People outside of Philly may not understand what goes on here, or why anyone would want to visit. But those people have no idea just how many cool things the city has to offer; and trust us, it's more than just a good cheesesteak.
Philadelphia is home to some of the most amazing and important historical sites, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the home of Edgar Allen Poe. A true history buff, or anyone who's interested in learning more about the history of our country would never pass up a visit here!
While Philly does have its share of pricey things to do, as it turns out, there're plenty of totally free things that are a lot of fun, and won't leave you broke! Things like salsa lessons, picnics in the park, walking art tours, and gallery visits are all on the list of affordable things for you to do!
If you've spent the first three months of 2018 hiding inside, binge-watching Netflix and eating an abundance of snacks, you now have no excuse not to get outside, embrace the warm spring weather, and try something new this month! We've made a list just for you to try and conquer all through April, whether you do it solo, or with a group of friends!
You may not be able to do it all, but crossing off even just a few of these fun things will make you feel totally fulfilled. Get ready to fall in love with Philly all over again!
@paj72630. Visit the Liberty Bell Centre
The Liberty Bell is a historic monument that you should visit at least once in your life. There's plenty of knowledge to be picked up here, as well as many great photo opportunities!
@patyy29. Take a tour of Independence Hall
Another historic spot in Philadelphia is Independence Hall. This is the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, as well as the U.S. Constitution. It's known as one of the country's greatest symbols of democracy!
@rocky_balboa128. Run up the Rocky Steps
If you've seen the "Rocky" movies, then you know all about the story behind these steps. It's basically tradition to run your way up them, Rocky style, pump your fists in the air when you reach the top, and then take in that gorgeous view.
@2pompous4you27. Get a photo with the LOVE Sculpture
This statue belongs on your IG feed, there's no denying it. On display in Love Park, there's no way you'll miss it! If you get a chance, be sure to check out the sister statue, AMOR, that's located not too far away.
@briennagable26. Hang out with friends in Spruce Street Harbour Park
This park is definitely not your average one! Spend the day strolling around, people-watching, or relaxing in a hammock with a good book! You'll definitely leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.
@amandagolfetto25. Take a break in Franklin Square
Franklin Square is full of fun things, most of which do cost a few dollars. But if you don't want to spend, this park is a great place to simply sit back and take a breather in the middle of your adventure around Philly.
@lindsayrapp24. Take a walk down Elfreth's Alley
Elfreth's Alley just so happens to be the nation's oldest continuously inhabited street. One walk down the street will take you back in time to the beauty of colonial Philadelphia. There's also a museum you can check out for just a few dollars!
@meliacevedo0423. Take a trip to the United States Mint
We all love money, but how many of us actually know how much hard work goes into making it? A trip to the Mint will fill you in on all kinds of fun facts and information!
@maurabrennan22. Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art
If you find regular museums boring, maybe you should check out the Institute of Contemporary Art, where the works are anything but lame. Andy Warhol was the first artist to cause real waves here, and since then, the exhibits have been taking the contemporary art world by storm.
@absolutelyhabitable21. Take a stroll through Bartram's Garden
If life is getting too hectic, maybe a stroll through Bartram's Garden is what you need to relax. This spot is where gardening took root in America, and tours of the 45-acres of beauty are available as well!
@jenny_presto20. Learn something new at the Science History Institute
If you were a science nerd in high school, you can relive those days as an adult at the Science History Institute! Exhibits are constantly rotating and will teach you about scientific successes and failures that have helped shape the modern world.
@liptonarts19. Pay a visit to the Fabric Workshop and Museum
Have a passion for fashion? The Fabric Workshop and Museum will give you all the knowledge you could ever want on textiles and fabrics! Admission is always free, and there are plenty of exhibits and educational programs for you to enjoy.
@dj_detwiler18. Take a tour of Yard's Brewing Company
If you love beer, you'll want to find yourself at Yard's Brewing Company on a Saturday! Every week they offer up free tours, so you can see the hard work that goes into making your favourite drinks.
