The best things to do in Philadelphia right now

What is it? As the country’s first World Heritage City and the birthplace of the United States, Philadelphia’s Revolution-era history is unmatched. It all started in Old City, home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were hotly debated and signed, and the Liberty Bell, which rang in 1776 to alert citizens to the first public reading of the Declaration. Dive deeper into the fight for independence at the Museum of the American Revolution, which houses George Washington’s actual army tent, learn all you need to know about the Constitution at the National Constitution Center, and check out Benjamin Franklin’s grave at Christ Church Burial Ground. 

Why go? Many of these landmarks look just like they did back in the 1700s (think cobblestone streets and tiny thatch-roofed houses), and you can explore many of them to your liking.

Time Out tip: There’s no need to wait in line at the Liberty Bell or Independence Hall, since both can be seen from outside. 

What is it? From March 1 to 9, the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Arch Street will become home to the biggest and longest-running horticultural event in the country. Get lost in over-the-top displays crafted by the top floral, garden, and landscape experts in the business.

Why go? The highlight is certainly the displays, which are as intricate as they are awe-inducing. But there are also tons of interactive activities to take part in, too. Think a butterfly exhibit, floral crafting, potting demos and shopping. (Personally, I have my eyes on a floral crown from Bloom Bar.) Most fun of all is arguably Flowers After Hours, a cosmic, space-age party that offers music and entertainment late into the evening for folks ages 21 and up.

Time Out tip: Make the trek after 4pm to save $10 on admission. Alternatively, you can go early for all-day admission, a morning tour and photography tips from a pro.

What is it? Longwood Gardens has mesmerized Philly residents with its 1,100 acres—including fountains, breathtaking gardens, and an impossibly stunning orchid collection—since 1921. From now through March 23, you can visit the new West Conservatory’s glasshouses, just as the Mediterranean-inspired garden hits peak flowering.

Why go? It’s a pretty way to bid winter adieu and usher in spring while we have one foot in each season. Plus, the glasshouses allow you to be outside and soak up the beauty of nature without needing to fully brave the cold.

Time Out tip: The Cascade Garden offers lush rainforest plants, a serene walking path and a whopping 16 waterfalls that’ll transport you to warmer days before they actually arrive. Visit before heading home to kick your winter blues to the curb.

What is it? If you’re visiting Philadelphia this month, it may be worth planning for St. Patrick’s Day weekend. There’s no shortage of fun to be had for the occasion, from bar hopping to family-friendly activities. But most iconic is no doubt the parade, which will be taking place on March 16th after the 255th (yes, you read that right) Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade Mass at St. Patrick’s Church on South 20th Street. The parade will go down JFK Boulevard and onto Ben Franklin Parkway, so you can make a beeline to a nearby museum once you’re tired of the parade crowd.

Why go? Odds are it’ll be a bit chaotic, but that gritty spirit is what Philly is all about. It’s a great way for newcomers to get a sense of Philadelphia’s energy and community.

Time Out tip: Stick around for Irish dancing and performances, then head to McGillin’s Olde Ale House in Center City to keep the party going with Irish-inspired cocktails and beers.

What is it? Center City’s Reading Terminal Market (pronounced “Redding,” like Otis’s last name) has plenty of local, delicious fare to savor, from roast pork sandwiches and cheesesteaks to ice cream and Amish farm-fresh cheese. Food stalls also serve street food classics from Guatemala, the Philippines, the Middle East, Asia, and other regions of the world. The Amish markets—open every day except for Sundays—are a particularly worthwhile draw with fresh-baked whoopie pies and pastries, cheese straight from the farm, and various canned pickled goodies.

Why go? Philly is home to some of the country’s oldest and largest urban markets open daily year-round, and they’re a true wonderland for the food-obsessed.

Time Out tip: Beiler’s Doughnuts is a no-brainer stop, and Bassetts Ice Cream is the oldest ice cream company in America—and still magnificent after all these years.

What is it? In South Philly, the Italian Market on 9th Street has been bustling for well over a century, thanks to multi-generational family businesses like butchers, produce vendors, cheesemongers, specialty shop owners, and, more recently, Mexican and Asian eateries. Today, more than 200 businesses line the streets, each even more delicious than the next. Foodies should mark their calendars for the annual Italian Market Festival, which takes place every spring.

Why go? It’s among the country’s oldest outdoor markets, as it’s been around for more than a century.

Time Out tip: First-timers should shop the market, but save room for cheesesteaks since two of the most famous (Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks) are located just steps away.

What is it? Philly is bordered by two riverfronts—Delaware River Waterfront on the east and Schuylkill Banks on the west—and both are amid an exciting renaissance with all-ages attractions. Cherry Street Pier along the Delaware has transformed from a long-abandoned Municipal Pier 9 to an artsy, mixed-use space with artisans markets, open galleries, food trucks, and DJed events. Next door, Race Street Pier is a slick urban green space that beckons park lovers with an expansive lawn, ample seating areas, and dozens of shady trees.

Why go? Not only can you hang outdoors, shop and eat to your heart’s content, but you’ll also get to relish stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge from Race Street Pier specifically.

Time Out tip: Keep your eyes peeled year-round for events and activities on or near the water, like ice skating during Winterfest.

What is it? From May to October, Spruce Street Harbor Park is a metropolitan oasis with light-strung trees, colorful hammocks, floating gardens, and must-try food and drink outposts by homegrown vendors. Most famous is arguably the boardwalk, which offers everything from ice cream to pizza from popular Philadelphia purveyors, like Franklin Fountain and Chickie’s and Pete’s. You can also head there for specific events, like farmers markets, flea markets, and outdoor concerts.

Why go? You’ll get to hang outside and relish a cozy, community feel while still being in the city.

Time Out tip: A five-minute walk away, Blue Cross RiverRink offers state-fair vibes with rides, games, and an open-air skating rink that welcomes ice skating in the winter and rollerblading in the summer.

What is it? The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the city’s most picturesque boulevard, modeled after Paris’ Champs-Élysées and stretching grandly from City Hall to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. You’ll notice stately fountains, lovely patches of green space, and a collection of the city’s best museums. The Franklin Institute satisfies science nerds with tons of hands-on gadgetry—and a giant, walk-through heart—while the Academy of Natural Sciences puts you face to face with massive replicas of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creepy crawlies. 

Why go? There’s a lot to do in a single area, so if you wear comfortable shoes and start early, you can see and learn a ton in just one day. It’s a must for visitors and locals alike. 

Time Out tip: Just a few blocks south on 22nd Street is my favorite, the Mütter Museum, which is home to a vast collection of antique medical oddities, deformed organs floating in jars of formaldehyde, anatomical specimens, and wax models.

What is it? Some of us simply couldn’t go to Philly without getting the full Rocky experience. After braving the infamous Rocky Steps, head to Italian Market in South Philly, where you’ll recognize some authentic produce vendors from the movies. Speaking of, dinner is all about Victor Café, where several scenes from the Rocky spinoff, Creed, were filmed. A meal here is a fun experience thanks to the waitstaff, all trained opera singers, who serenade you with arias sporadically throughout the night.

Why go? Jogging up all 72 Rocky steps is not for the faint of heart, but worth it for the unbeatable views looking down the Parkway to City Hall and Center City skyline.

Time Out tip: Instead of waiting in line for a selfie with the Rocky Statue, take a picture from outside near the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s eastern entrance, then pop into the Parkway Visitor Center to shop for exclusive Rocky apparel and memorabilia from the Sly Stallone Shop.

What is it? Breathtaking views draw crowds to this open-air rooftop of a former high school in South Philly from April through October. Take a selfie, then grab a beer, wine, or seltzer from the bar and check out the rotating monthly food pop-ups from local chefs. The rest of the mixed-use building is home to fine artists, glass blowers, ceramicists, bakers, jewelers, guitar makers, designers, and photographers, which you can visit during Open Studios.

Why go? Its position on the tippy-top of the enormous building affords guests sweeping, panoramic views of Philadelphia from the south. Start your gaze at the Delaware River and its iconic bridges, then move towards the Center City skyline, then down to the airport and even West Philly.

Time Out tip: Just across the hall is Irwin’s restaurant, which is worth popping into for a pescatarian-forward Sicilian meal with refreshing wines and cocktails.

What is it? John’s Roast Pork is a railroad-side shack that’s been a South Philly institution since 1930, and Tommy DiNic’s (inside Reading Terminal Market) roast pork sandwich was crowned the Best Sandwich in America in 2013. Hoagies are an everyday family affair that has been perfected at Liberty Kitchen (in Fishtown, Chestnut Hill, and University City), Farina Di Vita, and just about every corner deli in South Philly. 

Why go? If you want to eat like the locals, then you need to know that the truly beloved sandwich of Philadelphia is a cold-cut layered hoagie, followed by juicy roast pork with sharp provolone and garlic-y broccoli rabe. Cheesesteaks are last on our favorite sandwich list (except after a night of drinking).

Time Out tip: Skip the tourist traps if you don’t want to wait in line at Pat’s or Geno’s and head to Jim’s either on South Street or in West Philly (both are real-deal OGs) for a whiz wit, or venture to Roxborough for Dalessandro’s Steaks.

What is it? Did you know that Philly is the “Mural Capital of the World?” Yep, this city is home to more than 4,300 outdoor public art pieces. You can book a tour with Mural Arts, the nation’s largest public art program for more than 40 years, to see some of their iconic commissioned works up close, or get to know local artists and activists preserving the street art scene with a Streets Dept Excursions tour instead.

Why go? Walking this city is the best way to immerse yourself in the growing arts scene. And best of all, it’s low-cost! 

Time Out tip: Hop on the Market-Frankford subway line from 15th to 69th Streets for an elevated view of Stephen ESPO Powers’ “A Love Letter for You,” a series of 50 murals painted on buildings throughout West Philly.

What is it? Once one of the world’s most ruthless prisons, Eastern State Penitentiary is now a fascinating museum, charting nearly 200 years of criminal history. The imposing fortress closed its doors in 1971, but not before it housed renowned inmates like Al Capone and Slick Willie Sutton, who famously tunneled out in 1945. 

Why go? Guests can walk through the creepy halls and peek into the empty cells while listening to a Steve Buscemi-narrated audio guide.

Time Out tip: If you’re here in the fall—and brave enough—the facility turns into a monstrous haunted attraction called Halloween Nights, which offers multiple haunted experiences and a pop-up bar near Capone’s former holding cell.

What is it? You can’t miss this imaginative art attraction on South Street, with its facade plastered with bits of colored glass and shards, broken ceramics, and even bicycle wheels. The experience continues inside as you wind your way through mosaicked hallways and glistening courtyards. These elaborate public displays of art have been inviting visitors for more than 40 years, and they’re the product of the ever-creative mind of local artist Isaiah Zagar. 

Why go? Yes, it’s a photo op, but it also offers respite from the bustle of the city. It’s also on South Street, which is home to tons of cool bars and vintage shops (Tattooed Mom and Raxx Vintage Emporium are two of my favorites, respectively). 

Time Out tip: Zagar has contributed hundreds of handmade mosaics throughout South Philadelphia. See how many you can spot while strolling around the area.

What is it? What began as an informal gathering of Lao and Cambodian refugees has become a destination market for the Southeast Asian community to share their native cuisine, produce, jewelry, and crafts. After decades of operating in quasi-underground fashion—a remnant from the early days, when the police often raided the party—the vendors formed an association in 2021. The market, located in FDR Park, is open on weekends during spring, summer, and fall.

Why go? In short, it’s a culinary beacon for Philadelphians of all stripes to enjoy racks of skewered meats, beef sticks, papaya salad, and more.

Time Out tip: Keep an eye out for stuffed chicken wings—they’re not to be missed, no matter which vendor you order them from.

What is it? Housing more than one million artifacts from across the globe, the Penn Museum, formally known as the Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, is a veritable treasure trove of unfathomably old relics. There’s also a wealth of must-see artifacts, including pottery depicting ancient Greek athletic competitions, spectacular jewelry from a Mesopotamian queen, and the pièce de resistance: a massive 15-ton granite sphinx. Cooler still, the Eastern Mediterranean Gallery highlights a crossroads of cultures that introduced the world’s first alphabet. 

Why go? These galleries connect our past and present by showcasing cultures (both ancient civilizations and current cultures) from around the world. 

Time Out tip: Admission is free for teachers and U.S. military veterans with proper identification.

What is it? Fishtown and parts of Kensington may be trendy at the moment, but working-class Latino and Irish communities have long made their mark on these neighborhoods and their surrounding areas. The easy access off the Market-Frankford elevated line makes it an ideal spot for tourists who want to see a different, more residential side of Philadelphia. Head to Norris Square Park, where you’ll be transported to Puerto Rico via colorful murals, mom-and-pop eateries, Taller Puertorriqueño events, and the Norris Square garden, Las Parcelas. Then, head south to tour New Liberty Distillery, grab a glass of wine at Mural City Cellars, Philly’s first urban winery, people watch at Palmer Park, grab a pick-me-up at La Colombe’s flagship cafe, or grab a bite and drink at nationally-recognized bars and restaurants, like James Beard Award winner Kalaya, Esquire magazine’s Best Bars in America finalist Post Haste, and critically-acclaimed Cantina La Martina.

Why go? Every neighborhood has its moments in the spotlight, these are some of the hottest areas in the City of Brotherly Love. 

Time Out tip: Music lovers should finish their evening with an indie rock show at music venue Johnny Brenda’s.

What is it? The wealthiest zip code in Philadelphia beckons travelers and locals alike with an array of stellar restaurants, happy hour spots, and shopping galore. Picture Parc’s bistro-style sidewalk tables, filled year-round, picnics, dogs in the park, and brand-name shopping nearby, with folks flocking from one hot spot to another in search of the latest cocktail trend. (On that note, there’s no limit on bars and restaurants to pop into for a dang good meal or a stiff drink.)

Why go? On any given day, Rittenhouse Row feels like a stroll through a buzzy Parisian square where affluent residents and tourists sit and mingle for hours outside.

Time Out tip: Walnut Street from Broad to 21st Streets is Philly’s equivalent to New York City’s Fifth Avenue, in terms of shopping.

What is it? This one-mile diagonal strip of Passyunk Avenue [pash-shunk or pass-ee-yunk] runs from Broad and Snyder to South Street. The stroll takes you past dozens of restaurants, from Washington Avenue’s Vietnamese, Chinese, and Indonesian food plazas to old-school red sauce Italian joints to white-tablecloth dining establishments. In between, there are record stores, plant shops, corner dives, antique shops, and The Singing Fountain, where neighborhood locals congregate.

Why go? It’s one of Philly’s most walkable streets and a cultural hub in and of itself.

Time Out tip: I have friends who rave about Mish Mish, nearby on Tasker Street. I also adore the beef noodle soup at Pho 75, tucked away in a shopping center off Washington.

What is it? The Rail Park—a long-unused railway line that was converted into an elevated urban park in the Callowhill/Spring Arts district—still has a ways to go before completion, but it’s already rad enough to warrant a visit. Join a historic walking tour that paints a picture of the past, contextualizes the present, and envisions the future of public space with a three-mile greenway (phase one is free and open to visit at Callowhill Street between 11th and 12th Streets) outfitted with native plants, trees, shrubbery, plenty of benches, public art, and massive swings to sit and take in the urban splendor. 

Why go? Views on views on views. 

Time Out tip: It’s particularly inviting at dusk when you can peep the sun setting over Philly and get a head-on view of Shepard Fairey’s The Stamp of Incarceration: James Anderson mural when it’s lit up at night.

What is it? Tons of breweries scattered about Philadelphia have helped the city stake its claim as a front-runner on the American craft beer scene, including Yards Brewing Company (on Spring Garden Street), Victory Brewing Company (on Ben Franklin Parkway), and Philadelphia Brewing Company (in Fishtown). As such, beer lovers will find endless spots to sample locally crafted suds, from tasty and inventive IPAs to lagers and sours. Join other diehard beer fans for the annual Philly Beer Week (typically at the end of May into early June) and Philly Beer Fest (mark your calendar for March 1).

Why go? There are big- and small-name breweries all over the city that are making some really innovative products that no beer nerd will want to pass up.

Time Out tip: If you’re in West Philly, add Carbon Copy to your must-visit list. (There’s also a taproom in Port Richmond, by the way.) Not only do they brew all their beers on site (I love the deliciously tart Radiate), but they also have pretty solid pizza for Philly and incredible salt-and-pepper chicken wings.

What is it? Considered the birthplace of America as we know it, Old City is chock-full of Colonial-era landmarks and sites, like the Betsy Ross House and Liberty Bell. But there’s plenty more going on there, too. Every first Friday of the month, art galleries and home décor showrooms open their doors to the general public. Second and Third Street bustle with visitors exploring new exhibits, design pieces, interactive digital and visual arts, and drawings while enjoying snacks and drinks. 

Why go? I’m biased, but it’s home to two of the historic area’s oldest dessert spots: Shane Confectionery and The Franklin Fountain. Established in 1863, restored Victorian candy emporium Shane Confectionery fills its shelves with loads of chocolate truffles, taffies, fudge, candy bars, and more goodies, most of which are made with centuries-old recipes. A few doors down, the old-fashioned ice cream parlor Franklin Fountain keeps the sugar high going strong with delicious cones, customizable sodas, and indulgent sundaes with names inspired by Philadelphia history.

Time Out tip: Many folks who live in Old City inhabit restored rowhomes from the 18th century. Even cooler, Old City is home to Elfreth’s Alley, America’s oldest continuously occupied street.

What is it? The former U.S. Naval Base at the southern tip of Broad Street is a haven for runners, bikers, and architecture enthusiasts. It features five parks that host wellness clubs for runners and yogis, including the Riverfront Greenway, a one-mile running and walking path that curves along the Delaware River. Closer to the water is the yard’s original dry dock, which has been lovingly restored into a park. You can also stand under the hulking bow of the decommissioned USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier.

Why go? More than 15,000 people go to work at the Navy Yard each day, but the 1,200-acre campus, which supports 150 companies, is also an underrated and undiscovered place to play.

Time Out tip: The massive greenspace of the Marine Parade Grounds is ideal for a picnic. It’s surrounded by historic barracks that date back more than 100 years and welcomes lunchtime food trucks in the summer.

What is it? Philadelphia sports fans take the cake when it comes to getting hype for their teams. They’ve perfected the art of game-day trash-talking and consistently make headlines for their post-win (or loss) antics. Watch them in all their glory by catching a game at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, which hosts four of the city’s five pro teams: the 76ers and Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center, the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park, while Super Bowl LIX champs the Eagles play at Lincoln Financial Field. 

Why go? Things can get chaotic on game day, but being part of the crowd is an energizing experience like no other. 

Time Out tip: Food and drink options are plentiful at nearby Xfinity Live! and Live! Philly Casino and Hotel.

What is it? Just northwest of City Hall, LOVE Park is home to one of the most iconic Philadelphia landmarks, Robert Indiana’s vibrant LOVE sculpture. Snap a selfie in front of the artwork before enjoying the park, which serves as an entrance to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. 

Why go? Once you snap a photo for Instagram, you can turn your attention to the nearby museums and shops that are mere steps away. It’s easy to plan a day-long itinerary that allows you to hit multiple hot spots that are all close to each other. 

Time Out tip: This attraction also includes green space, comfortable seating, and an understated fountain.

What is it? Lace up your sneakers or rent a bike for a blissed-out journey along the Schuylkill River Trail, a 30-mile urban park that extends from Center City to Phoenixville. The trail meanders along the Schuylkill River, passing various public artworks and several historic stone bridges towering over the water. There’s also a skatepark, where you can watch local boarders perform tricks throughout the year—or bring your own wheels to try some of your own, if you’re feeling ambitious. 

Why go? Spending time in a green space is a great way to escape the city for a moment without really leaving, but on parts of the trail, you’ll get to take in the sights of both environments. 

Time Out tip: During the warmer months, you can catch outdoor movies, kayaking tours, and even free yoga along the path. 

What is it? If Philly is known for anything in the food-and-drink world other than cheesesteaks and pretzels, it’s the vision-blurring, throat-burning Citywide Special, a concoction that traditionally pairs a shot of Jim Beam with a Pabst Blue Ribbon chaser. If you haven’t had one before, you’ll want to try it where it originated at the legendary South Street dive bar, Bob & Barbara’s Lounge. 

Why go? You can find a Citywide at most bars in Philadelphia, ranging from $3 to high-end versions of the stuff with craft beers and alternative spirits. Here, you’ll pay $5, but it’s a Philly rite of passage.

Time Out tip: Thursday nights are the most fun as Miss Lisa Lisa hosts the city’s best—and one of its longest-running—drag shows.

What is it? One of Philadelphia’s newest music venues isn’t really new at all. The long-shuttered opera house, The Met Philadelphia, opened in 1908 by Oscar Hammerstein’s grandfather, was renovated into a massive, 100,000-square-foot Live Nation entertainment complex that can hold up to 3,500 guests. 

Why go? Major acts play here, but most enticing is the pop-up beer garden that opens an hour before the event. You can sip craft cocktails and microbrews and munch on bar snacks when the weather’s right. 

Time Out tip: The gilded hallways are home to no less than 12 bars, so there’s no need to pregame before the event, if that’s usually your style.

What is it? World-class art-perusing awaits those who step inside the hallowed halls of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the world’s largest art museums. You could spend an entire day cruising the vast collection of works, running the gamut from world-famous paintings and sculptures to medieval architecture, textiles, and furniture. Among the masters on display are Picasso, Cézanne, Modigliani, Brancusi, Eakins, Kahlo, and Duchamp. 

Why go? It’s one of the larger, most famous museums in Philly. Both art buffs and newbies won’t regret visiting. 

Time Out tip: Must-see galleries include the devotional and religious paintings of the European art section, which feels like entering an ancient monastery.

What is it? It’s a modern architectural marvel in and of itself and home to one of the most renowned collections of French impressionist and post-impressionist paintings in the world. The galleries are lined with rare and first-edition pieces by greats like Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, and Rousseau. The destination also holds the largest collection of Renoirs in the world at a whopping 181 pieces, in addition to 69 Cézannes, which is more than you’ll find in one place in all of France, the artist’s country of origin.

Why go? Compared to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the smaller Barnes Foundation offers a more downscale art-browsing experience but with just as much wow factor. 

Time Out tip: While you’re there, you can use the museum’s mobile gallery guide, Barnes Focus, to scan any painting or object with your phone to receive information about the work.

What is it? It’s long been a historically Black community but it’s exciting to see it grow as a multicultural enclave with eateries, shops, cafés, and bars hailing from Ethiopia, India, the Middle East, China, Southeast Asia, and beyond. Plus, some of the largest open green spaces and parks are here, such as the historic Woodlands Cemetery on 40th Street and Woodland Avenue, Clark Park on Baltimore Avenue, and several 18th and 19th-century mansions in West Fairmount Park. You can also spend a quiet day exploring the neighborhood’s contemporary arts and literary scene at the Institute of Contemporary Art and Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books.

Why go? Not only is West Philly home to The Fresh Prince, but locals (me included) proudly claim that it’s the best Philly—and they’ve got a point. 

Time Out tip: There’s a ton of Ethiopian food on Baltimore Avenue alone, but my absolute favorite is at Abyssinia. The spicy kitfo and whole fried fish are genuinely revelatory, and don’t even get me started on the devastatingly cool bar above the restaurant, Upstairs at Abyssinia (formerly Fiume), which boasts an impressive selection of craft beer and cocktails.

What is it? Philly’s Chinatown is more than 150 years old. It’s a haven for all-day people watching with folks haggling at the outdoor produce stands and markets, families huddled together at bustling restaurants, people going to worship at the Fo Shou (Buddhist) Temple, and kids playing in front of the Friendship Arch at 10th and Arch Streets. After dark, crowds flock there for late-night eating, drinking, and karaoke. Start with the classics: Tai Lake, Ken’s Seafood, Yakitori Boy, Yi Pin, Dim Sum Garden, and David’s Mai Lai Wah. 

Why go? It’s easily one of the most dynamic immigrant communities in the city, especially if you visit during Lunar New Year. 

Time Out tip: Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House is my top pick for doughy, slick, chewy noodles that will make you a regular at first bite.