Philadelphia City Hall

It may be hard to believe, but a mere 30 years ago Philadelphia's City Hall tower was the highest point in the city, and today it's still one of the city's great vantage points.

Of course, to get to the tower, visitors have to take a rather teeny elevator from the ninth floor of this venerable building. The 40-story high observation deck is directly below the 37-foot bronze statue of William Penn - the tallest statue on top of any building, anywhere. The observation deck also provides a nice panorama of the city. (It is possible to see 30 miles away on a clear day.)

Stop at the Tour and Visitor Center (Room 121) to pick up a timed Tower ticket, or call in advance to make a reservation. Four adult-sized people are admitted to the tower every 15 minutes. If the kids are so inclined, take the 12:30pm interior tour to learn a lot of history, and see some of City Hall's 700 rooms, including the Mayor's Reception Room, Conversation Hall, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, and the City Council's Caucusing and Meeting rooms.

Note that access to the Tower is first come, first served, and many mornings are reserved for group tours, so it is best to call ahead for a reservation.