Calling all history and art lovers!! Philadelphia is a city rich in history, full of museums, home to the infamous Rocky Steps, and of course the Philly cheesesteak. There’s definitely no shortage of fun things to do. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania makes for the perfect 3-day weekend trip. This guide (from a local!!!) will walk you through how to have the best one weekend in Philadelphia!
Tip! If you have longer than 3 days in Philly, keep reading at the end for more ideas to add to this itinerary!
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Side Note: This post was written by Kate, a local of Philadelphia. This way, you can ensure you are reading THE BEST and most accurate guide to a weekend in Philadelphia. Locals know best! Read more about Kate in the Author’s Bio at the end of this post!
Table of Contents
Weekend in Philadelphia Map
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, here’s a map of how you will spend 3 days in Philadelphia!
How do I get to Philadelphia?
Start your weekend in Philadelphia by flying into Philadelphia International Airport. The airport is approximately 15 minutes away by car tothe center of the city. You can easily catch a taxi or Uber.
You can also use public transportation from the airport by way of Septa’s train system. Septa has an airport line that can connect you to four stops around Center City. Be sure to look at the stops and see how far your lodging is.
It is not necessary to have a rental car in Philadelphia as the city is very walkable and not all that large. If your feet need a break after a while, I recommend getting an Uber as it is affordable and reliable in the city. There is also the PATCO line that runs along Market Street between 8th and 16th Street that can take you across the city.
Having a car could even be inconvenient since street parking is limited and the rules are strict. Hotels will typically charge for parking which can be very costly.
What is the best time to visit Philadelphia?
The best time to visit Philadelphia is in the spring or fall. You will have the best chance for mild temperatures, low humidity, and fewer crowds. But Philly is a great weekend getaway destination year-round as you can always find new things to do every season.
Philadelphia, PA Weather:
- Winter (Dec-Feb): 41/27
- Spring (March-May): 64/45
- Summer (June-Aug): 86/69
- Fall (Sept-Nov): 69/45
Season Highlights:
Spring: A fantastic time to visit Philly! The city is waking back up and coming alive now that it is getting warmer. If you happen to visit in Late March- early May you’ll see the beautiful cherry blossoms bloom. There is an annual Cherry Blossom Festival in West Fairmount Park that is free to enter.
Summer: Summer is the peak tourist season and it can get very hot and humid. However, there are many pop-ups and seasonal restaurants that open in the summer months. Spruce Street Harbor Park opens in late May where you can eat from food trucks on the waterfront, relax in hammocks, enjoy craft beer, and play lawn games. If you happen to be in the city on July 4th you can enjoy fireworks on the waterfront, famously at the art museum, and many other events around the birthplace of the nation.
Fall: One of the most beautiful times to explore the city with picturesque changing leaves falling on cobblestone streets. If you visit in late September or October, be sure to check out the Halloween-themed bars and pop-ups around the city such as Tinsel and Uptown Beer Garden.
Winter: Winter can bring very cold temperatures and occasional snow. But, if you come to visit during Christmas you can visit the authentic German-style Christmas Village at LOVE Park with dozens of local food vendors & shops. There is also the Blue Cross River Rink with an ice rink, an indoor beer garden, and fire pits to warm up.
Where should I stay in Philadelphia?
You can’t go wrong staying in Center City, Rittenhouse Square, or Old City (Philly’s historic district). In any of these areas, you will be central and close to tourist attractions and public transportation. There are plentiful accommodations in these areas for all budgets.
My Recommendations for a Weekend in Philly:
- Budget-friendly Option: La Reserve Bed and Breakfast is cute and very affordable, located downtown a few blocks from Rittenhouse Square. Another affordable option is the Wyndham in Old City which has a seasonal rooftop pool.
- Mid-range Option: Motto by Hilton in Rittenhouse Square has a terrace with a beautiful view of Center City’s skyscrapers.
- Luxury Option: The W Hotel and The Logan are two luxury stays that are both very popular and highly rated.
- Dog-friendly Stay: If looking for dog-friendly lodging in the Rittenhouse area, The Sonesta Hotel is a great affordable pick. In Center City, the Residence Inn by Mariott is also a good choice.
- Unique Option: The Morris House, centrally located, is a unique hotel option. Rest your head after a day of exploring a historic landmark, originally built in 1787, that was renovated into a boutique hotel.
