Center City Philadelphia blends America's founding history with contemporary urban energy. Stroll from glass skyscrapers to cobblestone streets, where Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell showcase the nation's birth. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway houses world-class museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, while Reading Terminal Market offers a feast of local flavors.
From Chinatown's authentic eateries to Rittenhouse Square's upscale dining, food options abound for every taste. Getting around is a breeze with multiple metro stations and a walkable grid layout. Hotels range from historic inns to modern high-rises, all positioned perfectly for exploring this cultural heart of Philadelphia.
Rittenhouse Square dazzles with its perfect mix of urban luxury and leafy serenity. The historic park offers a peaceful retreat where you can people-watch, picnic, or catch an outdoor concert amid towering trees and bronze sculptures. Walnut Street and Rittenhouse Row deliver high-end shopping thrills, while the Kimmel Center and Academy of Music serve up cultural delights just steps away.
Fine dining dominates the neighborhood with stylish sidewalk cafés and upscale restaurants perfect for lingering meals. Getting around is a breeze with three metro stations and tree-lined streets ideal for leisurely strolls. Accommodations lean luxurious with elegant brownstones and boutique hotels reflecting the area's refined character.
Old City invites you to wander cobblestone streets where America's history comes alive at every turn. The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall stand proudly alongside the Museum of the American Revolution, where interactive exhibits bring the past into focus. Elfreth's Alley charms visitors with its preserved 18th-century homes, while art galleries and theaters add cultural depth to this historic district.
After exploring, dive into the neighborhood's dining scene where historic taverns serve colonial-inspired dishes next to modern gastropubs. Catch the metro at 2nd St. or 5th St. Station to explore more of Philadelphia, though most attractions are within easy walking distance.
University City buzzes with collegiate energy, where ivy-covered Gothic buildings house Penn Museum's ancient artifacts and modern structures showcase contemporary art at ICA. Tree-lined Locust Walk flows with students between classes while historic College Hall's brick facade towers proudly. Explore Franklin Field or find peace in the scenic paths of Woodlands Cemetery.
SEPTA trains and subway lines connect you to Center City in just 15 minutes. Student-friendly eateries along 40th Street serve affordable meals, while bike-share stations make getting around a breeze. Most attractions sit within a 10-minute walk, perfect for travelers seeking authentic campus vibes without rental car hassles.
Fairmount pairs Philadelphia's cultural treasures with peaceful tree-lined streets. Art lovers can spend days exploring the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art with its famous "Rocky Steps" and the haunting Eastern State Penitentiary. The grand Benjamin Franklin Parkway hosts world-class museums while Schuylkill River trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts.
Local cafes and upscale bistros line Fairmount Avenue, perfect for post-museum refueling. Visitors can choose from charming bed and breakfasts in historic row houses or small boutique inns. Three convenient tram stops make getting around the city a breeze.
Pennsylvania Convention Center is worth a pic or two when discovering Center City. Let yourself be amazed at the museums and art galleries in the area too.
Walk around the campus of University of Pennsylvania, a top college in Philadelphia. Experience the acclaimed art scene and great live music in this vibrant area.
Catch an event at Citizens Bank Park during your trip to Philadelphia. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed art scene in this vibrant area.
Philadelphia Museum of Art is a popular museum in Philadelphia with a rich history. Experience the fascinating museums or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.
Explore the birthplace of American democracy at Independence Hall and the iconic Liberty Bell. Sample cheesesteaks at rival Pat's and Geno's before running up the 'Rocky Steps' at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
It IS the ONLY place to get a Philly cheesesteak. If you're buying a cheesesteak anywhere else in the world, and they're calling it a Philly cheesesteak, they're lying to you. It just isn't the same. Go to Philly for a real Philly cheesesteak!
Anonymous traveler
10.0/10
Excellent
If you're an American histoy buff, you need to visit Philly. It will take you a week to go through everything in a relaxed manner. Sporting events such as basketball and hockey are relatively cheap. Ppl are down to earth. Tax free clothes shopping!
