What to Do in Philadelphia for a Weekend

WHAT TO DO IN PHILADELPHIA FOR A WEEKEND

Wondering how to spend a weekend in Philadelphia?

Depending on where you travel, it can be difficult to distill a location down enough to determine what to do in as limited of an amount of time as a weekend is. However, Philadelphia is one of my top cities to recommend for a weekend trip – and not just because I live here! A weekend is the perfect amount of time to fit in a little bit of everything that Philly offers – a little history, a little sightseeing, a little shopping, and a lot of exploring the city’s best restaurants.

That’s why I love Philadelphia so much – it’s an incredibly versatile city. As one of the oldest cities in the United States, it’s filled with so much rich history, but it’s also modern and upscale, with so many fun and trendy places to visit. You can enjoy all aspects of life while in Philly, and I think that’s what really sets the city apart.

So if you’re spending the weekend in Philadelphia, here are my top recommendations as to what you should do from the Old City to South Street and beyond.

TRAVELING TO PHILADELPHIA

If you’re flying in to Philadelphia, you’ll fly in to Philadelphia International Airport, which is super simple and convenient. This airport serves 17 airlines, and offers 500 daily departures to over 130 nonstop destinations. It’s also easy to get to the city from the airport – you’re only seven miles from Center City!

If you’re nearby, you can also obviously drive into Philadelphia for the weekend. One of my favorite things about the city is how easy it is to incorporate into a road trip. You can easily make it a destination of its own, or tack it onto a longer road trip if you want to explore the northeast USA. Philadelphia is easily accessible to and from New York City, as it’s only a little over an hour and a half drive. It’s super convenient!

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT PHILADELPHIA?

Philadelphia is such a vibrant, fun, exciting city, and I have to say that there’s so much to see and do all year round. You’re never bored in Philadelphia, and you can easily fill a weekend no matter when in the year you visit.

The most popular time to visit Philadelphia is definitely the warmer months, specifically June through September. You’ll experience more crowds during this season, but you’ll also enjoy the most pleasant weather for walking around, exploring, and enjoying time outside. Spring and fall are also great times to visit the city, especially if you prefer to beat the heat and enjoy slightly cooler weather.

January and February are the least popular times to visit the city simply because the weather is so cold, but don’t be afraid to spend a few days in Philly even during the winter months. If you don’t mind bundling up, you can still explore, and you might even catch some snow! You can also schedule out your visit to include plenty of planned indoor activities so you aren’t worried about being caught out in the cold. Explore museums, or enjoy a spa day.

WHERE TO STAY IN PHILADELPHIA

First things first: before planning out all of the fun details of your Philly weekend, you need to decide where you want to stay. I always recommend choosing somewhere fairly central, as it’s nice to be within walking distance of all that there is to see and do in the heart of the city, especially if you fly in and don’t have access to a car. Philadelphia is a really walkable city if you plan well, and where you stay can make all the difference in the ease of your trip. Plus, if you’re only spending a few days in the city for a weekend visit, you want to be able to make the most of your trip – you don’t want to spend all of your time in a car!

Here are a few of my go-to spots for your weekend stay in Philadelphia.

Four Seasons Philadelphia

For a truly luxurious Philly weekend, you can’t go wrong with a stay at the Four Seasons Philadelphia. Featuring unique, gorgeous views of the city, you’ll love the stunning guest suites, as well as the hotel’s spa, family amenities, fine dining, and heated infinity pool. The whole hotel is so beautifully designed, and truly feels like getting away.

When you stay at the Four Seasons, I thoroughly recommend the crystal oil massage. There’s nothing more relaxing and healing! My husband and i both enjoyed visiting the spa at the Four Seasons, and I’d thoroughly recommend booking a few treatments yourself, even if you aren’t staying at the hotel. It’s so rejuvenating!

Notary Hotel

The Notary Hotel is one of my favorite places to stay in Philadelphia. Filled with natural light and gorgeous artwork, you’ll love staying in this historic building, the former City Hall Annex, where marriages and business ventures could be notarized. Now a stunning hotel, you’ll enjoy a phenomenal in-house restaurant, in addition to great views of the city. I love that the Notary Hotel is in walking distance of so many things to do – it’s a fantastic central point for your weekend stay in Philadelphia.

The Notary is super unique, and when I’m visiting somewhere with as much history as Philadelphia, I always recommend staying somewhere that isn’t just basic and cookie cutter. You should stay somewhere that reflects the area, and the Notary Hotel does just that.

The Guild House

If you’re a history lover, The Guild House is the perfect place for you to stay for your Philadelphia weekend. This stunning boutique hotel is a restored National Historic Landmark, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you stay – yet with beautiful touches of luxury at each turn. I love how much The Guild House makes you feel at home – it’s immediately comforting. Each suite is named after a woman of the New Century Guild, which is such a unique touch, and the concierge will keep you comfortable throughout your stay.

