Left Arrow
Right Arrow
Rating Star

5 (1)

Location Icon Philadelphia

Philly's Museum Mile: Art, History & Hidden Gems!

Clock

180

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Philadelphia's Museum Mile: Love Park to the Rocky Steps offers a fun and easy way to see the city's cultural side. This isn't just another walk; it's a chance to explore the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in a new light. It is perfect for anyone who wants to discover Philadelphia's hidden gems and famous landmarks, with a personal touch.

During this half-day walking tour, expect to see iconic spots like LOVE Park, where the adventure starts. The tour also goes by the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul and Logan Circle. Plus, it ends near the Rocky Statue, the famous Rocky Steps, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, making it easy to see even more after the tour. With the use of an iPad to display images, the guide tells engaging stories about the city's landmarks and the people who shaped them. Each stop offers a chance to sit, rest, and enjoy food and restroom breaks, making this a comfortable experience for everyone. The guide also acts as the group's photographer.

This experience includes photos emailed to participants within two hours after the tour, along with an information package. It excludes personal shopping expenses and transport from the end point back to the start. This walking tour provides sun umbrellas and hand-held fans to ensure visitors stay cool and comfortable throughout the experience. The group size is limited to ensure a personal experience. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Discover Philly's Cultural Gems: Explore the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with a fun, informative walking tour.

Highlight Icon

Enjoy Comfort & Convenience: Rest stops, restrooms, and food breaks are included for a relaxed experience.

Highlight Icon

Get Personal Photos: The guide takes photos and emails them to the group after the tour.

Highlight Icon

See Amazing Visuals: An iPad shows pictures that bring the stories to life.

Sentiment Analysis

Quotes Logo

Customers really enjoy the tour, especially the guide's storytelling and the interesting facts they learn. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers say the tour guide is fantastic and makes the stories come to life.

    Positive Highlight Icon They also say they learned about places they didn't know existed, even as Philly locals.

    Positive Highlight Icon The tour is described as interesting and inspiring.

    Positive Highlight Icon The iPad visuals enhance the storytelling.

  • Negative Highlight Icon No significant negative feedback was mentioned in the provided review.

The Journey

1

LOVE Park

Begin your journey at LOVE Park, home to Robert Indiana's iconic LOVE sculpture. This vibrant space is more than just a photo opportunity; it's a symbol of Philadelphia's spirit. Learn about the sculpture's temporary exile and the artist's almost-realized alternative design, setting the stage for a tour filled with unexpected stories and artistic insights.

2

LOVE Park History Spot

Just a stone's throw from the LOVE sculpture, immerse yourself in LOVE Park's captivating history. Your guide will use visuals to bring to life the park's celebrated moments and notorious challenges, revealing the evolution of this beloved urban oasis and its role in Philadelphia's cultural landscape.

3

Cret Park

Escape the energy of LOVE Park and find respite in Cret Park (pronounced 'Cray' Park), a shaded retreat named after renowned architect Paul Philippe Cret. Surrounded by mature trees and seasonal plantings, this serene space offers a moment of tranquility and reflection before continuing your exploration of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

4

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

Step inside the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, a majestic testament to faith and resilience. Completed in 1864 amidst anti-Catholic sentiment, its fortress-like design hints at a turbulent past. Today, its peaceful interior showcases breathtaking Roman-Corinthian and Italian Renaissance Revival architecture. The cathedral has hosted papal visits by Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis, solidifying its significance on a global scale.

5

Logan Circle

Discover the transformation of Logan Circle, once a somber public execution and burial ground, into a vibrant urban oasis. Today, Logan Circle is the crown jewel of the Parkway. Admire the picturesque Swann Memorial Fountain, surrounded by mature trees and a botanical garden. Stand where Abraham Lincoln once stood during a fundraising event for Union soldiers, connecting with history in a tangible way.

6

Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Explore the Academy of Natural Sciences, the oldest natural history museum in the Western Hemisphere. While only stopping by the lobby, learn about the Academy's fascinating history, events, and the notable figures who have shaped its legacy. It is not only an institute of education and research, but also a part of the cultural character of Philadelphia.

7

Moore College of Art & Design

Visit Moore College of Art & Design, the nation's first and only women's visual arts college, founded in 1848. Browse its four galleries and grab a snack or lunch in between exploring. This institution, a space dedicated to the creative power of women, offers a refreshing and enriching experience.

8

Benjamin Franklin National Memorial

Stand in awe beneath the massive rotunda housing the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial, a tribute to one of history's most remarkable figures. Capture a photo beside the largest Benjamin Franklin statue in the world and prepare to be captivated by tales of his extraordinary life, dramatically revealed in an immersive experience.

9

The Free Library of Philadelphia

Delve into the Free Library of Philadelphia, boasting over 1 million borrowers and circulating millions of items. Explore the building's impressive interior architecture and uncover the hidden gem of the Rare Book Department, where the infamous raven who inspired Edgar Allan Poe awaits. The Free Library is a treasure trove for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

10

Shakespeare Memorial

Across from the Free Library, find the Shakespeare Memorial, a dramatic tribute to the Bard. Defined by a large oval sitting space and a striking 14-foot bronze statue featuring Hamlet, this memorial was dedicated to the city on Shakespeare's birthday. Keep an eye out for what some believe to be the spirit of Romeo, adding a touch of romance to this literary landmark.

11

Barnes Foundation

Immerse yourself in the Barnes Foundation, where you will discover the remarkable life and work of Albert C. Barnes. Learn about his journey from humble beginnings to co-inventing a pharmaceutical breakthrough that amassed him a fortune. Barnes devoted himself to art education, utilizing one of the world's most extraordinary personal art collections as a teaching tool.

12

Rodin Museum

Conclude your tour at the Rodin Museum, home to the world's second-largest collection of works by Auguste Rodin. Explore the life and genius of this trailblazing artist, who overcame rejections to challenge centuries-old artistic norms and become known as 'The Father of Modern Sculpture.' Admire his most famous piece, The Thinker, and wander through the picturesque Rodin Garden, contemplating the power of art and innovation.

Know Before You Go

This Philadelphia's Museum Mile: Love Park to the Rocky Steps tour includes iPad photo visuals, site visits at your own pace, and a short walk from the Barnes Foundation to the Rocky Statue and Art Museum. Sun umbrellas and fans are provided. There are also opportunities for sitting, restrooms, food, and souvenirs. The tour excludes any items of a personal nature, and transport to LOVE Park, where the tour starts, is not included. After the tour, photos and an information package are emailed within 2 hours.

Hot Tip

One helpful tip is to wear comfortable shoes since this is a walking tour. Also, be prepared to learn a lot about Philadelphia's history and culture in a fun and engaging way.

From $375 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.