Although many people have different opinions about the city of Philadelphia, there is one thing that most can agree on: there are plenty of things to do if one knows where to look. Further, many people may think that these places and activities are unaffordable, but there are a plethora of awesome things to see, eat, and take part in for a low price (or no price at all!). Center City is no exception at all; in fact, that is where most of the cultural, culinary, and artistic beauty of Philadelphia stems from. Here are ten free, or at least cheap, places you should visit if you are either a tourist or a wandering citizen of your own home town.
1. Betsy Ross House
The historic Betsy Ross house is a good place to start. Although it is very "touristy", the courtyard is pleasing to the eye and is extremely tranquil. Admission to walk through the house itself is very cheap, with tickets costing $6 apiece, $4 for students. The best part, besides its affordability, is that it is close to other historic landmarks in the city, as well as some great places to get some food. (http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/w...)
2. Old City Pizza
Literally about twenty yards down the street from the Betsy Ross House, Old City Pizza is pretty incredible. It's really affordable as well, with prices that are equal to just about any other pizza place (trust me, though, this is no ordinary pizza place).
3. Philadelphia Museum of Art
Although it is only free on the first Sunday of every month, and may be difficult to plan around, the Art Museum is surely worth it. Whether it's for artistic, cultural, or merely recreational purposes, it is a place that everyone should stop by if they are around. (http://www.philamuseum.org/)
4. Federal Donuts
Another cheap place to eat, Federal Donuts is a nationally famous donut shop not too far from City Hall. It's not too expensive, and although this is a matter of opinion, they make the best fried chicken sandwiches on the East Coast (sorry Chick-Fil-A). http://www.federaldonuts.com/mobile/
5. Franklin Square Park
It's pretty simple, but this park is a very beautiful place. It has a nice and historic fountain at its center, and is always bustling with activity. Events are sometimes held there, like the Chinese Lantern Festival going till June 11. http://historicphiladelphia.org/franklin-square/wh...
6. Free Library of Philadelphia, Main Branch
If you are a human being reading this article, chances are you've been to a library in your lifetime. That said, Philadelphia's main branch is like no other. With an architecture similar to the Art Museum, it is an extremely beautiful place to look at; most of the inside is made of marble, and you are guaranteed to get lost in its many rooms. Long story short (no pun intended), if you like libraries, books, or going to new places, this one is for you. (http://www.freelibrary.org/)
7. Yoga
Lots of people like to do yoga. I, personally, am not a huge fan, but I have heard that it is a very calming and centering experience. So, if you do like it, why not do it in the heart of the city you live in! Every Wednesday at the Art Museum (as mentioned before), there is a group yoga night. Space is relatively limited each week, but it is a free event; they only recommend that you donate what you wish. (http://www.philamuseum.org/wednesdaynights)
8. First Fridays in Old City
On the first Friday of every month in Old City, there is an event in which many art galleries open their doors to the public for free. Not much needs to be said here; it is an amazing and worthwhile experience that everyone that lives in Philadelphia should take the time to enjoy for themselves and their loved ones.
9. Book Trader
One of my personal favorite places to go in the city, Book Trader can be compared to an indoor flea market of just books. Located in Old City, not far from Independence Mall, it is an incredible small shop that sells and buys books from just about everywhere. They also sell DVDs, VHS tapes (yes, there are still some out there), and vinyl music. The best part about this is, most of the books are dirt cheap. Any book lover must put this on their list of essential locations to visit. (http://www.phillybooktrader.com/)
10. Liberty Bell
It may be the most commonly thought of place in Philadelphia, as well as one of the biggest tourist-magnets in the whole city, but there is a good reason for this. For one, it is completely free to visit. Secondly, if you appreciate history, or are at least curious to see one of Philly's most prominent landmarks, then this is one of the first places you'll want to go. It'll take five minutes, ten tops, and you'll be happy you stopped by. (https://www.nps.gov/inde/learn/historyculture/stor...)