Sample 3-Day Philadelphia Weekend Itinerary:
Yay! It’s time. Keep reading for the best things to do during one weekend in Philly! Below you’ll find a complete 3-day Philadephia itinerary that includes the best things to do, where to eat, and more insider tips along the way! Remember, this Philly itinerary was created by a local so it will surely lead to the ultimate One Weekend in Philadelphia!
Day 1 in Philadelphia:
Morning:
Fuel up for your day in Old City at Eggcellent Cafe for a wide breakfast selection or FRIEDA for European cafe vibes.
Then, head over to the historical Liberty Bell right after breakfast. The Liberty Bell Center is open 9 am-5 pm and is free to enter. Get here early; it’s not unusual for there to be a line wrapping around outside during the months of March- October.
Afterward go to Independence Hall, the building where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were debated and signed. It is free to enter but you must make a reservation ahead of time.
Afternoon:
Walk down to Market Street and grab a Philly cheesesteak at Sonny’s. Craving a sit-down? Stop at National Mechanics, a restaurant serving casual fare in a former bank building originally built in 1837.
After lunch, tour the Betsy Ross House, the home where the original American flag was made. Tickets are 10$ to enter.
Next stop at the Christ Church Burial Ground down the street. Many Revolutionary War heroes and Benjamin Franklin are buried here. Do like many others and toss a penny on Ben Franklin’s grave site in honor of his phrase he coined: “a penny saved, is a penny earned”.
For a sweet treat, midday go to Franklin Fountain for ice cream or Insomnia Cookies for warm cookies.
Evening:
Walk off your dessert by strolling around Old City, one of the most scenic areas in Philadelphia. Check out Elfreth’s Alley, a quaint alley of homes built in 1720-1830, that makes for a great photo stop. Join a walking tour to learn more about the history of the city.
End your day in nearby Chinatown and eat dinner at EMei for flavorful Szechuan dishes.
Tip! Before purchasing any attractions, be sure to check out Philadelphia’s Go City Pass to see if you can save any money during your weekend in Philadelphia!
Day 2 in Philadephia:
Morning:
Head to Sabrina’s Cafe for breakfast. There are 3 locations in Philadelphia, but you’ll want to go to their Art Museum location. They are BYOB (mimosas!) and have seasonal rotating brunch specials.
Next, head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country. Be sure to get a picture going up the infamous steps and with the statue of Rocky before heading in.
The museum is open year-round but closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tickets for adults are 25$ each but are good for 2 days and can be used at the Rodin Museum as well. Allow 4-6 hours if you want to visit both museums.
Afternoon:
Head over to the Rodin Museum for the best collection of Rodin’s work outside of Paris. There are 150 sculptures and beautiful gardens. The Rodin Museum is just a 15-minute walk from the art museum. Stop for lunch on the way at Parkway Corner Deli for sandwiches and salads.
Evening:
In the evening head up to Boathouse Row to walk along the Schuylkill River. It is a peaceful area in the busy city with seating areas, gardens, and the houses on Boathouse Row light up at night.
If you’re not interested in walking along the river, head to the Assembly Rooftop Lounge. This upscale cocktail bar has great views of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and makes for a great sunset spot.
Day 3 in Philadelphia:
Morning:
Begin your last day at Reading Terminal Market, an infamous market that first opened in 1893. With literally dozens of local food merchants, the choices are overwhelming! I recommend getting some coffee and a donut for breakfast from Federal Donuts or Beiler’s Bakery. Side note: If you’re coming to Reading Terminal for lunch or dinner be sure to check out my recs at the bottom!
Next, walk a few blocks over and marvel at Philadelphia’s City Hall in the middle of Center City. Across the street you’ll find LOVE Park, home to the iconic LOVE statue. This park is a must-stop and has a great view down the Parkway to the Art Museum.
Afternoon:
Head down to South Street to go to Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. Immerse yourself in this indoor and outdoor wall-to-wall mosaic art space. Doors open at 11 am and tickets are 15$ for adults. You should consider this South Philly art walking tour to view more murals, art, and mosaics.
While still on South Street, get some lunch. If you haven’t eaten one already- pick up a Philadelphia cheesesteak from Ishkabibbles. Or head to Lorenzo and Sons for pizza slices bigger than your head. South Street Souvlaki is a great choice if you’re in the mood for Greek fare.
Evening:
End your time in Philly at Penn’s Landing on the Delaware River waterfront. They have events and pop-ups seasonally so be sure to check out their website before you go.
Walk down to Race Street Pier and Cherry Street Pier for amazing views of the Ben Franklin Bridge– these make for great sunset spots!
