30 Fun Facts About Philadelphia Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a city rich in history and culture, with countless landmarks and attractions to explore. In this article, we’ll take a look at 30 fun facts about Philadelphia that you might not have known before. From the origins of the city’s name to its famous food and sports teams, there’s something for everyone to discover.

1. Philadelphia was founded by William Penn in 1682.
2. The city’s name comes from the Greek words “philos” (meaning love) and “adelphos” (meaning brother), hence its nickname “The City of Brotherly Love.”
3. The Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were both signed in Philadelphia’s Independence Hall.
4. Philadelphia was the capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800.
5. The Liberty Bell, one of the most iconic symbols of American independence, is housed in Philadelphia’s Independence National Historical Park.
6. Philadelphia is home to more than 2,000 murals, making it the “mural capital of the world.”
7. The famous Philly cheesesteak sandwich was invented in Philadelphia in the 1930s.
8. The first zoo in the United States was opened in Philadelphia in 1874.
9. The Philadelphia Eagles won their first Super Bowl championship in 2018.
10. The Philadelphia Phillies won their first World Series championship in 1980.
11. The Philadelphia 76ers won their last NBA championship in 1983.
12. The Philadelphia Flyers won their last Stanley Cup championship in 1975.
13. The first hospital in the United States, Pennsylvania Hospital, was founded in Philadelphia in 1751.
14. Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market is one of the oldest and largest indoor farmers’ markets in the country.
15. The world’s first computer, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), was built at the University of Pennsylvania in 1946.
16. Philadelphia is home to the largest municipal park in the country, Fairmount Park.
17. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is famous for its “Rocky Steps,” which were featured in the movie Rocky.
18. The first daily newspaper in the United States, The Philadelphia Packet and Daily Advertiser, was published in Philadelphia in 1784.
19. The first US Mint was established in Philadelphia in 1792.
20. The famous Philly soft pretzel is often served with mustard and is a staple snack in the city.
21. Philadelphia has a thriving street art scene, with numerous murals and installations throughout the city.
22. The Philadelphia Flower Show is the largest indoor flower show in the world.
23. The famous “Philadelphia Experiment” allegedly took place in Philadelphia during World War II, involving the US Navy attempting to render a ship invisible.
24. The University of Pennsylvania is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.
25. Philadelphia’s City Hall is the largest municipal building in the country.
26. The first US flag was sewn by Betsy Ross in Philadelphia.
27. The Philadelphia Orchestra is one of the most renowned orchestras in the world.
28. Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary was once one of the most notorious prisons in the world and is now a museum.
29. The annual Mummers Parade is a beloved New Year’s Day tradition in Philadelphia.
30. The Philadelphia Phillies’ mascot, the Phillie Phanatic, is one of the most popular mascots in sports.