architecture tour philadelphia

I am now fully vaccinated! While we are still doing in-person tours,  masks optional and socially distancing, we also have Virtual and Self-guided tours to choose from.

  PHILADELPHIA HISTORIC  ARCHITECTURE TOURS

If you only have two to three hours in Philadelphia, spend it getting to know this historic city through an architectural walking tour by phillyPHAT. We take your family and friends through a memorable Philadelphia sightseeing trip and a fun historic and architectural outing. 

We offer organized and thought-provoking Philadelphia walking tours, both public and private. Experience our historic, World Heritage city through the eyes of an architect.

We also offer two GPS based self guided walking tours using the Voicemap app on your phone. These offer a convenient, inexpensive option when we are not available for a tour, or if you prefer doing them on your own. See the Self Guided Tours page .

"Great buildings and monuments give a city the illusion of being static and timeless. But cities are best seen in movement, in the everyday life of their people, and in the sinews and connective tissue that hold the organism together. Walking is what makes a city livable and, above all, pleasurable. That is the way to survive a city, whether you are a resident or a visitor." Ben Wilson in his book Metropolis

Every building in Philadelphia has a story to tell, from the materials, technology, and styles favored when it was constructed, to the people who designed, built, lived and worked there. Events of historic proportion take place in and around buildings as well. Come with me on this journey to discover all the secrets each building on our tour is waiting to tell us.

The Philadelphia Architecture in-person walking tours we offer include:

Discovering Colonial Philadelphia - The Road to Revolution : We will visit a number of notable properties during this walking tour. We will see buildings that go back almost to the founding of the city in 1682, learning about their styles and the historical events that took place at each.

Phillytecture:  Philadelphia Architecture has been around for 330 years. In that time the city has gone from small houses to skyscrapers over 1,000 feet tall. We will visit a number of notable properties during this public walking tour. We will see buildings that go back almost to the founding of the city in 1682, in styles such as Georgian, Federal, and many Revival styles, learning about American history along the way. We will also explore the transformation of Old City and Society Hill into the diverse cultural and architectural neighborhoods they have become in the last 50 years.

Exploring Philadelphia's Guilded Age to Now: This Walking Tour takes you by some of Philadelphia's most prominent buildings. The buildings in this area are mostly from the mid-1800's through the present. Styles range from Beaux Arts to Chicago and International style.

Hamilton - The Tour Where It Happens!: Hamilton spent a good deal of time here in Philadelphia (some even with his short-term mistress Maria Reynolds), and we explore his life and the places here. We will meet a cast of characters along the way, such as George Washington, John Adams, Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison, among others.

**Spirits of Our Founding Fathers: On this walking tour, not only will we be visiting important sites in the Colonial Philadelphia area, we will also make two stops to do some tastings. The tour concludes with an optional third tasting as well.

**(Unfortunately due to venues closing, this tour is temporarily unavailable)

Discover Our Philadelphia Tours

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While all of my guests, be they on a public or private tour, receive an amazing and memorable experience, these luxury tours go above and beyond that level.

Working directly with you, we will create a custom tour that includes all the things you wish to see here in Philadelphia.

We will match your time availability, interests and any special needs to give you an amazing and outstanding tour of my World Heritage City.

All you need to do is contact me to discuss the tour you have been dreaming of and I will make it happen for you, you and your partner, your family, or group.

Testimonials

This tour was the best I've ever taken. Reid was incredibly knowledgeable about American History and Philadelphia architecture. His talk was well organized and there were visual aids on his iPad which were helpful. He was responsive to our questions, and there seemed to be almost no question he couldn't answer. He spoke clearly and was easy to understand. He was personable and pleasant, willing to share about himself but never too much. I would highly recommend this tour: worth every penny!

You can tell that Reid is steeped in Hamilton history. The tour takes you to outdoor important places but the heart of the tour is the guide’s enthusiasm for the subject, and his expertise. Reid sings along with abbreviated versions of the songs in the Hamilton musical. Guests are invited to join him. A highlight of the tour is his explanation of things that really didn’t happen, no matter what you heard in the musical. It’s an outstanding tour for anyone interested in history. Well done.

The tour guide is very knowledgeable and gave us interesting background information about the buildings we visited, their architect and style. Some buildings make me want to go back and explore on my own. Reid pointed out buildings i probably passed by without noticing it. That is the beauty of an expert guide, he showed us what was hidden in front of our eyes. Thanks Reid for the tour and the patience with my slow walking pace. Very considerate of you.

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5 Great Architecture Walking Tours in Philly

From hidden gems to beautiful murals

Philly is one of the most walkable cities in America , which means it's pretty easy to visit all of it's great buildings, murals, and public art by foot. We've compiled five of the best architectural walking tours of Philadelphia, from the Mural Arts program's Mural Mile to the Preservation Alliance's collection of nearly two dozen offerings.

1. Preservation Alliance

This historic preservation non-profit hosts nearly two dozen walking tours of Philly, all led by experienced volunteer guides. There’s the Littlest Streets East of Broad tour, which takes you down those picturesque streets so quintessential of Philly. Or, you can check out all of the mansions and buildings of the Gilded Age. With 20 tours to choose from, there’s something here for everyone.

Saturdays at 10 a.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. From July to August there are 6 p.m. tours available. $15 for adults.

2 .Philadelphia Center for Architecture + Design

Introducing #TourPHL , your one stop shop for tours of the built environment! https://t.co/wTDiRSEubr pic.twitter.com/7GYq88sdTc — Ctr for Arch+Design (@PhilaArchCenter) June 9, 2016

Folks on this two-hour tour visit three eras of Philadelphia: Late Victorian/Post-War, Birth of the Skyscraper, and the Modern City. It’s a great way to see how Philly’s architectural scene has evolved since 1870 until today.

Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. $20 for adults.

3. Hidden City Philadelphia

Good show in Fishtown all around today. Here, historian Ken Milano talks about the Edward Corner rope and boat supplies building, the last remaining building tied to the neighborhood's maritime heritage - now protected by historic designation. Nice work to EKNA and everyone involved at Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby & Arts Festival too! #fishtown #pahistory #ghostsign A photo posted by Hidden City Philadelphia (@hiddencityphila) on May 21, 2016 at 1:19pm PDT

The folks behind Hidden City Philadelphia regularly host walking tours of relatively unknown but important places in the city. In the past, they’ve taken tours of South Broad Street, the Divine Lorraine , among countless others. Upcoming events include a walking tour of Camden .

Check the calendar for tour dates. Free.

4. Mural Arts

"Our House" by Odili Donald Odita Odita's mural for #opensourcephl, located at the Brandywine Workshop & Archives​ and The Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts​, highlights the active role that citizens and organizations play in filling the institutional voids present in underserved neighborhoods. The weaving of color and form represents the fabric of institutions and residents whose joint involvement and commitment make Philadelphia a vibrant community. Odita presents the tension of contradiction and opportunity found in "calamity and potential". Photo by @steveweinik A photo posted by Mural Arts Program (@muralarts) on Oct 23, 2015 at 11:31am PDT

Sometimes there’s more to a building than meets the eye— these walking tours with the Mural Arts program prove that. Experienced guides lead Mural Mile public tours of all of the artwork that adorn the walls around Philly. Or, hop on a trolley, train, or Segway tour when you’re tired of walking.

