Once you’ve found the perfect home in Philadelphia, you may want to spend some time learning the lay of the land in your new hometown. After the moving van drives away, try taking a break from unpacking to explore some of the city’s famous attractions. Hit up the Visitor Center for a map or let the Walk! Philadelphia signs throughout the city show you where to find great things to do in Philly. Here are five suggested places to begin your tour.

1. Get Familiar with Independence National Historic Park

Independence Hall and The Liberty Bell attract over 3.5 million visitors each year. These popular attractions are free, but you’ll need to stop at the Visitor’s Center first and obtain a timed ticket for a guided tour of Independence Hall. During peak periods, the tourist crowd builds at these popular historic attractions, so take advantage of your new residential status and visit during off-peak hours.

2. Take a Historic District Walking Tour

In addition to Independence Mall and the Liberty Bell, the Historic District of Philadelphia is home to many other free attractions like Carpenters’ Hall and the US Mint. In addition, the Benjamin Franklin Museum, the Betsy Ross House, and the Constitution Center are paid admission venues offering important insights into American history.

3. Eat at Reading Terminal Market

After spending the morning touring the historic sites, continue your downtown Philadelphia tour with a stop for lunch at the Reading Terminal Market, where vendors range from produce stands to international groceries to local specialty dining. Recently named one of 10 great public spaces in America, this busy urban farmers’ market offers just about every type of cuisine imaginable, including famous Philadelphia cheesesteaks and Pennsylvania Dutch homemade donuts and pastries.

4. Visit Museums

Like every large city, Philadelphia is home to countless museums where you can learn about art, science and history. If you’re new to the area, or just visiting, consider purchasing a CityPASS. The CityPASS includes a bus tour with 27 on and off stops, and also admission to four of the city’s most popular attractions like the Franklin Institute, the Philadelphia Zoo, Adventure Aquarium, and the Please Touch Museum. Another popular museum attraction is the world-renowned Philadelphia Museum of Art. Save on admission by browsing the extensive art collection on the first Sunday of the month or every Wednesday after 5 p.m., when visitors “pay what you wish.”

5. Tour the Neighborhoods

When exploring Philadelphia, don’t limit yourself to the Center City section of town. Many other neighborhoods have their own unique attractions and personality to share. Stroll along Main Street in Manayunk with its restaurants, bars, and shops. Visit Chestnut Hill and shop in over 50 boutiques and galleries. Attend a game at the South Philly Sports Complex and cheer for a hometown team.

Even residents who’ve lived their entire lives in the city haven’t run out of things to do in Philly. New attractions pop up seasonally and the city hosts a wide range of festivals, outdoor concerts, and other free events that you can take advantage of to help you learn about your new hometown.

Image Source: Flickr/Bev Sykes

[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[/cf]