Daljit
10.0/10
Excellent
Came here with stories like be careful in Philly, it's dangerous, don't stay out at night etc. the reality couldn't have been further from it. I've never felt more safe and welcome. The city is amazing, the food is amazing, the people are lovely.
Matthew
8.0/10
Good
So many things to do and see. Center City had so many museums, things to do and see, great energy. Old town was just as fascinating in a much different way with historical sights. Arrive at Independence Hall early and get in free until 10:30 a.m.
Anonymous traveler
10.0/10
Excellent
The city is very easy to navigate. It offers top tier entertainment and sports, with easy and direct access. It has always held reverence in our family's experiences as the birthplace of our country's founding. The awesomeness is intrinsic.
Jane
8.0/10
Good
The historic district has endless potential for exploration, and the area near the convention center is bustling with shopping and dining. Transportation was delayed during my trip due to union negotiations, but we got where we needed to go!
Victoria
10.0/10
Excellent
Can't believe it took this long to visit Philadelphia! What a wonderful city! Everyone was so friendly, the streets are unbelievably clean and there is so much to do. We took the City Sightseeing bus and loved it. Can't wait to return!
Jennifer
8.0/10
Good
The city offers a rich history and they have done a great job in preserving buildings and monuments. Center city area felt very safe while walking about. When driving, there was always constant honking of horns so that was a bit annoying.
Francisco
10.0/10
Excellent
Love Philadelphia!! Such a wonderful city! There's sports, arts, food, music, public transit, walkability, shopping, and some really nice folks. We get to Philadelphia a few times a year and find something new a delightful each visit.
Jennifer
8.0/10
Good
The Phillies lost to the Braves, but we had to run the Art Museum steps for Rocky. And the kids love the Franklin Institute. Advise get advance tickets to Independence Hall. Last time ages ago, you could walk right in. NO MORE.
"Spent the first night of our trip at another hotel about a 3-4 minute walk away. We decided to book this hotel for our second night and it was fantastic. Room was extremely clean, beautiful big bathroom, bed was comfortable, AC was working well. Would definitely stay again. "
Club Quarters Hotel Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia
10/10 Excellent
"Location, location, location— CQ is in the heart of it all, walkable from Rittenhouse Square, City Hall, and even the Art Museum. Tons of great restaurants and cafes in the area. Lots and lots of shopping too, including the Liberty Shoppes mall across the street. Room itself was quite small (typical of city hotels) but clean with a comfy bed and a good shower. Reception desk on the 2nd floor and elevators/doors that require keycards so we felt extra safe. The staff was nice and helpful, especially re: storing our luggage. The only two downsides: 1. Parking is very difficult in this area (we used SpotHero to find an affordable indoor parking garage spot, but it was a good 17 minute walk away): 2. CQs no longer offer comp late-checkouts or grace periods…. Instead they charge $50 for this. Boo! Still, overall, this was a great find at a good price. Recommend! "
"Everything was great except for the room service . We requested a few items and never got them. Front desk staff would say 15 mins and then not send anything even after making second attempts ."
If you want the flexibility to change your plans to Philadelphia, most accommodations provide refundable* bookable rates. You can see these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.
Where can I stay in Philadelphia if I want a vacation home instead of a traditional hotel?
If you're looking for a good alternative to a hotel, look over our selection of 459 vacation homes. In addition, there are 1394 apartments and 53 condos.
What will the weather in Philadelphia be like during my vacation?
The warmest months in Philadelphia are usually July and August with an average temp of 74°F. January and February are the chilliest months when the average temp is 38°F. The rainiest months are August and December.
Why should I book my Philadelphia accommodation with Hotels.com?
There are plenty of reasons to book your Philadelphia travel with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you the flexibility you're looking for, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.
Find out more about Philadelphia
Find out more about Philadelphia
Philadelphia is also notable for its museums. Plan a fun excursion to Citizens Bank Park and Wells Fargo Center. Pennsylvania Convention Center and Philadelphia Museum of Art are other popular sights to visit.
