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8 things to see, do and experience in Philadelphia during Expo East

All work and no play? Think again. Numerous museums, sights and activities can keep visitors entertained when the convention center is dark.

Melissa Kvidahl Reilly, Writer/Editor

September 14, 2022

3 Min Read
Philadelphia City Hall, Natural Products Expo East
Bryan Beasley Photography

Natural Products Expo East may be the reason you find yourself in the City of Brotherly Love this month, but there's a lot to do and see when you're not walking the show floor. Philadelphia offers something for everyone, from the art aficionado to the movie buff to the spooky season enthusiast. Here are just a few—many of them within walking distance, less than 1 mile—of the convention center.

Love Park, Philadelphia, Natural Products Expo East

For the 'Gram: Philly's iconic LOVE sculpture is just a few blocks from the convention center on John F. Kennedy Plaza (aka LOVE Park). A year-round destination for locals and visitors, the park features green space, live entertainment and free games. Strike a pose, spread the love, and enjoy your Insta-worthy pic. Walkable

Bring the kids: Franklin Square boasts a carousel, Philly-themed mini golf course, playground and a beautiful 19th century fountain renovated with a dynamic state-of-the-art fountain show that runs every 30 minutes from noon to 9 p.m. daily. Then, hit up SquareBurger for a legendary Original Cake Shake, made with Tastykake Butterscotch Krimpets. Walkable

Independence Hall, Philadelphia, Natural Products Expo East

History lesson: Independence National Historical Park is just a few minutes from the convention center and it's chock full of historical sights, activities and museums including Independence Hall, where the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed; the Liberty Bell; the National Liberty Museum; Benjamin Franklin Museum and more. Walkable

Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, Natural Products Expo East

Immersive science: Founded in honor of America's first scientist, The Franklin Institute is one of the oldest science museums in the United States. Walk through a giant anatomically correct heart, explore the night sky in a cutting-edge planetarium and engage with science and technology in the most visited museum in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Walkable

Green space: Nestled in one of Philadelphia's most charming neighborhoods, Rittenhouse Square is a historic park with walkways, sculptures, flower beds and a reflecting pool. Walkable

Rocky statue, Philadelphia, Natural Products Expo East

Art scene: The Philadelphia Museum of Art is not only a world class art museum with beautiful architecture and a notable collection, but it's also the location of the famous Rocky Steps and Rocky Statue. (The entrance on that side is closed, but visitors can climb the steps and take photos.) Race to the top and enjoy a scenic view of the Philadelphia skyline. About 1.3 miles from the Convention Center.

Grab lunch: Right across the street from the convention center, the Reading Terminal Market is a famous farmers and crafters market with bakeries, produce, art, gifts, flowers and eateries from around the world. Walkable

Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, Natural Products Expo East

Get spooky: Halloween Nights at the Eastern State Penitentiary is a Philadelphia-area tradition boasting five haunted houses, historic tours, themed bars and live entertainment—all within the walls of a real, abandoned 10-acre prison. About 1.5 miles from the Convention Center.

About the Author

Melissa Kvidahl Reilly

Writer/Editor

Melissa Kvidahl Reilly is a freelance writer and editor with 10 years of experience covering news and trends in the natural, organic and supplement markets. She lives and works in New Jersey.

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