Things to see in Philadelphia

George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and other patriots (including 15 of the signers of the Declaration of Independence) worshipped at Christ Church, built as the first Protestant Episcopal Church in the country. The church building was funded by renting out its pews. Initial construction on a more modest structure began in 1695, though in 1727 it was rebuilt in all its Georgian glory. The fine colonial building has a simple but elegant interior, fluted columns and wooden pews. The huge arched windows were designed so that parishioners could enjoy nature. The 67m (220ft) narrow white steeple was added in 1754. Until 1829, the structure was the tallest in the USA. The church has been in continuous use since its opening.

Philadelphia boasts the largest and most elaborate city hall in America. Designed in Second Empire style, by John McArthur and Thomas U Walter, it took 30 years to build and was the city's tallest building until 1987. Completed in 1901, City Hall's massive central tower rises 167m (548ft) high and is the hub of Downtown, with an open courtyard forming a walkway that connects Broad Street and Market Street. The tower is topped by an 11m (37ft) bronze statue of the city's founder, William Penn. It was designed by famed sculptor Alexander Milne Calder, who also designed 250 other sculptures adorning the building's exterior. The observation deck, at the base of the statue, has superb panoramic views. A 90-minute guided tour offers a look at the richly decorated public rooms, such as Conservation Hall and the Mayor's Reception Room.

Tucked away off Second Street, between Arch and Race Streets, the narrow cobblestone Elfreth's Alley is the oldest continuously occupied residential street in America. The 33 tiny brick rowhouses were built in the early 18th century, by a blacksmith, Jeremiah Elfreth, who rented them to artisans and seamen. Although the quaint buildings look like a movie set, all are private homes - except the one that houses the Elfreth Alley Museum, which depicts early history and 18th-century life. The best time to visit is on Fete Day (usually the first Saturday in June), when many of the homes open to the public and the alley hosts a lively street fair and historical re-enactments.

Part of the National Historical Park, Franklin Court was the site of Benjamin Franklin's last home. The house was demolished long ago but in its place stands the striking steel ‘ghost house', designed by Robert Venturi, which outlines the structure. The Underground Museum here has displays on Franklin's life as a statesman, scientist and printer, as well as replicas of his inventions and a portrait gallery. Facing Market Street are a row of houses, also built by Franklin, which now house the Franklin Court Printing Office (a working 18th-century print shop) and the B Free Franklin Post Office. Mail sent from here bears this postmark.

Founded by Italian immigrants over 125 years ago, the Italian Market in south Philadelphia is said to be the world's largest outdoor food market and is a ‘must' for foodies and people-watchers. Imported and domestic products range from cheeses, spices, meats and fresh pastas, along with dry goods. This is one of the oldest markets in America, and many shops and restaurants are still run by original family members.

The US constitution is brought to life with interactive exhibits at this modern, cleverly designed museum. Visits begin with the inspiring multimedia show Freedom Rising (shown twice hourly), featuring live actors, film and music. The journey into the past continues in interactive displays that revisit important events in US History and their relation to the constitution. Engaging exhibits allow visitors to vote for their favourite president, sit in a Supreme Court seat and most popular, be sworn in as the President of the United States.

This waterfront stretch along the Delaware River marks the spot where Philadelphia's founder, William Penn, stepped ashore in 1682. A host of music festivals and cultural events take place here, including a spectacular Fourth of July fireworks show. There are restaurants, live music clubs for night-time entertainment and a marina. The Independence Seaport Museum is a maritime museum with interactive displays and demonstrations. Its most fascinating exhibits explore the city's immigration history. Visitors can also tour the 1892 cruiser, USS Olympia, as well as the WWII submarine Becuna. Penn's Landing is also the departure point for ferries to the Adventure Aquarium, in Camden (www.camdenwaterfront.com), on the opposite side of the river, where Campbell's Field (baseball stadium) is located.

This stately neoclassical building sits at the top of a hill, just west of Center City, with splendid views down the length of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to City Hall. The steps leading to its entrance are famous for being those climbed by Rocky, in the 1976 film of the same name. The museum's collection is one of the most important in the country, with more than half a million paintings, sculptures and artefacts spanning 2,000 years of art from Asia, Europe and America. Among the highlights are the American collection, with Pennsylvania Dutch and Shaker furniture, as well as works by leading artists, such as Thomas Eakins. There is also a large European collection (from medieval works to a fine collection of French impressionists) and a 16th-century Hindu temple. Free gallery tours, which pinpoint the highlights, are given hourly. On Friday evenings the museum hosts 'Art After Five', with live music and cocktails on hand.