With its grid layout, major interstates, wide highways and nearby state parks of great natural beauty, you’re going to enjoy driving in Philadelphia and Pennsylvania. The city sits on the winding Delaware River, which runs north-east to south-west and passes into Delaware to the south, and the other neighbouring state of Jersey.

From the airport, you’re only about 10 miles away from the heart of the city. Get on the I-95N to approach the city from the south and east, along the river, or the I-95N and then the I-75W to skirt the city from the west – both take similar amounts of time.

You must drive on the right-hand side of the road in the US, with overtaking on the left. Most other driving rules are the same – no mobile phone use and compulsory seatbelts – although you can make right turns on red lights at intersections, when the way is clear.

Speed limits in Pennsylvania vary, with the maximum speed in most of the state on freeways 65mph, although you will find some 70mph sections on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, a toll highway made up of three interstates. In residential areas, the limit drops to 20-25mph.

There are a range of parking options in Philly. If you're leaving your vehicle for a couple of hours, metered on-street parking is probably the most convenient choice. Check the signs to ensure you return within the allotted time. You'll also find off-street parking and multi-storey car parks across the city, offering better value rates for longer hours.

Pennsylvania is a large state, and to get out and see more of it you might want to take the I-76 west out of Philadelphia for the likes of Hershey and Harrisburg. From here you can join quieter state roads such as the 22 to get to the gorgeous greenery of the state forests in the north, such as the Susquehannock and Allegheny. Alternatively, you can stay heading west for Pennsylvania’s other main city, Pittsburgh, a fascinating place to visit as part of a US road trip.

Philadelphia’s spirit is legendary, and so is its history. This is where the nation’s founders gathered to hash out the American Constitution and where the Liberty Bell rang to mark America’s independence. It’s also where they invented the Philly Cheesesteak, where Rocky (fictional) ran up the (very real) steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art and where Philly Soul was born.

City of art

Millions of people visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art every year. Whilst many are there to follow in the footsteps of Rocky’s iconic run up the steps outside, the museum itself offers riches within. The gallery brings art to life, spanning the Renaissance period, South Asian culture and modern art, all in a stately building. Here you can see Joan Miró, Rodin, Diego Rivera and Picasso, Cezanne, Renoir and so much more. Discover Philadelphia’s role in American history through ageless photographs or enter a different world with the Ming Dynasty collection.

The art doesn’t stop there, however, with street art, sculpture, the Rocky statue, Joan of Arc and more festooning the nearby streets. Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the place to explore, with such delights as a giant 3-way plug and the sober contrast of the Washington Monument.

The steaks are high

For carnivores, the search for the best Philly Cheesesteak is a must. While the locals have their tried-and-trusted favourites, you get to try them all. The combination of steak, American processed cheese and optional peppers in an Italian roll is a sure-fire winner and, while some keep it simple and classic, other places have tried to give it a gourmet twist. For a solid rendition, you don’t need to look any further than Sonny’s, which opens late and is loved by Philadelphians.  Other famous staples include Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks, which claims to have invented it.

Day trips from Philadelphia

With car hire from Philadelphia International Airport, you also have the latitude to see much more of Pennsylvania, or even head into the neighbouring states. Drive north to the friendly, bohemian town of New Hope, with its annual PrideFest parade, or perhaps Ivy League Princeton, once the capital of the US for a short time in 1783. Tour the campus of the famed University, where the alumni include former presidents.

For an understanding of the modern US, Gettysburg National Military Park is essential. The final days and final battle – Pickett’s Charge – of the American Civil War played out here, and the 360-degree painting of this has to be seen to be believed. There are monuments, a museum and more on site.

Whether you're staying in the heart of Philadelphia or exploring all Pennsylvania has to offer, hire a car at Philadelphia International Airport to put you in control.