Philadelphia

City of Brotherly Love

Philadelphia, “City of Brotherly Love” – one of the most dynamic, culturally vibrant cities in the nation. A city of history, of world-class restaurants and museums, of cafes and nightspots, of students from every corner of the world. A city of engineering, in which our research, civic engagement, campus and facilities are knitted into the urban fabric. Most of all, a city of neighborhoods. From Old City to Rittenhouse Square to Chinatown to West Philly, our neighborhoods reflect Philly’s working-class roots and its soaring, entrepreneurial spirit.

Below, we offer a quick tour of some of Philadelphia’s dazzling highlights.

Whether you're a genuine connoisseur of the arts or you just want to relive that famous stair-ascending scene in Rocky, explore the world-class collections at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, particularly on Sundays when the price of admission is up to you—perfect for college students.

Parks and Neighborhoods

Philadelphia's Fairmount Park is one of the largest municipal public parks in the world and it's right in the College’s backyard. You can bike, run, or walk on Kelly Drive, or head a little bit farther on to Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Valley Park where you can mountain bike, hike, or even ride trail horses. With access to a car, you can visit some farther flung green spaces at Morris Arboretum, Chanticleer, Longwood Gardens, and Valley Forge National Historical Park. You can even head to the shore—trains run frequently from Philadelphia's 30th Street Station to within walking distance of the boardwalk in Atlantic City.

The city’s unique neighborhoods each have their own distinctive charm. Be sure to check out First Friday, Philadelphia's arts community's "open house" at a variety of galleries located in the Old City District; grab some delicious fruits and veggies at the Italian Market in South Philly; visit Al Capone’s prison cell at Eastern State Penitentiary in the Art Museum area; explore the staggering variety of produce and foods on offer at Reading Terminal Market in Center City; visit the shops and restaurants of Chinatown; and take in the charm of historic Chestnut Hill, just a short train ride away.

Performing Arts and History 

Interested in the performing arts? Philadelphia is home to world-renowned theater, music, and dance venues. Here, you’ll find The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, The Mann Center for the Performing Arts, The Curtis Institute of Music, FringeArts, The Wilma Theater, Annenberg Center, and many more.

For a dose of American history, head to Independence Hall in Old City. You'll be transported back to the 1700s where you'll learn about the history of Philadelphia, the original capital of the United States. Visit the Liberty Bell while strolling around Independence Mall. You can also catch the Betsy Ross House, the nation’s oldest residential street of Elfreth’s Alley and the Benjamin Franklin Museum.

Zoos and Museums

Lions, tigers, and bears... you know the drill. You’ll see them all, and more, at The Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, home to more than 1,300 rare and exotic animals. Acres of gorgeous Victorian gardens and historical architecture round out the experience.

Museums such as The Franklin Institute, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, National Constitution Center, National Museum of American Jewish History, and The Mütter Museum offer a fascinating look at science and history through active learning.

Sports

If sports is your game, head to Citizens Bank Park to see the Phillies baseball team in action or Lincoln Financial Field to watch the Eagles football team score a touchdown. The Wells Fargo Center is home to the 76ers basketball team and Flyers hockey team. And you can catch the Philadelphia Union, the city’s Major League Soccer team at Subaru Park.

Whatever your interest, you can find it in Philly. And Drexel has the good fortune to be located in the heart of all the action.

Looking for general information on living in Philadelphia? Drexel sums it all up for you here.