30+ Free and Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Philadelphia

Whether it’s a visit to free historical sites, a picnic in one of the city’s beautiful parks, or a closer look at the landmark Mural Arts program, Philadelphia has plenty of free things to do.

As Ben Franklin said, “A penny saved is two pence clear.” To save some pennies, check out these budget-friendly and free things to do in Philadelphia.

Free Historical Activities

Philadelphia is the city that helped launch a nation, and there are plenty of ways to engage in its historical significance.

1. Independence National Historical Park

Start at the city’s official welcome center Independence Visitor Center, in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic square-mile. Multilingual visitor services representatives are available to assist with any trip-planning needs, including on-site ticketing for more than 100 tours and attractions. Stop in for free amenities, including regional maps and brochures, historical films, cell phone charging stations, and Wi-Fi access.

Must-sees include Independence Hall, the building where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Tickets for a viewing can be purchased ahead of time for only $1. Or tour Congress Hall, where George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States.

2. The Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is the symbol of Philadelphia’s historic past, on display in the Liberty Bell Center. Tickets are not required, and access is available daily on a first-come, first-served basis. A walk through the museum provides the history of the famous bell and an up close look.

3. The President’s House

Before the establishment of Washington D.C., Philadelphia was once the capital of the United States. Head to the President’s House, the executive mansion of George Washington and John Adams, to see where the commander in chiefs once lived. While there, explore the “Freedom and Slavery in the Making of a New Nation” exhibit, paying homage to nine documented people who were enslaved in the Washington household.

4. Carpenters’ Hall

Carpenters’ Hall was the site of the First Continental Congress in 1774, and later a temporary field hospital during the Revolutionary War. Step back into the past with a free tour of this building.

5. Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches

Join storytellers seasonally at six unique benches in Philadelphia’s historic district. They will share fascinating stories of the nation’s history while visitors can relax on the benches.

6. Elfreth’s Alley

Tucked away from Old City’s vibrant streets is America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, Elfreth’s Alley. Enjoy the beautifully preserved homes and walk the cobblestone streets to see what life was like for early American settlers.

7. Fireman’s Hall

Philadelphia is the birthplace of the first volunteer fire company, created in 1736 by Benjamin Franklin. Fireman’s Hall is a unique museum dedicated to the preservation of Philly fire history and promoting fire safety. It is located only a few blocks from Elfreth’s Alley.

8. Christ Church

In the heart of Philadelphia’s Old City, you can stand in the same church where the Founders worshipped. Christ Church’s Burial Grounds are located nearby at 5th and Arch Streets and are the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin. Paid admission is required for the Burial Grounds, however you can catch a glimpse of Benjamin Franklin’s gravesite through a steel fence along Arch Street.

9. Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History is a free museum detailing the Jewish experience in America starting in 1654. The first floor features the “Only in America” gallery — an exhibition illustrating the choices, challenges, and opportunities Jewish Americans encountered in America.

10. The American Philosophical Society

The American Philosophical Society Museum is the oldest learned society in the United States, founded in 1743 by Benjamin Franklin to “promote useful knowledge.” Inside this Old City museum, visitors can see their collection of manuscripts, rare books, photographs, and more.

11. The United States Mint

Visit the United States Mint for a free, self-guided tour featuring a view of coining operations 40 feet above the factory floor. Reservations are not required for the tour, which is available to the public Monday through Friday.

12. Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church

Founded by Richard Allen in 1792, Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church is the oldest piece of property continuously owned by African Americans. A small museum is located on the lower level, where the tomb of Richard Allen and 19th-century artifacts also can be found. The archives contain original copies of The Christian Recorder, a newspaper that began publishing before the Civil War.

13. Edgar Allan Poe House

Located in Northern Liberties, the Edgar Allan Poe Historic Site is the former home of the influential author. It is where he is believed to have penned some of his most iconic works, including The Black Cat. You can tour the house for free Fridays through Sundays. And don’t miss a mural of Edgar Allan Poe, just across the street from the house.

Free Things to Do Outdoor

Philadelphia boasts an expansive network of trails, riverfronts, and outdoor activities within one of the world’s most extensive city-owned urban park systems.

1. Philadelphia’s Original Squares

William Penn’s original city plan for Philadelphia included five public squares. Today, you can visit Philadelphia’s picturesque squares, including Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square, Franklin Square, and Logan Square. The fifth square is home to City Hall, known as Dilworth Park. Walk to the center courtyard of City Hall to see a map of all five squares and then enjoy Dilworth Park’s refreshments and seasonal activities.

2. LOVE Park

Head to LOVE Park for a photo op with the LOVE statue. The park features a clear view of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway as it runs toward the Philadelphia Museum of Art. LOVE Park also offers plenty of seating, frequent food trucks, and seasonal activities. Be sure to visit the Visitor Center kiosk to shop for souvenirs, acquire visitor information, and purchase tickets for attractions.

