Philadelphia is one of the most important cities in the United States. It was founded in 1682, and it served as the nation’s capital during the Revolutionary period. Philadelphia is also where the United States Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were signed. From the Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, the streets are full of important historic landmarks to discover that tell the story of the US. Beyond this, though, Philadelphia is known for its unique museums, ever-growing food scene, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Spending one day in Philadelphia isn’t nearly enough time to see everything, but it will allow you to see its highlights and get a feel for the city.

Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, sampling authentic Philly cheesesteaks, or strolling through picturesque districts like the Old City, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a trip to Philadelphia. I’d recommend spending at least two days here if you can, but if not, spending one day in Philadelphia is still worth doing. We stopped here on our way from New York City down to Richmond, Virginia, and it turned into an incredible day. 

Getting to Philadelphia

If you’re travelling along the East Coast, Philadelphia is one of the easiest cities to reach. Philadelphia International Airport is located approximately 11 km from the downtown area, and you can access it directly via train to the city centre. The historic William H. Grey III 30th Street Station is a big hub for Amtrak services, with frequent trains connecting the city to Washington, DC, Boston, New York City, and more. This means you can easily spend one day in Philadelphia, even if you’re based in another city.

Alternatively, there are plenty of long-distance buses connecting Philadelphia to the rest of the US, with companies like Greyhound and FlixBus offering regular routes to and from other cities. You may want to drive to Philadelphia instead. While having a car to get to Philadelphia may be more convenient, the city has a very compact downtown, and it’s easy to get around using public transportation. I’d recommend finding somewhere cheap to park for the day and exploring Philadelphia on foot. 

Best things to do in one day in Philadelphia

Independence Hall

Spending one day in Philadelphia means you’ll have to pack a lot into your schedule. Independence Hall is a great place to start since it’s one of the most important historic buildings in the United States. The building was completed in 1753, and it was here that delegates from the 13 colonies met during the American Revolution. After much debating, they eventually approved the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The same building was later used to host the Constitutional Convention, where the United States Constitution was signed.

To enter Independence Hall, visitors need to reserve a timed entry ticket online. This will grant you access to the Assembly Room and other historic spaces where figures such as Benjamin Franklin and George Washington helped shape the United States. Guided tours of Independence Hall provide insight into the Revolutionary era, and you can examine nearby exhibits, too. If you can’t get a ticket, you can still walk around the park surrounding the building and get a nice view of the complex or join a guided history tour.

Next to Independence Hall are other important attractions in Philadelphia, such as Congress Hall and Old City Hall. These are all located within the Independence National Historical Park and are key stops to make while spending one day in Philadelphia. 

Old City Hall

Sitting next to Independence Hall is Old City Hall. This is one of the most overlooked attractions in Philadelphia, and it’s free to enter. It was built at the end of the 18th century and served as the City Hall when Philadelphia was temporarily the capital of the United States. During this time, it was home to the United States Supreme Court, meaning it was one of the earliest centres of the federal government.

Old City Hall is easily accessed without a ticket, and there’s a small souvenir shop inside that’s worth taking a look at. The building helps tell the story of Philadelphia’s role as the country’s capital city before it was moved to Washington, DC. Since it’s surrounded by other attractions, it’s very easy to add to any Philadelphia itinerary.

Walk through the President’s House

Before visiting the Liberty Bell, don’t forget to walk through the President’s House. This open-air memorial was once the site of a mansion, used by President George Washington and John Adams while they were in Philadelphia. The site also tells the story of African slaves who lived and worked here.

Today, visitors can walk among the remains of the President’s House and read exhibits about early United States history. This is another interesting free attraction in Philadelphia to visit, and it’s one that’s very thought-provoking, too.

Learn about the Liberty Bell

You can’t spend one day in Philadelphia without seeing the Liberty Bell. It’s one of the most important symbols in American history, associated with freedom and independence. The famous crack that goes through the bell is instantly recognizable, and visitors can see it up close for free.

The Liberty Bell is located inside the Liberty Bell Center. No ticket is required to enter the building, but you will need to pass through security screening at the entrance. The museum explores the evolution of the bell from a civic object to a national symbol through various exhibits. Visiting the Liberty Bell is one of the top things to do in Philadelphia, so make sure it’s added to your itinerary.

Washington Square

Located a short walk from Independence Hall is Washington Square, one of the city’s original five public squares designed in the 17th century. This park has seen a lot of history, especially during the Revolutionary War, when parts of it were used as burial grounds for soldiers. Today, you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier as you walk through Washington Square. For visitors spending one day in Philadelphia and exploring the city on foot, this is a nice area to relax in the shade before continuing with your schedule.

Grab a souvenir from Philadelphia Independents

If you’re looking for a souvenir that’s locally made, I’d recommend stopping at Philadelphia Independents. This shop is located in the Old City and showcases products created by designers, makers, and artists in the Philadelphia area. You’ll find everything from home decor to unique gifts and clothing with Philadelphia landmarks on them. This is a great place to come for travellers who like to bring something distinctive home, rather than the standard keychain or fridge magnet. 

