Looking for your next (or first!) solo trip? You just found it! I’ve actually been to Philadelphia solo several times, and it’s definitely one of my favorite solo destinations. It might be fun to bring a friend, too, but here’s everything you need to know about how to do it all solo!
Why Philadelphia?
There are so many reasons to put the City of Brotherly Love on your list! It’s relatively easy to get to, whether you’re coming by plane, train, or car. There are plenty of hotel and vacation rental options in the city center and historic district. And, for those of us who love history, art, museums, or food, you’ll find all of it here!
(Coming soon) See also: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Valley Forge National Historic Site
Is It Safe?
Anywhere you visit has crime, and anywhere you visit is safe. It’s all about your own self-awareness and ability to trust your gut. Philadelphia, just like any major city, has its good and “bad” areas. In Philadelphia, anywhere you go in the historic district will be safe, and anywhere else you go in the day time will be safer than in the night time!
Helpful info: Tips for Visiting Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
How Can I Get There?
As previously mentioned, you can easily get here by car, train, or airplane! I actually took the train here often when I worked there one summer. But the airport is close to downtown, and you can drive here via Interstates 95 or 76. Once you’re here, you can pretty much get where you need to go on foot.
Worth a visit: Everything You Need to Know to Visit the Betsy Ross House
Where Should I Stay?
As a solo traveler, I recommend staying in the Old City, Society Hill, or Center City. Rittenhouse Square is also nice, but if you’re here to see the main sites (Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, etc.), it’s a little far. I recommend “favoriting” your must-see sites on Trip Advisor, then choosing an accommodation close to the most sites you want to visit.
Read next: Where to Eat in Old City Philadelphia
What Should I Do?
Everything! Definitely visit the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Valley Forge, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Franklin Institute, and get a dose of woman-power at the Betsy Ross House! You can also visit the U.S. Mint, send mail Ben Franklin’s Post Office, and visit the Museum if the American Revolution. If you get bored here, it’s not Philly’s fault!
More here: The Best Things to Do in Philadelphia for Early American History Lovers
How Can I Save Money?
Actually, it’s pretty easy to save money here. The PHLASH bus goes to all the main attractions and is just $2 per ride, or $5 per day for hop-on, hop-off privileges. The National Park sites you already want to see are FREE, and actually, there are some very good, affordable hotels available in great locations. I stayed at the Wyndham for $120 per night, right on Arch Street, just steps from Betsy Ross’s House! Oh, and that Phily Cheesesteak is definitely cheap and big enough for two meals!
Want more? Check out all my posts about Philadelphia and the surrounding area on my dedicated United States Page!
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