West Philadelphia and University City offer a wealth of activities for visitors to explore. From museums and historic structures on university campuses to acres of green space in West Fairmount Park, there is something for everyone. One of the most popular attractions is the nation's first zoo, located in West Philadelphia. Here, visitors can observe animals from around the world and learn about conservation efforts. The nearby Please Touch Museum is also a great spot for all ages, with plenty of playful exhibits that will keep kids entertained for hours.

For those looking to take in some culture, University City has several options. The Institute of Contemporary Art offers rotating exhibitions featuring modern art from around the world, while the Penn Museum houses artefacts from ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia. Visitors can also explore historic sites like the University of Pennsylvania’s campus or take a stroll through Rittenhouse Square Park. With so much to do in West Philadelphia and University City, it’s easy to see why this area is such a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Shopping in University City is a great way to find unique items and support local businesses. From national retailers like Urban Outfitters to independent shops like Piper Boutique, Hello World and House of Our Own Books, there’s something for everyone. For those looking for outdoor apparel, United By Blue offers products that remove one pound of trash from the earth's waterways for each item sold. Philadelphia Runner is the perfect place to stock up on running gear, shoes and other fitness accessories before taking on one of the city's many running trails. Along Baltimore Avenue, shoppers can find Ceramic Concept selling planters, tableware, jewellery and other ceramic items made by local artists, as well as VIX Emporium featuring gifts, clothing, accessories, artwork and other items made by Philadelphia-area artisans. Twice a year, University City District hosts a Baltimore Avenue Saturday Stroll with block parties, live performances and special $1 offers from local businesses along ten blocks of the avenue. Shopping in University City is an experience not to be missed!

The Philadelphia Zoo is a beloved landmark in the city of Philadelphia. Located in West Philadelphia, it is the nation's first zoo and has been delighting visitors since 1874. The zoo boasts a collection of over 1,300 animals from around the world, including tigers, gorillas, lions, and more. It also regularly hosts rotating special exhibits and seasonal experiences that are sure to entertain all ages.

The Please Touch Museum is a unique and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Located in the historic Memorial Hall, which was built for the nation's Centennial Exposition in 1876, this multi-sensory museum encourages learning through play. With a variety of exhibits, including a fairy tale garden, rocket room, and the new Centennial Innovations space, visitors can explore their creativity and discover how they can make a difference in the world. The Please Touch Museum offers something for everyone. Kids can explore their imaginations as they journey through the magical fairy tale garden or blast off into outer space in the rocket room. Meanwhile, adults can learn more about history and technology at the Centennial Innovations exhibit. With its engaging activities and interactive displays, this museum is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to come back again and again.

West Fairmount Park is a great place to connect with nature and explore the beauty of Philadelphia. One of the most unique attractions in the park is Shofuso, a 19th-century Japanese house constructed in Japan in 1953 using traditional techniques and materials. Visitors can tour the house, gardens, koi pond and tea house to get an authentic experience of Japanese culture. The neighbouring Fairmount Park Horticulture Center also offers a greenhouse and expansive outdoor gardens lined with cherry trees – making it an absolute must-visit during springtime. Another popular spot in West Fairmount Park is Belmont Plateau, which was famously mentioned by Will Smith in his track “Summertime”. This area is home to playing fields, wooded trails and a historic mansion that offer stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline from atop the hill.

The Mann Center for the Performing Arts is a stunning open-air venue located atop a hill in West Fairmount Park. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Philadelphia skyline while listening to some of the best live music around. The Mann Center regularly hosts chart-topping touring acts as well as local performing arts companies such as the Philadelphia Orchestra and Opera Philadelphia. Visitors can bring their own blankets and sit on the lawn to enjoy an evening of music and natural beauty, or they can upgrade their experience with one of several VIP packages available. With its unbeatable view and top-notch entertainment, the Mann Center is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Clark Park is another great destination for those looking to explore Philadelphia's parks and gardens. This neighbourhood park at 43rd Street and Baltimore Avenue hosts a weekly farmer's market each Saturday, as well as flea markets and free outdoor productions of popular Shakespeare plays in the summer. The park is also home to many other events throughout the year, such as movie screenings, concerts, art shows and more. Whether you’re looking for some outdoor fun or just want to relax in the sun with friends, Clark Park has something for everyone. With its convenient location and wide range of activities available, it’s no wonder why this park is so popular among locals and visitors alike!

For those looking to explore nature along the Schuylkill River, Bartram's Garden is the nation's oldest botanical garden with 45 acres of trails, gardens, historical buildings, a welcome centre and a boat launch perfect for kayak tours. Today, the garden is home to over 300 species of native plants, many of which were brought back from Bartram's travels. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about different plant species while enjoying the serenity of the garden.

Drexel University is a bustling hub of activity located just north of the University of Pennsylvania. The university offers students a variety of boutique stores and restaurants, as well as student living quarters and lecture halls. One of the most impressive features on campus is the recently completed Arlen Specter U.S. Squash Center inside the historic 23rd Street Armory. This home base for U.S. Squash is open to the public and boasts 18 singles courts, two all-glass show courts, a Mezzanine viewing area, community spaces, and the U.S. Squash Hall of Fame. For those looking for some peace and quiet away from campus life, Drexel Park provides an ideal spot to relax with unobstructed views of the Center City skyline.

Cira Green is an oasis in the sky located in the heart of Philadelphia. This 1.25-acre park is perched atop a parking garage and offers stunning views of the city below. Visitors can take the elevator up to reach this green roof, which is equipped with infrastructure to aid in stormwater management. Cira Green provides plenty of space for picnics and outdoor activities, with ample lawns perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco or even catching a movie screening or pop-up fitness activity. The park also features Sunset Social, a seasonal restaurant serving up delicious burgers and fries.

The Institute of Contemporary Art at the University of Pennsylvania is also worth visiting. This free-to-visit museum features innovative installations and has a long history of bringing attention to new artists; it was here that Andy Warhol had his first solo museum show in 1965. For art in motion, visitors can enjoy contemporary performances presented by Penn Live Arts at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on campus. With so much to explore and experience, these museums are sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit them.