Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the fifth-most-populous city in the United States with a population of just over 1.5 million. Financial activities account for the largest sector of the economy, and it is one of the largest health education and research centers in the United States. Philadelphia's history attracts many tourists, with the Liberty Bell receiving over 2 million visitors in 2010 alone. Famous for cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, lawyers and liberty, America's original capital is rich with history, culture and symbolism. Home to the Liberty Bell and the Declaration of Independence, today's Philadelphia is far from a historic relic. The city has more outdoor sculptures and murals than any other American city, and Philadelphia's Fairmount Park is the largest urban park in the world.
 
When visiting, a sightseeing tour is a must! To avoid getting lost, take a City Tour on a Segway or Double Decker bus. Important not to miss are the Betsy Ross House, Chinatown, the Philadelphia Zoo and City Hall. The Liberty Bell Pavilion houses the 2,080 lb. bell. The Betsy Ross House is a visitor favourite as she is known to have sewn the first United States flag. The Philadelphia Zoo was the first zoo in the U.S. and is currently home to over 1,300 animals. The Please Touch Museum caters to children and offers the kids a chance to explore hands-on exhibits. For something completely different, try a trip to Hershey Park just outside of Philadelphia. This huge amusement park has over 60 rides and attractions, complete with a water park !
 
The city contains many art museums, such as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Rodin Museum, which holds the largest collection of work by Auguste Rodin outside of France. The city's major art museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the United States and was made famous with it's steps being present in the movie Rocky. Areas such as South Street and Old City have an exciting night life and The Avenue of the Arts in Center City contains many restaurants and theatres, such as the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. And don't miss a visit to the Walnut Street Theatre, America’s oldest theatre. Philadelphia has more public art than any other American city so simply going for a walk can prove enlightening and fruitful for the artful mind and spirit.
 
For more information on this vibrant destination see the Philly City Official Tourist guide.

Photo: Contributed