Planning notes for Philadelphia

Philadelphia contains a concentration of historical sites within Independence National Historical Park. Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, exhibits Georgian architecture and was constructed between 1732 and 1748. The Liberty Bell, commissioned in 1751 by the Pennsylvania Provincial Assembly, was recast locally in 1753 by John Pass and John Stow.

Must-try foods nearby

• Cheesesteak
  The most iconic food in Philadelphia, consisting of thinly sliced ribeye steak, or sometimes top round, cooked on a griddle and served on a long, crusty Italian roll.
• Roast Pork Sandwich
  Often cited by locals as the 'true' signature sandwich of Philadelphia, this Italian-American specialty rivals the cheesesteak in reputation.
• Hoagie
  The Philadelphia name for what is known elsewhere as a submarine sandwich, grinder, or hero.
• Philly Soft Pretzel
  A dense, chewy, and slightly salty soft pretzel, a staple of Southeast Pennsylvania street food.
• Water Ice (Wooder Ice)
  A frozen dessert that is a local summertime institution, often pronounced 'wooder ice.

When to go: The best times to visit Philadelphia are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).

Local tips

• Rely on the highly walkable City Center and public transit like SEPTA, as driving and finding parking are often difficult and costly.
• Always call the restaurant immediately if you are running late or need to cancel, as no-call/no-shows are considered very poor dining etiquette.
• Protect your valuables by being aware of your surroundings and keeping items like phones and wallets secured in zipped inside pockets, especially in crowded tourist areas.

What travelers are noticing

• America's 250th Anniversary (Semiquincentennial), a year-long citywide celebration that includes the expanded Wawa Welcome America festival and the '52 Weeks of Firsts' neighborhood programming.
• Hosting six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at Lincoln Financial Field, including a Round of 16 match on the Fourth of July.
• The opening of Calder Gardens, a new art-and-landscape destination on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway dedicated to the works of American sculptor Alexander Calder.

Extra place context

• Reading Terminal Market
  An essential Philadelphia food experience and one of the largest and oldest indoor food markets in the United States, dating back to 1893.
  food
• South 9th Street Italian Market Festival
  The annual, free-to-attend street festival that celebrates the nation's oldest continuously operating outdoor market, spanning seven city blocks along 9th Street between Fitzwater and Wharton streets.