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The Roman Empire made great inroads into southern Germany, establishing villages, forts, and trading routes. Follow the remnants of the empire from Frankfurt to Munich and take in ancient history along the UNESCO-recognized Upper Germanic-Rhaetian Limes.

Overview

The recently renovated and reopened Philadelphia History Museum showcases an impressive collection of art, objects, and artifacts spanning 330 years of the city’s history. Dating back to 1826, the building itself plays into the journey through the past. The biggest draw for me, however, is the rotating Made in Philadelphia exhibit which looks at the city’s contributions in craftsmanship and manufacturing throughout history (particular nod to the ‘Craft Brewing’ feature which focuses on brewing from the days of William Pen right up through the revival of microbreweries in the 20th century). And if you’re keen on vintage Philly, I highly recommend the much-lauded Facebook page Old Images of Philadelphia. It isn’t associated with the museum but offers a heartwarming virtual walk through the city’s storied past.

Philadelphia’s City Hall is the largest and tallest city hall in the US, and for locals, the midpoint for all things Center City. Designed by architect John McArthur, Jr., it was completed in 1901 and originally designed to be the world’s tallest building, an honor that it held only briefly. There are over 250 ornamental marble statues decorating the exterior of the building, and it is topped off by a bronze statue of the city’s founder, William Penn, created by sculptor Alexander Milne Calder. (Trivia: The statue is 37 feet tall and weighs 53,348 pounds, and once wore a super-sized Phillies baseball cap; then some years later was dressed in a giant Flyers jersey.) Underneath the William Penn statue is a tower with an observation deck that offers incredible 360 degree views of the city (and the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers, and New Jersey, and beyond!). This view, toward the southeast, captures the iconic PNB Building. Visitors can purchase timed tickets for the observation deck from the City Hall Visitor Center, Room 121 (east of the central courtyard).

Philadelphia has unveiled one of the nation’s first LGBTQ+-focused visitor centers, creating a new hub for travelers to explore the city’s queer history, culture, and community at the heart of the Gayborhood.

Emblems of the country’s birth, winding river trails, and great eating are a few of the city’s draws.

Like many other Philly institutions, the Philadelphia Zoo is America’s first. It opened in 1874 and encompasses over 40 acres of gardens and exhibits, featuring more than 1,300 animals, including many rare and endangered species. Visitors may need a full day to explore the many exhibits and attractions, and should consider reserving a guided tour to get the most out of their visit. One of the most popular and unique activities is the Zoo Balloon, a tethered hot air balloon that soars 400 feet over the zoo grounds, with spectacular views of the nearby Schuylkill River, Fairmount Park and the Philly skyline. The balloon flies from May through October, weather permitting; check the home page of the zoo’s website on the morning of your visit to see the balloon’s status. The kids can get up close and personal with a variety of creatures at KidZooU, the new children’s zoo and wildlife education center which offers both indoor and outdoor learning experiences. American history and architecture buffs should look for the Frank Furness designed Victorian gates and gatehouses, as well as a very historic home located on the zoo grounds, known as The Solitude. Built in 1784 by John Penn, grandson of William Penn, the Solitude house is a lovely neoclassical manor house and is the only original Penn home remaining in the US. The zoo is open daily from 9:30 to 4.

A quick guide for your next trip to Philly—including where to eat, shop, sleep, and explore.

From Boston to Bristol, the nation’s birthplace leads the charge in celebrating 250 years of American independence.

Four Philadelphia tastemakers, across its restaurant, hospitality, and arts scenes, explain why the city is worth a visit today.

Locals from four U.S. host cities share their tips for finding festivities beyond official celebrations.

The history- and nature-themed itineraries include Amtrak train rides, hotel accommodations, sightseeing tours, and activities in destinations along the coasts and in national parks, major cities, and historic sites.

Learn about the history, architecture, design, and engineering hidden underneath your feet on these urban transit system tours.

Follow paths once walked by Indigenous people, soldiers, enslaved Africans, and overshadowed women, from Georgia to New Hampshire.