This blog is a guide for those of you want to visit around the city of Philadelphia in one day. The stretch is 3.5 miles and is best covered walking.
It is better to start of the day early because there is a lot to see and most of the places get closed by 5pm.
I started from The Independence Hall in Chestnut Street at around 9:30 pm. This is the place where the declaration on the US Independence was made and the Constitution was signed off and so it is a must visit for all those who are interested in history. There are guided tours available on first come first serve basis and you can buy the tickets from the Visitor center. But it's better to pre book the tickets as you may not get tours as per your convenient time.
Near to the Independence Hall is the famous Liberty Bell which got it's name during the anti-slavery movement. The Liberty Bell centre showcases the history and importance of the Bell pretty well. Also the entry to this is free.
My next stop was Philadelphia City Hall which is the largest municipal building in the country. It is located in the center of the city and is an architectural treasure. There is an observation deck on the main building but unfortunately it was closed during my visit. While walking towards the city hall from Liberty Bell Center there is St. John the Evangelist church on the 13th Street which can be visited. There is also a Masonic temple around the corner which serves the headquarters of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. It has the architecture of Norman style cathedral and is one of the magnificent buildings of the city. There are guided tours for $15 which allows you to see and understand the Masonic Traditions.
You can also see around the LOVE park and get clicked at the famous LOVE statue.
My next stop was the Reading Terminal Market. This place was the Farmer's market in olden times but now hosts various restaurants serving cuisine from around the globe. I reached here around 01:30 and it was the perfect time as you have a plethora of options to tingle your taste buds. Also do not forget to get chocolates from Mueller Chocolate.
I then headed towards Benjamin Franklin Boulevard which gives a scenic view of the city. It has many museums across the path and ends at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Once you reach Art Museum make sure to run across the steps like Rocky!!
The place is open till 5pm and hosts one of the finest art and sculptures. The ticket cost $20 and you would need a minimum of 2 hours inside the Museum. Once your tour is complete make sure to exit from the back side of the museum. You can walk arcoss the Schuylkill River trail view the Boathouse Row and relax by the river side before you end your day.
Note: If you want to buy souvenirs buy them from the market around Independence Hall. I did not find any other shop as I walked towards the Art Museum