Philadelphia
Philadelphia has long been one of America's most treasured cities. It has witnessed some of the country's pivotal moments. Loving preservation has ensured such moments can still be felt and appreciated by today's visitors. Philadelphia's most prized object of all is the Liberty Bell. In 1776, this rang out across the city in celebration of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. The bell, complete with famous crack, can now be admired for free at the Liberty Bell Center.
Another crucial chapter in the history of the USA—the drafting of the Constitution—is brought to life through engaging interactive exhibits at the National Constitution Center. Philadelphia can hold its head high for being at the forefront of the abolition of slavery. Learn more about this at the African American Museum. Another attraction brimming with social history is the Eastern State Penitentiary. Walk its eerie corridors, and see the cell where a certain Al Capone was once incarcerated.
Philadelphia is a city which understands families, and one of its most visited attractions is the Please Touch Museum, a hands-on experience that will entertain young ones for hours. Philadelphia Zoo is the oldest in the country, and is home to animal species that are no longer living in the wild. After visiting the zoo, explore the evolution of nature at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Fresh air and picturesque scenery are in abundance, both at the Morris Arboretum, and at Fairmount Park, a sweeping area of greenery that's ideal for walks, biking and picnicking. This is also where you'll find the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its renowned collections of European, Asian and local American works.
Great food is always nearby in Philadelphia. Grab a pizza or famous Philly cheese-steak at one of its two historical foodie institutions, the Italian Market or Reading Terminal Market. At the latter you can also pick up homemade art and crafts—perfect souvenirs!
Philadelphia is an easy city to get around. Affordable Phlash buses travel between most attractions. Many of the historical attractions, including the Liberty Bell Center and National Constitution Center, are in the heart of the city and within walking distance of one another. Though the weather can be unpredictable, there is no bad time to visit. Many attractions are indoors, and even the major parks provide rainy day options.