Top Rated Attractions in Philadelphia

One of the city's most unique parks and outdoor spaces, Race Street Pier stands close to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, jutting out into the Delaware River. Manicured lawns cover one part of the pier, while a beautiful raised promenade occupies the rest of the space. From joggers in the morning to picnicking families and tourists looking for some calm by the river, the park sees a lot of visitors throughout the day, and is an excellent bet for people-watching. Panoramic vistas of the city make it a favorite hangout for photographers. Check website for more.

In the 19th century, the Academy was the American equivalent of the best European art schools. A host of genres and mediums from the most prominent names in American art are constantly on display, with new pieces rotating their way into the collection. Some of America's best artists either taught or were students here, including Thomas Eakins and Mary Cassatt. The building itself is a work of art designed by Frank Furness, an influential 19th-century American architect.

This 92-acre public garden is populated with rare, exotic and large trees presented in four different environments: The English Park, Rose Garden, Swan Pond and Japanese Garden all offer a multitude of species and phylum of plants specific to each area. The generally Victorian tone of the gardens radiates a sense of romance and natural splendor. University of Pennsylvania students conduct botanical experiments and studies that are also on display.

This little hollow across from City Hall is most noteworthy for Robert Indiana's 1978 "Love" sculpture. The piece has become a popular symbol for the "City of Brotherly Love" and its image is plastered all over the city. It's 20-foot-tall appeal lies in its simplicity: The letters L, O, V, E, stacked on top of each other. During a usual lunch hour the park attracts an odd combination of Armani clad businesspeople and skateboarders who skinny-dip their modes of transport in this concrete pond. They're actually fun to watch.

Enjoy the beauty and art of horticulture at the pleasure garden, Chanticleer Garden. A 35-acre (14-hectare) public botanical garden that dates back to the early 20th Century, this landscape has artistry in full bloom. It is a breathtaking spread of flora, trees and lawns that have been planted to perfection. The garden's gate has been created with carved stone roosters, better known as chanticleers in French, from where it gets its name. It is open from April to October. The house and grounds were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

Offering one of the most unique experiences in Philadelphia, the Spirit of Philadelphia welcomes a wide demographic of well-dressed patrons. Cruising along the Delaware River, the beautiful ship features state-of-the-art, modern amenities such as LED lights, plasma TVs, climate-controlled decks and great acoustics. The cruise ship can accommodate up to 500 people at a time, and is often used as an entertainment venue. Along with some of the most panoramic views that the Quaker City has to offer, The Spirit of Philadelphia remains available for private celebrations and business events. Needless to say, with it's unique situation, scrumptious culinary offerings, great service and advanced technological systems, this magnificent vessel ensures the success of any event - whether it is a wedding or a corporate meeting.