Philadelphia is one of our nation’s most impressive cities. With its rich historical past and vibrant present, this fascinating destination is perfect for your next vacation. The best part? You can experience Philadelphia on a tight budget. This popular location offers a wide range of affordable activities so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy yourself. Not to mention, there are all types of packages and deals you can take advantage of. Check out our guide to learn how you can travel to Philly on a shoestring budget!
Free Activities
As mentioned in our Philadelphia Travel Guide, The Liberty Bell Center is a no-brainer. This iconic museum is completely free and houses one of the world’s most recognizable symbols of freedom. Visitors are intrigued to hear how the bell cracked and how historians have tried to preserve this celebrated piece of history.
For any Rocky fans, the infamous Rocky Statue and “Rocky Steps” should be at the top of your list. If you haven’t seen the movie, make sure to check it out before you head to Philadelphia so you can truly appreciate the significance of this legendary landmark. A visit to the statue wouldn’t be complete without a run up the stairs, followed by an epic victory photo at the top. Many Philadelphians consider this a rite of passage! As an added bonus, you can skip the gym after conquering these iconic stairs.
If you’re seeking the perfect photo opportunity, look no further than the LOVE Statue. This famous work of art constructed by Robert Indiana is one of the most recognizable statues in the world. Get dressed up and plan to do a mini photoshoot at this lovely landmark.
For those interested in history, there are free Storytelling Benches located throughout Philadelphia that provide a fun way to learn about our nation’s history. The Once Upon A Nation storytellers will transport you back in time as they share captivating stories about our country’s past. There are 13 benches throughout the city so you should be able to find one closeby.
Speaking of Storytelling Benches, be sure to check out the one located in Franklin Square, another free attraction! This public green space is especially suited for those traveling with kids. Children will love the chance to play some miniature golf or even take a spin on the carousel. While these activities aren’t free, they are very reasonably priced. If you’re wanting to spend time outdoors and save some money, plan a picnic overlooking the gorgeous fountain located at the heart of Franklin Square.
Budget-Friendly Activities
While Philadelphia offers plenty of free attractions, there are even more activities that you can take advantage of that are still within budget. With the Go Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass, you can gain entry into 30+ top attractions at reduced rates. If you’re eager to experience all that Philadelphia has to offer, this discount pass is the perfect compromise. Whether you love animals, art, or history, you can craft the ideal itinerary to match your interests. Some of the top attractions include Big Bus Philadelphia – Hop-on Hop-off Tours, Betsy Ross House, Adventure Aquarium, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and One Liberty Observation Deck. Be sure to check out the full list here! For those that want to experience it all, the Go Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass will not disappoint.
Dining on a Budget
Fortunately, Philadelphia’s most iconic dish happens to be pretty affordable! The legendary Philly cheesesteak is a very reasonably priced dish and it’s quite delicious too. What exactly is a cheesesteak and what’s all the hype about? According to VisitPhilly.com, a cheesesteak is a long, crusty roll filled with thinly sliced sautéed rib-eye beef and melted cheese. There are many appetizing options throughout the city but of course, there are some local favorites such as John’s Roast Pork, Tony Luke’s, Pat’s King of Steaks, and Geno’s Steaks. As tempting as it sounds, you can’t have a Philly cheesesteak for every meal. As you look to expand your palette, make sure to do your research before you head to a restaurant so you know if the menu has some affordable options. Don’t forget to pay attention to the dollar signs on review sites but don’t stress if the bill exceeds your budget. It’s perfectly acceptable to splurge here and there as long as you get back on track!
Philadelphia is a lively city that has a lot to offer to its visitors. If you’re on a shoestring budget, there isn’t a better destination than Philadelphia. This celebrated city offers completely free activities as well as additional budget-friendly attractions that will leave a lasting impression. While Philly may have a rich history, you don’t need to be rich to experience it to the fullest!