Check the calendar for tour dates. $22 per person.

5. Constitutional Walking Tour

Even if you've walked by all of the historical landmarks in Old City countless times, you’ll probably learn a thing or two during this 90-minute tour . It visits 20 sites, including the iconic Independence Hall to the Robert Venturi-designed Franklin Court. Want to go at your own pace? You can pop in some earphones and take an audio-guided tour instead.

Check the schedule for tour dates. $19 for adults, $12.50 for children.

• Pocket Guide: 26 places to visit in Philadelphia [Curbed Philly]
• Map: 15 most Instagrammable places in Philly [Curbed Philly]
• Report: Philly remains the 4th most walkable U.S. city [Curbed Philly]
• Philly named No. 1 place to visit in the U.S. [Curbed Philly]

In This Stream

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• 5 great architectural walking tours to take in Philly

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Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia Architectural Walking Tours

Explore the city of neighborhoods with our talented volunteers will make sure you see and hear the past, present, and future of the philadelphia region as expressed through the city's unique and fascinating architecture. guided walking tours..

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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States

Created By: PocketSights

Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia Architectural Walking Tours - Information

Even companies that provide guided tours can be featured on PocketSights to raise awareness of their event tours.

Independence Visitor Center Philadelphia

Tickets are available for sale at the Indepedence Visitor Center or online at the Independence Visitor Center Website .

Address: 1 N Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106

Click to Call: 800-537-7676

Check out the Website at : www.phlvisitorcenter.com

The Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia's talented volunteers will make sure you see and hear the past, present, and future of the Philadelphia region as expressed through the city's unique and fascinating architecture.

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The INDEPENDENCE VISITOR CENTER CORPORATION (IVCC) is a Pennsylvania non-profit, 501(c)3 organization which operates in cooperation with the efforts of the National Park Service, the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation, Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The Independence Visitor Center is the primary point of orientation for Independence National Historical Park, the City of Philadelphia, the Southern New Jersey and Delaware River Waterfronts, as well as Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties in Pennsylvania.

Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia Architectural Walking Tours - Individual Events

June 17th at 6:00 pm - avenue of the arts, june 20th at 2:00 pm - up and over the ben franklin bridge, june 21st at 2:00 pm - media, delaware county, june 24th at 6:00 pm - victorian philadelphia west of broad street, june 27th at 2:00 pm - chestnut hill, june 28th at 2:00 pm - spruce hill victoriana, leave a comment, download the app, download the pocketsights tour guide mobile app for more information and navigation to any of these events..

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Philadelphia Architecture Private Walking Tour

Available year round.

Philly’s not just about the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall – it’s a treasure trove of architectural gems spanning 300 years! Our private Philadelphia architecture tour will have you marveling at masterpieces from Georgian to Gothic and Neoclassical styles, some standing proud since 1695. You’ll also discover why greats like Strickland, Haviland and Furness chose the City of Brotherly Love to showcase their talents. Ready for a walk-through history with a side of stunning views?

Tour Itinerary & Highlights

Note: This is a suggested itinerary – we can customize based on your preferences.

• Guided City Stroll: Spend three hours with an expert guide uncovering the city’s secrets and stories on this Philly walking tour.
• Christ Church Discovery: Step into a place where history breathes and where the founding fathers worshipped.
• Independence Hall Unveiled: Stand where freedom was declared, feeling the weight and wonder of history.
• City Hall Wonders: Marvel at the architectural masterpiece that dominates the skyline and a symbol of Philly’s heart.
• Powel House Option: If timing allows, visit the exquisite Powel House, hosting tales of the Founding Fathers’ grand gatherings. (*Adds an hour and additional cost.)

More Information:

• The duration of the tour is three (3) hours.
• This tour is offered all year round, seven (7) days a week.
• You can customize the starting location of the tour to fit your schedule.
• All stops, timing and inclusions of the tour are dependent on traffic and weather conditions.
• Want to see something specific? We love to personalize our tours to suit your specific interests and passions! 

*Gratuity for the tour guide is not included.

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City Hall Interior & Exterior Tour with Tower Tour

Perhaps the nation's largest and most elaborate seat of municipal government , Philadelphia's City Hall is open once again for citizens and visitors to explore through guided tours . The tour now includes the Tower Tour.  The City Hall Interior and Exterior Tour explores the history, art, and architecture of the world's highest masonry load-bearing structure , which consists of 88 million bricks!

Learn more interesting facts and view the building's grandest rooms (like the above-pictured City Council Caucus Room ) on this guided tour , which also includes a tour around the building's perimeter that explores the more than 250 sculptures designed by Alexander Milne Calder that adorn the structure.  Tours lasts approximately 2 hours, and meet and depart from the City Hall Visitor Center . 

1 Penn Square Room 121 Philadelphia , PA 19107 United States

Directions...

LOVE Park Visitor Center

15 Places Architects Must Visit in Philadelphia

Right from the 17 th century, when the first settlers arrived in Philadelphia, the city has seen diversity in its architecture . With no particular style overpowering any other, 18 th century saw a trend in brick and 19 th century saw growth in Victorian architecture because of architects like Frank Furness. The architecture is a mix of historic and modern styles with many iconic structures dotting the city and here are a few, every architect must visit when in Philly.

1. Philadelphia Museum of Art

With its famous steps, Louvre-inspired architecture, and prime spot right at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most well-known and well-loved buildings in Philadelphia .

Comprised of three buildings —the Rodin Museum, which sits on a different part of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, and the Perelman Building , which is just north of the main building, and the central museum itself—it holds over 240,000 artefacts, objects, and works of art, including everything from sculpture and paintings to armour, decorative arts, and entire rooms meant to evoke other times, civilizations, and parts of the world.With its large space and high visitor count, the museum is among the largest and most visited museums on Earth. This museum may house some of the world’s greatest works of art, but the building is its own work of art. It is home to over 200 galleries that span 2,000 years, although, in accordance with the Uni

versity of Pennsylvania and their collection of museums, they do not have any Egyptian, Roman, or Pre-Columbian artefacts. Aside from being home to many works by artists such as Rodin, Picasso, Dalí, Duchamp, and Brancusi, it also has several features unique to a museum of its stature, including its massive armoury featuring suits of armour from throughout the medieval period. Its rarest and most notable feature is the several architectural marvels located throughout the Asian wing, including a full Japanese teahouse and garden, a Chinese palace hall, and a 16th-century Indian temple.

2. Wanamaker Building

Inspired by two great central markets, London’s Royal Exchange and Paris’ Les Halles, John Wanamaker decided it was time to bring what would become one of the first department stores to America. He envisioned a grand shopping hall which would sell his already established menswear and would expand to sell woman’s clothing and dry goods.

Opened in 1877, the store was the first to use electrical lighting (in 1878) and the first to use a pneumatic tube system for transporting cash and documents (in 1880). By 1910, Wanamaker had begun updating his store, slowly phasing out the old Moorish facade that followed the Grand Depot styles of London and Paris, in favour of the lavish, Florentine style it still has today. The new building featured the incredible Wanamaker Organ, formerly the St. Louis World’s Fair pipe organ. Despite the organ’s imposing size, it was decided that it was not large enough to fill the Grand Court with its music, and was expanded by Wanamaker’s own staff of organ builders. After a period of a few years, the organ had become the largest in the world.