Enjoy the inviting hospitality of a personalized stay at The Guild House. The decor is beautifully done, and you’ll want to come back again and again.

WHAT TO DO IN PHILADELPHIA FOR A WEEKEND: MY FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT

Philadelphia is a foodie’s paradise – there are so many amazing different restaurants to try across a wide range of cuisines. Plus, if you love a good cup of coffee or are always on the search for the best wine and beer in a city, Philly has you covered. There’s nothing like stepping away from a weekend visit with a list of new favorite restaurants to add to your roster! Here are a few of my favorite spots in the city for a great bite.

Terrain Cafe Doylestown

For fresh, seasonal food, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Terrain Cafe. This picturesque spot features farm-to-table dining, with each meal crafted with incredible locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant itself is beautiful, and being surrounded by lush greenery and plants will make you feel relaxed and right at home. I’m a big fan of their brunch menu – after all, who can say no to French toast and a mimosa? That being said, everything on the menu is great at Terrain Cafe, and you can even purchase some of their menu items like fresh honey to bring home with you. If you’re visiting the city, samples from the Terrain Cafe make great souvenirs for friends and family back home who love fresh, natural foods!

Lacroix Restaurant

If you’re looking for an upscale luxury dining experience, I’ll always recommend a trip to Lacroix Restaurant. Nestled in the Rittenhouse Square area, this Michelin-star restaurant will blow you away with every single detail, from the the sophisticated, elegant environment to the flawless menu. The perfect fusion of art and culinary delight, you’ll never forget your visit to this phenomenal restaurant. I love their brunch buffet experience, which offers a variety of food stations, including a raw bar and perfectly seasoned meats. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy date night or to celebrate a special occasion or milestone, from a birthday to an anniversary to a promotion or exciting new life development!

Emmy Squared Queen Village Philadelphia

After falling in love with Emmy Squared pizza when I was in New York for NYFW, I couldn’t have been more ecstatic to hear that a location was opening here in Philadelphia. Vibrant, trendy, and modern, Emmy Squared is comfort food at its finest. They serve Detroit-style pizza, in addition to fantastic salads, sandwiches, and incredible appetizers. You’ll love everything on the menu, and they even offer a rooftop happy hour with innovative cocktails. It’s a fantastic spot for families and those seeking the elevated Philly experience alike. I love that I can go there for a date night with my husband, dinner with friends, or a meal with my son and have a great time no matter who I’m with.

WHAT TO DO IN PHILADELPHIA FOR THE WEEKEND: CAN’T MISS SPOTS

No matter what you enjoy, there’s something for you to do in Philadelphia. Whether you want to take in the historical sites, shop til you drop, or try something new that you can’t do anywhere else, you’ll find everything and more for your itinerary.

Philadelphia is a great spot for solo travel, a romantic getaway, a girl’s trip, or even a trip with the whole family. Keep reading to discover all of the can’t-miss spots for your time here in Philly, whether you’re crafting a single day itinerary or have more time on your hands.

LIVE! Casino & Hotel

If you want a night out on the town, you’ll love visiting the LIVE! Casino and Hotel. Feel like you’re in Vegas without ever leaving the East Coast when you enjoy the fun, vibrant luxury of the casino. I’m not much of a gambler, but I still had the best time in the exciting atmosphere, and I tried my hand at a few games – and even walked away with a little money! It’s a great place to have fun with friends and enjoy a night in Philadelphia.

Reading Terminal Market

One of the most famous spots in Philly, it’s impossible to visit the city without a trip to Reading Terminal Market. One of the largest, oldest markets in the nation, this landmark is truly an iconic Philadelphia staple. Open daily, you can shop over 75 diverse small businesses, browsing everything from produce, cheese, baked goods, meat, and beyond. Local artists display their wares, and Reading Terminal Market is one of my favorite places to shop for local gifts around the holiday season. For tourists, there’s nowhere better to pick up fun souvenirs for friends and family back home! The market is even enjoyable to wander around for free if you don’t want to spend any money, but trust me – it will be hard to resist the fun pieces and beautiful flowers! Reading Terminal Market also hosts events throughout the year, so do some online searching in advance to see if anything fun is going on during your weekend in Philadelphia.

Spirit of Philadelphia

Whether you want to do some sightseeing during the day or enjoy a night out with your partner during the evening, you’ll have a fantastic time when you journey on the Spirit of Philadelphia. There are so many different options, from brunch and lunch cruises to dinnertime and cocktail cruises. You can eat, drink, and cruise through the city – the dinnertime cruise is one of my favorites! After you eat, you can tear up the dance floor with friends under the lights of the city. It’s the perfect way to celebrate anything from a birthday to anniversary and beyond. And if you don’t want to do a cruise with food and drinks, you can do a sightseeing cruise, which takes you around the city to see various historical landmarks. No matter your preferred style, there’s a cruise for you!