Museum of the American Revolution

Spending only one day in Philadelphia won’t be enough time to enjoy every museum in the city, but you may be able to add a couple to your list. Out of all of the museums in Philadelphia, the Museum of the American Revolution is a big highlight. It uses personal stories, immersive exhibits, and multimedia presentations to explain how America became independent from Britain. The museum also looks at the experiences of ordinary people during this era, rather than only political leaders.

There are a lot of great artifacts inside the Museum of the American Revolution. One not to be missed is the original field headquarters tent of George Washington, which really brings the Revolutionary era to life.

Visit Carpenters’ Hall

One of my favourite places to visit in Philadelphia is Carpenter’s Hall. It’s tucked away down a cobblestone street in the Old City and dates back to 1774 when it was constructed as a meeting hall for the Carpenters’ Company of Philadelphia. This underrated historic site also served as the meeting place for the First Continental Congress, which laid the groundwork for the revolutionary movement.

Carpenter’s Hall is free to enter without a ticket, and it’s much less crowded than other attractions in the area. Inside, visitors can view exhibits that explain the important roles of the building in the past. The courtyard that leads up to the entrance is ideal for photos, too.

Christ Church Burial Ground

Anyone planning to spend one day in Philadelphia who’s interested in history should make time to visit Christ Church Burial Ground. It was established in 1719 and is one of the most famous cemeteries in the US. More than 1,400 colonial and revolutionary figures are buried here, including Benjamin Franklin. The burial ground offers an interesting glimpse into 18th-century Philadelphia, and it lets you connect with those who shaped the nation’s history.

There’s a small entry fee to walk around Christ Church Burial Ground. However, the grave of Benjamin Franklin sits next to the fence, so you can easily see it without needing to pay a penny. Next to the cemetery is where you’ll find the United States Mint, which is free to go in.

Explore Philadelphia’s Old City

Beyond the main tourist attractions in Philadelphia, take some time to walk around the Old City. It’s often referred to as “America’s most historic square mile”, since it’s home to landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Carpenters’ Hall. As you make your way through the Old City, you’ll come across historic cobblestone streets, such as Elfreth’s Alley, historic taverns, and colonial architecture.

The Old City is very walkable, so you don’t need to rush between attractions to see everything during one day in Philadelphia. If it’s your first time visiting the city, this neighbourhood provides the best introduction to Philadelphia. 

Try some local coffee shops

In recent years, the coffee scene in Philadelphia has grown significantly. You’ll now find independent coffee shops occupying historic buildings in all types of neighbourhoods, so there are plenty of options available. What’s great about visiting local coffee shops is that a lot of them focus on small-batch roasting and creative drinks, so the quality is typically better than that of coffee chains.

During our one day in Philadelphia, we stopped at Madis Coffee Roasters and Elixir Coffee Roasters. Both of these are excellent choices, even if you want something other than a latte. I’d recommend researching coffee shops in Philadelphia before you arrive in the city if you’re concerned about choosing the wrong one. 

Christ Church

Christ Church was founded in 1695 and has close connections with America’s founding generation. When it was completed in 1744, it was one of the tallest structures in the British colonies. During the Revolutionary era, figures such as Betsy Ross, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson would worship here. If the church doors are open during your day trip to Philadelphia, take a look inside, where you can see beautiful stained-glass windows and learn more about the historic roles it’s had over the centuries. 

Betsy Ross House

The Betsy Ross House is another popular attraction to see while spending one day in Philadelphia. This small, 18th-century home is where Betsy Ross lived and worked, and it was here that she sewed the first American flag. There’s still some debate among historians regarding the real facts of this story, but that doesn’t make the Betsy Ross House any less interesting. 

Visitors wanting to tour inside the house will find it beautifully restored, featuring colonial-era furnishings and exhibits about the life of Betsy Ross. You may also come across costumed interpreters walking around the grounds sharing stories of daily life in colonial Philadelphia. Even if you don’t want to go inside, it’s worth visiting to take a photo of its exterior.

Admire the street art

Philadelphia may be known for its colonial history, but it’s also home to one of the most impressive displays of street art in the country. There are thousands of murals to admire, some of which date back to the 1980s.

The Mural Arts Philadelphia program was established to combat graffiti while making neighbourhoods more appealing. One of the easiest ways to experience the best murals is to go on a Philadelphia street art tour where you’ll learn more about the artists and what the murals stand for. You’ll no doubt come across several murals during your one day in Philadelphia anyway, even if you don’t plan to take a guided walking tour. 

Run up the Rocky Steps

Movie buffs can’t miss the chance to run up the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Rocky Steps became famous after Sylvester Stallone ran up them while portraying Rocky Balboa in the iconic 1976 film Rocky. Since then, visitors have been recreating the movie scene on the steps, making it one of the top things to do in Philadelphia. Once you get to the top, you’ll find a statue of Rocky as well as a stunning view of the city. Sunset is a great time to visit, with perfect lighting and fewer crowds. 

