Top Rated Attractions in Philadelphia

Gothic and neoclassical influences dominate the features of City Hall. The statue of William Penn that resides atop City Hall's clock tower remains a Philadelphia skyline marker—until the 1980s there was a "gentleman's agreement" that no Philadelphia building would be built higher than the rim of Penn's hat. City Hall provides a majestic backdrop for shoppers and businesspersons alike as it is situated on the intersection of the city's two main arteries, Broad and Market Streets. The tour of the City Hall lasts for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Located in Center City Philadelphia, the Dilworth Park is a 120,557 square foot (11,200 square meter) area public park with lush a green lawn, trees and an interactive fountain which converts into a skating rink in the winter. Favorite among kids and adults alike, this park is the perfect place to seek time in solitude while enjoying being surrounded by greenery and listening to the sounds of excitement in the voices of the kids playing nearby. Scattered throughout the park are areas with works of art on display and laws that are designated picnic areas, while certain tree grove areas have selected tree species conducive to the city. The park also doubles up as a rental space for art festivals, weddings and exhibitions.

As the largest fully-functioning pipe organ in the world, the Wanamaker Organ has serenaded visitors to the Wanamaker Building with special concerts since 1911. Although ownership of the building has since changed over to Macy's, the organ can still be viewed and heard in all its splendor. The Wanamaker Organ is played at least twice daily Monday through Saturday, so be sure to stop by and hear it in person.

Philadelphia's history is deeply entwined with America's revolutionary period, the home to luminary Benjamin Franklin and the site of significant civic development for the then-fledgeling nation. The land changed hands repeatedly, first inhabited by the Lenape tribe before being seized by Dutch, Swedish and Finnish settlers. After several periods of conflict between these north European states, the territory was conquered by England. Philadelphia was instrumental to the early days of America's independence, an epoch-making past manifested in historic landmarks like the Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Notable resident Benjamin Franklin also made his mark on the civic landscape of America, founding the town's fire department and the colonies' first hospital. While Philadelphia's historic beginnings are undeniably significant, the city, which lies at the confluence of the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, is also celebrated for its innate charm. One may find it in the urbane magic of Rittenhouse Square, in the gastronomical high that comes from biting into an authentic Philly Cheese Steak, or on the quiet cobbled streets of its leafy Old City. A historic city with a modern heart, Philadelphia is for those who want to connect with the landscape of America's revolution.

A dozen of international and domestic Tall Ships sail at the waterfront of Delaware River. This venue can be visited using a pass that provides access to the festival grounds, on board ship tours and unlimited activities in both Philadelphia and Camden. During the festival time, this waterfront is packed with loads of entertainment including dance, music, demonstrations, sail training and display of wide variety of crafty items.

The Union League of Philadelphia originated back in 1862 in order to promote Abraham Lincoln's policies. Today, the exquisitely architecrured historical building stands tall in the heart of Philadelphia's busiest commercial district. The league has been involved with a number of philanthropic activities through the Youth Work Foundation and other such organizations. In the one-quarter million square feet of space that the building has, it encompasses 14 banquet and event rooms with excellent audio visual facilities and catering services. The space is used for everything from award ceremonies and fashion shows to corporate meetings and trade fairs.