Noah takes the world

18 Activities for a Budget Philly Solo Trip

Philadelphia is considered to be the birthplace of the United States. It’s no wonder why my Philly solo trip was so insightful.

You have historic sites like Liberty Bell and Elfreth’s Alley, and beautiful nature spots like Fairmount Park and the 18th Century Garden. I underestimated how much I would enjoy my Philly solo trip

This post may have affiliate links. I receive a small percentage if you book a hostel or attraction through my recommended links. This is at no extra cost to you and helps me reach my goal of becoming a full-time digital nomad.

In two days, I completed 18 activities in the city of “Brotherly Love” and I only spent $120 during my Philly solo trip. Scroll to the end of the article to see my budget breakdown. 

Here is a complete itinerary for two days in Philadelphia. The best part about my itinerary is the fact that it’s in order. You can start each day at the first location and continue from there. 

Table of contents

This post may have affiliate links. I receive a small percentage if you book a hostel or attraction through my recommended links. This is at no extra cost to you and helps me reach my goal of becoming a full-time digital nomad. 

Day 1: City Center and Fairmount Park

1. Start Your Solo Trip by Arriving at William Gray Station

My Philly trip began at one of the busiest intercity passenger railroad stations in the U.S. all because it was the final stop on my Amtrak train. 

Noah’s take: Although there is nothing you have to see at William Gray Station, it is a historic landmark and a gorgeous place to begin your solo trip. 

2. Walk Through Rittenhouse Square Park in Philly’s City Center

Once I arrived in Philly, I opted to walk through Philly’s City Center since I needed to kill time until I could check into my hostel. 

Noah’s take: Although I do not recommend walking 2 miles with your suitcase through Philly, especially because of its cobblestone streets, I did enjoy the walk because of sights like Rittenhouse Square. 

Rittenhouse Square is a relaxing park where locals gather with plenty of photo opportunities and interesting sculptures. It was one of the five original squares planned by William Penn, Philly’s founder. 

3. Stay at Apple Hostels in Philly for a Convenient Location on Your Solo Trip

I stayed at Apple Hostels on my solo trip to Philadelphia. Apple Hostels was a 5-minute walk from one of Philly’s most famous sites, Independence Hall. 

If you try staying in a hotel in Philly’s Old City District, you will pay a hefty premium for being in such an ideal location— close to $200 a night. I only spent an average of $35 a night at Apple Hostels. 

The facilities at Apple Hostels were superb. It had a spacious kitchen and living area. It was a very lively hostel, so if you want to meet other travelers on your solo trip, you can at Apple Hostels. 

4. Take in Gorgeous Views Around the Logan Square Neighborhood

After I checked into my hostel, I went on a run. I know most people don’t choose to run on vacation, but the weather was absolutely perfect. Spring just arrived in the city, and I was obsessed. 

Even if running is not what sparks joy on your Philly solo trip, a visit to Logan Square certainly will spark your interest. Logan Square is home to many of Philly’s attractions. The photo opportunities are endless here. 

You can photograph City Hall, snap a selfie in front of Robert Indiana’s famous Love Sculpture, or marvel at the museums that line Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

5. Hit Iconic Photos Spots Near the Philadelphia Museum of Art to Remember You Solo Trip

Continue down Benjamin Franklin Parkway and run into more iconic sites like the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A popular photo moment is walking up the museum’s stairs from the movie “Rocky.” 

However, that photo-op was not my priority. I headed towards Fairmount Water Works for its stunning views of Boathouse Row and Philly’s Center City skyline. 

6. Connect With Nature and Culture at Fairmount Park

If you are up for a stroll, pass Boathouse Row, and head towards the spacious Fairmount Park. The park was first established to protect the source of Philly’s drinking water, the Schuylkill River.

Now, it is a gathering place for residents. There are plenty of attractions to visit that you would not see at your typical park. 

From visiting the peaceful Shofuso Japanese House for $14, or touring America’s first Zoo, the options are endless. 