3 . Kimmel Centre for the Performing Arts

The brightest light on the Avenue of the Arts is the  Kimmel Centre for the Performing Arts , a dazzling regional performing arts centre whose discreet brick exterior rises to a bold 150-foot glass vaulted rooftop for startling views of the city.

The spacious and acoustically vaunted facility is rarely dark and on any given weekend might presents a jazz quartet, French circus, The Philadelphia Orchestra and pops or family events. The 21st century centre’s main stages are the elegant Verizon Hall, whose red mahogany 2,500-seat interior is shaped like a cello and features adjustable acoustical panels, and the 650-seat Perelman Theatre, with an unusual rotating stage and equipment that enables chamber music, dance and drama.

4 . Comcast Centre

Comcast Centre, also known as the Comcast Tower, is a skyscraper in Centre City, Philadelphia , Pennsylvania. The 58-story, 297-meter (974 ft) tower is the second-tallest building in Philadelphia and the state of Pennsylvania. First announced in 2001, the Comcast Centre went through two redesigns before construction began in 2005. Comcast Centre was designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects for Liberty Property Trust.   Designed to be environmentally friendly, the skyscraper is the tallest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified building in Philadelphia. Relatively new to Centre City, the imposing glass Comcast Centre looms over Market Street, and with its enormous light displays throughout the year, inventive art and statues, and enormous glass facade, it’ll certainly catch your eye. Comcast’s presence in  Philadelphia  has been growing steadily for years, but this is its flagship tower, with several more to follow in the coming years. Be sure to stop by the upscale food court for everything from sushi to artisanal cheese and charcuterie.

5. Independence Hall

The first capital of the United States and the place where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, Independence Hall is a must visit stop on a tour of Philadelphia. Visitors can acquire free tickets at the visitor centre, head over to check out the Liberty Bell, and finish up right in time for their scheduled tour of the iconic building. The tour goes through the east wing, where visitors get the chance to see the historic rooms and learn more about the history of nation from experienced guides. Independence Hall touts a red brick facade, designed in Georgian style. It consists of a central building with bell tower and steeple, attached to two smaller wings via arcaded hyphens. The highest point to the tip of the steeple spire is 168 ft, 7​ 1 ⁄ 4  inches above the ground.

6 . 30 th Street Station

One of Philadelphia ’s major train stations also happens to be one of its most beautiful buildings. 30th Street Station was built in the early 20th century and is a main hub for SEPTA, Philadelphia’s local transit system, as well as Amtrak, serving as part of both the Northeast and Keystone corridors. As Amtrak’s third busiest station, the building is also on the register of National Historic Places, and was originally built by the now-defunct Pennsylvania Railroad. If you’re travelling in or out of Philadelphia by train, be sure to stop in, visit the bustling food court, and marvel at the building’s stunning columns, high ceilings, and majestic exterior. Chances are you are one of those million-plus passengers who have passed through here, whether it was on your way to New York’s Penn Stationor to hop onto the SEPTA Regional Rail. Either way, happening upon the station’s grand concourse, with its five-story-high windows and Art Deco chandeliers, is no doubt a highlight of many travellers’ experience.

7. Vanna Venturi House

The iconic Vanna Venturi house in Chestnut Hill was designed by Philly starchitect Robert Venturi for his mother and built in 1964. It’s often considered the first post-modern home in the country and has been named one of the 10 Homes that Changed America. Many of the basic elements of the house are a reaction against standard Modernist architectural elements: the pitched roof rather than flat roof, the emphasis on the central hearth and chimney, a closed ground floor “set firmly on the ground” rather than the Modernist columns and glass walls which open up the ground floor. On the front elevation the broken pediment or gable and a purely ornamental appliqué arch reflect a return to Mannerist architecture and a rejection of Modernism. Thus the house is a direct break from Modern architecture, designed in order to disrupt and contradict formal Modernist aesthetics. The house was constructed with intentional formal architectural, historical and aesthetic contradictions. Venturi has compared the iconic front facade to “a child’s drawing of a house.” Yet he has also written, “This building recognizes complexities and contradictions: it is both complex and simple, open and closed, big and little; some of its elements are good on one level and bad on another its order accommodates the generic elements and of the house in general, and the circumstantial elements of a house in particular.”

8. The Fisher Fine Arts Library

The library’s plan is exceptionally innovative: circulation to the building’s five stories is through the tower’s staircase, separated from the reading rooms and stacks.

The Main Reading Room is a soaring four-story brick-and-terra-cotta-enclosed space, divided by an arcade from the two-story Rotunda Reading Room. The latter has a basilica plan – with seminar rooms grouped around an apse (like side-chapels) – the entire space lit by clerestory windows. Above the Rotunda Reading Room is a two-story lecture hall, now an architecture studio. The Main Reading Room, with its enormous skylight and wall of south-facing windows, acts as a light well, illuminating the surrounding inner rooms through leaded glass windows. The three-story fireproof stacks are housed in a modular iron wing, with a glass roof and glass-block floors to help light the lower levels. It was designed to initially hold 100,000 books – but also to be continuously expandable, one bay at a time, with a movable south wall. Furness’s perspective drawing highlighted this growth potential by showing nine-bay stacks, although the initial three-bay stacks were never expanded.

9. Boathouse Row

Boathouse Row actually consists of 12 buildings, not one. Boathouse Row is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The boathouses date back to the 19th century and were designed by architects like Frank Furness and the Wilson Brothers. They range in styles from Victorian Gothic to Mediterranean to Colonial Revival and they all continue to be used by rowing clubs to this day. Fun Fact: The Sedgeley Club boasts the only lighthouse in the city.

Local boating clubs take great pride in their historic 19th-century boathouses, which line the Schuylkill River just west of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. At night, lights outline one of the city’s loveliest views, aptly named Boathouse Row.

10. Cira Centre

The Cira Centre is a 29-story, 437-foot (133 m) office high-rise in the University City section of Philadelphia, across the Amtrak’s 30th Street Station. Developed by Brandywine Realty Trust and designed by César Pelli, it was built in 2004-05 on a platform over rail tracks.

The building , a silver glass curtain wall skyscraper with 731,852 square feet (68,000 m2) of floor space, includes retail and restaurant space, a conference room, a nine-story parking garage and a pedestrian bridge that links the Cira Centre’s lobby with 30th Street Station. The building ‘s lighting, designed by Cline Bettridge Bernstein, includes a wall of LEDs on most of its facade that can change colour to create various patterns and effects.

11. Barnes Foundation

When plans were announced to move the immense and quirky art collection of Albert C. Barnes from his home in the suburbs to a new museum on the Ben Franklin Parkway, Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects’ designed the Barnes Foundation, built for $150 million in 2012. The museum has already won a slew of accolades, including a 2013 AIA Institute Honor Award. It was also named one of the most iconic works of architecture by Architectural Record, along with the Vanna Venturi house and the PSFS Building.

Set on four-and-a-half acres of landscaped grounds, the Barnes Foundation boasts an impressive collection that features 181 Renoirs (more than any other collection), 69 Cézannes (more than in all of France) and groundbreaking African art.

