Things to Do
Hot Air Balloon Philadelphia: Aerial Adventures Over the City
Dreaming of a unique way to see Philadelphia and its breathtaking countryside? Hot air ballooning offers a serene and panoramic adventure that takes you high above the city and its scenic surroundings. One-hour flights like those offered in Bucks County give you a chance to glimpse expansive forests, horse ranches, and even parts of the iconic Philadelphia skyline.
The National Museum of American Jewish History: Exploring Heritage and Culture
The National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia is a place where visitors can discover the rich and diverse history of Jews in America. Located on Independence Mall, this museum offers a unique opportunity to explore artifacts, documents, and interactive media displays that tell the stories of American Jews. Key exhibits include Albert Einstein's pipe, Irving Berlin’s piano, and Steven Spielberg’s first camera.
The Academy of Natural Sciences: Pioneering Scientific Discoveries
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University in Philadelphia is the oldest natural science research institution and museum in the Americas. A visit to the Academy offers a fascinating journey through natural history, showcasing over 18 million specimens and archival works. Located across from Logan Square on the Ben Franklin Parkway, this institution has been dedicated to biodiversity and environmental science for over two centuries.
The Museum of the American Revolution: Discover America’s Founding Moments
The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia offers a unique glimpse into the early days of American history. This captivating museum tells the story of the American Revolution with a rich collection of artifacts, immersive galleries, and interactive exhibits. Visitors will find compelling stories about the diverse people and events that shaped America's fight for independence.
Independence Hall: Birthplace of American Democracy
Independence Hall, a storied structure in the heart of Philadelphia, holds a monumental place in United States history. It was within these walls that pivotal moments in the nation's founding occurred, including the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution by America's Founding Fathers. The hall, completed in 1753, originally served as the Pennsylvania State House but evolved into much more, eventually becoming a symbol of liberty and governance that helped shape the burgeoning nation.
Museums of Philadelphia: A Guide to the City’s Cultural Treasures
Philadelphia stands as a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural repositories that mirror its significance in the American narrative. A tour through the city's museums is an excursion into a world of art, science, history, and more. Each institution offers a unique narrative, with collections that span the gamut from classical masterpieces to contemporary works, historical artifacts to technological wonders.
Liberty Bell Center: A Symbol of American Independence Explained
The Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia is home to an enduring symbol of American independence: the Liberty Bell. This iconic symbol has a storied history beginning in the 18th century. The bell, originally cast in 1752, played a key role in American history as it called citizens to the reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776. Since then, it has become an international emblem of freedom.
Exploring the Cultural Gem: The Barnes Foundation
Nestled amidst the vibrant cultural landscape of Philadelphia's Parkway Museums District, the Barnes Foundation stands as a beacon of artistic excellence. Located on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, this renowned institution showcases the visionary collection of Dr. Albert C. Barnes, offering visitors an unparalleled immersion into the world of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modernist art. As you step through its doors, prepare to embark on a journey through time and space, where each brushstroke and sculpture tells a story of creativity and innovation.
The Grandeur of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia's Benjamin Franklin Parkway is an unmistakable grand boulevard and cultural centerpiece of the city. Its mile-long expanse stretches from the heart of downtown at City Hall all the way to the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art at its northwestern end. This iconic urban thoroughfare is a masterpiece of urban design and planning from the City Beautiful movement era.
Illuminating Philadelphia’s Historic Gem: Exploring Boathouse Row
Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia's charming Fairmount Park neighborhood lies the iconic Boathouse Row, a testament to the city's rich history and enduring love affair with rowing. Stretching gracefully along the water's edge, this historic landmark comprises a series of meticulously preserved boathouses, each steeped in its own unique heritage and architectural splendor.