8 Must-See Sights in Philly - University of Valley Forge

8 Must-See Sights in Philly

8 Must-See Sights in Philly

If you ever consider exploring the city of Brotherly Love, here are 8 sights in and around Philadelphia you’ll want to see:

The Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps

  • The expansive collections of this landmark make it the third-largest art museum in the U.S. and a must-see for anyone exploring Philly. On the first Sunday of the month and every Wednesday after 5 p.m., you can name your price of admission; a fantastic perk for college students.

The Liberty Bell

  • The Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia houses the famous Liberty Bell in a beautiful free exhibit open to the public. Inside the center are posters, displays, and a short film detailing the history of the Liberty Bell sure to interest any visitor!

Independence Hall

  • Located behind the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall is the place where is happened. Home to the creation and signing of the both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, Independence Hall is considered the birthplace of American freedom.

Reading Terminal Market

  • America’s oldest farmer’s market, Reading Terminal Market, is full to bursting with delicious scents and fresh flavors. Visited by over 6 million people a year, Reading Terminal Market is a must for anyone visiting Philly!

One Liberty Observation Desk

  •  An unforgettable 360° experience, One Liberty Observation Deck is located on the 57th floor and offers a stunning aerial view of the City of Brotherly Love. Maybe not the best for those afraid of heights, but it is quite stunning!

Philadelphia Orchestra

  • One of the foremost orchestras in the world, the Philadelphia Orchestra has been performing since 1900. During the main season (September-May) the Orchestra is housed in the Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. For college students, there is the eZseatU Program offering membership at $25 and access to concerts all season long!

Eastern State Penitentiary

  • Opened as a prison in 1829 and operated for 142 years, Eastern State Penitentiary served as an experiment in reforming criminals due to its policy of strict isolation. Perhaps the most notable of the 75,000 inmates imprisoned at Eastern State Penitentiary was Al Capone. Abandoned in 1971, the penitentiary draws nearly 400,000 people every year for the architecture, stories, self-guided tours, and famous Halloween haunted house.

Philadelphia’s Magic Garden

  • The creation of a local artist in a vacant lot, Philadelphia’s Magic Garden perfectly exemplifies the saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Philadelphia’s Magic Garden spans half a block and includes an immersive outdoor art installation as well as indoor galleries. The artist, Isaiah Zagar, uses everyday materials such as bicycle wheels, colorful glass, tiles, household objects, mirrors and many other materials in his artwork. For anyone who enjoys and appreciates abstract art and sculpture, exploring Philly’s Magic Garden is a must!

 

Written by Melea Fowler