Philadelphia, PA - If you're planning a visit to Philadelphia, you can enjoy many free activities in the city. If you have little ones, take them to the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, which features free concerts, family fun days, plays, and workshops. While you're there, visit Philadelphia's Chinatown, a vibrant cultural district. You'll find many museums here and some excellent dining.
Free Things to Do in Philadelphia While Visiting
The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is another free attraction you should consider. This three-story home was once the home of the famed author. It's still open to the public and offers a free tour. Visitors can also hear the stories of the people who have connected with the famous author's works. The museum also features an interactive game where participants solve clues and find hidden objects to escape from a room in 60 seconds.
Another free activity to enjoy is a walk around the city's iconic public squares. The city's original plan included five public squares, which boast several family-friendly attractions today. There are mini-golf courses, a classic carousel, and even a storytelling bench.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is another free option in the city. With over 200 galleries of world-class art and many family-friendly programs, this museum is a great place to spend a day. The museum offers Enjoy Pay What You Wish admission on the first Sunday of the month and every Friday night (5:00–8:45 p.m.). Free admission for PA ACCESS & EBT cardholders and their family members.
If you're in the mood for history, you can also visit the United States Mint. This museum houses over half of the country's coins in circulation and offers tours about how the coins are struck. It also houses a variety of manuscripts, rare books, and photographs. You can also check out the National Museum of American Jewish History, the only major museum in the country dedicated to Jewish history. Finally, you can explore the African American Museum, which contains African American artifacts and exhibits.
While visiting Philadelphia's Historic District, be sure to explore Elfreth's Alley, the country's first residential street. The historic street still features several historic buildings and is a National Historic Landmark.
