We absolutely love Philadelphia! The city has so much history and culture that we rank it right at the top of the list of places to visit. It’s home to world class museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute, one of the largest public art collections in the world, a whole list important historical buildings, and a culinary scene that is second to none. No matter where your interests lie, Philly has plenty to offer! Here is a short list of some of our favorite attractions:

• Reading Terminal Market, Flickr user ccharmon

  Reading Terminal Market: A food lover’s paradise, the RTM is the nation’s oldest continuously operated farmer’s market. If you can imagine eating it, you can probably find it at the Reading Terminal Market: everything from soul food and Asian and Middle Eastern dishes to traditional Amish treats. The Market can be quite crowded, but it is definitely a must-visit when you’re in Philly.

• Fairmount Park: With more than 9,200 acres of rolling hills, gentle trails, relaxing waterfront, and shaded woodlands, Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world and the perfect place to spend the day enjoying nature in the middle of the city. There are places for hiking, biking, boating, horseback riding, and much more.

• Independence National Historic Park: Home to some of Philly’s most famous landmarks including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The park also contains many other historical buildings such as Carpenters’ Hall, Congress Hall, and the First and Second Bank of the United States. All of the buildings are free to see, but you’ll need tickets (also free) to get into Independence Hall.

• Philadelphia Zoo: America’s first zoo is also one of the premier zoos in the world for breeding animals that have been found difficult to breed in captivity, like orangutans and giraffes. The Philadelphia Zoo is 42 acres and home to more than 1,300 animals, many of which are rare and endangered. The zoo also features a children’s zoo, a paddleboat lake, a rainforest themed carousel, and many interactive and educational exhibits.

• Battleship New Jersey: Anchored across the Delaware River in Camden is the USS New Jersey, the most decorated battleship is U.S. naval history. After seeing action in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf, “Big J” is now a floating museum and memorial. Visitors get a chance to explore the inner workings of this massive ship, and even sit in the chair from which Admiral Halsey commanded the 3rd Fleet.

Are you planning a trip to Philadelphia? Click here to view our great downtown Philadelphia vacation rentals.