Voted one of America’s most walkable cities, Philadelphia has many parks, museums, and attractions that showcase its rich history and vibrant culture. While some experiences may be expensive, there are many activities in the city that are accessible to everyone, allowing you to get a taste of Philadelphia’s eclectic atmosphere without spending a dime.
Free things to do in Philadelphia
![2 Best Free Things to Do in Philadelphia Historic Old Town of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Elfreth Alley is said to be the oldest residential street in the country, dating back to 1702.](https://wealthofgeeks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/shutterstock_276720770-scaled-e1702601692328.jpg)
Stroll through historic sites in Old Town, explore Philadelphia’s iconic museums with free or budget-friendly options, or simply enjoy a walk or bike ride, followed by a picnic in a secluded park. You can have fun. Travelers can choose from a variety of free activities. Philadelphia.
Pro tip: To get to Philadelphia’s top attractions on a budget, consider a day pass from Philly PHLASH. For just $5, you can hop on the shuttle as many times as you like during the day, with stops like Independence Mall and the Delaware River Waterfront. Single-day tickets and 2-day tickets are also available.
Free Activities in Philadelphia for History Lovers
Independence National Historical Park
starting from Independence Visitor Centercentrally located at 6th Avenue and Market Street. philadelphia historic mile, the area’s official welcome center and gateway to Independence National Historical Park. Enjoy other complimentary amenities, including local maps and brochures, historical films, cell phone charging stations, and Wi-Fi access.
Don’t miss Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Visitors can also tour Congress Hall, where George Washington was sworn in as the first president of the United States.
liberty bell
The Liberty Bell symbolizes our historical past; Liberty Bell Center. No tickets required. Access is available on a first-come, first-served basis from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. A stroll through the museum provides insight into the background and history of the famous bell, allowing visitors to see it up close with the beautiful backdrop of Independence Hall across the street.
presidential palace
Philadelphia was once the capital of the United States. Visit the Presidential Palace, home of America’s first White House from 1790 until 1800, and see the exhibit “Freedom and Slavery in the Formation of a New Nation.”
Carpenter’s Hall
Carpenter’s Hall was the site of the First Continental Congress in 1774 and served as a temporary field hospital during the Revolutionary War. Step back in time with a tour of this building.
Once Upon a Nation storytelling bench
The storyteller has 13 teak wood benches. Located on the grounds of Independence National Historical Park and elsewhere in Philadelphia’s historic district, these properties allow visitors to sit back and relax while listening to short stories packed with interesting historical insights into the surrounding area. Share for free.
Elfreth’s Alley
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Old Town’s lively streets lies Elfreth Alley, America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Enjoy beautifully preserved homes and walk the cobblestone streets to see what life was like for the early American settlers.
christchurch
In the heart of Old Town Philadelphia, you can stand in the same church where America’s Founding Fathers worshiped. Christ Church’s cemetery is located nearby at his Fifth Avenue and Arch Street. This is the resting place of one of the Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin. Admission to the burial grounds is $5 for adults and $2 for children. However, if you want to take a peek, you can catch a glimpse of Benjamin Franklin’s gravesite through the iron fence along Arch Street.
firefighter hall
Philadelphia is the birthplace of the first volunteer fire department, founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1736. Fireman’s Hall is a unique museum of firefighting and fire prevention tips just off Elfreth’s Trail.
Weizmann National Museum of American Jewish History
The Weizmann National Museum of American Jewish History is free to visit, but donations are encouraged. To commemorate your visit, take a selfie with the yellow YO/OY sculpture.
American Philosophical Association
The American Philosophical Society Museum is America’s oldest learned society, founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1743 with the purpose of “promoting useful knowledge.” You can view our collection of manuscripts, rare books, photographs, and more.
united states mint
Visit the U.S. Mint and take a free self-guided tour. You can view the foundry operations from 40 feet above the factory floor. His 45-minute tour requires no reservations and is open to the public Monday through Friday.
Mother Bethel AME Church
The site was founded in 1792 by Richard Allen. Oldest property owned by African Americans. There is a small museum on the lower floor, which also displays Richard Allen’s tomb and his 19th century artifacts. The archives contain the original copies of the Christian Recorder, a newspaper that began publication before the Civil War.
Edgar Allan Poe’s house
The Edgar Allan Poe Historic Site, located in the Northern Liberties District and managed by the National Park Service, is the only remaining home of the influential writer in Philadelphia and is home to some of his most iconic works, including It is believed that he wrote some of the works. Black cat. You can tour the mansion for free from Friday to Sunday from 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm.
Pro tip: Take a photo with the Edgar Allan Poe mural just across the street from the house.