Even if you haven’t seen the film, walking or running up the Rocky steps is a very unique activity in Philadelphia that combines culture, exercise, and amazing views.

Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site

Did you know Edgar Allen Poe has ties to Philadelphia? The famous American author lived in the city from 1838 to 1844, which is considered to be some of his most productive years. The Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site is open to visitors throughout the year, and inside you’ll find perfectly preserved rooms and exhibits that discuss his literary achievements, connections to Philadelphia, and his personal life.

This unique attraction is located a short bus or taxi ride from the Old City, but it’s worth adding to your list of things to do during one day in Philadelphia. It also offers a nice change of pace from the Revolutionary landmarks that dominate the city.

Go shopping for flags

It should come as no surprise that one of the best places in the US to shop for flags is Philadelphia. The city’s role in the birth of the United States means there are plenty of opportunities to find patriotic souvenirs, especially around the Old City. If you’re on the hunt for high-quality, authentic flags, make sure you stop by Humphrys Flag Company. This store has a huge selection of handmade flags, from colonial-era reproductions to today’s American flag. Coincidentally, Humphrys Flag Company is located right across the road from the Betsy Ross House.

Stroll down South Street

If you have time to spare during your one day in Philadelphia, don’t forget to take a stroll down South Street. This is where you’ll find a completely different side to the city, with independent businesses, restaurants, and colourful storefronts lining the street. It’s long been one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Philadelphia, and historically, it served as a crossroads where different communities lived and worked. There are a lot of quirky shops along South Street to enjoy, and this area is also where you’ll find some incredible street art.

Where to eat in Philadelphia

Jim’s South St.

Spending one day in Philadelphia can only mean one thing – eating a Philly cheesesteak. One of the most iconic places to try it is Jim’s South St. This locally run restaurant has been serving classic cheesesteaks since 1976, so you should expect a line out the door on weekends. We visited midday during the week and didn’t have to wait very long. 

Inside, the ordering process is fast and efficient, and you can watch the cooks freshly chop the steak on the grill before assembling everything. You can even upgrade your Philly cheesesteak with some additional toppings, like grilled mushrooms and onions. Eating at Jim’s South St. is one experience in Philadelphia you won’t want to miss.

Levain Bakery

Having been to Levain Bakery a few times in New York City, I was very excited to see one of their stores in Philadelphia. They’ve brought the same signature cookies from Manhattan to Philly, and it’s definitely worth stopping at. Their cookies are thick, warm, and full of melted goodness in the centre. I will say that the cookies are very large, almost cake-like, so you may want to share one if you’re not feeling too hungry. It’s the perfect place for a sweet treat after all the walking you’re going to do during one day in Philadelphia.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

Sosuite at Independence Lofts – Callowhill

Even though we only spent one day in Philadelphia, we decided to stay overnight before picking up our rental car from the train station the next morning. Visitors looking for a spacious and stylish place to stay in Philadelphia should check out Sosuite at Independence Lofts – Callowhill, located north of the city centre. From here, you’ll have easy access to many of the main attractions in Philadelphia.

The apartments are housed within a beautifully restored former industrial warehouse. You can still see remnants of the building’s past in the rooms, which is a nice touch. I really liked the exposed brick walls and factory-style windows that let in a lot of light throughout the day. 

If you’re only spending one day in Philadelphia, you should treat yourself to the penthouse suite, which is ideal for couples, families, or friends travelling in a small group. The suite features two bedrooms, a modern bathroom with a washing machine and dryer, and an open-plan living area combined with a kitchen and dining space. The kitchen is very useful for longer stays, since it gives you an alternative to dining out. You’ll also find that the penthouse suite features a balcony where you can enjoy the city views.

Looking beyond the apartments at Sosuite at Independence Lofts – Callowhill, guests have access to a gym as well as paid luggage storage if you arrive before check-in or are departing after check-out. This was very useful for us since we arrived several hours before we were due to check in. Combined with its spacious suites and central location, Sosuite at Independence Lofts – Callowhill is the perfect choice for an overnight stay in Philadelphia. 

Is spending one day in Philadelphia worth it?

So, is spending one day in Philadelphia worth it? I’d say so! You could very easily spend several days exploring the city, but one day is enough to see most of the main highlights. If you find yourself with extra time, attractions such as the National Constitution Centre, Reading Terminal Market, and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge offer even more chances to discover Philadelphia’s culture and history. This is one city you don’t want to miss, and even a single day will leave a lasting impression. 

If you have any questions about things to do in Philadelphia, where to eat in Philadelphia, or where to stay, feel free to reach out. You can get in touch via email or through the contact form. Don’t forget to follow my adventures on Instagram and TikTok, which is where you’ll find more up-to-date travel information and tips. 

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