Kaplan City Guide: Philadelphia

Do you want to learn English in an American city brimming with history, culture, and significant landmarks? Then study in Philadelphia – you'll love it! Walk along the same cobbled streets that America’s forefathers stepped on as they headed to sign the Declaration of Independence, explore the many museums, or catch a concert in the park. With its rich historical significance and friendly atmosphere, it's easy to enjoy everything Philly has to offer.

We caught up with a few of our students who studied at the Kaplan school in Philadelphia, and here’s what they had to say about The City of Brotherly Love:

Visit the "Rocky Steps" 

I love to visit the Rocky Steps and the Art Museum. You can see the city from a different view and feel successful when you get to the top, like you've conquered the world!

Tip provided by: 

Muhammed Bugra Ertugrul, Turkey 

One of the most popular attractions in Philly is the Rocky Statue and the Art Museum Steps, also known as the "Rocky Steps", both made famous by the fictional character Rocky Balboa played by Sylvester Stallone. The "Rocky Steps" has even been declared the second most famous movie location! Once you persevere your way to the top you'll be rewarded with a beautiful view of the Philadelphia skyline, and you can also visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which offers an amazing collection of works from artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, and a number of post-modernist artists.

Catch a ball game

“I love sports, and Philadelphia is the best place to be – they have many good teams. I don’t have many chances to watch American sports where I come from, but because of Kaplan, I've had the chance to see a lot of them.”

Tip provided by:

Habeom Jung, Korea

While living in a quintessential American town like Philadelphia, why not take part in the age-old tradition of spending the day at a baseball game? Tickets are not too expensive and you can spend a sunny afternoon eating hotdogs and watching the Phillies play at Citizens Bank Park. Munch on a giant soft pretzel and enjoy a cold local brew while cheering for the home team. Or if baseball isn’t your scene, maybe attend a 76ers basketball game at the Wells Fargo Center. With so many different events to choose from, Philadelphia has plenty of things to do for its local sports fanatics.

Explore Penn's Landing 

You can go to City Hall or Penn’s Landing to go ice skating outside in winter and roller skating in summer.

Tip provided by:

Sofia Valentina Leboreiro Vasquez, Venezuela

Penn's Landing Marina, situated on the Delaware River Waterfront is a short walk from the Historic District. The marina is also close to the Spruce Street Harbor Park, a pop up featuring food, drinks, a hammock garden, and urban beach – ideal for enjoying the warm weather with friends. Also located at Penn's Landing is the the Blue Cross RiverRink where you can enjoy ice skating in the winter and roller skating in the summer. Visit during the evening and take in the views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge lit up. 

Enjoy the history of Philadelphia

“Independence National Historical Park:  You can witness Americans’ tremendous enthusiasm for freedom by visiting here.”

Tip provided by: 

Jiwon Kum, Korea

There is no better way to learn about American history than with a visit to Independence Hall which is part of the Independence National Historical Park and listed as a World Heritage Site. The US Declaration of Independence was approved and signed at this beautiful building on the 4th of July 1776, and the event is celebrated annually as a federal holiday, find out how the rest of America celebrates Independence Day. Over the years Independence Hall has been the backdrop to a number of democratic and civil rights movements from the struggles of African Americans for equality and justice to the demonstrations for gay rights in the 1960's. And if you can't get to Independence Hall, don't worry, you can still see the building which features on the back of a $100 bill! 

Eat a Philly cheesesteak 

Definitely visit Reading Terminal Market if you like to try different types of food. My favorite is the Philly cheesesteak.

Tip provided by: 

Hammad Turkstani, Saudi Arabia 

A Philly Cheesesteak, made famous in Philadelphia in the 1930's, is made up of thinly sliced beef topped with melted cheese in a baguette roll – it's one thing you can't afford to miss while visiting Philly. Apparently there's even an art to ordering this favorite meal, locals can order one in 3 simple words: 'one American with', 'one' means one cheesesteak, 'American' means American cheese, and 'with' means it'll come with onions. So enjoy Philly like a local, try a cheesesteak, and order it in 3 words! 

Have you visited Philadelphia and are eager to share your tips? Share your advice with us in the comments section. Or, if the idea of visiting this city sounds appealing to you, learn how you can study English in Philadelphia.