7 Day Philadelphia Trip Itinerary

Planning a 7 day Philadelphia Trip Itinerary, Pennsylvania? Known as the “City of Brotherly Love,” Philly is bustling with things to explore! Here is how to make the most of your time:

Philadelphia is a big city with tons to do! With seven days to explore you will have plenty of time to experience all the sights and attractions this vibrant city has to offer. From historical landmarks to delicious food, here is how to plan your trip for maximum fun and adventure!

Philadelphia has a lot of cool stuff to see so if you only have one day there you need to plan carefully. But with some preparation you can still see the best of Philadelphia in just one day. Let’s find out how!

Here is a handy guide to the top activities in Philadelphia for a single day, along with some helpful tips for your trip. We have included a map marking all the must visit spots as well as a sample itinerary to assist you in planning your time effectively. Check it out!

The great thing is that lots of the famous sights in Philadelphia are really close together. This means you can easily visit them all in 7 days.

When is the Perfect Time to Visit Philadelphia?

Philadelphia offers something exciting to explore year round but the best time to visit is during the spring or fall. During these seasons you will enjoy mild temperatures, lower humidity and fewer crowds which makes it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions.

From March to May the city blooms with beautiful cherry flowers and hotel rates are more affordable. While fall and winter are colder they also offer cheaper accommodation options though you will need to prepare for possible snowstorms. Summer is peak tourist season with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities but it also means larger crowds at popular attractions like Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Zoo.

For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in the spring or fall to enjoy pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds at major landmarks. Spring is particularly lovely for kayaking along the Delaware River at Penn’s Landing. While winter in Philadelphia can be magical with snow and ice skating exploring the city is more enjoyable in warmer weather.

However, winter travelers can still enjoy special events like the Thanksgiving Day Parade and the festive Christmas market. Regardless of the season, Philadelphia promises a memorable experience filled with history, culture and excitement.

How to Get Around Philadelphia?

• On Foot: The city is small downtown makes it easy to explore attractions on foot especially in areas like Old City and Rittenhouse Square.

• Biking: Rent a bike from Fairmount Bicycles or use the Indego bike share program for short trips within the city or longer rides along the Schuylkill River Bike Path.

• Public Transport: Use SEPTA buses, subways and trolleys to navigate the city. Purchase tickets at subway stations or select stores downtown. Consider buying a one day Independence Pass for $13 or using the purple PHLASH buses for downtown loop service at $2 per ride.

• Car: While driving, be prepared for parking challenges in Philly’s downtown. Consider renting a car for trips outside the city but be prepared for driving frustrations like one way streets and expensive parking.

• Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Taxi are available but can be pricey. Consider using taxi services like Uber or Lyft for convenient travel within the city.

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Where to Stay in Philadelphia?

Some recommendations for where to stay in Philadelphia:

• City Center and Old City: Stay in these central areas for easy access to attractions and a range of accommodation options to fit different budgets.

• Best Hostel: Consider Apple Hostels for budget friendly accommodation just steps away from the Liberty Bell with facilities like free WiFi, communal spaces and a kitchen.

• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Try La Reserve Bed and Breakfast in Rittenhouse Square for historic charm and luxury on a smaller budget with a cozy parlor and close to attractions like the Parkway and Love Park.

• Best Luxury Hotel: For a luxurious visit, stay at the Four Seasons Hotel in the Comcast Center which features Michelin-star dining, a spa, an infinity pool and luxurious rooms for a memorable stay.

Some Other Places to Stay:

Benjamin Franklin Parkway: It is a quiet area with green spaces and museums.

Hotels in Benjamin Franklin Parkway: 

• Premium: Embassy Suites Philadelphia – Center City
• Mid-range: Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown
• Low-cost: The Windsor Suites Philadelphia
• Rittenhouse Square: A neighborhood with luxury shopping and dining.

Hotels in Rittenhouse Square: 

• Premium: Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
• Mid-range: Club Quarters Hotel in Philadelphia
• Low-cost: Sonesta Philadelphia Downtown Rittenhouse Square
• South Philly: Artistic vibe, Italian Market and Magic Gardens.

Hotels in South Philly: 

• Premium: Modern Design / High-End 1BD Loft
• Mid-range: Sonder – The Queen
• Low-cost: Philadelphia Hotel Bella Vista
• University City: It is located near universities and is good for nightlife.

