Whether you're just in town for the day or you've decided to spend an extra day or two in the city, we hope you get a chance to explore Philly. Here are a few of our top recommendations for things to do and see while you're here!
Near the Warwick Hotel
Rittenhouse Square Park
A short block away from the Warwick is Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square Park. The family-friendly park remains one of the most lovely and peaceful spots in the city, and is home to several of the city’s best-loved outdoor sculptures. On Saturday, check out the Rittenhouse Farmer's Market from 10am-2pm!
ONE LIBERTY OBSERVATION DECK
Less than a 10 minute walk from the Warwick, One Liberty Observation Deck provides Philadelphia with panoramic bird’s-eye views of the city from the 57th floor of One Liberty Place in downtown Philadelphia. The observatory allows visitors the chance to have 360-degree views of the cityscape, interact with innovative technology, and check out Philly-centric art installations.
PHILLY CHEESESTEAK
If you know us at all (and isn't that why you're here?!), you'll know we're really not the best people to ask about cheesesteaks! That said, we've heard great things about the cheesesteak at the nearby Cleaver's Philly, only a few blocks away from the Warwick Hotel! But, if you're up for the trip, go for the quintessential South Philly cheesesteak experience at Pat's King of Steaks.
Some Classic Tourist Attractions & Local Favorites
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is a historic covered public market that sells a variety of farm-fresh produce, meat and seafood, freshly baked goods and groceries, artisan cheese, honey and beer, arts and crafts, books and clothing.
PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART (AKA "THE ROCKY STEPS")
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest and most renowned museums in the country with a collection of over 227,000 objects and items. Also, home of the infamous “Rocky Steps!”
INDEPENDENCE HALL
Independence Hall is the birthplace of America. It is where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed. Tours require timed entry tickets, which can be purchased in advance for a small fee (recommended) or same-day at the Independence Visitor Center (but they do sell out quickly!).
LOVE PARK
Take a photo in front of Philadelphia's iconic LOVE statue at the recently renovated LOVE Park!
The FRANKLIN FOUNTAIN - ICE Cream!
Get ice cream at The Franklin Fountain (or candy and chocolates at the nearby Shane Confectionary)! The old-fashioned ice cream parlor’s homemade sweet treats include awesome, over-the-top sundaes with names that pay homage to the neighborhood’s historical significance, including the Franklin Mint and the Lightening Rod.
SPRUCE STREET HARBOR PARK
Spruce Street Harbor Park is an urban beach located in Penn's Landing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Open only during the summer, it features features a boardwalk along the Delaware River with a beachfront atmosphere.
THE MAGIC GARDENS
Right along Philadelphia's famous South Street, Philadelphia's Magic Gardens glistens with creativity, urban renaissance, and a hint of madness. Isaiah Zagar, a local artist who began tiling South Street in the 1960s and never stopped, constructed the space out of cement, bicycle spokes, bottles, ceramic shards and other artistic knick-knacks.
For more ideas, check out this list of The 10 Most Essential Things to Do on Your First Visit to Philly!
Kid & Family-Friendly Spots
PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM
For all our tiny human friends and relatives, check out the Please Touch Museum! The Please Touch Museum provides families with children under the age of seven with a variety of interactive and fun-filled experiences to encourage learning through play. The Museum offers an array of educational programs, including exhibits and displays, theater and art, music and movement, carousels and collections.
FRANKLIN INSTITUTE
Founded in honor of America’s first scientist, Benjamin Franklin, The Franklin Institute is one of America’s oldest and premier centers of science education. The museum is known for blockbuster exhibits, a bevy of interactive ongoing exhibitions, and one-of-a-kind theatrical experiences. Today, the Institute continues its dedication to public education and creating a passion for science by offering new and exciting access to science and technology in ways that would dazzle and delight its namesake.
Also check out Visit Philadelphia's lists:
Top Things to Do with Kids in Philadelphia
Top Things to Do with Kids in Philadelphia’s Historic District