If you were born and raised in the suburbs of Philadelphia, like myself, then you’ve probably always prided yourself on living near the City of Brotherly Love. However, despite my close proximity, the amount of times I have actually ventured into Philadelphia is rather low. Likewise, the amount of times I have seen something other than the zoo, a traditional concert, or a sports game is even lower. Seriously, it’s embarrassing.

Whenever I complain about being bored or having nothing to do, I seem to forget that there’s a city full of undiscovered lights and attractions just waiting for me a few miles away.

So, without further ado, the next time you’re bored and looking for something to do in Philadelphia this summer, check out one of these 10 hidden gems.

1. Free Summer Movie Nights

From “Screening under the Stars at Penn’s Landing” to the “Schuylkill Banks Movie Series,” there are a variety of locations in Philadelphia where you can sit out under the stars and watch a popular or current movie – all for free! For more information on locations or show times, click here.

2. PECO’s Multicultural Series

Throughout this summer, there are a host of cultural festivals spanning from July 9 - September 18. Head on out to Penn’s Landing for a night of food, performance, drinks, dancing, and fun! Check out the list of festivals and get more information on each individual one here.

3. Summer Ale Festival at the Philadelphia Zoo

Have you always loved going to the zoo but feel too old to go now? Well your luck is about to change! On Saturday, July 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., there will be an array of local craft beers to sample and a variety of food trucks to satisfy your taste buds at the Philadelphia Zoo. Although it’s only open for those 21+, there’s sure to be live music, games, and breathtaking animals to look at! More information on the festival and ticket purchases can be found here.

4. 6th Annual Juneteenth Festival Celebration

Are you interested in learning more about the history of our city and country? Then the Juneteenth Festival is perfect for you! Hosted by the Johnson House Historic Site, the Germantown Avenue Business Alliance, and Historic Germantown on the day of Saturday, June 18, the Juneteenth Festival will be a free community event held to depict the history of the anti-slavery movements that contributed to our celebration of freedom today. This seems like the perfect event for history buffs, families, or anyone who genuinely wishes to know more about our country’s history. Click here for more information about the festival such as times and location.

5. Spruce Street Harbor Park (in the Marina at Penn’s Landing)

Commonly known for its beautiful waterfront views of the Delaware Riverfront, Spruce Street Harbor Park has become a popular weekend attraction for couples and groups of friends alike. Head on over to the park for drinks, foods, relaxation in hammocks, breathtaking lights and fountains, and captivating views of the Delaware. Best of all? Admittance to the park is free! Sound great to you? Check out the Spruce Street Harbor Park website for more information and to get on their mailing list so you’re constantly in-the-know!

6. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

Do you love roller-skating? Do you love scenic views? Then this is the perfect event for you! Held on Penn’s Landing near Spruce Street Harbor Park, the RiverRink Summerfest is exactly what it sounds like – roller-skating near the Delaware. A ticket to roller-skate is only $3 and rentals for skates are $10. Are you a Blue Cross Cardholder? If so, you get free admission to skate. The Summerfest also includes other activities, such as mini golf, and eateries such as Chickie and Pete’s. More information, such as time and dates, can be found here.

7. Wawa Welcome America! Festival

Although you may have heard of this festival before, did you know that admission is free? Did you also know that the festival spans over eight days (June 27-July 4)? For more information about times and parking for this festival that’s sure to be full of great music, good food and drinks, and tons of fun, head on over to the Welcome America site.

8. 2016 Mad Decent Block Party

Held at the Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing on Saturday, August 13, the Mad Decent Block Party features infamous DJs such as Diplo, Swizzymack, and more. Sure to be full of awesome music, strobe lights, and food, this rain-or-shine block party is one you just can’t miss! The concert venue is standing room only and for those 18+. Tickets are going for $50 and can be purchased here.

9. The Color Vibe 5K Run

OK, I know what you’re probably thinking – a run? But before you’re scared away, let me assure you that I have done this myself and it’s more fun than it is serious. If you’re looking for a great time or an unforgettable experience to share with your friends, I highly recommend forming a team for The Color Vibe that’s coming to Philadelphia on August 13! Friends, colors everywhere, awesome music, strobe light party . . . what’s not to love? For more information on ticket prices and event location, check out The Color Vibe website.

10. Franklin Square Park

Although the park just wrapped up an awesome Chinese Lantern Festival this past weekend, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do in Franklin Square! With activities from walking to mini golf to riding the carousel to eating at SquareBurger, you’re sure to have a grand old time at this park located in Center City. Open daily starting June 13 from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays), the park is sure to keep you entertained for hours. For more information on location and parking, click here.

Although these are just 10 fun and often overlooked ideas, there are so many more events as well. However, if I sat here and listed them all for you, I’d be going on forever.

Of course, in addition to these events, you can always score some tickets to a Phillies Game or check out a concert or event at the nearby Mann Center or at Lincoln Financial Field. Still stuck? Head on over to the Philly Fun Guide website for more events, it most certainly won’t disappoint.

Enjoy your fun-filled summer in the best city around!