Philadelphia Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is the nation's first seat of federal government, and as such is one of the best places to go in the United States to learn more about the early history of the country. Philadelphia Pennsylvania tourism, however, extends to more than visits to historical monuments. Philadelphia parks, museums and even sports make Philadelphia vacations increasingly popular.

The city of Philadelphia Pennsylvania continues to be remembered in American history as the place where the American Revolution against the British took form. Benjamin Franklin lived and worked closely with other colonists during the rise of the idea that a split from the mother country was necessary. Philadelphia Pennsylvania also has the distinction of being the oldest city that was actually planned according to a grid in the United States, and today travelers can still head downtown and walk the grid in its original state. The organization of downtown also makes for convenient walking tours of some of the best Philadelphia attractions.

Today, Philadelphia tourism is beloved for the many historical attractions found so close to one another. The Liberty Bell in Liberty Pavilion and Independence Hall on Independence Square are two of the wildly popular favorites. Best of all, travelers can see these monuments totally free of charge. Also within walking distance of Independence Hall is the Franklin Institute, which is dedicated to the memory of Benjamin Franklin and focuses on making science interesting and exciting for children and families. Philadelphia vacations downtown can also be taken at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where visitors will see one of the most eclectic art collections in the United States, as well as one of the earliest.

Walking tours and trips outdoors can also be a lot of fun in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Zoo, which is the oldest zoo of its kind in the United States, is a mainstay of Philadelphia tourism. Surrounding the zoo is the famous Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. This Philadelphia park covers over 8,500 acres and features more than 100 miles of walking trails. Many of these trails cover exactly the same ground as they once did during the Revolutionary War when soldiers used them to during the war. Another favorite Philadelphia park is Love Park, the start of a revolution of a different kind as its granite surfaces gave rise to the careers of some of skateboarding's biggest legends.

Philadelphia vacations can also be spent enjoying the outdoors with a trip to the Poconos for a Pennsylvania ski weekend, or take a drive out of town to spend an afternoon fishing. Hiking through Fairmount Park or along the many trails in the Pocono Mountains can also be a great way to enjoy the state. Pennsylvania wine tours for wine lovers can be found just outside the city, as well. For vacationers of every kind, there are a number of great Philadelphia hotels for visitors to enjoy in every price range.