The Top 10 Mistakes Visitors Make in Philadelphia And How to Avoid Them
Visiting Philadelphia should feel effortless, but most travelers unknowingly make choices that keep them from experiencing the city at its best. As a local who’s spent decades exploring every corner, I’ve seen the same missteps again and again — and they’re all completely avoidable. Consider this your curated guide to doing Philly the way locals actually do it.
1. Treating Philly Like a Half‑Day Stop
The mistake: Most visitors squeeze Philly between New York and D.C., thinking they can “do it” in a few hours. Give yourself at least three days to start to understand the feel of the city and its neighborhoods.
The fix: Slow down. Philly rewards people who wander.
Check out the perfect day blog: How to Spend a Perfect Day in Philadelphia: A Local’s Insider Guide — The Philly Curator
2. Only Doing the History Stuff
The mistake: The Liberty Bell is great, really it is, but Philly is also murals, markets, cocktails, boutiques, neighborhoods with personality, and restaurants that will knock your socks off.
The fix: Pair the classics with something modern. Visit a vibrant part of the city and just stroll to shop and dine
Check out my list of Hidden Gems: Hidden Gems in Philadelphia - The Philly Curator — The Philly Curator
3. Eating the Wrong Cheesesteak
The mistake: Listen, just skip the cheesesteak or at least don’t go to those places you think you know…. the ones with the long lines, the neon, the tourist buses.
The fix: Go where locals go or try roast pork instead.
My favorite roast pork is DiNics. You can find DiNics several places but the most convenient is in Reading Terminal Market: Tommy Dinic's Roast Pork.
4. Staying in the Wrong Neighborhood
The mistake: Visitors often pick hotels based on price or one attraction, then realize they’re far from everything else.
The fix: Choose a neighborhood that matches your vibe.
Here is a guide to great neighborhoods in Philadelphia. My favorite for wondering is Northern Liberties: Gallery 1 — The Philly Curator
5. Ubering Everywhere
The mistake: Philly is one of the most walkable cities in the country and the magic is in the side streets.
The fix: Walk when you can. You’ll be amazed at what you discover.
6. Not Making Reservations
The mistake: Philly’s food scene is incredible — and busy. The best restaurants fill up a month in advance and walk ins at 7:00 pm are nearly impossible.
The fix: Book ahead, especially on weekends. Use Open Table, Resy, Tock or simply call the restaurant directly. I can help you get the right reservation when you want it!
If you are looking for the best restaurants in Philadelphia RIGHT NOW, here is a curated list of over 20 “best of” lists. Making Sense of Philly’s Many “Best Restaurants” Lists. — The Philly Curator
7. Skipping the Waterfront
The mistake: Visitors forget we have two gorgeous rivers, the Delaware and the Schuylkill, with trails, parks, and views.
The fix: Add a waterfront walk or bike ride on one of the dedicated paths.
Check out this guide: A Guide to Philadelphia's River Walks - Philadelphia Beautiful
8. Missing Reading Terminal Market
The mistake: Okay, I get that Reading Terminal Market can be “touristy” and certainly crowded at the middle of the day. But you don’t want to miss this historic market that still feels wonderfully alive.
The fix: Go early (like before 9:00!), go on a weekday, go hungry, and go beyond the obvious. There are so many wonderful options for nibbling immediately or saving for later.
Here is an article from the Northeast Times. Note that they mention Beiler’s donuts and I agree…don’t miss them!: A Food Lover’s Guide to Reading Terminal Market, Philly
9. Expecting New York Energy
The mistake: Philly is vibrant, but it’s not frantic. It’s friendly, grounded, and full of character.
The fix: Embrace the local pace. It’s part of the charm.
10. Not Asking a Local for Help
The mistake: Philly people love giving recommendations. On my daily walks, people often stop me to ask a question and I love giving them recommendations! We are friendly, I promise.
The fix: Ask. Or better yet hire someone who curates your entire day so you don’t have to think about a single thing.
I would love to plan your next visit: The Philly Curator
