Spruce Street Harbor Park has become the waterfront’s most iconic outdoor destination, offering live music, al fresco dining, and unparalleled views of the Delaware River. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique blend of entertainment, dining, and relaxation, It features colorful hammocks, floating gardens, stunning technicolored lights, local craft beers, and delicious food.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes are free on the first Sunday of every month, and every Friday between 5 pm and 8:45 pm. Well, technically, it’s pay-what-you-wish, but the amount is totally up to you. It doesn’t have to cost you a penny!
Fairmount Park is one of the biggest urban parks in the United States. It’s actually 10 times bigger than Central Park in New York City! Check out several colonial-era mansions in the park (like (Strawberry Mansion), the park’s traditional Japanese garden, and plenty of shady walking trails.
Bartram’s Garden in southwest Philly is a 50 acre public park with the oldest living botanic garden in North America. Learn about the healing properties of plants and herbs, visit Sankofa Community Farm, walk trails, and enjoy free fishing and boating.
The Philly Chinese Lantern Festival runs through the end of August. There are thousands of lanterns, including over 30 oversized installations modeled after dragons, traditional pagodas, beehives, and more. The festival takes place in Franklin Square and begins at 6 pm each night.
Mural Arts Tour. There are tons of murals, street art, and hidden gems around the city – over 4,000! Schedule or walk your own tour of this outdoor art gallery!
The Masonic Temple is a gorgeous historic building that offers tours for the public of its grand ballroom, library, and museum, among many other rooms. It’s considered one of the most beautiful Masonic buildings in the world thanks to all of its rich artwork, stained glass windows, and sculptures.
In July, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest feels like a riverside carnival complete with rides, boardwalk games, an arcade, mini-golf, and a roller skating rink. General admission is free, and the attractions, roller skating, and concessions are pay-as-you-go.
The Oval returns to the Parkway this summer. This colorful event brings four weeks of food, art, music, entertainment, wellness experiences, and free special events across eight acres of space on the Parkway. Plus the Franklin Square Fountain Show, themed mini-golf course highlighting Philadelphia’s history, and a modern playground.