New York City and Philadelphia are among the world’s top destinations for travelers who prefer exploring on foot, according to a new ranking from Hellotickets. The two East Coast cities placed fourth and fifth globally, highlighting their concentration of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, parks, museums, and popular neighborhoods within walking distance.
The report, published by Hellotickets, evaluated cities around the world to identify destinations where visitors can explore without relying heavily on a car. The analysis considered factors such as the concentration of landmarks and experiences accessible on foot, the ease of getting around without driving, and the amount of space available for pedestrians.
New York City received a score of 88 out of 100, placing it fourth in the global ranking. Philadelphia followed closely in fifth place with a score of 87 out of 100.
Quick Guide
- State: New York and Pennsylvania
- Category: Travel, walkable cities, and destination guides
- Based On: Hellotickets’ global ranking of tourist walkability
- Includes: New York City, Philadelphia, landmarks, museums, parks, historic neighborhoods, and walking itineraries
- Best For: First-time visitors, couples, solo travelers, history enthusiasts, and travelers planning car-free city trips
- Note: Rankings and scores reflect the report cited in the original article. Walking distances, accessibility, weather, and attraction access vary by location. Check current visitor information before traveling.
- Source: Hellotickets;
New York City Ranks Fourth for Tourist Walkability
New York City’s high ranking reflects its dense mix of attractions, restaurants, parks, entertainment venues, and distinct neighborhoods. With approximately 8.5 million residents, the city offers visitors numerous opportunities to explore different parts of the metropolis on foot.
In a press release shared with Travel + Leisure, Hellotickets described New York as a “great open-air urban stage,” pointing to its concentration of landmarks, cultural experiences, food destinations, and green spaces.
Several neighborhoods and attractions stand out for travelers planning a walking-focused visit. The Brooklyn Bridge offers views of the city skyline, while SoHo is known for its architecture and shopping streets. The High Line provides an elevated walking route through Manhattan, and Central Park offers extensive paths away from the surrounding streets.
Greenwich Village is another option for visitors who want to explore at a slower pace, with its distinctive streets, local restaurants, and neighborhood atmosphere.
Travelers can also combine several attractions in one outing, although distances between neighborhoods and the size of the city mean that some trips may still require public transportation.
For more information about planning a visit, see this New York City travel guide.
Philadelphia Takes Fifth Place in the Global Ranking
Philadelphia earned a score of 87 out of 100, placing it just behind New York City. Known as the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia offers visitors a combination of American history, museums, public squares, markets, and established residential neighborhoods.
Hellotickets described the city as a place where travelers can experience “historic America at a pedestrian level.” Its compact historic center and concentration of cultural attractions make it a practical destination for visitors who want to see multiple landmarks during a single outing.
Walking can also help travelers avoid the challenges of driving in a busy city, including searching for street parking and navigating congested roads.
Several central neighborhoods are particularly convenient for exploring on foot. Center City provides access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, while Old City is known for its historic sites. Society Hill offers historic streets and architecture, and Rittenhouse Square provides a popular green space surrounded by restaurants and businesses. Fairmount is another option for visitors interested in museums and nearby cultural attractions.
Among the places worth adding to a walking itinerary are Independence Hall, Reading Terminal Market, and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The parkway connects several major cultural institutions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Visitors interested in history and specialized museums can also explore the Museum of the American Revolution and The Mütter Museum at The College of Physicians of Philadelphia.
Travelers can find additional recommendations in this guide to the best things to do in Philadelphia.
Why These Cities Appeal to Travelers on Foot
New York City and Philadelphia offer different experiences, but both provide visitors with a strong mix of attractions that can be explored without a rental car.
New York stands out for its scale, diverse neighborhoods, entertainment options, and extensive collection of landmarks. Philadelphia offers a more concentrated historic core, with museums, public spaces, and significant sites connected by walkable streets.
The ranking gives travelers another way to compare destinations when planning a trip, particularly if they want to spend less time driving and more time experiencing local neighborhoods.
For visitors who enjoy discovering a city one street at a time, both destinations offer opportunities to combine sightseeing, dining, history, and cultural experiences into a walking-focused trip.
