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1-Day Philadelphia Nightlife and Shopping Trip with Friends

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

1 days

City Hall and the downtown area at night
Cherry blossoms in Boathouse Row
Liberty Bell in Independence National Historical Park
Row houses in Center City
Foggy sunrise over the city

About Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As the birthplace of American democracy, Philly offers iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to the famous "Rocky Steps". Explore the bustling Reading Terminal Market for diverse food offerings or savor a classic Philly cheesesteak. Wander through charming neighborhoods like Old City and Rittenhouse Square, showcasing the city's architectural beauty. Enjoy the lively nightlife in Northern Liberties or take a stroll along the scenic Schuylkill River. For families, the Philadelphia Zoo and Please Touch Museum offer interactive fun. Philadelphia combines the charm of a small town with the excitement of a big city, making it a must-visit destination.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Historic Philadelphia and Vibrant Nightlife

Morning

Start your day in Philadelphia with a visit to the historic district, where you can explore the birthplace of America. Here, you'll find iconic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. This area is also home to a variety of shops, perfect for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy.

Lunch

After a morning of sightseeing, head to one of the city's bustling food markets for lunch. Here, you can sample a variety of local and international cuisines, from the famous Philly cheesesteak to fresh seafood and vegetarian options.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the city's vibrant arts scene. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum, both of which house impressive collections. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, a scenic boulevard lined with flags from around the world.

Dinner

For dinner, venture to one of Philadelphia's trendy neighborhoods, where you'll find a plethora of dining options. Whether you're in the mood for Italian, Asian, or American cuisine, you're sure to find a restaurant that suits your palate.

Evening

Wrap up your day with a night out on the town. Philadelphia's nightlife scene is diverse and vibrant, with a range of options from live music venues to sophisticated cocktail bars. It's the perfect way to unwind with friends after a day of exploring.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Liberty Bell

1
Liberty Bell

Historic symbol of American independence

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Independence Hall

2
Independence Hall

The birthplace of the United States

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Philadelphia Museum of Art

3
Philadelphia Museum of Art

One of the largest art museums in the world

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Rodin Museum

4
Rodin Museum

Houses the largest collection of sculptor Auguste Rodin's works outside Paris

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Benjamin Franklin Parkway

5
Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a scenic boulevard that runs through the cultural heart of Philadelphia. It is lined with many museums and other cultural institutions, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Rodin Museum, and the Barnes Foundation. The parkway is also home to several monuments and outdoor sculptures.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Philly Cheesesteak

Philly Cheesesteak

A sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll, a must-try food when visiting Philadelphia.

Soft Pretzel

Soft Pretzel

A type of baked bread product made from dough most commonly shaped into a twisted knot, a popular snack in Philadelphia.

Scrapple

Scrapple

A mush of pork scraps and trimmings combined with cornmeal and wheat flour, often spiced with sage, thyme, and others. A traditional dish in Philadelphia.

Roast Pork Sandwich

Roast Pork Sandwich

A sandwich filled with thinly sliced roast pork, often served with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone, a local favorite in Philadelphia.

Water Ice

Water Ice

A sweetened frozen dessert made with fruit or other natural or artificial food flavorings, similar to sorbet, a summer favorite in Philadelphia.

Tomato Pie

Tomato Pie

A type of pizza created in the early 20th century by Italian-Americans in the Philadelphia metropolitan area.

Stromboli

Stromboli

A type of turnover filled with various Italian cheeses and cold cuts or vegetables. The dough used is either Italian bread dough or pizza dough. A popular food in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Sushi Roll

A sushi roll that typically includes raw or smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber. It is named after Philadelphia cream cheese.

Philadelphia Pepper Pot

Philadelphia Pepper Pot

A thick stew of beef tripe, vegetables, pepper and other seasonings. The dish was traditionally a staple of family meals in the winter in Philadelphia.

Shoofly Pie

A molasses pie or cake that was developed by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the 1880s. A traditional dessert in Philadelphia.

Yuengling Lager

Yuengling Lager

A traditional amber lager from America's oldest brewery located in Pennsylvania, a must-try for beer lovers visiting Philadelphia.

Citywide Special

A popular drink special in Philadelphia that includes a shot of whiskey and a beer, typically a Pabst Blue Ribbon.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is most pleasant, and the city's parks are beautifully vibrant. Additionally, these seasons offer a variety of festivals and events. However, if you're interested in less crowded attractions and lower hotel rates, winter could also be a good time, provided you don't mind the cold. Summer is also popular for tourists, but it can get quite hot and humid.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 15

Mon

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February 19

Mon

Presidents' Day

May 27

Mon

Memorial Day

June 19

Wed

Juneteenth

July 4

Thu

Independence Day

September 2

Mon

Labor Day

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 11

Mon

Veterans Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) operates a network of buses, trains, and trolleys throughout the city and surrounding areas. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around Philadelphia.

This bus service runs a loop through Philadelphia's most popular tourist destinations. It's a great option for sightseeing.

Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Philadelphia. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Philadelphia is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and trails. The city's bike share program, Indego, has stations throughout the city.

Philadelphia is a walkable city, especially in areas like Center City and Old City. Many of the city's top attractions are within walking distance of each other.

While driving is an option, it can be difficult due to traffic and limited parking. If you do choose to drive, be aware of parking regulations to avoid tickets.

Taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked in advance.

The RiverLink Ferry offers scenic trips across the Delaware River, connecting Philadelphia's Penn's Landing with the Camden Waterfront in New Jersey.

Philadelphia's 30th Street Station is a major Amtrak hub, providing rail service to destinations throughout the region and across the country.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Philadelphia, Pennsylvania as a first time visitor

1

Philadelphia is known as the 'City of Brotherly Love'.

2

The city is the largest in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous U.S. city.

3

Philadelphia has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.

4

The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 85°F (29°C).

5

Winter (December-February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below 32°F (0°C), and snowfall is common.

6

The city is known for its rich history and played a crucial role in the American Revolution.

7

Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of cultures, which is reflected in its food, music, and festivals.

8

The city is famous for its cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies.

9

Public transportation is widely available and includes buses, trolleys, and the subway.

10

Philadelphia is a walkable city with many neighborhoods to explore on foot.

11

Tipping is customary in Philadelphia, with 15-20% being the standard for restaurants.

12

Sales tax in Philadelphia is 8%, which is higher than the Pennsylvania state sales tax of 6%.

13

Philadelphia is home to several professional sports teams including the Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Philadelphia Phillies (MLB), and Philadelphia 76ers (NBA).

14

The city has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries, theaters, and music venues.

15

Philadelphia is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University.

16

The city has a strong commitment to green initiatives and has many parks and green spaces.

17

Philadelphia is located near other major cities, including New York City and Washington D.C., making it a good base for exploring the East Coast.

18

The city has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

19

Philadelphia is in the Eastern Time Zone (ET), and observes daylight saving time.

20

The city is served by Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which offers flights to destinations around the world.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Weather-appropriate clothing (check the forecast)

  • Extra pair of socks

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized toothpaste

  • Toothbrush

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Deodorant

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Valid ID or Driver's License

  • Credit and/or debit card

  • Cash

  • Health insurance card

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Portable power bank

  • Headphones

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Umbrella

  • Philadelphia guidebook or map

  • Sunglasses

Weather Conditions

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year, so it's important to plan your visit accordingly. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Philadelphia, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C). However, it can be quite rainy, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 85°F (29°C). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Fall (September to November) is another lovely time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F (7°C to 24°C). The city is particularly beautiful as the leaves change color. However, similar to spring, it can be a bit rainy, so pack accordingly. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to around 25°F (-4°C) and occasionally snowfall. If you're planning to visit during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're prepared for the weather conditions. Enjoy your visit to the City of Brotherly Love!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

6° / -4°

January is the coldest month in Philadelphia, with snowfall common, so pack warm clothing.

February

7° / -3°

February is still quite cold with occasional snow, but the days start to get a bit longer.

March

12° / 1°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise, but still expect some chilly days.

April

18° / 6°

April is a pleasant month with more sunshine and warmer temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

May

24° / 11°

May brings beautiful spring weather, with plenty of sunny days and mild temperatures.

June

29° / 16°

June marks the beginning of summer, with long, warm days and plenty of outdoor events.

July

31° / 19°

July is the hottest month in Philadelphia, so be prepared for high temperatures and humidity.

August

30° / 18°

August is still quite hot, but you can cool off at one of the city's many pools or parks.

September

26° / 14°

September sees the start of fall, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage.

October

19° / 8°

October is a great time to visit for comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall colors.

November

13° / 3°

November is a bit colder, but still a good time to visit for Thanksgiving celebrations.

December

8° / -1°

December is chilly with shorter days, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays.

Did you know?

Did you know that Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is the birthplace of the United States, where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed?

1 of 10

Places near by Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Longwood Gardens

Longwood Gardens

One of the world's great horticultural displays, Longwood Gardens consists of 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows.

1.3h
63.4 km / 39.4 mi
How to get there
Valley Forge National Historical Park

Valley Forge National Historical Park

The site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of the Continental Army. The park commemorates the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation.

45m
35.4 km / 22.0 mi
How to get there
Princeton University

Princeton University

A private Ivy League research university with a picturesque campus that is worth exploring.

1.3h
72.4 km / 45.0 mi
How to get there
Atlantic City

Atlantic City

Known for its casinos, boardwalk, and beaches. It is also the home to the Miss America pageant.

1.5h
97.2 km / 60.4 mi
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Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg National Military Park

The site of the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the Civil War. The park protects and interprets the landscape of the 1863 battle.

3h
217 km / 134.8 mi
How to get there
Hershey Park

Hershey Park

A family theme park situated in Hershey, Pennsylvania, United States, about 15 miles east of Harrisburg, and 95 miles west of Philadelphia.

2h
151 km / 93.8 mi
How to get there
Amish Country

Amish Country

Experience the Amish lifestyle and culture. Enjoy beautiful farmland views, visit an Amish farm or shop for handmade goods.

1.5h
98.2 km / 61.0 mi
How to get there
New York City

New York City

The most populous city in the United States, known for its status as a financial, cultural, transportation, and manufacturing center, and for its history as a gateway for immigration to the United States.

1.8h
141 km / 87.6 mi
How to get there
Baltimore

Baltimore

Famous for its Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, and its historic neighborhoods.

2h
166 km / 103.1 mi
How to get there
Washington D.C.

Washington D.C.

The capital of the United States and home to iconic landmarks and monuments like the U.S. Capitol, White House, and National Mall.

3h
225 km / 139.8 mi
How to get there