20 Incredible & Free Tourist Attractions in the Northeast
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
6. Tours of Independence Hall
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Another must-do when visiting America’s most historic square mile is taking a free tour of Independence Hall. The historic building, founded in 1753, is the site of 2 famous document signings: the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. Knowledgeable and entertaining National Park rangers lead the tour. A highlight of the tour is seeing the Rising Sun chair in the Assembly Room. George Washington used this chair during the 1787 Constitutional Convention. Tickets are free although they are timed and must be reserved online (no tickets required in January & February).
Independence Hall historical info and ticket reservations
7. Mount Washington
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh is easily home to one of the country’s most impressive skylines. One of the coolest attractions in the city is a historic red cable car which travels up to Mount Washington (via the Duquesne Incline). The ride is fun, scenic, and worth a one time splurge. However, you can enjoy the same incredible view by driving to the top of the 367 foot mountain. From the observing area, you will discover the most spectacular viewpoint of the three rivers (Allegheny, Monongahela, and the Ohio) and the pretty cityscape. USA Today even called it one of “10 most beautiful views in America”.
8. Wanamaker organ pipe show
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The historic Wanamaker building in Center City Philadelphia is now a Macy’s. Today a National historic Landmark, the Wanamaker opened in 1910 as one of America’s first department stores. It had 12 floors at the time. The gorgeous Wanamaker Organ is the largest fully functioning pipe organ in the world. In 2021, the pipe celebrated its’ 110th anniversary. Today, free shows are offered twice daily, Monday-Saturday. Although a must visit anytime of year, the Christmas season is really special as a festive holiday themed LED light show accompanies the music! The beauty and historical significance alone make the Wanamaker building the top sight to see in Philly.
Check out my full Center City vacation guide
9. Three Rivers Heritage trail
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
This 33 mile long paved recreational trail is located in downtown Pittsburgh on both sides of the river. As far as scenic places to work out in “the Burgh,” nothing beats a jog, bike ride, or walk along the Three Rivers trail. Along the way, you will take in fabulous views of the cityscape, the iconic bridges Pittsburgh is so famous for including the Warhol and Clemente, and have access to some of the city’s top attractions including a museum dedicated to Andy Warhol (free on the first full weekend for Bank of America members), The Strip District (former manufacturing hub now home to many restaurants and coffeehouses), and Point State Park (the official joining point of the 3 rivers).
10. Central Park
Location: New York City
Since opening in 1858, Central Park has become a world-class tourist destination. Although it is not the oldest urban park, it is the first landscaped. It’s also America’s most visited urban park with a whopping 40+ million visitors per year. The beauty was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Central Park is a true green oasis amongst America’s most bustling city. At some point, you will find yourself seeking a break from all the action, and Central Park is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll.
According to the Central Park Conservancy, the park is home to more than 18,000 trees including one of the largest and last remaining strands of American elms. In addition to lovely trees, the Park is home to many attractions and offers pretty views of the skyline. Several famous movies scenes were filmed here including the iconic ice skating scene in Home Alone 2! If you are a film buff, you will want to check out my guide to NYC filming sites.
