Pretty Girls Cook

While you may not sail the great blue seas, you can explore the history they played in Philadelphia’s development at the Independence Seaport Museum. A museum dedicated to the maritime history of Philadelphia, the Delaware Valley and Pennsylvania, the Independence Seaport Museum is suitably located along Penn’s Landing, the historic site where William Penn first docked when he arrived in America.

See a performance at America’s Oldest Theatre! The Walnut Street Theatre, which is also the Official State Theatre of Pennsylvania, is one of the most subscribed companies in the world. Hosting a variety of pre-Broadway, Broadway and off-Broadway (as well as off off-Broadway) shows, the Walnut continues to be one of the premier theaters in the English-speaking world.

Set aside some time to visit the oldest surviving botanical garden in the United States. Bartram’s Garden covers 46 acres in Fairmount Park, and is open to the public for free admission. Try taking a tour inside the historic garden area (the original 8-acre garden begun in 1728), the historic stone house, through the elaborate grove and the largest variety of North American plants in the world.

Listen to and watch some of the best, unfiltered performances at the Philadelphia Live Arts Festival & Philly Fringe. These two events feature a collection of the world’s best contemporary performing artists showcasing works in theater, dance, music and everything in between. Short on cash? Take advantage of the free events and shows during these 16-day festivals.