The Barnes Foundation also hosts groundbreaking temporary exhibitions, including a major retrospective of works by female impressionist painter Berthe Morisot and an installation by the pioneer video artist Bill Viola.

12. Eastern State Penitentiary

This colossal Gothic Revival prison in Fairmount is steeped in history, and when it opened in 1829 it became one of the most famous and expensive prisons in the world and the first penitentiary in the country. Designed by architect John Haviland, Eastern State Penitentiary was groundbreaking in that it was the first prison designed to make prisoners feel true regret and penitence for their crimes. The penitentiary sat on 11 acres of farmland called Cherry Hill. When Eastern State Penitentiary opened in 1829, spectators from around the world marvelled at its grand architecture and radical philosophy.

Once built, it was the most expensive construction in the United States at the time.

After 142 years in use, Eastern State finally closed its doors as a prison in 1971. It has since been named a National Historic Landmark. Today, the historic landmark is open for daily tours year-round and nightly tours during the Halloween season.

13. Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

The Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul at Logan Square holds the title of being the largest brownstone structure in the entire city, as well as the oldest building on the Parkway, with its massive stone columns and highly recognizable great dome. Open since 1894, the basilica was designed by local architect Napoleon LeBrun, who was only 25 at the time. The interiors, considered some of the most beautiful in the city, feature murals, mosaics, and stained glass windows by Constantino Brumidi.

Opened in 1864, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter of Paul serves as the principal or Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, as it houses the chair or “cathedra” of the Archbishop.

The largest Catholic Church in Pennsylvania, the Basilica was modelled after the Lombard Church of St. Charles in Rome and is the only cathedral in the United States built in the Roman-Corinthian architectural style.

14. Christ Church

Christ Church in Old City is one of the oldest churches and buildings in Philadelphia. The Georgian-style church was modelled after the work of an English architect by the name of Sir Christopher Wren. Construction and designs are attributed to John Kearsley. But the most prominent feature of Christ Church, its 196-foot-tall wooden steeple, was not added to the edifice until 1751-54. From that point on, Christ Church would remain the city’s tallest building for the next 100 years.

A beautiful example of Georgian colonial architecture, Christ Church is bordered by a tree-lined brick path, a small park and a cobblestone alley, which provide the perfect setting for this historic treasure. Notably, the tower and steeple made it the tallest building in America until 1856. Guided tours dive into its 300-plus year history and the prolific role that the Church played during the American Revolution.

15. Pennsylvania Academy of The Fine Arts

Designed in 1871 and built five years later, the Historic Landmark Building at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is considered by some as the first modern building in America. Designed by Frank Furness and George Hewitt (they parted ways a year before the building opened in 1876), it resembles a jewel box both inside and out and is a lesson in functionality, heavily influenced by the industrial boom that Philadelphia was relishing in at the time.

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Walking Tours in Philadelphia

An architectural feast for the eyes.

North Broad Street offers a unique collection of grand buildings . A stretch of two blocks from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts to City Hall is open book of 19th and 20th century architecture , style and engineering often unnoticed and overlooked by commuters. Bring your cameras!

Enjoy a private tour with an expert guide highlighting some impressive architectural wonders

• Second Empire: City Hall
• High Victorian Gothic: Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
• Commercial Style: Liberty Title Bldg . Aloft Hotel/ One City Apartments
• Norman/ Romanesque Revival : Masonic Temple
• Brutalism: Municipal Services Building

You will appreciate a different perspective of the sculptures on the piazza:

• Your Move (1996)
• Government of the People (1976)

Private guide – 2.0 hrs – Minimum guests 12

Contact Us To Book Your Tour

• 215.790.9901 Ext.11
• [email protected]

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The Athenaeum of Philadelphia’s National Historic Landmark Building is open for tours to individuals and groups. Learn about the early days of our building, view our beautiful Reading Rooms, and browse our unique collections. Prospective and new members can learn about the Athenaeum’s Circulating Collection, workspaces, and other member benefits. School groups are encouraged to use the Athenaeum as a tool to learn about libraries, archives, architecture and more! Scheduled tours are not required to visit the building or gallery. If you’re looking for an in-depth tour about our history and collections, please see the options below.

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June 08, 2015

15 beautiful buildings every Philadelphian needs to see

Philadelphia is full of architectural marvels.

Philadelphia is a mosaic of different architectural styles, from Federal-style row homes to Art Deco-inspired skyscrapers. It would be impossible to see it all in a day, or a week, but a curated biking or walking tour gives tourists and natives alike a good grasp on what the city has to offer. 

Below we've compiled a list of 15 must-see buildings in the City of Brotherly Love. The interactive map provided marks each stop on the tour. The total circuit measures nearly eight miles. If you're active enough, you could see every stop (and more) in just over three hours. If not, try following just one of the two legs provided, labeled Route A and Route B.

A list of fifteen spots naturally leaves out dozens of amazing spaces. Many sites along the walking tour below pass by or are right around the corner from more legendary structures, so feel free to  stray from the path and explore.

Elfreth's Alley , Off 2nd St. between Arch and Quarry Streets

This is the nation's oldest continually inhabited residential street, and as such features gloriously crafted brick structures that date back to the 1720s. A few times a year, the neighborhood lets curious visitors peak inside the occupied homes.

National Museum of American Jewish History , 101 S. Independence Mall East

On your way here you'll pass the beautiful  Christ Church and Franklin Court , where Benjamin Franklin lived. The gleaming glass prism of NMAJH which faces Independence Mall alludes to the museum's accessibility and contrasts nicely with its big terra cotta structure. At night, the front lights reveal what's inside.

Philadelphia History Museum , 15 S. 7th St.

This Greek Revival structure first housed the Franklin Institute from 1826 and was built by  John Haviland, a renown architect who also designed Eastern State Penitentiary. Between the History Museum and NMAJH, you'll pass by Independence Mall, Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Loews Philadelphia Hotel , 1200 Market St.

Commonly referred to as the PSFS Building, this site originally housed the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society but opened as a Loews Hotel in 2000. Built in 1932, it was the country's first International Style skyscraper and is known for its blazing neon topper.

The Wanamaker Building , 1300 Market St.

This Italian Renaissance-style structure originally housed Wanamaker's department store, the first of its kind in Philly. Wanamaker's has since turned into a Macy's, but the vast interior Grand Court's beauty (and function) remains intact, as does its antique pipe organ. 

Comcast Center , 1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.

Walking past the iconic Love Park ( soon to get a redesign ), make your way toward JKF Boulevard and you'll find Philly's tallest building - for now . Make sure to walk inside the shining glass structure to see the Comcast Experience, a 2,000 square foot LED screen show. 

The Barnes Foundation , 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.

This campus of the Barnes Foundation plays host to the collection of post-Impressionist and early modern artworks started by Albert C. Barnes. But the modern structure, by Tod Williams and Billie Tsien Architects, is as breath-taking as the art within. 

Cira Centre , 2929 Arch St.

Heading down 20th Street toward JFK Boulevard you'll pass Logan Square and the hulking Franklin Institute. Once in front of the sunset reflecting, César Pelli-designed living crystal we call the Cira Center, you'll understand why it inspires so many Instagrams.

Paul Peck Alumni Center , 3140 Market St.

