The Eastern State Penitentiary was in use from 1829 until 1971 and was the country's largest and most expensive public building at the time. Notable inmates included Al Capone and bank robber Willie Sutton. Visits to the now National Historic Landmark can be enjoyed by fans of true crime as they explore the eerie wagon-wheel-shaped building while listening to an audio tour narrated by Steve Buscemi. If you are clueless about what to do in Philadelphia, and how to get the most out of your money, here's a hot tip: purchase a bus pass that also grants you access to a prison.

Guided tours of Philadelphia's filming locations for the 1976 film (and its sequels) that launched the career of Silvester Stallone are available for movie lovers. Tours conducted by locals often last for half a day and include stops at places like Mick's Boxing Gym, Adriene's pet store, the Italian Market, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art (where you may, of course, sprint up the famous steps).

The Independence National Historical Park is a beautiful tribute to a watershed moment in American history. If you are wondering what to do in Philadelphia then visit sites such as Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence was signed), the Liberty Bell (with its renowned crack), and the Benjamin Franklin Museum (which chronicles the tale of America's first Postmaster General).

The Museum of the American Revolution presents insightful commentary on one of America's most significant eras, giving visitors a rare look into the events and people that ignited America's birth and its continued quest for liberty, equality, and self-governance. After purchasing a ticket, visitors will have access to a wealth of artwork, antiques, and interactive displays detailing the history of the United States, from the Boston Tea Party to major battles and the drafting of the Constitution. One of the must things to do in Philadelphia for history aficionados is a visit to this famous district.

The city of Philadelphia is a bustling tourist destination and hub of activity by day, but it takes on a far different vibe as the sun goes down. Several excursions lead tourists into Old Philadelphia’s shadowy, cobblestone lanes , where horrifying tales of eerie mayhem — from Benjamin Franklin's dancing ghost to the different Pine Street Cemetery spirits — appear at significant national landmarks. You may get the same goosebumps that prompted Edgar Allan Poe to write "The Tell-Tale Heart" because the guides have really established the mood.

Instead of taking a leisurely stroll through Philadelphia's historic Center City, one of the fun activities to do in Philadelphia is to get on a Segway and do a 5- to 10-mile circuit of the area. Society Hill, Penn's Landing, and Independence Hall are just a few of the places you'll visit on a guided segway tour, and along the way your guide will share fascinating anecdotes and facts about each stop. You should put on some shoes that cover your toes and are flat.

Popular with visitors for decades, trips on the Spirit of Philadelphia are one of the classic things to do in Philadelphia. Two to three hour cruises along the Delaware often offer spectacular views of the city skyline, a stylish buffet, and a dance floor with live music. It's always a good choice, whether you're looking for a fun night out with friends or a special someone.

This one's for the sleuths-in-training: you and your squad need to use their collective deductive reasoning to crack codes, figure out puzzles, and break out of a one-of-a-kind, secure room. It's like you are the protagonist of an actual, ongoing adventure story. It's worth mentioning that Olde City Escape Games stands out among the many options because it provides stories steeped in Philadelphia's history and culture.

Philadelphia's most well-known area is steeped in history, and the best way to learn about it is with a knowledgeable, personable local who shares your passion for the city's past. Some walking tours are free if you leave a tip, while others are inexpensive ways to explore historic sites like the Betsy Ross House and Elfreth's Alley while hearing interesting tales of the area's past. Tours via horse-drawn carriage are also offered for the more daring.

Located about 90 minutes west of Philadelphia, Dutch Wonderland is a fun amusement park perfect for the whole family, in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. There are more than 35 rides, attractions, and shows to enjoy, making this the ideal destination to spend the day regardless of whether you want to brave the dizzying heights of the Kingdom Coaster or relax in the refreshing waters of the water park. Want to stay an additional day to take a gondola tour of Exploration Island and meet Duke and Merlin? Then why not stay the night at the nearby Cartoon Network Hotel, where you can meet all of your favorite cartoon characters?

Camden, New Jersey, is home to the acclaimed Adventure Aquarium, and is just a simple car ride away from Philadelphia's center city. The greatest collection of sharks in the Northeast can be found in this aquarium, which was ranked among the top 10 in the country by USA Today. Here discovering the wonders of marine life at Adventure Aquarium is one of the fun activities to do in Philadelphia. All kinds of marine animals like penguins, turtles, sharks, stingrays, and more may be seen up close and personal at this unique museum that is perfect for the whole family.

This 30,000-square-foot museum is widely regarded as one of the top things to do in Philadelphia due to its dedication to remembering and celebrating the lives of individuals who have fought for the ideal of "Liberty and Justice For All," from Martin Luther King, Jr. to Malala Yousafzai and beyond. Extending across four stories and six galleries, the informative displays will leave you feeling educated and empowered.