48 Hours: Philadelphia

If you want culture and history, you don’t get much more historically significant than Philadelphia. Pennsylvania’s largest city is home to 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and had a brief stint as our nation’s capital. Let’s walk through what you could enjoy during a two-day getaway.

Getting there       

RDU provides daily non-stop service to Philadelphia. You have multiple carriers to choose from, with the latest route from Frontier Airlines. You can also get there via American and Delta. In just under two hours, you’ll be wheels down in the City of Brotherly Love.

Attractions

Sunset over Philadelphia
Philadelphia skyline and Ben Franklin Bridge at sunset

Philly has many iconic symbols of American History, but the Liberty Bell has been depicted in countless pictures, artistic renderings and films. It once rang in the tower to call lawmakers to meetings and bring townsfolk together.

Recognizable by its large crack, the bell sits in Liberty Bell Center, overlooking another famous symbol of America’s freedom—Independence Hall. Visits are free and open to the public.

The Delaware River Waterfront has amazing views of the iconic Benjamin Franklin Bridge, as well as loads of fun for everyone from lone travelers to families.

Stop by Spruce Street Harbor Park, opening during the warmer months, or go to the Waterfront’s RiverRink when it’s chilly and enjoy an Olympic-sized ice skating rink surrounded by cozy fireplaces, food, games and more.

Art is big in Philadelphia. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art for more than 200 galleries covering 2,000 years of art. Collections feature notables like Picasso and Dali, and also Mei Ling Hom, one of the talented artists whose work is featured in our own Terminal 2.

After a day of exploring the city, step up to newfound heights in the One Liberty Observation Deck, located in the center of downtown. Go up 57 floors and take all of it in—Philadelphia, the suburbs and beyond. There are interactive exhibits, historical highlights–and when you’re done, Liberty Place has shopping at over 40 stores.

Dining Out

If you’re looking for good food, Reading Terminal Market has its fair share with over 100 merchants and food stands. Filled to the brim with fare inspired from both local favorites and far-flung locales, everyone is sure to find something that fits their tastes. Of course, feel free to enjoy Philly’s own contribution to American cuisine: The cheesesteak.

What else do you enjoy in Philadelphia? Tell us in the comments below!