We found so many free things to do in Philadelphia that your big family’s vacation budget will sigh in relief. Now don’t tell the kiddos but many of these activities and points of interest are educational. Philadelphia’s rich history will make any trip not only fun but a great way to learn about US history.
Carpenters’ Hall – In 1774, delegates from 12 colonies (Georgia abstained), gathered at Carpenters’ Hall and voted to support a trade embargo against England, one of the first unified acts of defiance against the King.
Congress Hall & Old City Hall – Constructed in 1787 – 1789 as the Philadelphia County Court House, this building served as the meeting place of the U. S. Congress from 1790 – 1800. George Washington (his second) and John Adams had their presidential inaugurations here. National Park ranger led programs are provided.
Elfreth’s Alley – one of our nation’s oldest residential streets, dating back to 1702.
Franklin Court – site of Benjamin Franklin’s brick home while he served in the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention and up to his death. While the original house was torn down, today the site has a steel “ghost structure” outlining the spot where the house stood.
Franklin Square – one of five open public parks planed by William Penn. Centered around its beautiful fountain, Franklin Square also features the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, a miniature golf course, and the renowned SquareBurger restaurant.
Independence Hall – Birthplace of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge – The refuge is managed to protect and enhance the largest remaining freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania and other key habitats.
Take a family pic under the Love Statue
Mario Lanza Institute Museum – A glimpse at the life of America’s opera and movie icon
Philadelphia Museum of Art – First Sunday of the month and every Wednesday after 5:00 p.m. pay what you wish
Philadelphia Public Art self tour
Self guided mural tour – Explore the Mural Mile, 17 of Center City’s most iconic murals arranged along a walking route through downtown Philadelphia.
Smith Memorial playground and playhouse
Spraygrounds – in the hot summer months, hit one of Philadelphia’s six spraygrounds to let the kids cool off and play
Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial – Visit the house where wounded Polish freedom fighter Thaddeus Kosciuszko lived and hear how this brilliant military engineer designed successful fortifications during the American Revolution.
The Chemical Heritage Foundation – learn how chemistry impacts our everyday life.
The Polish American Cultural Center
The Schuylkill Center – 400 acres of woods, streams, ponds and fields and four miles of hiking trails.
Tour the United States Mint