@fountaine17. Check out the Philadelphia Museum of Art
On the first Sunday of the month, and every Wednesday night you can get into the Philadelphia Museum of Art, free of charge. The building that holds the museum is over 100 years old, and it holds over 240,000 pieces of art.
@ughwhaaat16. Browse Reading Terminal Market
A day at the market may tempt you to spend money, but if you can hold off, there's plenty of things you can enjoy there that are totally free! Reading Terminal Market has over 100 vendors offering basically everything you could ever dream of! It's a great place to interact with people and make friends.
@faustina_n15. Spend a day at the Barnes Foundation
Yet another free gallery for you to visit is the Barnes Foundation. The goal of this spot is to make art more accessible, so they open up free of charge on the first Sunday of each month!
@sassytiffy14. Keep an eye out for free concerts at the Kimmel Centre
The Kimmel Centre is a great place for free events, they almost always have some sort of free show going on, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled, and support local talent when you can!
@walkabout_1513. See how many cool photos you can take of Mural Mile
Everyone loves a good mural, and Mural Mile here in Philly is jam-packed full of some seriously cool ones. Pull out your camera and work on your photography skills while you snap away at this cool street art!
@_yomi.xo12. Feel like a kid again in the Philadelphia Magic Gardens
This outdoor museum is a truly magical place, made up of broken art glass, and poetry written on the walls. It's definitely not a conventional museum, and is a great place to stir up some creativity.
@ajthetrainerdavisprmedia11. Watch the sunset from Boathouse Row
If you need a romantic place to watch the sunset with a date, look no further! Boathouse Row has a very antique vibe to it, and while it's always gorgeous, it's particularly nice at dusk.
@phitcomedy10. Have some laughs with Philly Improv Theatre
Comedy shows can be expensive, but the gang at Philly Improv Theatre always puts on a good show, and it won't cost you anything! Let's be real, sometimes amateurs can be more funny than the pros.
@adeceve9. Explore the Schuylkill Trail
The city has a ton of trails to check out, but this one is considered one of the best. There's 26.5 miles of trail for you explore, no matter if you walk, jog, or bike! You'll pass plenty of amazing monuments on the way.
@mmmarthol8. Connect with nature at the Awbury Arboretum
This 55 acre garden is a super popular spot for weddings, but it's also a great place to relax and get in touch with nature. There's usually some sort of event going on here as well, including everything from outdoor yoga to films in the park.
@djrumbero7. Learn to salsa dance at Brasil's Nightclub
Every Friday and Saturday night at 9:30, you can head to Brasil's Nightclub to pick up some salsa dancing tips from the pros. There's no need for prior experience, just bring a good attitude and your dancing shoes!
@valdarrington6. Visit Edgar Allen Poe's House
Poe's works are known for being dark and dramatic, but that's why so many people love him. He lived in many houses during his time in Philly, but this is the only one still standing! If you're facing writers block, perhaps a visit to his place can cure you.
@alynncutler5. Visit the abandoned Mount Moriah Cemetery
If you think that regular cemeteries are creepy, Mount Moriah will definitely blow your mind. This cemetery has been abandoned for years, leaving only the ghosts to inhabit it. There is a project in the works to clean it up, but most of it has been slowly taken over by nature.
@kasonjakuk4. Watch a recital at the Curtis Institute of Music
You may want to go to your favourite artist's concert, but if you don't have the funds, you can always check out a free student recital at the Curtis Institute of Music! These people are very fun to watch, and super dedicated to their craft.
@eric_severe3. Have a picnic in Cira Green
Cira Green is another of Philadelphia's great parks, no matter how you want to spend the day! If you can't afford to eat out at a restaurant, pack a picnic lunch for you and a friend or significant other, and spend the day relaxing.
@matthewcourtneyart2. Visit the Ellen Phillips Samuel Memorial Sculpture Garden
Philly is known for its abundance of public art, and this garden just adds one more spot to your list! The 17 sculptures here showcase American life in different forms, and the garden itself is seriously beautiful.
@matt.higgins1. Take a tour of Congress Hall
Yet another historical building in Philly, Congress Hall is a great place to learn more about the history of our government. Two presidents have been inaugurated here, and many other events that helped shape our country have been held here.