On your way into University City, you'll pass 30th Street Station, an architectural legend in its own right. Once inside you'll stumble upon famed Philly architect Frank Furness's 1876 Victorian-style Centennial National Bank, now quirkily squatting on Drexel's modern urban campus.

Krishna P. Singh Center for Nanotechnology , 3205 Walnut St.

After passing by Drexel's historic Main Building, you'll find a high contrast in Penn's Singh Center. With a facade as futuristic and sleek as its function suggests, the building's gravity-defying eastern wing is a scientific feat on its own.

Fisher Fine Arts Library , 220 S. 34th St.

Another Frank Furness creation, this castle-like library is the stuff of every bookworm's dreams, inside and out. It even features literary inscriptions on select stone surfaces chosen by Furness's brother, a Shakespearean scholar and Penn faculty member. 

Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk , Between South and Locust Streets

A visit to the Schuylkill River would be remiss without a trot down the new boardwalk. Though not a building, its clever landscape architecture extends the Schuylkill River Trail beyond Locust Street for more running and walking.

The Art Institute of Philadelphia , 1622 Chestnut St.

Take a trip down Locust and through picturesque Rittenhouse Square on your way to The Art Institute. Its exuberant circa 1934 art deco exterior harkens back to its first use as the home of WCAU radio station.

Kimmel Center , 300 S. Broad St.

It's hard to miss the Kimmel Center once you're on the Avenue of the Arts. The block-wide structure houses two independent theater structures, a rooftop garden, a cafe and public plaza all under a huge steel and glass barrel vault roof.

City Hall , 1401 John. F. Kennedy Blvd.

The Second Empire style structure took 30 years to build (1871-1901) and features a 37-foot tall statue of William Penn that weighs over 53,000 pounds. Be sure to stay awhile, walking in and out of the courtyard, checking out Dilworth Park and heading up to the observation deck . 

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The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

Hours updated 2 months ago

Updates From This Business

Signs, Symbols & Architecture Tour and Reception

Join us for our annual tour of two Philadelphia… read more

We've updated our hours!

One-hour GUIDED public tours are offered Wednesday –… read more

Free Admission Categories

Did you know that Pennsylvania Masons, active… read more

Celebrating 150 Years!

The Masonic Temple is celebrating 150 years, Stay… read more

Portfolio from the Business

Hourly Public Tours Available

Highlights from the Business

Large group friendly

Private events

Available by appointment

Discounts available

Established in 1873

Walk-ins welcome

Review Highlights

“ The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia is the headquarters for the Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Pennsylvania. ” in 3 reviews

“ The Masonic temple is a historic building, built before Philadelphia's City Hall across the street. ” in 3 reviews

“ Did the 2 1/2 hour tour on 1//19/20. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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1 N Broad St

Philadelphia, PA 19107

Market East, Penn Center, Avenue of the Arts North

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About the Business

A National Historic Landmark in the heart of Philadelphia, The Masonic Temple, located at One North Broad Street in Philadelphia, is home to The Masonic Library and Museum of Pennsylvania and the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, the governing body of Pennsylvania Masons. Weddings and corporate events are also hosted within the building through the branded events department known as ONE North Broad. The Masonic Temple contains artwork, frescos, stained glass, murals and sculptures which connect Freemasons and non-Freemasons to an inspirational world of art, architecture and history. Our exhibit hall features a wide assortment of artifacts related to the history of the Masonic fraternity in Philadelphia and beyond, including letters from George Washington and Past Grand Master of Pennsylvania Mason Benjamin Franklin, along with other items associated with Philadelphia Masons Stephen Girard and John Wanamaker, among others. …

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Do you have to pay to go in without guided tour?

You can visit the museum and the museum gift shop for no charge. To go anywhere else in the building you must take one of the five daily tours.

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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
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Lion was asked to deliver a presentation at the Masonic Temple, open to the public. After his talk, the organizer offered a "quick tour" of the Temple, which we eagerly accepted. The Masonic temple is a historic building, built before Philadelphia's City Hall across the street. It's a marvel of engineering and design, with meticulously designed and decorated themed meeting rooms, a large open library and museum, offices and a large dining conference room. That wood you see in the Norman room? It's hand painted plaster! Those tiles are hand cut glass. Even the coat racks match the theme of the room they adjoin. Throughout you will see portraits of Freemasons, some quite famous, sculptures, murals, and a stunning set stained glass windows. During that COVID shutdowns, the Masons used their time painstakingly restoring, maintaining, and updating the rooms. The Temple is open to the public for tours most days ($13 per person). They also are available for event rentals. The day we were there crews were setting up for a wedding that evening. Definitely worth a visit.

See all photos from Regina M. for The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

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Business Owner

Jan 26, 2023

Thank you for visiting us. We hope to see you back again soon!

This was one of the more interesting tours we did while visiting Philly. Our guide was great at providing some insight into the mysterious Freemasons. Also had a great sense of humor. The building itself is beautiful inside.

I came here by bus on a Tuesday morning in late June 2022. You're only allowed access to the building through a guided tour. I would only recommend this place if you have an interest in the Masonic Fraternity or the building. I found it fascinating. The entire tour was less about the history of the organization and more an advertisement of the dinner rooms and banquet halls they have for rent. Don't get me wrong, they were amazing, but I had to ask all the pressing questions I had in order to get the answers I was seeking - they did not offer it. I came in not knowing anything about the Free Masons. The architecture is really grand and at times jaw-dropping. They provide an hour-long tour each hour (see times online). Bring your student ID for a discount.

See all photos from Osula L. for The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

Are the Free Masons trying to overtake the world? Is this club the most mysterious club in existence? Free Masons total over six million members ; some of which were once the most powerful people in the world (including fourteen of our Presidents.) Have I got your attention yet? If you like intrigue, mystery and just beyond gorgeous pieces of art / architecture this is a must see experience. I was lucky enough to explore the Temple with a book club that just finished Dan Brown's third book which blended some non-fiction and fiction including the Masonic temple worshipping demons and other liberties that the author had taken on the subject. To say the group that I accompanied on the tour gave the tour guide the third degree on questioning would be to put it mildy! I throughly enjoyed every minute of it and at the tour guides request who has also been a member of the Masonic Temple for over twenty-seven years he stated if you really want to learn more the Dummies Guide Series to books actually does a very good job detailing the club, you should go out and buy it if you want to learn more LOL. Well, I might just do that! Make the time to come here and explore the City of Philadelphia a bit, I doubt you will be disappointed. As always people SYOY!!!!

See all photos from Mike C. for The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

Apparently I'd never written a review of this place which surprises me considering this was my third visit.It is a wonderful place to go to. It's quite beautiful with different rooms embodying Masonic visions of Egypt, the middle ages, Greece etc. You go with a group on a tour . The guides are good and informative. There is a small historical museum. It takes around an hour. I think it's $15 if you don't have any kind of discount. The building is impressive.If you haven't been ,go! Oh and there is no need to be into the Masons . I'm not.

Thank you so much for visiting us. We hope to see you again soon!

Really nice staff, and a very nice tour. There is a great staircase, but also elevators that have been there since the 19th century. The tour covers the main rooms by architectural style.

