Visiting Philadelphia

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 colorful neighborhoods, learn more about its rich history and delve into its spectacular sites and attractions.
—Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau

Philadelphia is becoming one of the world’s great art destinations. Not only does it showcase great art, but it is also a leader in arts education with the Barnes Foundation, PAFA, Moore College of Art & Design, The University of the Arts, and Temple University’s Tyler School of Arts.
—With Art Philadelphia press release

Philadelphia International Airport is just over 7 miles from Center City Philadelphia. Taxis charge a flat rate of $28.50 from the Airport to downtown. Credit and debit cards are accepted for payment.

Train service is available on the Airport Line Regional Rail from the airport to Suburban Station (16th Street and JFK Boulevard), just a few blocks north of the Radisson-Plaza Warwick.

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Top Reasons to Visit Philadelphia in 2012

It’s going to be a big year with new museums, blockbuster exhibitions and more.

In a nod to the past, several of the region’s cultural institutions will showcase globally revered treasures from the worlds of religion and art that date from antiquity to the 20th century.

With eyes focused on the future, the region is also embracing some of the most modern interpretive artwork ever commissioned. Plus, a number of the city’s museums are unveiling major renovations that will enable them to thrive for many years to come.

Just a few reasons to visit:

  • From Asbury Park to the Promised Land: The Life and Music of Bruce Springsteen (February 17 – September 3, National Constitution Center)
  • The Dead Sea Scrolls at the Franklin Institute
  • Offering of the Angels: Treasures from the Uffizi Gallery (April 21 – August 10, James A. Michener Art Museum, Doylestown, PA)
  • The Philadelphia History Museum at the Atwater Kent – opening May 2012
  • The Academy of Natural Sciences Turns 200!
  • PAFA and Dr. Barnes (April 17 – July 8, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts)
  • MAYA 2012: Lords of Time (opens May 5, University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archeology and Anthropology)
  • First Fridays in the Old City section of Philadelphia (enjoy strolling through the 40-plus galleries with fellow art-lovers, most galleries open from 5 – 9pm