By Expedia, on April 22, 2019

How to Spend a Weekend in Philadelphia

Make the most of your weekend in Philadelphia by building an itinerary for all the fun attractions and activities on your to-do list. This is a day-by-day guide to help you pack the best Philadelphia has to offer into just three days.

weekend in philadelphia
Philadelphia

Friday Evening

Go boutique with your accommodations—you get the service and unique vibe that takes a trip to the next level. Conveniently located close to the downtown core and many local activities, Loews Philadelphia Hotel offers a range of plush amenities, including a spa and an indoor pool.

You have 72 hours in Philadelphia to explore all that the city has to offer. After traveling and checking in, you’re probably hungry and ready to enjoy a world-class meal at a nearby restaurant. Take a stroll from your downtown hotel to Maggiano’s Little Italy on Filbert Street, where you can enjoy classic Italian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.

If you’re still wide awake after dinner, try Chris’ Jazz Cafe. The music venue offers live jazz performances throughout the weekend, and serves cocktails, beers, and mixed drinks in a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

Saturday Morning

You wake up to the bright Philadelphia sunshine, and you’re ready to take on the day. Start Saturday morning right with a quick coffee at Nook Bakery & Coffee Bar, which prepares house-made coffees in a cozy, vintage-style space. If you’re looking for a more substantial meal to fuel your next 48 hours in Philadelphia, check out Miles Table, a hip breakfast and brunch spot.

After breakfast, ease into the late morning with a quiet walk beneath the tall trees at Spruce Street Harbor Park. You can walk close to the Delaware River and take in the vibrant natural surroundings.

adventure aquarium
Adventure Aquarium, Philadelphia

For lunch, book a table at Farmer’s Keep. You’ll have your meal custom prepared after choosing your dish and preferred ingredients. It’s an original restaurant that’s sure to make for a memorable meal.

Saturday Evening

As an epicenter for sports, Philadelphia houses multiple famous venues for high-caliber entertainment. During baseball season, fans of the Philadelphia Phillies can catch a game at Citizens Bank Park. During the cooler months, you might take in an Eagles football game at Lincoln Financial Field or enjoy a Flyers game at the Wells Fargo Center.

There’s also plenty to do in the evening for the non-sports fans visiting Philadelphia for the weekend. Why not check out the playbill at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts? The venue offers live music and theater in a convenient downtown Broad Street location. Walk down the Avenue of the Arts in Center City for an unparalleled introduction to the Philadelphia arts scene.

reading terminal market
Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia

For dinner on Saturday night, seafood lovers should try Oyster House for east coast classics like lobster and oysters. Townsend on Passyunk Avenue offers a great alternative, with French bistro foods served in a romantic dining space.

Sunday Morning

Start your Sunday morning with a comfortable dining experience at the Dutch Eating Place. This Pennsylvania-Dutch restaurant in the Reading Terminal Market offers a number of homestyle breakfast and lunch options.

You only have 24 hours in Philadelphia, so after breakfast, take the time to explore the Reading Terminal Market and its vendors. Then, visit the Philadelphia City Hall to enjoy views over the city from the observation deck.

Once you’ve had a chance marvel at the cityscape, make your way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The museum is on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and houses one of the most comprehensive art collections across the country. You’ll find an extensive collection of Marcel Duchamp originals and a full range of artwork from Europe, Asia, and across America. In total, the museum features over 200 galleries to explore.

museum of art philadelphia
Museum of Art, Philadelphia

Sunday Evening

With just a few hours left to take in the sights of Philadelphia, make your way to the Liberty Bell Center for a few pictures featuring an icon of American history. Families might then head to the Adventure Aquarium, which is found across the Delaware River from downtown Philadelphia.

liberty bell center philadelphia
Liberty Bell Center, Philadelphia

For dinner on your final evening in the city, try an upscale dining experience at The Capital Grille on Chestnut Street. Families looking for a more relaxed option should try Broad Street Diner for comfort food and conversation.

Adults seeking a spot for after-dinner drinks on Sunday night will love The Ranstead Room, a glamorous, speakeasy-inspired bar in the heart of Philadelphia’s downtown.

Take the time to explore your options in historic Philadelphia. An unforgettable weekend awaits!