Right by the Philadelphia International Airport is John Heinz, the country's first urban refuge that was established in 1972 when local residents fought to protect the land from being built up by I-95. Today, the refuge is made up of nearly 1,000 acres of woods, pond, marsh, and meadows dedicated to wildlife conservation and the environment. Got a canoe or kayak? There's a docking area to push off when the tide is high.

Navy Yard has undegone one of the most fascinating transformations in recent years, drawing big-name designers to the campus. Bjarke Ingels' 1200 Intrepid recently opened right on James Corner's Field Operations' Central Green. And the campus of long-time tenants Urban Outfitters is always worth a visit, too.

This 45-acre National Historic Landmark was founded by John Bartram in the 18th century and it is a must-see for any Philadelphian. Today it features historic structures like Bartram's original home, a new Ann Bartram Carr flower garden, and views of Center City from the river's banks. Its much-anticipated Bartram's Mile is now open to the public, providing even more green space and walking paths along the west banks of the Schuylkill.

Today, Pier 53 is known to most as Washington Avenue Green, an eco-conscious public park that juts out onto the Delaware River in Pennsport. It’s a relaxing and quiet oasis away from the busier pier parks further north, but still offers great views and a spot to dip your toes into the river. Fun fact: The pier is steeped in history, as it was once the third largest immigration port in the U.S.

Penn Museum is the largest university museum of its kind in the country, and you could easily spend a whole day here gaping over the treasure trove of this museum's roughly 1 million archeological artifacts. Or, enjoy the warmer weather by hanging out in Stoner Courtyard out front. Try to catch the Sphynx before it leaves on July 8.

The Independence Seaport Museum is the region's main museum that documents the area's long-standing maritime history. There are three major ship vessels you can tour, as well fascinating exhibits like "Patriots and Pirates," which delves into the history of the United States' conflict with pirates. And when the weather's right, you can rent paddle boats to explore along the Delaware River.

The Museum of the American Revolution, opened last spring. Designed by Robert A.M. Stern, it features thousands of artifacts dating back to pre-Revolutionary times, including some that were unearthed right on the actual site at 3rd and Chestnut when construction began. Also on display is George Washington's original marquee tents, which he lived and worked in during the war.

No trip to Philadelphia is complete without a trip down Elfreth's Alley, even during the winter. The country's oldest continuously inhabited residential street is what Curbed readers consider one of the most beautiful in the city. Snap a selfie among the 32 idyllic rowhomes, built from 1728 to 1836, wander along some side streets, and bring a camera. It’s a popular place for engagement, wedding, and Instagram photos, so catch a shot before heading back inside.

For a true birds’ eye view of Philly, take a walk along the Benjamin Franklin Bridge over the Delaware River. When it opened in 1926, it had the title of the longest single span of any suspension bridge in the world. Today, you can walk across it—above the PATCO line and speeding cars—toward Camden every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., weather permitting.

This is a must-see for history buffs. This historic building is listed as a World Heritage Site and played a big role in Philly’s designation as a World Heritage City. You have to get a ticket from the Visitor's Center across the street go inside. While you're at it, check out the Liberty Bell across the street and National Constitution Center across the Mall. But if you’re a native Philadelphian, you know this already: Get in early. The crowds are big in the summer.

Any history-lovers in your life will appreciate the Philadelphia History Museum, which, as the name suggests, is the city's main history museum. Housed in a Greek Revival structure designed by John Haviland (who also designed Eastern State Penitentiary), the museum has countless historic photos of Philly as well as a helpful exhibit that serves as an introduction to the city.

This one is a must. The Philadelphia City Hall is the largest city building in the country, with the iconic William Penn statue sitting on top of it. But don't just hang around the exterior: Take a walk through the courtyard and through Dilworth Park, where the fountains are back on through the summer. Or, take in the extraordinary architectural details inside the building's 700 rooms. Or, take a trip up to the top of the observatory deck for a great view of the city. There is an insane amount to see.

The Masonic Temple on North Broad is considered one of the great “wonders” of the Masonic world. So it’s no wonder Curbed Philly readers deemed it as having one of the most beautiful interiors in the city. The temple offers tours of its immaculate spaces multiple times during the day, from Tuesday through Saturday.