Why did I go to Philly? Well, quite simply the weather was absolutely beautiful, I’m a huge lover of the northeastern states of America such as New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey as well as fond of museums, and I’m always looking for a bargain. One of the main reasons why I am able to travel so often is because I am a hardcore minimalist and about as low maintenance as it gets. I stayed in a 12-bedroom mixed dorm at City House Hostel Philadelphia where the only real rule was not to fall asleep in the common area, which of course I did after working the night before, flying in right after, and waiting to check-in (what can you do?). I flew with Spirit for a measly $75 as I didn’t bring anything but a personal bag (a backpack), didn’t pick seat, and brought my own food and drinks on the plane. Without any extras, budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant Air offer crazy savings.

I didn’t care to see extremely touristy attractions like the Liberty Bell, which I walked by at least a dozen times. I came for local dives, amazing food, and to get a real glimpse into what life in Philly is like.

That being said, I did decide to partake in purchasing a 5-attraction CityPASS which, in my case, gives access to any five attractions of a list over a set period of time for around $80USD once it’s been activated by going to your first attraction. These are the five I ended up choosing after careful consideration and locals’ recommendations:

1. Museum of the American Revolution

2. Mutter Museum

4. Eastern State Penitentiary

5. Philadelphia Museum of Art

 

Free Attractions:

Rocky Steps and Footprints:

 

Places to spend the day exploring: 

9th Street Italian Market & South Philly, Locust Street, Old City and Fishtown.

Bars to check out:

Locust Bar for a local dive, Anastasia’s for oysters and other seafood, and Noir for nice cocktails and finer meals.

Getting Around:

Septa Key applies for any Septa buses or trains, they do, however not apply to trips to the airport. In that case, a one-time, one-way quick trip pass must be purchased. Philly’s public transportation is pretty simple.