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Located at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway (even the street names are historic here in Philadelphia!), the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a cultural must for your visit to Philadelphia. While I’m an avid traveler and am no stranger to a good museum, I have to say that this is one of my favorite art museums of all time, and that’s not just my local pride talking. There are always so many breathtaking exhibits at the museum, with fascinating works by artists from all over the world. Whether you’re a lover of fine art or just want to take in something new, there’s nothing like the peace of a quiet few hours spent wandering the galleries. The museum is just a short distance from Center City Philadelphia, and when you purchase your admission, you’ll get a two-day pass that also gives you access to the Rodin Museum. It’s the perfect package for a weekend of art and culture in the city!

Tea Around Town

Want to experience Philadelphia in a new and unique way? Enjoy a touch of Bridgerton in the heart of your favorite city when you enjoy this charming afternoon tea experience throughout Philly. You’ll get to visit some of the area’s most iconic landmarks – popular historic sites that you don’t want to miss during your weekend visit. Surrounded by live music, you’ll enjoy delicious tea and treats, and can even add a non-alchoholic seasonal mocktail if you’re feeling extra fancy. This hidden gem of a tour is one of my favorite recommendations for new Philly visitors – far more comfortable than a walking tour, with a fun and unique twist, it’s one of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon.

Independence National Historical Park

It’s no secret that history buffs thrive in Philadelphia, and no place better displays that than Independence National Historical Park. See the American Revolution era come to life before your eyes when you explore the places that you’ve read about in your history books, from Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, to the famous Liberty Bell Center. The area also features a state-of-the art museum honoring the life of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most famous men of the Philadelphia area. Learn more about the history of our nation and the ideals on which it was built when you explore this vibrant park right in the heart of the city.

Rivers Casino Philadelphia

Tired of the crowds, but still want to experience a fun night out on the town? Rivers Casino is one of my favorite spots when I want to get a little out of the city without losing the fun, vibrant Philadelphia nightlife scene that I love so much. They have a fantastic bar, with several restaurants that I’m a fan of – Jack’s Bar & Grille, Martorano’s Prime, Mian, and Geno’s Steaks, to name a few – in addition to the obviously electric casino, which is filled with great games. If you plan in advance, you might even be able to catch a great show or concert – Rivers Casino has hosted some fantastic musicians over the years, along with comedians and mentalists. It’s always sure to be a night to remember!

The Spa at Four Seasons Philadelphia

Need to take some time while you’re in Philadelphia to unwind, relax, and recharge? The Spa at the Four Seasons Philadelphia is one of my favorite go-to spots whenever I need some extra luxury and rejuvenation in my life. This spa is an absolute oasis of opulence and tranquility, a breath of fresh air in the midst of a city that’s all about the hustle and bustle. Surrounded by sophistication and elegant serenity, you’ll experience some of the world’s best spa treatments, from massages to facials and body treatments. Modern techniques and ancient wisdom come together at the Four Seasons Philadelphia’s spa to craft a premium experience, with high-quality products and an unforgettable attention to detail. Plus, the whole experience takes place with a view of the stunning Philadelphia skyline. Enjoy a solo retreat, or take part in the couple’s spa experience if you’re looking for a bit of romance during your weekend away.

Philadelphia Zoo

Who doesn’t love a day at the zoo? Perfect for families, children will love getting to wander and explore, seeing all of the rare and endangered animals. Learn about animal conservation and the beauty of nature with unique exhibits that share about the animals of the world in a whole new way. From giraffes to zebras, tigers to a petting zoo, there’s so much to see. My kids love it, and I know that yours will, too!

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

One of the most remarkable places in Philadelphia, you have to make a stop by the Magic Gardens while you’re in the city. Known as South Street’s “artistic wonderland,” there’s absolutely nothing like it. The gardens span half a city block, and this indoor and outdoor exhibit was crafted by local artist Isaiah Zagar. Crafted with tiles, ceramic shards, bicycle spokes, bottles, and other knickknacks, the gardens weave and journey, a labrynth of creativity. It’s an explosion of art, history, culture, and color, a beautiful display of the passion that lies at the heart of Philadelphia. Visitors can take a guided tour through the gardens, or enjoy a self-guided tour with a general admission ticket and wander through at their own pace. It’s a beautiful spot to take pictures and soak in all of the vibrancy and life that the Magic Gardens have to offer. Kids love exploring all that there is to see, and adults are amazed by the time and effort that went into crafting something so beautiful.

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