For dinner, you have a few options on the waterfront. Stop at Morgan’s Pier or Liberty Point for casual eats and drinks with fantastic views- these are both open seasonally. Go to Moshulu for a unique fine dining experience on a historic ship.
You may also like: One Weekend in Pittsburgh
Other things to do in Philadelphia:
Do you have more than one weekend to spend in Philadelphia? Or maybe you want to switch some things around in the 3-day Philadelphia itinerary. Use this list to customize your Philly vacay just the way you want it!
- Philadelphia Zoo: The zoo is home to more than 1,700 rare and endangered animals and is world-renowned for its animal exhibits and facilities. Tickets are 25$ per adult and 20$ for children 2-11.
- Please Touch Museum: A very popular children’s museum devoted to children learning through play. It is 22$ per person for admission.
- Franklin Institute: This science museum is actually the most visited museum in Pennsylvania. It serves as a center of scientific education and research. General admission is 25$ for adults.
- Mutter Museum: If you are really into anatomy and medicine, the Mutter Museum is a must-visit. This museum is packed with preserved collections of anatomy specimens, models, and medical instruments. General admission is 20$ for adults.
- Constitution Center: In the Independence Mall area, this is a large museum all about the Constitution. General admission is 14.50$ for adults.
- Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center: Lovely gardens, koi ponds, and a traditional teahouse. General admission is 14$ for adults.
- Go to a Philadelphia sports game: Philadelphians are known for being die-hard sports fans.
- Walk the Ben Franklin Bridge: There is a safe walkway to walk from Philly to New Jersey. The best-hidden spot to catch the sun setting over the skyscrapers.
Where (else) to Eat in Philadelphia:
- Green Eggs Cafe: A famous brunch restaurant known for its French toast specials and decadent red velvet pancakes.
- Wood Street Pizza: A pizza and sandwich shop. Their Grandma Pizza is some of the best pizza I have EVER eaten.
- Cafe Ole: A Mediterranean breakfast and lunch cafe located in Old City. Their Shakshuka dish and homemade bread are out of this world.
- Talula’s Garden: Popular high-end restaurant with seasonal American eats.
- El Vez: Highly rated Mexican fare in vibrant surroundings.
- Buddakan: Popular restaurant in Center City for upscale Asian fusion cuisine.
- More Reading Terminal Market eats: Stromboli or pizza from By George!, cannolis from Termini’s, Herschel’s for their corned beef special, and Basset’s Ice Cream.
- Hummus Grill: The best chicken shawarma you’ll have. Located in University City.
- Cuba Libre: A Cuban restaurant in Old City decorated inside to resemble Havana. They also have a great happy hour.
- Philly Pretzel Factory: What better place to pick up a traditional Philly pretzel than at the source? These are a must when visiting the city.
Other Tips to Know Before Visiting Philadelphia:
If you plan on visiting multiple museums look into getting a City Pass which will get you discounts to Philadelphia’s most popular attractions. If you use it effectively, you can save up to 45%!!!
Philadelphia, like any other major city in the United States, struggles with crime and homelessness. As you would in any other major city, be mindful of your belongings by keeping your phone and other electronics out of sight and not easy to snatch. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid walking alone at night.
As a female, I walk miles around many different parts of the city alone and I feel very comfortable. Be cautious, use your best judgment, and you will be fine. I hope you enjoy your time in the city of Brotherly Love!!
One Weekend in Philadelphia Isn’t Enough
As you can see, there’s SO much to do in Philadelphia that one weekend would never be enough to see it all. You can customize your 3-day Philadelphia itinerary based on what interests you. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find plenty of entertaining activities to create your own fun-filled, jam-packed adventure weekend in Philly!
What else would you add to this “One Weekend in Philadephia” Itinerary?
Want to take this itinerary with you?! Check out this EXACT itinerary without ads AND an interactive map for just $5! This way, you’ll have it at the tip of your fingers (via the app) during your travels!
Other Pennsylvania Weekend Trips:
- One Weekend in Gettysburg (2 hours from Philadelphia)
- One Weekend in Pittsburgh (5 hours from Philly)
Philadelphia Money-Saving Tip!
Check out Philadelphia’s Go City Pass to save up to 50% on the best attractions during your weekend trip. There are currently 33 (yes 33!!!) attractions included on the All-inclusive Pass!
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Hi! I’m Kate! I grew up in South Jersey, just over the bridge from Philly. I left to do travel nursing on the West Coast for a few years before coming back East.
I currently live in Philadelphia but still travel every chance I get. To see more of my travels, you can visit my blog or check out my Instagram!
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