Philadelphia Museum of Art
[Benjamin Franklin Parkway and 26th Street]

Anyone who's seen the movie Rocky knows what the Philadelphia Art Museum looks like. You can't help but hum the movie theme as you jog up the many tiered steps to reach the main entrance. Nor will you be alone if you feel the insane need to jump around like Stallone did once you reach the top. The museum itself is an easy days diversion, housing both classic and modern art, as well as both fine and decorative arts. The second floor promanade is hung with ornate European tapestries, while a huge mobile drifts suspended from the middle of the ceiling. My favorite wing is the Arms and Armorments, where you can see suits of armors, swords, sheilds, and weaponry from medievil times up through early American history. My suggestion is, go on a Sunday. The museum is open 10am to 5pm, and you pay what you wish all day (though you have to pay full admission to see any special exhibits). Parking can be a problem, but if you get there early enough you may be able to park on the street behind the museum for free, and afterwards you can wander into Fairmount Park, which is behind the museum.
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Liberty Pavilion and Independance Hall
[Market between 5th and 6th Streets]

Located next to each other Liberty Pavilion (home of the Liberty Bell) and Independence Hall are a sure stop for anyone interested in the history of America. Both offer free tours daily, but are visable 24 hours a day. Due to tightened security there may be a line to get into the Pavilion, so come early. Once inside you can see, and hear the history of the Bell from a National Park Ranger, as well as take pictures of it's famous crack. Upon exiting the Pavilion head on over to Independence Hall, and take the hour long tour that shows you where the Decleration of Independence, as well as the Constitution were signed. See, the actual pens that were used, and Washington's "Rising Sun" chair. You can also see many maps and documents of the period and learn more about that period in history then you ever did in school. Both attractions are open 9am to 5pm, with extended hours in July and August. And if you want to learn more about the historic downtown buildings take a tour in one of the horse drawn carriages that wait by the Hall.
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Philadelphia Zoo
[3400 West Girard Avenue]

Covering 42 acres, the Philadelphia Zoo was the first charted zoo in the United States (1859). It is the home to over 1,500 rare and exotic animals along with more then 500 plant species. Adults and children both will enjoy a ride in the Zoo Balloon and the scenic overview of the city it offers. Or, just stroll among the many attractions, including the newly opened (2006) Big Cat Falls, Monkey Junction, and the PECO Primate Reserve. The zoo is open from 10am to 5pm daily during the months of March through November, and from 10am until 4pm daily December through February. Admission prices vary by season and age, so before you go check the website below for pricing (you can also print tickets off at home). Parking is available in surrounding lots, and is $10. The earlier you arrive, the closer you can park to the zoo. Street parking is also available, but is difficult to find.
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The Franklin Institute Science Museum
[222 North 20th Street]

Both interactive and informational The Franklin Institute employs hands-on exhibits to educate about the science of the world around us. From electricity to the human body, everyone will love the amazing exhibits housed in this multifloored museum. Climb through a human heart, or test your athletic skills in the Sports Challenge room. The Franklin Institute is also home to The Tuttleman IMAX theater and Fels Planetarium. The main museum is open from 9:30am to 5pm Sunday through Saturday, and admission varies by age (IMAX is an additional cost). Garage parking is available on 21st street, right next to the museum, however if that garage is full there are other additional parking locations in the area.
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::Nightlife::
Some of my favorite places to go after dark

Finnigan's Wake : 3rd and Spring Garden St. : Website

McFadden's : 461 North 3rd St. : Website

Mad River : 126 Chestnut Street : Website

Cavanaugh's River Deck : 417 North Columbus Blvd. : Website