Thrifty Fun in Philly: A Guide to Budget-friendly Activities
September 20, 2022
8 minutes read
Did you know that Philadelphia is a walkable city?
As of this writing, Philadelphia is the 8th most walkable large city in the US. That means there is plenty of ground you can cover on foot and many things you can do without breaking the bank! With top locations like The Liberty Bell and Cira Green being free, there's no excuse not to experience all the City of Brotherly Love has to offer. And with a food scene packed with deals just waiting around every corner—you'll find something perfect even on a small budget!
So, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to roam around Philly!
Liberty Bell and the Independence Hall
Location: 526 Market St (Liberty Bell) 526 Market St (Independence Hall) Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone number: 215-965-2305
Hours & Directions: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall
Cost: Free
No matter how many times you've been to Philly, no visit will ever be complete without taking a snapshot in front of this historical bell and touring this iconic site. See the symbol of freedom and right across it is where the United States Constitution was created and signed.
Book in advance and get a free 30-minute guided tour from a National Park Service Ranger!
Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches
Location: 6th and Race streets Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone number: 215-629-4026
Hours & Directions
Cost: Free
Listen up, history buffs! Did you know that Betsy Ross - credited for the American flag - was also a munitions maker? Come and meet history in the making as you enjoy a free, entertaining story. These storytelling professionals will delight you with their tales of Philadelphia's or America's past for three to five minutes—and they're willing to share some secrets along the way!
Reading Terminal Market
Location: 1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Phone number: 215-922-2317
Hours & Directions
Lunchtime! Being on a budget doesn't mean skipping mouthwatering treats. Instead, head to Reading Terminal Market and let your eyes (and stomach) feast on the enormous selection of different cuisines. Join the bustling marketplace as it spills over with delicious food to suit any appetite, with options ranging from fresh produce and seafood at one end to freshly baked goods.
Some of our favorites:
The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps
Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone number: 215-763-8100
Hours & Directions
Cost: Free, but there's a fee to enter the museum
The iconic 1976 film "Rocky" shows the fictional character Rocky running up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Adjacent to the famous "Rocky" steps is the larger-than-life Rocky statue. Try to trek the same 72 steps and raise both arms as you reach the top.
"Yo, Adrian, I did it!"
Fireman's Hall Museum
Location: 147 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone number: 215-923-1438
Hours & Directions
Cost: Free
Fireman's Hall Museum preserves Philly's firefighting legacy while educating visitors on fire safety. The building itself is historic - a renovated 1898 firehouse. You'll find an array of displays documenting how they used technology and techniques to extinguish fires way back. But no, this is not your average museum - you can also host events, seminars, and many more.
Loco Pez
Locations
Phone number: 267-886-8061
Hours & Directions
Where will your $1 take you? Catch $1 Taco Night. You read that right: that's ten tacos for $10! Then, head to any of their locations - Fishtown, Graduate Hospital, and West Philly; to satisfy your "I want tacos and beer" cravings. They deliver too!
There you have it! If you're looking for more recommendations, don't hesitate to reach out - we have more! For luxurious stays that don't break the bank, check out our Sosuite at Independence Lofts - you can get into these fantastic spots by foot. You can also find more Sosuite locations here.
Have fun!
As of this writing, Philadelphia is the 8th most walkable large city in the US. That means there is plenty of ground you can cover on foot and many things you can do without breaking the bank! With top locations like The Liberty Bell and Cira Green being free, there's no excuse not to experience all the City of Brotherly Love has to offer. And with a food scene packed with deals just waiting around every corner—you'll find something perfect even on a small budget!
So, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to roam around Philly!
Liberty Bell and the Independence Hall
Location: 526 Market St (Liberty Bell) 526 Market St (Independence Hall) Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone number: 215-965-2305
Hours & Directions: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall
Cost: Free
No matter how many times you've been to Philly, no visit will ever be complete without taking a snapshot in front of this historical bell and touring this iconic site. See the symbol of freedom and right across it is where the United States Constitution was created and signed.
Book in advance and get a free 30-minute guided tour from a National Park Service Ranger!
Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches
Location: 6th and Race streets Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone number: 215-629-4026
Hours & Directions
Cost: Free
Listen up, history buffs! Did you know that Betsy Ross - credited for the American flag - was also a munitions maker? Come and meet history in the making as you enjoy a free, entertaining story. These storytelling professionals will delight you with their tales of Philadelphia's or America's past for three to five minutes—and they're willing to share some secrets along the way!
Reading Terminal Market
Location: 1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
Phone number: 215-922-2317
Hours & Directions
Lunchtime! Being on a budget doesn't mean skipping mouthwatering treats. Instead, head to Reading Terminal Market and let your eyes (and stomach) feast on the enormous selection of different cuisines. Join the bustling marketplace as it spills over with delicious food to suit any appetite, with options ranging from fresh produce and seafood at one end to freshly baked goods.
Some of our favorites:
- Ruben Sandwich at Hershel’s East Side Deli
- Pancake breakfast at Dutch Eating Place
The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps
Location: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone number: 215-763-8100
Hours & Directions
Cost: Free, but there's a fee to enter the museum
The iconic 1976 film "Rocky" shows the fictional character Rocky running up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Adjacent to the famous "Rocky" steps is the larger-than-life Rocky statue. Try to trek the same 72 steps and raise both arms as you reach the top.
"Yo, Adrian, I did it!"
Fireman's Hall Museum
Location: 147 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone number: 215-923-1438
Hours & Directions
Cost: Free
Fireman's Hall Museum preserves Philly's firefighting legacy while educating visitors on fire safety. The building itself is historic - a renovated 1898 firehouse. You'll find an array of displays documenting how they used technology and techniques to extinguish fires way back. But no, this is not your average museum - you can also host events, seminars, and many more.
Loco Pez
Locations
Phone number: 267-886-8061
Hours & Directions
Where will your $1 take you? Catch $1 Taco Night. You read that right: that's ten tacos for $10! Then, head to any of their locations - Fishtown, Graduate Hospital, and West Philly; to satisfy your "I want tacos and beer" cravings. They deliver too!
There you have it! If you're looking for more recommendations, don't hesitate to reach out - we have more! For luxurious stays that don't break the bank, check out our Sosuite at Independence Lofts - you can get into these fantastic spots by foot. You can also find more Sosuite locations here.
Have fun!
You may also like