Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love, where history, culture and quirky surprises are around every corner. Philadelphia, PA is not only a city full of tradition and significance, but there are also many interesting facts waiting for you to discover. From its pivotal role in American history to its unique cuisine, Philadelphia has a lot to offer. Whether you’re moving into a new Philadelphia apartment or have been a long-term resident, this Redfin article will dive into some interesting facts you’ll want to know about Philadelphia.
Basic information about Philadelphia
| Median home sales price | $255,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,631 |
| walk score | 75/100 |
| traffic score | 67/100 |
| bike score | 67/100 |
1. The cheesesteak was invented in Philadelphia
The cheesesteak is a culinary icon whose origins are rooted in Philadelphia’s food scene. Legend has it that the sandwich was first invented in the 1930s by hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri, who decided to grill some beef and roll it into a roll. Plus, the cheesesteak is a testament to Philly’s ingenuity, delighting locals and visitors alike with its irresistible combination of thinly sliced steak, melty cheese, and delicious toppings.
2. The United States Declaration of Independence was signed here
Philadelphia holds the historical honor of being the birthplace of the United States’ Declaration of Independence. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress met in the Pennsylvania State House (now known as Independence Hall) to draft and sign this landmark document. The Declaration, signed in Philadelphia, marked a pivotal moment in American history and symbolized America’s quest for freedom and independence from British rule.
3. Philadelphia is home to slices of Albert Einstein’s brain
Philadelphia’s Mutter Museum houses a unique treasure: slices of Albert Einstein’s brain. After Einstein’s death in 1955, his brain was preserved for scientific research and some sections of it were sent to museums where they are now on display for public viewing.
4. Philadelphia has the most murals in the country
Philadelphia has more than 3,600 murals and is known as the “City of Murals.” These vibrant, colorful artworks can be found on buildings, walls and even underground passages throughout the city. Additionally, Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program is the largest public art program in the United States.
5. The city was home to the first hospital in the United States
Philadelphia proudly claims to be the home of the nation’s first hospital. Founded in 1751 by Dr. Thomas Bond and Benjamin Franklin, Penn Hospital has a storied history of providing medical care and innovation over two and a half centuries. This landmark institution reflects Philadelphia’s pioneering spirit in health care.
6. Rock Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
The famous scene in Rocky where Sylvester Stallone runs up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art has become a must-see for tourists. The steps are nicknamed the “Rock Steps” and visitors often recreate the iconic runs and poses at the top.
7. The first Thanksgiving Day Parade was held in Philadelphia
Philadelphia made history in 1920 by hosting the nation’s first Thanksgiving Day Parade. .
8. This city has trees from the moon
Philadelphia is famous for having trees grown from seeds from the moon. In 1975, as part of the Apollo 14 mission, astronaut Stuart Roosa carried hundreds of tree seeds into lunar orbit, which later sprouted on Earth. Today, these “moon trees” are living artifacts that symbolize Philadelphia’s unique connection to human exploration of the universe.
9. Home of America’s First Zoo
Philadelphia is proud to be home to America’s first zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, which opened in 1874. and conservation efforts have brought joy to generations of visitors. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo continues to serve admirably as a pioneer in zoological practice and education.
10. 1 in 6 U.S. doctors were trained in Philadelphia
Philadelphia has a reputation as a leading center of medical education, with 1 in 6 U.S. doctors training in the city. Prestigious institutions such as Penn State’s Perelman School of Medicine and Thomas Jefferson University have earned Philadelphia a reputation as a top destination for aspiring doctors.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from the Redfin Data Center. Walk Score, Transit Score, and Bike Score data are derived from Walk Score.
