FEATURE DESTINATION: Philadelphia

Feb 2

What makes Philadelphia a great place for faith-based meetings?

Philadelphia is more than America’s birthplace. It’s where religious freedom took hold. From William Penn’s “Holy Experiment” to the Liberty Bell’s inscription from Leviticus, the city’s DNA is faith-driven. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of religious pioneers across centuries and denominations.

Within walking distance of the Pennsylvania Convention Center, attendees can explore stunning places of worship — the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, Mother Bethel AME (the oldest African Methodist Episcopal church in the nation), Christ Church (where the Founding Fathers worshiped), and countless others representing every faith tradition. These aren’t just venues; they’re testaments to resilience, inclusion, and community.

Faith-based meetings thrive where people of all backgrounds feel welcome. Philadelphia’s inclusive spirit from its “Brotherly Love” name to its “Certified Welcoming City” designation makes it a natural gathering place for dialogue, worship, and service. Attendees feel embraced, not just hosted.

What are some of Philadelphia’s unique and major meeting spaces?

Philadelphia offers a diverse mix of unique venues, from iconic landmarks to cutting-edge spaces – tailored to any event size, style, budget, or need. Larger groups can take advantage of the spacious Pennsylvania Convention Center, located in the heart of Philadelphia’s downtown. With $78.8 million in recent capital investments, the Center is Philadelphia’s top venue. Connected to the Center by skywalk is the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, the city’s largest hotel. It recently underwent significant technology and design upgrades, including updates to its more than 1,400 guest rooms and 100,000 square feet of meeting space.

Groups looking for a more immersive meeting experience will enjoy unique venues like The Franklin Institute, one of the East Coast’s top science museums, Lincoln Financial Field, home to the Philadelphia Eagles and state-of-the-art sustainability features, or Reading Terminal market, one of the largest and oldest public markets in the U.S.

What are some cultural and recreational experiences that faith-based groups would enjoy?

Philadelphia welcomes groups of all sizes to explore its world-renowned museums and notable attractions. Popular among visitors is Philadelphia’s historic district. Groups can also enjoy touring the only museums dedicated to the Revolutionary War and U.S. Constitution at the Museum of the American Revolution and the National Constitution Center, respectively.

Also in Old City is the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, which presents educational programs and experiences that preserve, explore, and celebrate the history of Jews in America. Founded in 1695, Christ Church, hosted members of the Continental Congress during the American Revolution. Visitors are welcome to explore the church and grounds. Just steps away is the Mother Bethel AME Church, the first independent Black denomination in the United States with a museum open to the public.

What are new enhancements of interest to event planners?

In 2026, Philadelphia will welcome a new museum. The historic First Bank of the United States, which has not been open to the public for 50 years, will transform into a museum showcasing the founding of the American economy through five exhibits on land, money, slavery, trade and work.

New to Philadelphia’s cultural center, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is Calder Gardens. The indoor/outdoor art installation is dedicated to Philadelphia artist Alexander Calder and features a rotating installation of his artworks.