3. Fairmount Park

Bike or hike in Fairmount Park on more than 270 miles of recreational trails. The expansive park system provides endless outdoor opportunities to escape into nature. The park connects with the greenways of the Schuylkill Banks, which features a 2,000-foot-long pathway that hovers over the Schuylkill River for walking, running, or bicycling.

4. Smith Memorial Playground

Within Fairmount Park, you can find one of the oldest playgrounds in America—with one of the biggest wooden slides. Smith Memorial Playground is over 100 years old and features a giant playhouse, over 50 pieces of unique play equipment, and the historic Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide.

5. Bartram’s Garden

Bartram’s Garden, America’s first botanical garden, spans over 45 acres along the Schuylkill River. This off-the-beaten-path gem includes trails, historical buildings, educational programming, and a boat launch.

6. Spruce Street Harbor Park

Relax in a hammock or enjoy the river breeze at the seasonal Spruce Street Harbor Park. Situated atop several floating barges, this park features plenty of seating and lounge spaces, food vendors, and more. At night, the LED light installations glow beautifully along the Delaware River Waterfront.

7. Cherry Street Pier

Cherry Street Pier is a redeveloped, century-old municipal pier that offers year-round performances, pop-up shops, food vendors and more. The pier’s open-air section, on the eastern end, is home to the Garden pop-up dining experience. Tables can be reserved online to enjoy food and drink while admiring breathtaking views of the Delaware River.

8. Race Street Pier

Just north of Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier is a multi-level recreational pier popular among runners. The pier also features lawns, perfect for riverside picnics. Enjoy stunning views beneath the Benjamin Franklin Bridge as ships sail by along the Delaware River.

9. The Rail Park

Swing on a bench and walk the paths of The Rail Park, built on unused rail lines that have been transformed into a beautiful public space. Head to nearby Chinatown for a bite to eat or a sweet treat afterwards.

10. Cira Green

Located 12 stories up and on top of a West Philadelphia parking garage, Cira Green is a park in the sky. The park hosts events like movie nights and yoga classes in warmer months. Or come by with a group and enjoy local fare and an ice-cold cocktail.

Free & Budget Friendly Arts and Culture Activities

Home to over 4,000 murals and world-class museums, Philadelphia surrounds visitors in art. Explore these artistic activities that are free in Philadelphia.

1. Self-Guided Public Art Tours

Enjoy self-guided tours of Philadelphia’s exceptional collection of public art with digital maps offered by Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Association for Public Art. With thousands of murals and treasured sculptures throughout the city, these self-guided experiences are a great way to discover Philadelphia’s walkable communities.

2. Curtis Institute of Music

The renowned Curtis Institute of Music offers free admission to their student recital series. Enjoy concerts by some of the most talented young musicians in the world in a historical and inspiring setting. Purchased tickets are required for other performances at the Curtis.

3. Taller Puertorriqueño

Located in the El Centro de Oro neighborhood, Taller Puertorriqueño serves as a multifunctional hub, offering an art gallery, event space, and community center. They host various Puerto Rican events such as symposia, artist workshops, and film screenings.

4. The Rocky Steps & Parkway Art Museums

Follow in the steps of Rocky Balboa with a jog up the Rocky Steps to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. And don’t forget to take your photo with Rocky’s statue once you’ve cooled down. The museum has a “pay what you wish” offer on the first Sunday of every month and each Friday after 5 p.m. The Barnes Foundation, a short walk from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, also offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month.

5. Free Galleries and Museums in Center City

Visit the Fabric Workshop & Museum, a free, contemporary art museum across from the Pennsylvania Convention Center. A short walk from The Fabric Workshop & Museum is the Galleries at Moore College of Art and Design. The Galleries feature the work of significant regional, national, and international artists with distinctive exhibitions and educational programs.

Free Science Attractions in Philadelphia

As a prominent center for life sciences, the city offers an array of must-visit museums and experiences at no cost.

1. Science History Institute

The Science History Institute offers free admission and has an outstanding collection of chemistry-related objects, artwork, photographs, and books,. Its exhibitions illustrate the impact chemistry and chemistry engineering have had on the modern world.

2. Wagner Free Institute of Science

Founded in 1855, the Wagner Free Institute of Science provides free public education in science. The National Historic Landmark building houses more than 100,000 natural history specimens including fossils, shells, minerals, and mounted animal skeletons.

3. Pennsylvania Hospital

Pennsylvania Hospital, the nation’s first hospital, was founded in 1751 by Benjamin Franklin and Dr. Thomas Bond. Take a free tour of the historic Pine Building with stops at a 13,000-volume library and the first surgical amphitheater in the country. Guests can also stroll through the beautiful herb gardens and grounds outside.

4. Fairmount Water Works

Built-in the 1800s as Philadelphia’s sole water pumping station, the Fairmount Water Works is situated on the east bank of the Schuylkill River between Boat House Row and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Today, the Fairmount Water Works educates visitors on the importance of water preservation in our daily lives.

Complete your Philadelphia itinerary by exploring where to eat and stay on our discover page. Select your favorites to create your own unique Philadelphia experience.