I opted to run along the 3.8-mile Boxers’ Trail and marvel at historic mansions along the trail. The park is home to six mansions, known as the “Park Charms,” built by wealthy families between the 18th and 19th centuries.

7. Take in the Most Popular View of Philly at Belmont Plateau

I continued my run through the urban oasis and crossed the historic Strawberry Mansion Bridge. Although I was exhausted, I want to see the sunset at one of Philly’s most “Instagrammable” locations in Fairmount Park. 

Nearly every travel blog says Belmont Plateau has the best view of the Philly skyline. I definitely was impressed with the view, but a storm was approaching, so I made it a quick visit.

On non-rainy days, the plateau is also perfect for picnicking or sunbathing. 

Noah’s take: I recommend a visit to Belmont Plateau, but it is 4 miles away from City Center. If you can’t make the trip out to the park, there are great photo opportunities of Philly’s skyline along the Schuylkill River Trail. 

I was most satisfied with the pictures I shot around the river as I headed back to City Center. The rain was pouring, but it made for a great way to close out my first day on my Philly solo trip. 

I also found a Trader Joe’s where I stocked up on food for my trip. This way I could save money and have enough energy to complete my extensive itinerary for the next day.

Day 2: Old City

8. Start the Second Day of Your Solo Trip by Admiring Christ Church

It was my second day in Philly, and it was time to explore Philly’s many historic sites. After a 5-minute walk from Apple Hostels, I reached the birthplace of the American Episcopal Church. 

Noah’s take: I didn’t attend the church’s service, but it was a beautiful building to admire. Many of the Founding Fathers attended services at the church.  

9. Step Back in Time to Colonial America at Elfreth’s Alley

The next historic site on my solo walking tour was a Historic National Landmark, Elfreth’s Alley. This cobblestone alley is incredibly charming and was once home to artisans and tradespeople 300 years ago. 

There are plenty of photo spots surrounding the alley home to 32 historic streets. You can also visit the alley’s museum for $3, open Friday to Sunday (2-4 pm) from April through October.

10. Learn About the Lives of the President’s Slaves at the President House Site

I continued walking in Philly’s Old City and briefly stopped at the Betsy Ross House and Arch Street Meeting House until making my way to the President House Site that sits in front of the Liberty Bell Center. 

The President House Site is a free, outdoor exhibit that showcases the stories of George Washington’s and John Adams’ slaves that once worked on the grounds. 

Noah’s take: Although there is no home to tour at the site, it was a very insightful exhibit. I was glad I made the brief stop to visit the President’s House Site. 

11. Take a Self-Guided Tour to See the Infamous Liberty Bell

Perhaps the most famous symbol of Philly is the Liberty Bell. No trip to Philly is complete without touring the cracked message of liberty.

Admission to the Liberty Bell is free, and no tickets are required. However, visitors must pass through a security screen first. 

Before you see the bell, you can read exhibits about the founding of the Liberty Bell, women’s suffrage, and the civil rights movement.

12. Take a Break on Your Solo Trip to Relax at the 18th-Century Garden

After crowding with fellow tourists at Liberty Bell, I was pleasantly surprised to find a calm garden on Walnut Street after a 5-minute walk. 

The 18th-Century Garden features plants grown in Philly during the 1700s. I love gardens, and a garden modeled after colonial times was even more charming. 

13. Tour the Most Famous Building in All of Philly, Independence Hall

After a quick break in the garden and a lunch break back at my hostel, it was time to visit another iconic symbol of Philly, Independence Hall. 

In this building, both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed. Independence Hall began as the Pennsylvania State House until being loaned out for meetings of the Continental Congress.

Noah’s take: Touring Independence Hall was one of my favorite activities I did in Philly. Park rangers shared insightful stories and made the tour more than just a glorified photo moment.  

So, make sure you book a timed entry ticket on Recreation.gov. Admission to Independence Hall is by tour only. It costs $1 to reserve a ticket. 

14. Hear History From Very Passionate Pank Rangers at Congress Hall

Congress Hall is located steps from Independence Hall. After you tour Independence Hall, you can make your way to the home of the U.S. Congress from 1790 to 1800, when Philadelphia served as the temporary capital of the United States. 

