0333 121 7001
Enquire Now
0333 121 7001
Enquire NowCreated for you
Create your own
Multi destination
Hotels
Our customers love us!
Philadelphia is one of those cities that doesn’t shout for attention — it simply earns it. Historic without feeling stuffy, cultural without being pretentious and proudly local in all the best ways, Philly rewards travellers who slow down and dig a little deeper. Whether you’re drawn by revolutionary history, world-class sports, iconic movie moments or its perfectly placed spot on the U.S. East Coast, this is a city that connects stories — and destinations — beautifully.
Below, we explore why Philadelphia continues to be one of America’s most compelling cities to visit, especially as landmark anniversaries and global events shine an even brighter spotlight on it.
Philadelphia History & the 250th Anniversary Celebrations
Few cities can genuinely claim to have shaped a nation — and Philadelphia does so without exaggeration. As the birthplace of American democracy, this is where the Declaration of Independence was debated and signed and where the U.S. Constitution took shape inside Independence Hall. Just steps away, the Liberty Bell remains one of the most powerful symbols of freedom in the world.
With the United States celebrating its 250th anniversary, Philadelphia sits right at the heart of the commemorations. Expect restored landmarks, special exhibitions, re-enactments and city-wide events that bring the revolutionary era vividly to life. Walking through Old City during this milestone year feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into the opening chapters of America’s story.
For travellers keen to place Philadelphia within a broader historical journey, it fits seamlessly into longer explorations of the region. Our Pennsylvania: The Birthplace of America fly drive itinerary is designed for exactly that — connecting western Pennsylvania, battlefield towns, countryside charm and historic cities before culminating right here in Philadelphia. It’s a natural way to experience how America’s early identity unfolded across landscapes, not just landmarks.
Things to See & Do in and Around Philadelphia
Philadelphia rewards curiosity. One moment you’re standing beneath priceless artworks at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the next you’re sprinting up its steps channelling your inner Rocky Balboa. (Optional victory pose encouraged.)
Food lovers should make a beeline for Reading Terminal Market, a buzzing indoor market where Pennsylvania Dutch classics, cheesesteaks and international flavours compete for attention — often all on the same plate. History fans can wander the cobbled streets of Old City, while culture seekers can dive into neighbourhood galleries, live music venues and independent theatres.
Beyond the city centre, Philadelphia’s surrounding countryside offers rolling farmland, charming towns and scenic drives — perfect for travellers who enjoy balancing urban exploration with quieter moments. The city is also compact and walkable, making it ideal for short stays that still feel full and rewarding.
If you’re planning a focused visit, our Philadelphia City Break is a great way to experience the highlights without rushing. It keeps the itinerary flexible, allowing time to absorb the city’s character — because Philadelphia isn’t a place to tick off, it’s one to get to know.
Lincoln Financial Field & the 2026 World Cup
Philadelphia’s sporting passion is legendary — intense, loyal and proudly loud. That energy will be on full display in 2026 when Lincoln Financial Field plays host to multiple matches during the FIFA World Cup. Home to the Philadelphia Eagles, the stadium is already one of the most electric venues in the U.S., and the World Cup will elevate it to a truly global stage.
For visitors, this means more than just football. The city buzzes with international fans, pop-up events, live screenings and street celebrations that spill far beyond the stadium. It’s the perfect excuse to combine sport with sightseeing — morning history tours followed by evening matchday atmospheres.
Philadelphia’s East Coast location also makes it a natural stop on larger American journeys during the tournament. Travellers often pair it with cities like New York, Washington D.C. or even cross-country adventures.
That’s where itineraries such as The Great American Crossing come into play, linking East Coast icons with iconic landscapes all the way to the West. Even if the World Cup is your main draw, Philadelphia quickly proves it’s far more than just a match location — it’s one of the tournament’s most culturally rich host cities.
Philadelphia’s Entertainment Legends & Pop Culture Icons
Philadelphia has a habit of producing stars — and then celebrating them loudly. From chart-topping music to Hollywood blockbusters and sporting legends, the city’s cultural influence stretches far beyond its borders.
Music lovers can trace roots and legacies linked to Patti LaBelle, whose powerhouse vocals helped define Philadelphia soul, while film fans will recognise the city as the hometown of Will Smith and Kevin Bacon. Sports history is woven just as deeply into the city’s identity, with the late Kobe Bryant forever linked to Philadelphia as the place where his story began.
And then there’s Rocky. Though fictional, Rocky Balboa might be Philadelphia’s most famous ambassador. His statue and film locations are now pilgrimage sites — proof that storytelling can shape a city’s image just as powerfully as history.
Philadelphia fits perfectly into broader cultural journeys through the Northeast, which is why escorted tours like Patriot Trails include it alongside other heavyweight cities. Here, entertainment isn’t a sideshow — it’s part of the city’s DNA.
Tax-Free Shopping in Philadelphia
Shopping in Philadelphia comes with a pleasant surprise for visitors — no sales tax on clothing and shoes. That means everything from designer brands to everyday finds is instantly better value than in many other U.S. cities. For travellers who enjoy mixing sightseeing with a little retail therapy, it’s a genuine perk.
Downtown areas like Walnut Street and Rittenhouse Row combine high-end boutiques with familiar American brands, while just outside the city sits King of Prussia Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the United States. It’s a destination in its own right, offering everything from luxury labels to outlet bargains — all with that tax-free advantage.
Even casual shoppers tend to leave Philadelphia with fuller suitcases than planned. Add in friendly service, walkable districts and plenty of cafés for mid-shop refuelling and retail becomes part of the travel experience rather than a detour.
Philadelphia’s Location & Why It’s Perfect for Multi-Centre Travel
Geographically, Philadelphia is perfectly positioned. Sitting between New York City and Washington D.C., it’s one of the easiest East Coast cities to combine with others — whether by rail, road or air. High-speed trains connect it effortlessly to neighbouring cities, while major highways make fly-drive routes smooth and scenic.
This central location makes Philadelphia ideal for travellers who want variety without constant packing and unpacking. You can experience revolutionary history one day, political landmarks the next and world-famous museums or Broadway shows shortly after — all within a single holiday.
Rail journeys in particular shine here. Philadelphia’s historic stations and efficient connections make it a natural stop on routes linking New England with the Mid-Atlantic states. That’s why itineraries like East Coast City Icons by Rail work so well, using Philadelphia as a cultural bridge between Boston, New York City and Washington D.C.
For travellers planning a larger U.S. adventure, Philadelphia isn’t just a stopover — it’s a connector city that enriches the entire journey.
Why Philadelphia Deserves a Place on Your Travel List
Philadelphia doesn’t try to be flashy — it doesn’t need to. Its appeal lies in depth, character and connection. From shaping a nation’s beginnings to hosting global sporting events, from legendary entertainers to tax-free shopping and effortless travel links, this is a city that fits seamlessly into almost any American itinerary.
Whether you’re visiting for history, culture, sport or simply because it sits perfectly between everywhere else you want to go, Philadelphia consistently delivers more than expected. It’s a city that welcomes curiosity — and rewards it generously.
If you’re planning your next U.S. adventure, Philadelphia isn’t just worth visiting. It’s worth building a journey around.