Statues out front

Amazing building with so much history. Tour is great and informative. A must see in Philly

Really cool behind the scenes experience. Tour is lead by local members that are knowledgeable about the organization and the temple itself. You will get to see many of the halls and the tour leader is great answering questions.

See all photos from Cesar R. for The Masonic Temple in Philadelphia

The Masonic Temple is an impressive building the interior of which can only be seen with a guided tour. It's decidedly more eccentric and quirky than Constitution Hall or the Liberty Bell. Especially during the busy summer months, making reservations before setting out to visit is a really good idea :-) The building is immense, and it sits on quite a lot of prime downtown Philadelphia real estate; it's also dripping with Masonic secrets. Visitors are allowed in some rooms, but not in others; some questions you might ask during your visit will be readily answered; others will not... Learning about Masonic history can be quite fascinating and it's worth visiting this Temple just for that purpose. Of additional interest is the building itself. The two taken together can be an intriguing diversion; if you're looking for something that's quite a bit off the cultural beaten path, then consider checking this place out!

This temple is right next to the City Hall. Beautiful architecture. There is admission fee for visiting this temple. Inside is gorgeous and well maintained historic site. There are so many tourist attractions places in that area. They are all walking distance.

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Philadelphia Phillies vs. New York Mets: How to watch the MLB in London Series today

MLB fans, are you ready for the third stop of the 2024 MLB World Tour ? This weekend, MLB visits Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park for the two-game MLB London series . This season, two long-time rival teams will take the field in London: the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. The action continues this Sunday, with the first pitch of Game 2 scheduled for 10:10 a.m. ET. Sunday's Mets vs. Phillies game will air on ESPN. Are you ready to watch? Here’s everything you need to know about the Mets vs. Phillies game in London this afternoon.

How to watch the Phillies vs. Mets London Game 2:

Directv choice, watch fox, espn.

Date: Sunday, June 9, 2024

Time: 10:10 a.m. ET/7:10 a.m. PT

Location: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, East London, UK

TV channel: ESPN

Streaming: DirecTV Stream, Fubo and more

When is the 2024 MLB in London series?

The two-game MLB World Tour: London Series between the Phillies and the Mets continues this Sunday, June 9, with the first pitch of Game 2 scheduled for 3:10 p.m. BST/10:10 a.m. ET.

Which MLB teams are playing the MLB London Series this weekend?

The MLB World Tour: London stop will see the rival Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets face off at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this weekend. The Mets will be the designated “home team” for Game 1, and the Phillies will be the “home team” for Game 2.

What channel is the Mets vs. Phillies game on?

The first game of the MLB London two-game series will air on FOX in the US. The second game will be on ESPN.

How to watch the Mets vs. Phillies game live without cable:

Watch fox, espn and mlbn.

DirecTV’s Choice tier will get you the essential channels for the 2024 MLB season, including FOX and ESPN. Right now, they're offering a month of their Sports Pack add-on (typically $14.99/month) for free when you sign up, plus three months of free Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+ and Cinemax. The Choice tier typically starts at $109/month, but you can get the first three months for $99/month. 

DirecTV also includes plenty of local and sports channels. And every DirecTV subscriber, regardless of tier, enjoys access to an unlimited cloud DVR. You can try DirecTV free before committing to the platform.

• Access to local RSNs
• Free month of Sports Pack add-on
• Three months of free Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+ and Cinemax
• Most expensive subscription option

MLB London Series schedule :

June 8, 2024

Game 1: 1:10 p.m. ET (FOX)

June 9, 2024

Game 2: 10:10 a.m. ET (ESPN)

More ways to watch the MLB London Series:

Sling tv orange & blue + sports extra, watch fox, espn, mlbn, hulu + live tv, watch fox, espn, mlbn and espn+, recommended stories, mlb london series: bryce harper shows off soccer-style celebration after home run in phillies' win over mets.

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Record-breaking Pride flag debuts with city-wide tour ahead of 2024 Philadelphia Pride March

By Josh Sanders

Updated on: May 31, 2024 / 11:10 PM EDT / CBS Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA(CBS) – The largest progress rainbow Pride flag in America debuted on Friday in several locations throughout Philadelphia. Just in time for the city's Pride march and festival this weekend.

"We know as a community, we've existed all over the city," Tyrell Brown, the Executive Director of Galaei and Philly Pride 365, said.

And it's for that reason this record-breaking 400-foot rainbow flag is making its way across Philadelphia to iconic landmarks. 

"We really wanna make sure that we're lifting up pride in the city in all corners and encouraging other people that have their flags too. If you have a Pride flag, hang it out your window. Show your pride because we're really about lifting everybody up," Brown said.

The tour started this morning at the top of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps before making its way to City Hall.

"It's just an incredible moment. It's a visual representation of what Pride means to so many of us. It's unity," Councilmember Rue Landau said. "It's diverse. It's inclusion and it's the strength of our community and to have it travel all throughout the city."

The tour then continued through the stadium district.

"The Pride progress flag is something that is very special to Philly. Including the trans colors and also the black and brown stripes." Program Coordinator for Galaei and Philly Pride 365, Diamond Anthony, said.

The flag has white, pink, and light blue stripes representing the transgender community and black and brown stripes representing queer and trans identities of Black and Brown people.

As the flag waves through the streets of Philadelphia — many in the LGBTQIA+ community reflect on the past but also their hopes for a brighter future.

"With having such a large flag, it shows how large of contributions we've made in this community," Anthony said.

• Pride Month
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Josh Sanders is a journalist shaped by life-changing events. He joined the CBS News Philadelphia family in August 2023 as a reporter and multi-skilled journalist.

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New york mets vs. philadelphia phillies odds, picks and predictions, share this article.

The New York Mets (27-36) and Philadelphia Phillies (45-19) wrap up a 2-game London Series at London Stadium Sunday. First pitch is scheduled for 10:10 a.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Mets vs. Phillies odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Phillies lead 4-1

The Phillies picked up a 7-2 win Saturday at London Stadium as moderate favorites (-157) with the Under (9.5) just hanging on. 1B Bryce Harper went 3-for-4 with a solo HR and pleased the crowd with a soccer-esque celebration a la Manchester City’s Jack Grealish after scoring a goal.

Philadelphia, which owns the best record in the majors, has won 4 in a row, and 7 of the past 8 games. The pitching staff has allowed 2 or fewer runs in 7 of those 8 games, too. The Under is on an impressive 8-0-1 run in the past 9 games, and 11-2-1 in the past 14 outings.

The Mets saw a modest 3-game winning streak come to a close, while going 5-3 in the past 8 outings. The Under cashed, snapping a 5-0-1 run to the Over.

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Mets vs. Phillies projected starters

LHP Jose Quintana vs. RHP Taijuan Walker

Quintana (1-5, 5.17 ERA) makes his 13th start. He has a 1.39 WHIP, 3.0 BB/9 and 6.2 K/9 in 62 2/3 innings.

• Last start: No-decision, 4 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 HR, 3 BB, 4 K in 5-4 home loss vs. Arizona Diamondbacks June 2
• 2024 daytime splits: 1-1, 3.86 ERA (28 IP, 12 ER), 1.07 WHIP, .216 opponents’ batting average (OBA), 4 HR, 8 BB, 19 K in 5 starts
• Career vs. Phillies (regular season): 0-2, 3.72 ERA (55 2/3 IP, 23 ER), 1.17 WHIP, 11.3 K/9 in 10 starts dating back to 2013
• 2024 vs. Phillies: 1 start, no-decision, 5 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 6-5 road win in 11 innings May 16

Walker (3-1, 5.73 ERA) makes his 8th start. He has a 1.59 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9 and 7.2 K/9 in 37 2/3 innings.

• Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 4 ER, 5 H, 2 HR, 3 BB, 5 K in 5-4 home loss in 10 innings vs. St. Louis Cardinals June 2
• 2024 daytime splits: 2-1, 5.89 ERA (18 1/3 IP, 12 ER), 1.64 WHIP, .338 OBA, 3 HR, 5 BB, 12 K in 3 starts
• Career vs. Mets: 1-3, 3.44 ERA (36 2/3 IP, 14 ER), 1.23 WHIP, 8.7 K/9 in 7 starts dating back to 2014
• 2024 vs. Mets: 1 start, no-decision, 3 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 1 K in 6-5 home loss in 11 innings May 16

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Mets vs. Phillies odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook ; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:33 a.m. ET.

• Moneyline (ML) : Mets +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Phillies -142 (bet $142 to win $100)
• Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS) : Mets +1.5 (-162) | Phillies -1.5 (+134)
• Over/Under (O/U) : 10.5 (O: -106 | U: -114)

Mets vs. Phillies picks and predictions

Phillies 8, Mets 5

First-place PHILADELPHIA (- 142 ) is a solid play to secure the 2-game London Series sweep, but don’t be surprised if there are plenty of twists and turns along the way.

Walker has been very giving in his 7 starts to date, but the Mets (+120) have the southpaw Quintana going, and he has also been hit hard at times this season.

Run line/Against the spread

If you’re a little more adventurous, Philadelphia -1.5 (+ 134 ) at plus-money is worth a look. However, play one or the other as it makes little sense to bet both the moneyline and the run line.

The Phillies pounded the Mets Saturday, but Walker is a little less of a sure thing since he has been knocked around at times. Still, with the Philadelphia offense backing him, it should result in another win for the powerhouse Phils.

OVER 10.5 ( -106 ) might be the best play on the board.

The Philadelphia offense picked up 7 runs in Saturday’s game at London Stadium, but the New York offense wasn’t able to follow suit. However, the Mets could get well against Walker, who has coughed up at least 1 HR in 6 of his 7 starts, including a total of 8 long balls in just 37 2/3 innings.

The Over is 2-0-1 in Quintana’s past 3 starts outside of Citi Field, including an Over result against the Phillies May 16. The Over is 6-1 in Walker’s 7 starts this season.

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Things to do in Philly this weekend – Phillies London Series watch parties, Kenny Chesney, ODUNDE Festival, more

P HILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Cheers to the weekend, Philly! The City of Brotherly Love is popping off this weekend with events like the ODUNDE Festival and the Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival, plus early Juneteenth celebrations! There's also a lineup of star-studded performances set for this weekend in the Greater Philadelphia region like Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band, 21 Savage, Bryson Tiller and Bonnie Raitt. 

Start celebrating your weekend early. Here's a list of events and festivities going on this weekend around the Delaware Valley.

Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band at Lincoln Financial Field

Two things that just go together -- summer and country music. And now two A-list country artists are coming to South Philly this weekend to kick off sweet summertime . Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band will bring the Sun Goes Down Tour to Lincoln Financial Field this Saturday with opening acts like Megan Moroney and Uncle Kracker. 

Saturday's show begins at 5 p.m. and tickets start at $145.

MLB World Tour: London Series 2024 Phillies vs. Mets

Philadelphia sports fans have an impressive track record for traveling to see their teams play, and the Phillies-Mets London series will likely be no different. For those not making the trip across the pond to see the Phillies sweep the Mets, here are a couple of great viewing parties in the city.

McGillin's Olde Ale House is hosting a watch party  on June 8 at noon. Known for its history and reasonable prices, McGillian's is the perfect place to watch the game with other Phillies fans. 

Down the street is another watch party at Founding Fathers Sports Bar & Grill on June 8 at 1 p.m. Presented by the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia , enjoy the Phillies-Mets rivalry, with the chance to win prizes with their business card raffle.

Although this event is free, they do require pre-registration to reserve your seat and be eligible for the raffle.

Both venues offer a lively atmosphere to enjoy the game. Whether you prefer the historic charm of McGillin's or the vibrant setting of Founding Fathers. Grab your Phillies gear, and get ready for the MLB World Tour: London Series.

21 Savage at Freedom Mortgage Pavillion

Rapper 21 Savage heads to the Garden State this Sunday for a stop on his American Dream Tour. The show at Freedom Mortgage Pavillion starts at 7 p.m. and tickets to see the rapper in action start at $41.30.

Bonnie Raitt: Just Like That... Tour 2024

Blues rock singer Bonnie Raitt will bring her Just Like That... Tour to The Met in North Philly on Friday. English R&B soul singer James Hunter also joins Raitt on tour. Doors open for the Friday night show at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. 

Tickets to Friday's show start at $94.30.

Rittenhouse Square Fine Arts Show

The Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show is celebrating 97 years of artistic expression this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This free show exhibits exceptional pieces by 145 fine artists across various mediums like pastel, mixed media, oil and acrylic, printmaking, watercolor, drawing and sculpture. 

Take a walk through the park this weekend, witness incredible artistic expression and meet artists from all around the country at no cost at all! The show is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. 

ODUNDE Festival

The U.S.'s largest African American street festival is back in the City of Brotherly Love and will be taking over South Philadelphia this weekend. The ODUNDE Festival is celebrating its 49th year and will be held near 23rd and South streets. 

The festival covers 16 city blocks, has two stages for live performances and will showcase over 100 arts, crafts and food vendors at its African marketplace, highlighting retailers from African nations, the Caribbean and Brazil. 

ODUNDE celebrates another year for African Americans and Africanized people globally and will feature a procession from 23rd and South streets to the Schuylkill River, ending with an offering of fruit and flowers to Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of the river.

At 7 p.m. R&B music group Dru Hill is set to perform at the South Street Stage on 23rd and South streets.

West Philly Porchfest

Experience the vibrant musical and cultural tapestry of West Philadelphia at the annual West Philly Porchfest .

Since it kicked off in 2016, this do-it-yourself music festival has grown into a community tradition.

Spanning from 42nd and Spruce streets down to Catherine Street, you can catch free performances on porches throughout the neighborhood from 12 to 6 p.m. Saturday.

Bryson Tiller at Highmark Skyline Stage at the Mann

Pen Griffey, aka Bryson Tiller, will be back in the City of Brotherly Love for "The Bryson Tiller Tour" at the Highmark Skyline Stage at the Mann on Friday. The show is expected to start at 8 p.m. rain or shine.

Known for bridging genres trap and soul with "Trapsoul," Tiller was in the city not too long ago with a show at The Fillmore last year in May. The Grammy-nominated R&B and hip-hop artist released his fourth album called "Bryson Tiller" in April.

The verified resale tickets on Ticketmaster  start at $120 and if you want to snag a cheaper deal, on SeatGeek  tickets start at $90 and on StubHub  tickets start at $99.