Hotels in University City:

• Premium: The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel
• Mid-range: Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
• Low-cost: The Study Hotel at University City
• Fishtown: It is a trendy area with vibrant nightlife and artistic scene.

Hotels in Fishtown:

• Premium: Mulherin’s Sons Hotel
• Mid-range: Lokal Hotel Fishtown
• Low-cost: Stylish 4 Bedroom House with Jacuzzi
• Philadelphia International Airport: It is convenient for early flights or events at the sports complex.

Hotels in Philadelphia International Airport:

• Premium: DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Airport
• Mid-range: Extended Stay America – Philadelphia – Airport – Tinicum Blvd.
• Low-cost: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport

Some Top Restaurants in Philadelphia

• The Rittenhouse Hotel: It is a prestigious hotel located downtown.
• The Ritz-Carlton: It is one of the most spectacular hotels in Philadelphia.
• Club Quarters Hotel in Philadelphia: One of the most beautiful hotels in the city.
• Wyndham Philadelphia: It is a historic district and one of the stylish hotels located in the heart of the city.
• Kim’s Restaurant: In this restaurant, you can enjoy exceptional Korean barbecue with charcoal grills for an authentic experience. Don’t miss the perfectly cooked lamb chops & galbi beef, served with fresh banchan.
• Down North Pizza: It serves great Detroit-style square pies and spicy chicken wings while promoting fair wages for formerly imprisoned workers.
• Cantina La Martina: Here you can enjoy Mexican cuisine in Kensington which features generously poured margaritas, baked branzino, cabrito, and a variety of taco options.
• Middle Child Clubhouse: It is famous for its creative sandwiches and imaginative cocktails.
• Jim’s West: Here you can enjoy well-portioned cheesesteaks made with juicy chopped rib-eye and memorable seasoning, under new Black ownership in West Philly.
• Vernick Fish: It is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant where you can treat yourself to a splurge-y date night and it is known for its delicious seafood dishes.
• Jezabel’s: This charming cafe located in West Philadelphia serves Argentinian delights such as medialunas, alfajores, and empanadas.
• Pod: A Japanese cuisine that serves sushi and innovative specialties like Japanese Fried Chicken.
• Restaurant Aleksandar: This Rittenhouse treasure serves imaginative European food, with a colorful tasting menu that includes scallop paella and lacquered duck breast.
• My Loup: It is a dazzling Rittenhouse restaurant where you can indulge in modern French cuisine and is known for its ever-changing menu and fine dining experience.

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How to Spend Your 7 Days in Philadelphia?

Day 1:

You can start your Philadelphia weekend at Independence Hall, which is the birthplace of America, and at this place, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. 

Then, visit the Liberty Bell, which is a symbol of freedom, and is located nearby. Here you can explore the Presidential Home of George Washington and John Adams, which showcases Washington’s history with slavery. 

Next, you can continue your journey to Christ Church and Benjamin Franklin’s grave, where tradition involves leaving pennies. Near to it make a tour of the Betsy Ross House, which is known for the legend of the first US flag. Here you can capture photos at Elfreth’s Alley, a historic landmark, and look into the American Revolution at the Museum of the American Revolution. 

Finally, visit the B. Free Franklin Post Office, which offers a unique postal experience tied to Benjamin Franklin’s history.

Day 2:

Start your day 2 with a visit to Longwood Gardens, which is a historic botanical garden in Kennett Square, PA. It was saved from timber cutting in 1906 by philanthropist Pierre S. duPont, and this garden includes centuries old trees and stunning landscapes. You can explore the various settings and events, including dazzling fountains, concerts & fine dining options. Spend 1-2 hours enjoying the unparalleled beauty in the Brandywine Valley.

In the afternoon, explore the Old City with a guided horse-drawn carriage tour, by passing by historic landmarks like Independence National Historic Park and the Betsy Ross House. Afterward, walk along Penn’s Landing waterfront, where you can enjoy concerts, and festivals, and even rent kayaks or SUPs.

In the evening, you can consider booking a stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. It is located in the city’s tallest tower, and this luxurious hotel offers excellent facilities, including restaurants by renowned chefs Jean-Georges Vongerichten & Greg Vernick.

Additionally, it has a 57th floor spa and an indoor infinity pool. By staying here, you can love yourself in one of the world’s best luxury hotel experiences right in the heart of Philadelphia.

Day 3:

On Day 3 in Philadelphia, you can start your morning at the iconic City Hall by enjoying its impressive architecture and climbing to the top for panoramic views of the city. Then feed yourself at Reading Terminal Market which is an exciting food hall that offers a wide range of culinary delights. 

