WELCOME! Philadelphia might be most famously known as the birthplace of American democracy, but you'll find it's an ideal destination for discovery as you explore its colourful neighbourhoods, learn more about its rich history and delve into its spectacular sights and attractions!

About Philadelphia Philadelphia, a dynamic place where big city excitement meets hometown charm, awaits your arrival. Famous as the birthplace of life and the pursuit of happiness, the cradle of liberty offers much more than cobblestone streets and historical landmarks. Cultural, culinary, artistic and ethnic treasures are abundant in this city and its surrounding countryside. The second biggest city on the east coast (just over an hour from New York by Amtrak rail), Philadelphia looks forward to welcoming you. New and one-of-a-kind attractions, awe-inspiring architecture, a walkable downtown, tax free shopping on clothes and shoes and a world class restaurant renaissance all promise to create an unforgettable Philadelphia experience. And, of course, the greatest concentration of American history can be found just blocks away at Independence National Historical Park, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Best of all, Philadelphia's compact downtown places all of this and so much more within a short walk or cab ride from the Pennsylvania Convention Center and any downtown hotel.

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Other Videos Philly Lights from John Note on Vimeo. Philadelphia World Championship Celebration on Vimeo.

Attractions Shop ‘Til You Drop Macy's Center City is a premiere fashion destination set inside an icon of Philadelphia's rich retail history, the historic Wanamaker Building on Market Street. Audacious Freedom The African American Museum in Philadelphia welcomes its newest permanent main exhibition, Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia 1776-1876 . Scary Sights in the City Spend time in a massive foreboding prison, Eastern State Penitentiary, haunting cemeteries, and a wealth of historic landmarks filled with stories of great terror. Independence National Historical Park America's most historic square mile, located in Philadelphia, is a place where history comes alive. Franklin Square and Liberty Bell For visitors traveling with kids, or for those who are kids at heart, Franklin Square is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny city day.The course ends when you hit the ball through the famous crack in the Liberty Bell in front of a model Independence Hall. Wild Philadelphia Philadelphia's animal adventures are hardly limited to the region's indigenous inhabitants. A Guide to Family Fun in the City Both a modern city and the birthplace of our nation, Philadelphia is teeming with educational experiences that are so much fun, kids will hardly realize they're learning. National Constitution Center The center's permanent exhibition tells the story of the Constitution, its history, and its contemporary relevance through more than 100 multimedia exhibits. Museum Round Up In Philadelphia, the whole world is available for you to discover with a world of museums. The Barnes Foundation The Barnes Foundation houses one of the finest private collections of early French-Modern and Postimpressionist paintings in the world. Philadelphia Museum of Art The Philadelphia Museum of Art is among the largest art museums in the United States, showcasing more than 2,000 years of exceptional human creativity. Read More>>

Things to do... See what Visiting Exhibitions are current and upcoming in Philadelphia. Events Calendar for 2009 Learn about all the exciting events happening in Philadelphia this year! First Time in Philadelphia? Must-Sees While You’re Here Make sure that you experience all that Philadelphia has to offer while you're here! Philadelphia Redux: The Perfect Second Visit Now that you've explored the Philadelphia icons known the world over, it's time to find out what really makes the city special. On A Shoe String Learn how to explore Philadelphia without breaking your bank. An Extra Hour or Two in Philly Discover lifelong memories in your spare hour or two in Philadelphia. Read More>>

Tax-free Philly! Philadelphia is THE place for hip and savvy shoppers. We’ve got it all here for every shopping taste. Hip boutiques. Traditional department stores. Trendy shoe shops. Elegant shopping malls. Discount outlets. High-end couture. Your Euros and pounds stretch farther than stretch jeans – and, as always, clothing and shoes are tax-free! Read More>>

