Welcome to Philly!

Philadelphia, famous as the birthplace of American democracy, today thrives as a vibrant 21st-century city fueled by passion, ingenuity, and grit. Here you will meet diverse citizens ready to have authentic, candid conversations about the challenges our world is facing. Because that's what it takes to invent break-through treatments in medicine, sustainable innovations, and education that sparks revolutionary possibility.

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia is your connection to the people of Philadelphia.  You can connect with your peers through our in-person and virtual high school exchange programs, professional exchange programs, and trade missions year-round. And our network of volunteer 'Citizen Diplomats' are here to welcome you. We want to show you all of the great things that Philadelphia's world-famous for.

Come and explore, make a discovery...




Start Your American Adventure

Discover the spirit of America in Philadelphia where it all began. America's first World Heritage city. It has a walkable downtown area, excellent museums, award-winning restaurants, duty-free clothing and shoe shopping, and unparalleled public art, and the world's largest urban parking system. The second largest city on the East Coast has plenty to love, and plenty who love it. Our multicultural community is home to more than a thousand restaurants, from the award-winning to the iconic.  Choose from one of the following DiscoverPHL Philadelphia Official International Guides™ in English, French, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish.

Get to Know Philadelphia

The Department of Commerce’s international business staff is your gateway to Philadelphia. They are here to help you learn about the city and its competitive advantages.  Learn more about how our City can help you start and grow your business.

 

For more information on international business opportunities, contact the Internation Relations department.

Greater Philadelphia ranks as one of the nation’s leading centers for higher education with nearly 100 colleges and universities. Learn more about educational opportunities for you in Philadelphia here.

Philadelphia has an unmatched network of world-renowned doctors, surgeons, and hospitals that deliver personalized medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care ranked among the best in the world in person or from the comfort of your home. Jefferson Health and Temple Health have processes in place to continue to assist international patients seeking high-quality, cost-effective medical care and remain committed to providing uninterrupted, safe, quality care to those patients already being treated. Philadelphia is home to 2,000+ medical technology companies and 80% of all pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the U.S. have offices in Greater Philadelphia. Discover more about Philadelphia Life Sciences here.

In 2022, Philadelphia continued to be largely a tale of success, expanding upon years of economic progress and demographic change. See a Portrait of our City.

 

Key industries are thriving because of the region’s must-haves for success: unparalleled global access, a deep talent pool, an attractive cost of doing business, a huge market of customers, and an incredible quality of life. We have the 7th largest workforce of 3.4 million, including highly-skilled talent in key industries: life sciences, energy and manufacturing, technology, financial services, and more. That's why people Select Greater Philadelphia.

Philadelphia — the only U.S. city featured in National Geographic Traveler’s Best Trips 2020 issue — delivers one destination, five counties, and countless things to do. On the list: fascinating museums, vibrant parks, national historic sites, and famous and delicious food.

Philadelphia is World Heritage City because we have a UNESCO World Heritage Site of "outstanding universal value", Independence Hall, and because of the rich array of historic buildings and cultural sites located throughout the city, including 67 National Historic Landmarks. Watch this short film to learn more - offered in 12 different languages.

Philadelphia World Heritage City