If you can't make it to the show or just don't want to go home yet after the show is the after-party! Center City nightclub NOTO  will have an after-party expected to start at 10 p.m. Final-call general admission is available for $50 with fees. 

On  Ticketmaster , general admission tier 5 starts at $50.

Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival

The Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival promises six weeks of excitement. It kicked off in the last week of May and shows no signs of slowing down. For an unforgettable evening, check out the second week's event at The Barnes Foundation.

The Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival also partnered with The Barnes Foundation for an evening of art, live music and film for First Friday. Starting at 6 p.m., this event showcases the work of up-and-coming and established Latine/x/a/o filmmakers, musicians and artists.

Featuring two sets of music from Guachinangos, at 6:30 and 8 p.m., the diverse group mixes Latin American musical traditions. 

PHLAFF will also play two short films at 7 p.m.

Early Juneteenth events around the city

• Swedesboro Juneteenth Celebration  

Where:  Kingsway Regional High School, Lot F. 172 Garwin Road, Woolwich Township, N.J.

When:  June 8, 2024 

Time:  Festival noon - 4 p.m./Gospel Jam 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

The free family event offers enjoyment for everyone with over 100 performers, vendors, food, historic tours and more to celebrate freedom and the 225th anniversary of its Underground Railroad site. Youngsters can enjoy treats and activities in the Children's Tent, and get their faces painted.

• PA Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant

Where:  National Constitution Center at 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia

When: Saturday, June 8, 2024 

Time:  6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The PA Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant is one of many events leading up to the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade and Festival. The pageant celebrates the historical significance of Juneteenth while providing a platform for young people to shine and crown Miss Juneteenth Pennsylvania and Little Miss Juneteenth Pennsylvania. The pageant has three divisions: Little Miss Juneteenth, Junior Miss Juneteenth and Miss Juneteenth.

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Jaw-dropping views, hidden history: a visit to philly’s city hall, america’s largest municipal building is an architectural marvel that's worth exploring all the way to the top....

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Location & Contact:

• 1400 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Philadelphia, PA 19107
• 267-514-4757
• Visit Website

The elevator motor whirs as dusty scenes glide past the glass door. You catch glimpses of things you’d imagine would be inside a clock tower from the 19th century: plenty of bricks, arched windows and a smattering of tools.

Just as you begin to think about how old this elevator is, the doors open and you step out onto a 360-degree observation deck —  the only one in Philadelphia offering panoramic views of the city.

You’re in Philadelphia’s City Hall , home to 88 million bricks, 250 sculptures, 14.5 acres of floor space and one of Philly’s most iconic pieces of art: the 37-foot-tall statue of city founder William Penn.

Clocking in at 548 feet, City Hall was the tallest habitable structure in the world until 1908, and it remained the tallest building in Philadelphia until 1986 (a little more on that later). It’s still the largest municipal building in the United States today.

But numbers really don’t do this massive building justice. Built in the eclectic Second Empire style, City Hall’s beauty lies not in its size, but in the intricate details awaiting discovery around nearly every corner — and a view that can’t be beat.

The Experience

City Hall can (and should) be admired from the outside (which isn’t that hard to do, considering that William Penn and the building’s iconic clock can be seen from many spots throughout the city).

A view of City Hall from North Broad Street   — Photo by M. Edlow for Visit Philadelphia

But history buffs, architecture fans, folks who love a good story and anyone interested in a jaw-dropping skyline view (so, everyone?) should find time to hop on a guided tour of one of Philly’s most iconic buildings. Here’s how.

City Hall Tower Tours

Offered both as part of the interior and exterior tour (see below) and as a standalone option, the City Hall Tower Tour takes you to a glass-enclosed observation deck 500 feet above street level — and just a few feet below the massive bronze statue of William Penn.

  — Photo by M. Edlow for the Independence Visitor Center Corporation

The ascent is a bit of a rustic experience, with four visitors at a time joining an operator inside a small, 100-year-old elevator to reach the top.

The payoff is more than worth it as you take in rare, 360-degree views of Philadelphia from William Penn’s perspective.

Pro tip: After admiring the city view, be sure to look up through openings in the ceiling to examine details of the iconic statue up close.

Interior & Exterior Tours

In addition to the tower tours, guided tours offer a more comprehensive look at City Hall.

As you stroll around the perimeter of the building and through the center courtyard, tour guides offer insights and anecdotes about the history of the building, from its prolonged 30-year construction (1871 to 1901) to a gentlemen’s agreement among developers that kept William Penn as the tallest point in the city’s skyline until 1986.

(An ensuing Philly sports curse was reversed when a miniature William Penn statuette was placed atop the Comcast Center in 2007.)

As you listen, keep your eyes peeled and look up to examine some of the 250 sculptures designed by Alexander Milne Calder.

  — Photo by M. Edlow for Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation

Inside the building, you’ll explore the grandest of its more than 700 rooms. Stops on the tour include the ornate City Council Caucus Room where council members publicly debate and vote on bills — and the lavish Mayor’s Reception Room, which is lined with portraits of the previous mayors in the city’s history.

The tour ends with a trip to the top of the City Hall Tower, where you’ll experience sweeping, 360-degree views of the city from an enclosed observation deck.

Heads up: The building still serves as the official seat of Philly’s government, so expect a quick trip through a security checkpoint as you enter the building, and keep an eye out for busy staffers.

The History

In his original 1682 design for the city, William Penn planned five public squares, setting aside the Center Square for public buildings.

But it took 200 years before the square was used for that purpose.

The first City Hall was located at 2nd and Market streets, then moved to 5th and Chestnut streets when the Independence Hall complex was built.

Architect John McArthur, Jr. supervised the construction of the present-day City Hall on Center Square, which began in 1871 and took more than 30 years to complete.

The building’s exterior is covered with intricate sculptures representing the seasons and continents, as well as allegorical figures, animals and masks.

All of the sculptures were designed by Alexander Milne Calder, including the 27-ton statue of William Penn atop the tower.

Admission & Info

Both the City Hall Tower Tours and the Interior and Exterior Tour depart from the City Hall Visitor Center.

For more information on hours of operation and to purchase tickets, click the button below.

Things to Do Nearby

Self-Guided Tour

Can’t hop on a guided tour? No problem.

Philly’s Association for Public Art has an excellent self-guided tour featuring more than a dozen key artworks on and around City Hall.

A Quest for Parity: The Octavius V. Catto Memorial   — Photo by A. Rogers for the Association for Public Art

Click the button below to learn more about the self-guided tour.

Dilworth Park

Speaking of around City Hall, Dilworth Park — located on the building’s west side — is well worth a visit any time of year.

City Hall’s fantastic front yard has a retro-themed roller rink and tree-lined fountains (splashing encouraged) in warm weather, and an ice-skating rink with a ski chalet vibe in winter.

Fountains at Dilworth Park   — Photo by M. Fischetti for Visit Philadelphia

Also on-site: year-round pop-up concerts, fitness events, festivals, a cozy cafe and great access to public transit.

Click the button below for more about Dilworth Park.

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• Center City
• Market East / Convention Center
• Philadelphia Neighborhoods
• Arts & Galleries
• Public Art & Architecture

The Perfect Hotel Package for an Easy Philly Escape

The  Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.

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