Discover our locals' 156 hidden gems in Philadelphia

Let's explore Philadelphia beyond the Liberty Bell with Spotted by Locals! From hidden murals to local eateries, our Spotters show you the city's authentic side. Discover Philadelphia through the eyes of true locals.

Search *

City guides by those who know Philadelphia best!

Get to know our Spotters from Philadelphia

Check out our latest hidden gems in Philadelphia

Things to do in Philadelphia

Fabric-Workshop-and-Museum

Fabric Workshop and Museum – Contemporary art

The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!

002-building
Art & culture

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Material-Culture

Material Culture – Anthropology museum or shop?

"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...

002-building
Art & culture
020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Duross-Langel

Duross & Langel – Good clean fun

"Duross & Langel" is a Philadelphia soap shop. Scented with fruit and herbs, I'm afraid they're works of art almost too beautiful to use in the shower...

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Laurel-Hill-Cemetery

Laurel Hill Cemetery – I see dead people

"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...

017-plant-1
Relaxing

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Penn-Museum-of-Anthropology

Penn Museum of Anthropology – Mummies and more

The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.

002-building
Art & culture

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Woodmere-Art-Museum

Woodmere Art Museum – Home to Philadelphia artists

The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!

002-building
Art & culture

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Greene-Street-Consignment

Greene Street Consignment – Fashion-forward fun

"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Simeone-Foundation

Simeone Foundation – The cool car museum

The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...

002-building
Art & culture

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Hokka-Hokka

Hokka Hokka – Too pretty to eat

"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Tria

Tria – Beer, wine, and cheese Nirvana

"Tria" Philadelphia is my favorite sophisticated yet cozy bar to explore the divine trinity of wine, beer and cheese. Perhaps my favorite is Sunday School.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Night-Kitchen

Night Kitchen – The best bakery in Chestnut Hill

How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Andrea

Szyper

Jan 15, 2025
Solar-Myth

Solar Myth – Adventurous Jazz Bar

Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!

002-building
Art & culture
028-beach-bar-1
Bars
020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music
024-burger-1
Snacks

By

Bronwyn

Lepore

Jan 13, 2025

Heading to Philadelphia?

156 Places only Locals know

Authentic Stories

Escape the Crowds

Full Access to the Philadelphia City Blog & App!

Just €9.99

Going to Philadelphia?

✓ 156 Hidden Gems only Locals know

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

✓ Full Access to the Philadelphia City Blog & App!

What to expect?

Authentic & Unbiased Content

Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!

Go off the Beaten Path Gems

We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.

Responsible Travel

By visiting our locals’ favorites and lesser-known places, you contribute to a more sustainable way of traveling. You support the local economy and reduce the pressure on popular tourist spots. And in the end, those are the best places right?

Our Philadelphia Cityguide - Made by Locals

Instantly know your way in Philadelphia like a local!

Discover the vibrant culture of Philadelphia with Spotted by Locals. From the historic streets of Old City to the hip neighborhoods of Fishtown and Graduate Queen Village, our app guides you through the city’s diverse districts. Explore local favorites and hidden gems, and experience Philly like a true local. Download now and start exploring!

Hi! Nice to meet you.

We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.

Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.

With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.

As featured on: