Take a walk—or sit in a hammock—by the waterfront
The Delaware River Waterfront has long been popular with visitors, thanks to its scenic views and family-friendly attractions like the Independence Seaport Museum. But thanks to the addition of the seasonal Spruce Street Harbor Park, both locals and tourists are rolling on the river—in droves. Ride a bike– complimentary of the Canopy, and take in the views. There’s no shortage of things to see, including pop-up flea markets, LED art installations, and yes, plenty of hammocks for lounging.
Wander down the “cultural boulevard”
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is rightfully considered one of the best museums in the U.S., but it’s not the only arts institution worth a visit. Just a short stroll down Benjamin Franklin Parkway is the Rodin Museum, devoted to the French Impressionist and home to one of Philadelphia’s loveliest gardens. And the nearby non-profit cultural and education institution Barnes Foundation displays modern works to renown canvases by masters like Matisse, Cézanne, and Renoir in a peaceful salon-style setting.
One of Philly’s best-loved institutions is the Mütter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, a collection of curiosities—medical and otherwise—housed in a gorgeous Beaux Arts building. It may sound creepy at first, but after seeing bits of Albert Einstein’s brain (preserved under glass, of course), or the tallest human skeleton in America, you’ll have a new appreciation for the inner workings of the human body. (And the people tasked with caring for them.)
Seek out vintage wares, indie boutiques, and bookshops
In the middle of Center City, you’ll encounter charming bookstore Giovanni’s Room. The original shop opened in 1973 and has since been an oasis steep in LGBTQ+ and feminist history. Less than a mile away and tucked in the Italian Market is flagship store Goods Vintage. With an emphasis on art and jewelry, the shop sells rare collectibles and tchotchkes as special as their ambiance. In an aimless stroll down South Street, stumble across plenty of funky and fresh shops including Retrospect Vintage. The one-stop shop has plenty of hidden gems from old film cameras to your next favorite pair of jeans.
Hang out with art (and artists)
Fishtown and Kensington are known as two of Philadelphia’s two artsiest neighborhoods, with galleries and festivals celebrating its cultural community all year long. The Frankford Avenue corridor is home to several of these; wander off the main drag and you’ll find spaces like the Icebox Project Space, part of the larger Crane Arts complex. Street-art spotters will also find plenty to love in Fishtown, including John Boyce’s sculptures and Steve Powers’s mural on Master Street, painted for the cover of indie-rocker Kurt Vile’s album Wakin On a Pretty Daze.
A Trip Unto Itself
One weekend in Philadelphia is not nearly enough time to get down to the city’s nitty gritty. But in just a few days, you are shot into a metropolis of myriads– history lessons and this new, loud explosion of presence. Any traveler to Philly holds the opportunity to experience a number of cultures, all through food, art, and heart-to-heart conversations with city locals. (I will say– in those conversations, maybe don’t bring up competitive state sport games. Or do… )