Afterward, head to Love Park for a picnic or to snap a selfie with the famous Love sculpture before embarking on a walk down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

In the afternoon, you can visit the cultural institutions along the Parkway such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art which is houses of a large collection of famous artworks. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Magic Gardens for an immersive experience of street art and creativity.

As evening falls, explore the lively nightlife scene. Choose between Old City, where historic pubs and bars await or South Philly which is known for its unique mix of eateries & drinking spots. Whether you opt for a classic pub experience or a basement bar with arcade games, you are sure to find a memorable night out in the city.

Day 4:

Start your day 4 in Philadelphia by visiting the One Liberty Observation Deck, which offers beautiful 360 degree views of the city and suburbs from its 57th floor. You can explore the day and night views and use interactive touchscreens to zoom in on landmarks. Other nearby attractions like Love Sculpture Park and City Hall are within a 10 minute walk. 

In the afternoon, head to Battleship New Jersey across the Delaware River in Camden. Here you can tour the historic USS New Jersey, which was served in several wars, and enjoy activities like the 4D flight simulator.

 In the evening, stay at The Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia for a luxurious experience. Here you can enjoy amenities like spa treatments, an indoor pool and two on site restaurants. Buffet breakfasts and 24 hour room service are available for a comfortable stay.

Day 5:

On Day 5 morning, immerse yourself in history at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania. Here you can explore artifacts from ancient civilizations like Babylon, Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China, including mummies and sculptures. Don’t miss the unique displays like the Chinese Han Dynasty unicorns. Spend 1-2 hours enjoying these archaeological treasures.

In the afternoon, visit Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, which is a modern art garden filled with colorful sculptures and murals. Wander through this lively space for 1-2 hours, and enjoy its creative beauty.

For the evening, consider staying at The Ritz-Carlton which is located at the heart of the Avenue of the Arts. This historic hotel, housed in the landmark Girard Trust Company Bank Rotunda and Tower, offers a blend of past and present elegance. You can relax and refresh in luxurious surroundings after your day of exploration.

Day 6:

On Day 6 morning, consider a visit to the historic Philadelphia Zoo. It is the oldest zoo in the United States and was established during the Civil War. With over 1,300 animals, including many endangered species, it offers an enriching experience for both children and adults. 

Don’t miss the children’s playground and exciting activities like riding a helium balloon for a beautiful view of Philadelphia. The entry fee is $23, and the zoo is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. It’s a perfect family-friendly destination for a couple of hours of fun.

In the afternoon, cross the Delaware River to Camden, New Jersey, for the Adventure Aquarium. It is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays, and this aquarium promises a great marine life experience. 

Here you can explore diverse marine life, including birds, hippos, sea lions, and penguins, housed in impressive exhibits. Highlights include the 760,000-gallon tank, which is one of the largest in the country, and you can enjoy engaging activities like touching sea stars and horseshoe crabs. The entry fee is $25.95, and this aquarium is an ideal destination for a two-hour adventure filled with excitement and wonder.

Day 7:

On the last day of your exploration, you can visit Fairmount which is located in Philly’s Art Museum Area, and offers a unique vibe distinct from the rest of Philadelphia. 

You can start your day with a walk down the cobblestone streets that are surrounded by old-time bookstores like the Book Corner and unique monuments. 

Don’t miss the Eastern State Penitentiary, which is a National Historic Landmark that showcases America’s criminal history. Later, it has been transformed into a museum and provides highlights about the past. 

In the afternoon, you can indulge in a culinary adventure with a local food tour, sampling iconic Philly cheesesteaks and other delights. Moreover, you can learn about the city’s food culture while exploring hidden places.

 End your evening on the South Street, while enjoying diverse cuisines and lively nightlife from cozy bars to live music venues. 

Some Tips to Follow Before Visiting the City?

• City Pass: Consider getting a City Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions. It offers discounts of up to 45% on Philadelphia’s most popular sights.

• Follow Safety Precautions: Be mindful of crime and homelessness in the city. So keep your belongings secure by keeping valuables out of sight, especially electronic devices. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night for added safety.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Philadelphia offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy over a 7 day itinerary. From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in culinary delights, this city is a must visit for creating lasting memories. With careful planning and these suggested activities, you are sure to have a memorable and fulfilling trip to Philadelphia.

FAQs About 7 Day in Philadelphia Trip Itinerary