According to nps.gov, from March through December, entrance is by tour only, first-come, first served. Tours begin every 20 minutes and run for about 15-20 minutes. In January and February, you can explore at your own pace. 

Noah’s take: Like Independence Hall, touring this historic meeting house was very fulfilling. Park rangers are very knowledgeable and passionate about teaching American history.

15. Get Your Museum Game on at the National Constitution Center

Solo trips and museum visits are the perfect combination. I opted to visit the National Constitution Center because it was conveniently located a few blocks from the Liberty Bell. 

The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. General admission is $14.50. 

Make sure to watch the theatrical production of “Freedom Rising,” which runs every hour. You can stand alongside 42 statues of the signers of the Constitution. There are also exhibits on the Women’s Suffrage and the Reconstruction era. 

Noah’s take: Try to visit at least one museum in Philly since you’re in the birthplace of America. If the Constitution doesn’t spark your interest, visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia.

16. Take a Brief Rest at the Lively Franklin Square

In less than a two-minute walk from the Constitution Center, you will find Franklin Square. 

In another one of Philadelphia’s original squares, you will find a historic fountain, the Parx Liberty Carousel, and classic American cuisine. Of course, I am talking about hamburgers and shakes.

Noah’s take: It is a nice place to relax, people-watch, and take a few photos. You don’t have to spend too much time here, but I prefer to hang out here than in my hostel room. 

There is also a Mini Golf course where you can putt your way through famous landmarks in the city. I have never played Mini Golf on a solo trip, but I challenge you to try it!

17. Walk Across the Benjamin Franklin Bridge for the Most Epic Views on Your Solo Trip

After relaxing at Franklin Square, I wanted to get some iconic shots of the skyline as the sun was setting. I decided to make the trek from Pennsylvania to New Jersey via the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

As I crossed the Delaware river on foot, I had amazing views of the Philly skyline. Depending on how far you want to walk, you will find a great picture spot at the RCA Pier in Camden, New Jersey.

My walk from Franklin Square to RCA Pier was 5 miles round-trip, so it took me a while. I was determined to walk from one state to another. However, you can get great photos even if you don’t walk the entire bridge. 

18. Finish Your Solo Trip at the Elegant Carpenter’s Hall

As I walked back from Camden, New Jersey back to my hostel in Philly’s Old City, I made one last stop, Carpenter’s Hall, the host of the First Continental Congress. 

I visited the Hall at dusk just to admire its beautiful architecture. When I visited Philly, the Hall was closed for renovation. As of February 2023, the hall is still not open because someone started a fire at the building weeks away from the hall reopening. 

Visit carpentershall.org for more updates on this insane story. 

Even though I couldn’t go inside the historic treasure, it was a peaceful way to close my solo trip.

Wanna travel to more iconic East Coast cities? See my itinerary for 3 days in Boston.

How much money did I spend on a 2-day Philly Solo Trip?

I spent close to $120 on my solo trip. I saved considerably by eating prepared meals at my hostel.

One night at my hostel, a group of students who were visiting from France made a huge dinner, and they gave me some of their food. That made my day and helped me save even more money. 

Essentially all the activities I did in the city were free, besides going to the National Constitution Center. Since I walked to all my attractions, I didn’t spend any money on transportation. 

• Hostel: $70
• Food: $35
• Attractions: $16

Conclusion

You can have a very exciting Philly solo trip without spending much money. If you love nature, you will love Fairmount Park. If you are a history nerd, you will be obsessed with Philly’s Old City.

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Philadelphia. Find the courage to take a solo trip to the city of “Brotherly Love.” I know you will love it. 

Visiting the East Coast? Read all of my East Coast guides:

• Boston Solo Trip: The Perfect Itinerary for a 3-day Budget-friendly Trip
• 8 Solo Things to Do in NYC for the Perfect Day Alone
• Rhode Island Travel Guide: How to Spend 48 Hours Alone in Rhode Island
• 16 Things to Do Alone on a DC Solo Trip