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Whether it’s your first time here or you’re a returning visitor, Philadelphia has so much to offer that you’ll never run out of things to do. Written from a local Philadelphian who knows the ins and outs of this city, will give you the rundown on how to enjoy your time in Philly like a true resident.
Get Your Cheesesteak Right
First things first—no trip to Philly is complete without a cheesesteak. Now, you’ve probably heard about Pat’s and Geno’s, the two legendary cheesesteak spots in South Philly. They’re fun to check out, especially for the rivalry, but they’re also a bit of a tourist trap. If you want a truly great cheesesteak, head to Dalessandro’s in Roxborough or Jim’s Steaks on South Street. Both spots serve up huge, juicy cheesesteaks with just the right mix of meat and cheese.
And here’s a tip: Know your order before you get to the counter! Cheesesteak shops here are fast-paced, and they’ll expect you to know whether you want it “wit” or “wit-out” (meaning with or without onions). And for cheese, your choices are usually American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz (yes, it’s a thing here, and yes, it’s good!).
Explore More Than Just Center City
When most people think of Philly, they picture Center City—the area with all the skyscrapers, restaurants, and big-name museums. But there’s a lot more to this city! Each neighborhood has its character and charm, so don’t be afraid to branch out.
Fishtown: This area has transformed over the past few years and is now packed with cool coffee shops, breweries, and art galleries. Check out Frankford Avenue for quirky boutiques, and grab a slice at Pizza Brain, the world’s first pizza museum (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds).
South Philly: Known for its Italian roots, South Philly is full of old-school charm. Italian Market on 9th Street is a must-see, with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, and Italian goods. Don’t miss Di Bruno Bros. for cheese and Termini Brothers for the best cannoli in town.
University City: Home to UPenn and Drexel, this area is bustling with young people and has some amazing food options. Stop by Reading Terminal Market for every kind of food imaginable or head to Clark Park if you’re here on a Saturday for the farmer’s market.
Use Public Transit Like a Pro
Philly is an easy city to navigate, especially if you take advantage of the SEPTA system (the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority). SEPTA runs buses, trolleys, subways, and regional trains. For a day of sightseeing, grab an Independence Pass for $13, which gives you unlimited rides for the day and is perfect for exploring without breaking the bank.
While Philly is walkable in many areas, SEPTA can help you cover more ground, especially if you’re heading to neighborhoods outside Center City. And if you want to get around faster, grab an Indego bike from one of the city’s many bike-share stations.
Make the Most of Philly’s Art and History
Philly is packed with historical landmarks and world-class art, so carve out time to explore some of the must-sees. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are essential for history buffs, but be ready for a line, especially in the summer. You can book tickets in advance online to avoid waiting too long.
Art lovers will appreciate the Philadelphia Museum of Art (and of course, the Rocky steps out front!) and the Barnes Foundation. For something a little more offbeat, check out Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens on South Street, a labyrinth of mosaics made by artist Isaiah Zagar.
If you’re a fan of murals, Philly has one of the largest public art programs in the country. You’ll find stunning murals all over the city, especially in places like West Philly and Northern Liberties. There’s even a Mural Arts Tour you can book to learn more about the artists and their work.
Experience Philly’s Sports Culture
Philly fans are passionate, and we love our teams! If you’re in town during baseball season, catch a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park. The stadium has a fantastic view of the city skyline and tons of great food options inside (yes, they sell cheesesteaks here too). In the fall, an Eagles game at Lincoln Financial Field is an experience, but tickets can be pricey. Even if you can’t make it to a game, you can always stop by one of the many sports bars in South Philly to feel the energy of the fans.
Find a Rooftop Spot or Beer Garden
When the weather’s nice, Philly locals love hanging out at rooftop bars or beer gardens. You’ll find some great ones all over the city, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Bok Bar in South Philly has fantastic views of the skyline and a relaxed, artsy vibe. For something closer to Center City, head to Assembly Rooftop Lounge on the Parkway, which has a more upscale feel but equally amazing views.
During the summer, Spruce Street Harbor Park is another fun spot, with hammocks, food trucks, and floating gardens along the Delaware River. There’s also Morgan’s Pier, which has a more laid-back, waterfront vibe and is popular for its live music and events.
Know Philly Slang (and Use It!)
If you want to blend in, here are a few terms to know:
“Jawn”: This is our word for, well, anything! It could be a person, place, or thing. “Pass me that jawn” could mean anything from a pen to a slice of pizza.
“Wooder”: Philly folks have their way of saying water—it sounds more like “wooder.” Embrace it!
“Down the shore”: This is how locals talk about going to the Jersey Shore. You might hear someone say, “I’m headed down the shore this weekend.”
Be Ready for Philly’s Weather
Philly’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the spring and fall, so bring layers. Summers here can get hot and humid, while winters can be pretty chilly with occasional snow. If you’re visiting between December and February, be prepared for some icy sidewalks!
Philadelphia is a city full of character, culture, and a little bit of grit. If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to experience Philly the way locals do. Whether you’re here for the food, history, art, or just a good time, the City of Brotherly Love will show you something unforgettable.
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