What Celebs Say About Philadelphia ----"Philadelphia's been like a real safe haven for me. The reason I'm here today is because of Philadelphia. They just backed the film. It was a real perfect blend of the character, which really represented the people of Philadelphia." - Sylvester Stallone, Writer/Star "Rocky" "I'll tell you, I love Philadelphia. I have a lot of love and loyalty for the place." "I feel very at home here. Once you put on the Eagles uniform, as long as you do them proud and give your all, as long as you don't pull a T.O., they're going to love you forever." - Mark Wahlberg, star of "Invincible" "Philadelphia has a vibe - it doesn't feel like Boston or New York. There are a tremendous amount of looks you can get. You have a downtown that feels like an urban center, and you're not gonna find as many diverse working-class neighborhoods [in other places.]" - Kevin Bacon, Philadelphia native, Star/Producer "The Woodsman" "Philadelphia freedom took me knee-high to a man / Yeah gave me peace of mind my daddy never had / Oh philadelphia freedom shine on me, I love you… / Philadelphia freedom I love you, yes I do." - Elton John, Lyrics to "Philadelphia Freedom"

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Competition Due to a phenomenal response we're currently going through the competition entries and the winner will be announced by early December.

What's New? See Philadelphia for le$$ Philadelphia CityPass, the easy-to-use discount ticket booklet to six popular Philadelphia attractions, is a great way to add value to your visit. In addition to saving money, CityPass saves time – since it contains actual tickets (not coupons), there is no waiting in ticket lines at most attractions. More>> City Food Tours Bite sized tour of Philadelphia features in Top 10 Tours in America featured in the 2009 list of “Top 10 Tours in America” by TripAdvisor. More>> The President's House Commemorative Site Scheduled to debut in 2010, the President’s House Commemorative Site, a permanent outdoor installation, will tell the story of the nine enslaved Africans who lived and worked in the nation’s first White House, occupied by President George Washington. More>> New Site For The Barnes Foundation The Barnes Foundation’s new home is scheduled for completion in 2011. 2010 will be the last time to visit the original layout of this insightful experience into one of the world’s largest collections of impressionist, post impressionist and modern art. More>> New Hotel Palomar Philadelphia The Hotel Palomar Philadelphia is now open. Originally built in 1929, the building is one of the city's most striking examples of Art Deco. More>> 2010 International Flower Show The Philadelphia Flower Show will present an international bouquet in its 2010 ‘Passport to the World’ exhibit. A celebration of flowers and plants from India, Holland, South Africa, Brazil, Singapore and New Zealand will be on display at the event, which takes place between February 28th-March 7th at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. More>> Passport, Camera...Action! Don’t be surprised if you come across a Hollywood film crew or see one of your favourite actors in the city - Philadelphia is fast becoming one of the top filming locations in the US. More>>

Discover Philadelphia’s Treasures Tax Free Shopping From South Street to Rittenhouse Row and Jewelers’ Row, Philadelphia is a bona fide shopper’s paradise. The city offers incredible shopping complexes and one-of-a-kind specialty stores. And as added incentive to loosen those purse strings, clothing and shoes are tax-free. More>> Sports Philadelphia was recently named the No. 2 sports city in the nation by the Sporting News, and it's easy to see why. The city is home to venerated professional teams like the 76ers, the Phillies, the Flyers and the Eagles, and in recent years has played host to the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, the A-10 Women's Basketball Tournament and USA Gymnastics Tyson American Cup. More>> Dining Home to diversity that stretches across the globe, Philadelphia has cultivated a renowned dining scene full of distinct flavors and profound cultural influences. Whether it's Asian, French or Soul food, your palate will be pleased. More>> Plus entertainment, shopping, attractions, accommodations, tours and more!

History Philadelphia was founded in 1682 by William Penn, an English Quaker. King Charles II of England granted him a parcel of land that included 1,280 acres between the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. Penn's chief surveyor, Captain Thomas Holmes, devised a grid pattern for the city that included five public squares, all of which remain, to realize Penn's dream of a "green countrie towne." Due to its excellent location on the Atlantic Coast and accessible port facilities, Philadelphia grew rapidly in the 18th century until it was the second largest English-speaking city in the world. It was called the Athens of the Americas as the cultural center of the New World. Read More>>

Life in The City Accessibility City Getting to Philadelphia is simple! And once you are here, getting around the City is just as easy. Romantic Philadelphia Discover all our City's most romantic spots to share a special moment. Running Philadelphia Grab a water bottle, turn up "Eye of the Tiger" on your MP3 player, and lace up your running shoes. Philly for Recent Grads Philadelphia is THE city to live, work, and play in for recent college graduates. Here are the reasons why. City of Champions Philadelphia pours its heart and soul into its sports team. And recently, the City has celebrated quite a few champions.

Philadelphia's Neighbourhoods