Free outdoor activities in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s five original “squares”
Contains Philadelphia’s original city plan 5 public squares. Today, you can visit some of Philadelphia’s picturesque squares, including Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square, Franklin Square, and Logan Square. The fifth square houses the Town Hall in the city center. Walk to the City Hall courtyard to see a map of all five squares, then enjoy snacks and seasonal activities in the adjacent square. Dilworth Park.
LOVE Statue and LOVE Park
Be careful when taking selfies! go to love park Take a photo with Philadelphia’s popular LOVE statue. This park has a clear view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The recently redesigned LOVE Park has plenty of seating and frequent food trucks.
Fairmont Park
Bike or hike Fairmont Park’s more than 440 miles of recreational trails. An extensive park system provides endless opportunities to enjoy nature outdoors. The park is connected to the Schuylkill Banks and Boardwalk greenway. The Schuylkill Banks and Boardwalk is billed as one of the best riverfront walks in the nation and features a 600-foot-long path for walking, running, or biking, suspended above the Schuylkill River.
Bertram’s Garden
America’s first botanical garden, Bertram’s Garden, spans more than 45 acres along the Schuylkill River. This off-the-beaten-path gem includes trails, historic buildings, educational programs, and boat launches.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
At Spruce Street Harbor Park, relax in a hammock and enjoy the river breeze. Located on top of several barges, the park offers plenty of seating and space to relax, as well as food vendors. LED light installations glow beautifully at night along the Delaware River waterfront.
cherry street pier
Cherry Street Pier is a redeveloped 100-year-old municipal pier that hosts performances, pop-up shops, food stalls, and more year-round. The outdoor section at the east end of the pier is home to a garden pop-up dining experience. You can reserve a table online and enjoy food and drinks while taking in stunning views of the Delaware River.
race street pier
Just north of Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier is a multi-level recreational pier popular with runners and has a lawn perfect for a riverside picnic. Enjoy stunning views under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge as your boat sails along the Delaware River.
rail park
Visit Philadelphia’s newest green space in the Callow Hill neighborhood. Swing on a bench or walk the paths of The Rail Park, an unused railway line transformed into a beautiful public space. After your meal, head to nearby Chinatown for snacks and sweets.
sheila green
12 stories high and located above a parking garage in West Philadelphia. sheila green It is a park in the sky. The park hosts events such as movie nights and yoga classes during the warmer months. Or come with a group and enjoy local cuisine and cool cocktails.
Benjamin Franklin Bridge – Pedestrian Walkway
Watch the beautiful sunset along the river Benjamin Franklin Bridge Walkway. Enter at 5th & Race Street and head east for one of the city’s best views.
Free arts, food, and cultural activities in Philadelphia
Self-guided public art tour
Enjoy a self-guided tour Philadelphia’s premier public art collection Use digital maps provided by Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Association for Public Art. With over 4,000 of his murals and rare public works of art in every neighborhood of the city, these self-guided experiences are a great way to get to know Philadelphia’s walkable community.
Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rocky Steps
Follow in the footsteps of Rocky Balboa and climb the Rocky Steps on your morning jog. Philadelphia Museum of Art – And when it cools down, don’t forget to take a photo with the Rocky statue. The museum is offering a “pay what you like” offer on the first Sunday of each month and every Friday from 5pm to 8:45pm.
burns foundation
One of the best private collections in the United States. burns foundation Provides visitors with a comprehensive art viewing experience. Set up as specified by the owner (in a grouping he makes one piece complement another). The Barnes Foundation is a must-see (free tour included). Located next to the Rodin Museum on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Rodin Museum
Right next to the Barnes Foundation is the Rodin Museum and Gardens. You are free to explore the outdoor space. Rodin Museum You can pay as you wish, every day.
curtis conservatory
famous curtis conservatory offers free admission to our student recital series. Enjoy concerts by some of the world’s most talented young musicians in a historic and inspiring setting.curtis conservatory
philadelphia magic garden
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (PMG) is an immersive mixed-media art environment completely covered in mosaics. Author Isaiah His Zagar used handmade tiles, bottles, bicycle wheels, mirrors, and folk art from around the world to document his life and influences. PMG has Free walking tour in the neighborhood.Are you a member of your local Philadelphia library? Find out experience passcan be rented at some locations for free admission.
Leading Terminal Market
Leading Terminal Market It has been a public market since 1893 and is considered one of the best public markets in the country. At the Market, you’ll find a blend of Philadelphia’s people, history, and taste. The market has over 80 shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. Here are some vendors you’ll want to try during your visit.
Italian Market – South Street
Philadelphia’s Italian Market stretches along approximately 10 blocks of 9th Street in South Philadelphia and is one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in America. There are plenty of shops, bakeries and restaurants as well as an outdoor market.Visitors should stop by Italian Market Visitor Center and Gift Shop Chat with the administrator and receive a free lesson on the history of the market and surrounding area. No need to purchase.