locally as America’s most historic square milе is a good place to begin your tour of Philadelphia. Located in the area is Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were adopted. Across the green is the Liberty Bell Pavilion, constructed for the bicentennial. The Franklin Institute Science Museum and Futures Center is also worth visiting, as is the Afro-American Historical and Cultural Museum.
Out and about
Lying 32kms north of Philadelphia by car rental, the Valley Forge National Historic Park is one of the most famous historical sites in the nation; it commemorates the spot where thousands of soldiers died during the War of Independence.
Home to the Amish people, Pennsylvania Dutch Country is about 1 hour, 30 minutes west of the city by rental car in Philadelphia. Here, the residents retain their traditional way of life and farming methods. Alternatively, those interested in seeing the lovely countryside can visit the Delaware Water Gap, a national recreation area including parts of the famous Appalachian Trail. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking, camping and canoeing are on offer here.
Leisure options
This city is made for strolling and a leisurely walk around Elfreth’s Alley is interesting; it is believed to be America’s oldest residential street and features colonial-style houses dating back to 1728. Philadelphia has a good nightlife and the best bars in town now are in Rittenhouse Square, which is bustling by day as well. The stretch along the entire east side (18th street) is lit with heat lamps and candles, and youеll find plenty of places to eat and hang out.
Safety
Visitors should remain alert for potential dangers when travelling to an unfamiliar country. Driving a rental car to Philadelphia across great distances can make you tired and you should stop frequently to rest and share driving with others. Additionally, outdoor pursuits can put you at risk of accidents. While visiting Philadelphia, we strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for you and your family in addition to national travel deals.