Philadelphia wears a façade of a small and sleepy town. But the reality is different. Beyond the veneer is a city that offers fixed and fluid attractions – both indoors and outdoors. There are umpteenth things to do and see in this historic city that has embraced all the characteristics of a modern US city. There is a lot you can do in Philly beyond visiting the historic places and parks (not that these outings cannot be fun). If you are looking for something different and fun things to do in Philadelphia this weekend then here’s a handy list.
Taste delicious food at the Reading Terminal.
The Reading Terminal Market is a cornucopia of delicious food and beverages. The produce here is fresh and from a variety of sources. Depending on your preference for the day you visit the place, choose from a vast offering of baked goods, desserts, juices along with refreshing coffee and tea.
Satisfy your cravings at the Hunger Burger, Franks A Lot, Nanee’s Kitchen, Olympia Gyro, Saami Somi, and Profi’s Creperie amongst others.
Do not forget to peep into (and then splurge on) specialty items from shops such as Downtown Cheese, Herbiary, Kauffman’s Dutch Market, The Head Nut, A Taste of Spain, Sparrow’s, and many more. This market is also famous for Pennsylvania Dutch goodies. You can find them at Hatville Deli, Beiler’s Bakery, Lancaster County Dairy, Miller’s Twist, Dutch Eating Place etc.
Mueller Chocolate Co. is the place for decadent handmade treats and they sell items with creative (or freaky!) names. Try their chocolate ears or perhaps the chocolate heart!
Browse to your heart’s content here. Check out craft and art items, gifts, and trinkets. You can buy meat, seafood, fruits, and vegetables. You may find the colorful display comforting to the heart and may end up buying more than your refrigerator can hold at a time!
Cannot-miss treats: Doughnuts from Beiler’s Bakery, cannoli from Termini Brothers Bakery, apple dumplings from Dutch Eating Place, and ice cream from Bassets Ice Cream (try all of these places and more!).
Check the website for shop details and upcoming events and plan a fantastic weekend outing to the famous Reading Market Terminal.
Spend a lively time at the Cherry Street Pier.
This is a public space infused with creative and artistic vibes. Spending time here is one of the most fun things to do in Philadelphia this weekend (or on any weekend for that matter). Special market days are held here to support local artists. The Platform here is the venue for community events and exhibitions. The garden offers views of the Delaware River. The gallery is the place where artists showcase their work in a public space. Food trucks and stalls offer local favorites.
If you are a visitor in Philly or just moved in here for college or a job; the Cherry Street Pier is the place to be to understand the city’s unique culture and community vibes.
Events to attend: DesignPhiladelphia (till 23rd October), First Friday (till 2nd December), Freshwater Talks (Till 3rd November), and Liberty Flea Market (till 30th October).
Check the website for upcoming events and other details.
Explore the scenic Schuylkill River Trail.
The Schuylkill River Trail is an urban park spread across some 30 miles. Use this trail for a weekend run or bike along the scenic route for shedding the stress of the week. The trail by the river offers several spots along the way. So, catch up on your breath and take in the public art installations. Admire the stone bridges you will encounter on the path. There is also a skatepark here offering one more fun option to the visitors. The trail passes through the Valley Forge National Historical Park, which offers more attractions.
Other things you can try here: moonlight kayaking, yoga, movie screenings etc.
Check the website for more details.
If you don’t feel like going on day trips near Philadelphia on weekends, the above spots offer fun, food, and a fantastic time in the city itself.
So, are you ready for these fun things to do in Philadelphia this weekend?
