If you are looking for a city brimming with culture as well as family-friendly activities, Philadelphia is the place for you. Hotels can be expensive in such a popular destination, but you could rent accommodation for your stay instead. It might be an apartment in the city centre, or even something as unusual as a houseboat. Whatever type of property you would prefer, you and your family will have privacy, freedom and plenty of space.

Be sure to include Philadelphia Zoo on your itinerary. It has 1300 animals, including many endangered species and many rare animals; it's best to go early on a weekday, as the zoo attracts huge crowds. For culture enthusiasts, Philadelphia Museum of Art has collections covering a two-thousand year period with works by Turner, Monet, Cezanne and Duchamp among others; there's even a Japanese Teahouse and medieval cloister. About twenty-five miles north-west of Philadelphia amongst the hills is Valley Forge National Historical Park, where you can enjoy cycling and hiking as well as taking in the statues and monuments. Longwood Gardens is another place to go for a break from the city; you will delight in the Flower Garden Walk and the Italian Water Garden. History buffs won't want to miss Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Budding scientists will love the Franklin Institute; you can actually walk through a larger-than-life human heart there.

A visit to Franklin Square is a must for families, offering mini golf, carousel rides and story-telling. For fun, try the unique Ride the Ducks tour that goes through the historic area of Philadelphia on amphibious vehicles and finishes by splashing into the Delaware River. Cross the river to Camden Children's Garden, where the exhibits include the Dinosaur Garden and the Storybook Gardens. Next door is the Adventure Aquarium, the only aquarium in the country with hippos. It also has penguins, seals, and a thrilling Shark Realm. All except the youngest children will enjoy a Ghost Tour of Philadelphia as an exciting change in the evening.

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to visiting Philadelphia's attractions, and you will have more money to spend on them if you save on your accommodation. The best way to do this is by opting for a rental property. Like the idea of that houseboat? Or would you rather be in a house on dry land, or a cottage closer to the surrounding countryside? Take a look at the properties we can offer you, and spend a few minutes reading our customer reviews. We know there is a rental home that will suit you down to the ground and help to make your stay in Philadelphia a memorable one.