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Race St. boasts the memorial to Franklin 'Bolt of lightning' a statue of the great man that celebrates the one of the first scientific experiments in electricity - when Franklin famously (and foolishly) flew a kite with a key on the end in a lightning storm. Other than this statue, there is also the 'Once upon a Nation' tours, which are a great way to see the city. These historical walking tours are led by costumed actors and really help bring the history alive. For the kids, the nearby Franklin Square has mini-golf and a carousel as well as story-tellers on hand to tell you about the related history.

Chances are, this will be where you start looking around Philadelphia's historical district. The only distinguishing feature of the road itself is the Independence Living History Centre. The centre is ideal if you've got kids and you need to liven up a long day of historical sight seeing. Storytellers here will make local history come alive. You can also watch 1776: The Movie-Musical an interactive show and 'hysterically historical' treat for the entire family.

This leafy park with many benches where you can take a well-earned break from sight-seeing, is just a few steps away from independence hall. It provides a perfect area of calm to eat a picnic lunch, or simply soak up the historical surroundings. In addition to the many different trees and the imposing buildings surrounding it, the park contains the Curtis Center, which houses an enormous glass mosaic that is definitely worth a look.

Just a short walk from the Market East regional rail station, the bustling Reading Terminal Market is one of the best places to shop, eat or simply people watch in the whole city. With its wealth of eateries ranging from the standard fast food joints, to the ubiquitous deli sandwich places, you can get a bit of whatever you feel like. Of course many variations on that local favorite, the Cheese Steak are available. For those who prefer to do your people watching with a glass in your hand, there is even a beer garden.

This side-street is the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the attractions of the historical district. You can stop and get lunch - perhaps a local Philly Cheese Steak at Jim’s Steaks? For those of a more intellectual bent, the Physik House is an interesting stop away from the tourist traps. This is the 18th Century mansion of the 'Father of American Surgery' Dr. Philip Syng Physick which has spectacular and luxurious interiors, richly furnished in the Empire and Federal styles. In addition to its scientific merit, it was also the scene of a veritable 18th Century soap opera, when the Doctor's wife left him, unheard of in those times

Market street is a good place to start your tour of historic Philly before heading to the main area of Chestnut street. The Independence Visitor centre can help you arrange your activities and help you get the most out of your time in the city. However, Market street has its own charms - the more out of the way Franklin Court celebrates the lifetime and achievements of the great statesman and scientist Benjamin Franklin and for the true history buffs, declaration house is where Thomas Jefferson drafted the declaration of independence.

Just a short walk from the overwhelming history of Chestnut street, where you can see Congress Hall and Independence Hall is S. 5th Street where you'll find a haven of quiet contemplation and thought in the Museum of the American Philosophical Society. The American Philosophical Society was founded by Benjamin Franklin undeniably one of the greatest scientists, statesmen and thinkers of his time. The museum is housed in a red bricked building that was the first library, museum and academy of science. The exhibitions often change, and aim to reflect the intersection of art, history and science, celebrating the talents of a true renaissance man.

Chestnut St. is arguably one of the most important historic sites in America. The main feature is Independence Hall, whose history needs little explanation here. The building that saw the creation and signing of the declaration of independence is now a shrine to America's founding, with tours that will allow you to see historic items such as Washington's sunrise chair. Nearby is Congress Hall, the home of America's government from 1790-1800. For a more modern take on this historic event, just down the street there is the Lights of Liberty, a light and sound show about America's founding.

This street in the heart of the historic district of Philadelphia contains Christ Church. Although less well known than many of Philadelphia's historic landmarks, this is where the American Colonial church broke ties with the Church of England. Less well-known than other tourist attractions in the area, it makes a peaceful break from the tourist trail.

N. 2nd Street is a main thoroughfare of historic Philadelphia. Running parallel to the I-95 it is a great place to start exploring the historic district of the city. The street itself, busy with traffic includes the peaceful haven of The Fireman's Hall with a stunning stained glass window. Further down, the Clay Studio helps promote all types of ceramic arts.