Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is a city teeming with fascinating tales waiting to be told. With its charm and innumerable historical landmarks, the city has captivated the hearts of locals and tourists alike. This article uncovers 11 fun facts about Philadelphia that even the most avid Philly enthusiast might not know.

Table of Contents 01The Birthplace of America02First Capital of the United States03The Cheesesteak Capital04Home to the First Public Zoo05A City of Firsts06Boasts the Largest Municipal Park07The Iconic ‘Rocky Steps’08Birthplace of the U.S. Marine Corps09The Liberty Bell’s Mysterious Crack10Mural Arts Program11A Foodie’s Haven12Final Word

The Birthplace of America

Philadelphia is well-regarded as the ‘Birthplace of America.’ The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both debated and signed within the walls of the city’s Independence Hall. This earned Philadelphia its pivotal place in American history, making it a popular tourist destination for history buffs.

First Capital of the United States

Many might not know that Philadelphia was once the capital of the United States. Before Washington D.C. took on the title, Philadelphia served as the nation’s capital from 1790 to 1800.

The Cheesesteak Capital

No article about Philadelphia would be complete without mentioning its iconic cheesesteak. This culinary staple was created in the city in the 1930s and has since become an integral part of Philly’s food culture.

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Home to the First Public Zoo

Philadelphia holds the honor of establishing America’s first zoo. The Philadelphia Zoo was chartered in 1859, although it didn’t open its doors until 1874 due to the Civil War. Today, it serves as a beloved institution that offers visitors the chance to explore its historic architecture and an array of wildlife.

A City of Firsts

Not only was Philadelphia home to the first public zoo, but it’s also the birthplace of numerous American “firsts.” This includes the first hospital (Pennsylvania Hospital, 1751), the first university (The University of Pennsylvania, 1740), and the first public library (The Library Company of Philadelphia, 1731).

Boasts the Largest Municipal Park

Fairmount Park in Philadelphia is one of the largest municipal parks in the country, spanning over 9,200 acres. It offers numerous recreational activities and houses several historic buildings, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

The Iconic ‘Rocky Steps’

The steps leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, also known as the ‘Rocky Steps’, gained fame after featuring in the “Rocky” movies. Today, visitors often reenact the triumphant run of the film’s protagonist, Rocky Balboa.

Birthplace of the U.S. Marine Corps

The United States Marine Corps was founded in 1775 at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, marking another historical “first” for the city.

The Liberty Bell’s Mysterious Crack

The Liberty Bell, another popular Philadelphia landmark, is famous for its large crack. However, nobody knows exactly when or why it cracked. The bell last rang for George Washington’s birthday in 1846, coinciding with the notable expansion of the crack.

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Mural Arts Program

Philadelphia is often referred to as the “Mural Capital of the U.S.” The city’s Mural Arts Program has created over 3,600 murals throughout Philly, transforming ordinary walls into spectacular works of public art.

A Foodie’s Haven

Aside from the famed cheesesteaks, Philadelphia is renowned for other food items like soft pretzels and water ice, a type of Italian ice that’s a local favorite during the summer months.

Final Word

In a nutshell, Philadelphia is a city rich in history, culture, and innovation. It boasts a distinctive blend of the past and present, reflected in its historic sites, culinary landscape, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a lover of the arts, there’s something for everyone in the City of Brotherly Love.

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