Philadelphia

Philadelphia sits across the Delaware River from Camden, New Jersey, and ranks as one of the most convenient major-city day trips from the Garden State. The PATCO Speedline train runs from Woodcrest, Haddonfield, and Lindenwold in southern New Jersey to Market Street in Center City Philadelphia in 15 to 30 minutes; fares range from $3.50 to $5 with a reloadable FREEDOM card. Travelers from central New Jersey can drive via the Ben Franklin Bridge (I-676) or the Walt Whitman Bridge (I-295), reaching Center City parking in 20 to 40 minutes. NJ Transit 400-series buses from Atlantic City and southern New Jersey coastal towns also serve Philadelphia's 30th Street Station. Philadelphia's historic core concentrates most of its signature attractions within a compact walkable district centered on Independence Hall. The Liberty Bell Center at Market and 6th Streets is free and opens at 9 a.m.; timed-entry passes for Independence Hall tours are also free but must be reserved at recreation.gov in advance during summer. Elfreth's Alley, between 2nd and Front Streets near Quarry Street, is the nation's oldest continuously inhabited residential street and requires no admission. The National Constitution Center at 525 Arch Street presents interactive exhibits on American democratic history; adult admission is $18. The Philadelphia Museum of Art at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway anchors the cultural corridor known as the Parkway. Its permanent collection spans 5,000 years of world art; adult admission is $25. The landmark east-entrance staircase, known globally as the Rocky steps, is a free photo destination. The Barnes Foundation at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway houses one of the world's great private impressionist and post-impressionist collections; adult admission is $30 and advance booking is recommended. Reading Terminal Market at 12th and Arch Streets, operating since 1893, is the city's most celebrated food hall. Dozens of vendors offer Pennsylvania Dutch specialties, fresh seafood, deli meats, and baked goods from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on most days. East Passyunk Avenue's restaurant corridor in South Philadelphia concentrates well-regarded dining at accessible price points.