Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is home to some of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in the United States. This city teems with life around all corners and never falls short in cuisine or entertainment. As the summer winds down, treat yourself to an excursion to one of these destinations before the hectic school year returns.
1. Spruce Street Harbor Park
During the summer months, Spruce Street Harbor Park is transformed into a colorful retreat chock full of food and fun. Located on Columbus Boulevard and Spruce Street, the park is free to enter and open seven days a week from May 22 to September 27. Grab a bite to eat at Port FedNuts, Chifa, Froman's or Distrito Taco Truck. Afterwards, satisfy your sweet tooth at the S.S. Franklin Fountain. The hammock lounge and life-size chess, Jenga and Connect Tour games are the perfect setting for a family night or date night. The bar area closer to the water's edge offers local craft beers and net hammocks suspended above the Delaware River. Monthly live music shows add even more to the ethereal feel of this chill location.
2. Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art boasts a massive artistic database to view with collections from many world-renowned artists as well as circulating exhibitions. The current exhibitions showcase a wide variety of mediums including impressionism, photography and contemporary art. Admission for adults is $20 and admission for students with I.D. and youth age 13-18 is $14, while admission for children age 12 and younger is free. Admission for the first Sunday of every month as well as every Wednesday after 5 p.m. is "pay as you wish" — meaning any amount you may decide to contribute to the museum. Collections on view range from the likes of Pablo Picasso and Rembrandt to Andy Warhol and Kara Walker. Additionally, Wednesday nights offer "Make Stuff" drop-in workshops as well as yoga sessions with Dhyana Yoga.
3. Schuylkill River Banks Boardwalk
One of Philadelphia's newest attractions, the Schuylkill River Banks Boardwalk brings more mobility to the city. This new route is perfect for an afternoon bike ride or morning run. Nearby riverside lawns are the perfect place to hang out in summer days or do yoga. This new route is also home to new kayak tours on the Delaware River.
4. Old City District
Easily the most historic span of the City of Brotherly Love, Old City radiates charm through its quaint cobblestone streets and many shops. This district of Philadelphia is foodie heaven, with offerings from American to international cuisine. Restaurant Week is always a fan favorite. Throughout the week, participating high-end restaurants accept a $15, $25 or $35 flat fee to dine. The great bar scene in this area of the city can't be forgotten either. Khyber Pass pairs some amazing craft beers with down-home southern BBQ. If you're looking to be a little adventurous, The Irish Pol offers 40 craft beers on tap. As for the arts scene, the First Friday of each month showcases Old City's locals through the open doors of galleries and studios.
5. The Oval on Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Over the summer, Eakins Oval on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is transformed into "The Oval" from July 15 to August 23. This Park on the Parkway is open Wednesday through Sunday, with specific themes each day. Wednesdays are Wellness, Thursdays are Arts & Culture, Fridays are Food & Flicks, Saturdays are Game Day and Sundays are Family Fun. Each day hosts unique free entertainment for family and friends to enjoy. Varying food trucks are always on deck. The Oval also offers a beer garden, open Wednesday through Saturday. The calendar of events programs events ranging from fitness to Quizzo to movie nights.
6. Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market is the be-all, end-all hub of fresh, local food in downtown Philadelphia. The vendors at the market sell everything from fresh produce to meats to seafood to kitchen ware. Located on 12th and Arch, Reading Terminal Market has been vending various foods to the people of Philly since 1892. The market is open Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. The merchants work hard each day to present appetizing options to all customers. Walking tours are available Wednesdays and Saturdays to learn about the history of Philadelphia's most famous foods.
7. The Barnes Foundation
The Barnes Foundation possesses one of the largest, private post-Impressionist and modern painting collections. Their collections include pieces from Renoir and Van Gogh. The Barnes collection stemmed from the private art collections of Dr. Albert C. Barnes, original founder of The Barnes. Current exhibitions include unconventional installations in The Order of Things. Upcoming exhibitions include a showcase on wrought iron, metal painting by Ellen Harvey and a look into the works of Pablo Picasso. The Barnes is open Mondays, Wednesdays – Sundays and closed Tuesdays. Admission for adults is $22–$25, admission for students with I.D. and youth ages 6–18 is $10. Admission for children under the age of 6 is free.
8. The Philadelphia Zoo
No one is too old to visit The Philadelphia Zoo. While highly frequented by families, the zoo offers attractions for all ages. More than 1,300 animals call this location home. America's first zoo, this landmark opened its doors in July 1874. Explore each exhibit and get up-close and personal with some of the world's endangered animals. Float high above the city in a hot air balloon and experience your first camel ride with the attractions offered.
9. Independence National Historical Park
Visit Independence Hall to fully embrace the major historical aspect of Philadelphia. Home to some of our founding fathers and the birthplace of the Constitution, Philadelphia has a rich history and important role in the founding of our country. Take a tour through Independence Hall and walk through the same building where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Tickets to tour are only required from March to December.
10. Penn's Landing Festival Pier
This summer, explore Philadelphia's coolest concert venue at Festival Pier, complete with outdoor stages, an urban beach, bars, food stands and a killer view of the Ben Franklin Bridge. The outdoor location offers concerts throughout the entire summer by a myriad of different artists. Festival Pier comes complete with its very own beer garden and food trucks. The open outdoor atmosphere is perfect for a great night out with friends listening to your favorite music artists only a few feet away.
