At the beginning of the first century of the new millennium, Philadelphia represents everything America has suffered and accomplished throughout history. It is the city that has seen it all from the start, from independence through civil war through industrial revolution through suburbanization through decay and now through revitalization. Famed as the birthplace of the United States and the nation's original capital (1790-1800), Philadelphia was founded in 1682, by the English Quaker, William Penn, who envisioned the colony as a 'holy experiment' to create a land of tolerance and religious freedom. The William Penn statue on the top of City Hall has always been a beloved symbol of the city and while Penn still enjoys a supreme view, Philadelphia's soaring skyline reflects the city's progressive outlook for the 21st century. There are over 100 neighbourhoods with a multi-ethnic population that gives the city a vibrant atmosphere, from the bustling Italian market to the African-American festivals, the blues and jazz clubs and the traditional Amish community who sell produce and foodstuffs in Reading Terminal Market. Quintessentially Philly foods, such as cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and hoagies (sandwiches), reflect the range of traditions in the city. At the turn of the 19th century, Philadelphia was known as the 'Workshop of America' but today, manufacturing is on the decline and new high-tech industries, such as medical technology and electrical components, are emerging. Health care is a leading sector, as is medical education and service industries such as tourism, banking, legal and insurance services.

Many of the city's — and the nation's — most famous sights are preserved in the downtown's Independence National Historical Park, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Colonial Philadelphia was also home to the great statesman, Benjamin Franklin, who founded the country's first hospital, library, fire company and university. Attractions in Philadelphia range from historic sites to world-class museums and cultural institutions. Most of the main sights are in the city centre, within walking distance of one another, so visitors have an opportunity for great variety of sightseeing tours and excursions just in one day. Philadelphia has much more to offer than hallowed historical sights. It is also an exciting city of culture and the arts, with a renowned orchestra, world-class museums and some of the country's leading restaurants.

Philadelphia is also the gateway for those travelling west into Pennsylvania Dutch Country, north to the ski resorts of the Pocono Mountains and southeast to the Delaware Peninsula and Atlantic Seaboard beaches. Local weather can be changeable, with moderate amounts of rain throughout the year. Summers are warm with occasional heat waves. Winters can be cold with periods of snowfall. But Philadelphia is always very attractive!