The city of Philadelphia is full of exciting and fun things to do outside despite cold winter temperatures.
From holiday light displays to ice skating with friends, to gingerbread house competitions, you’ll find something for everyone.
Check out these five must-visit outdoor spots in Philadelphia this winter that are beautiful enough to make you forget how cold it is!
1. Hang Out at Winterfest
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest celebration that runs from late November through early March. This winter wonderland event features fun outdoor activities like fire pits, lodge style food, and drinks, as well as Christmas movies. Visitors will enjoy sitting out by warm fires and enjoying the natural beauty of winter in the Philadelphia area along the Delaware River. There are special events scheduled throughout the winter season making this a repeat stop for many residents and visitors alike!
2. A Longwood Christmas
One of Philadelphia’s most glamorous botanical gardens, Longwood Gardens, puts up a near half million twinkling lights at the “A Longwood Christmas” holiday display. This two-month celebration features a fantastic light display that highlights the natural beauty of the many plants within the garden. You’ll find yourself noticing large trees and native shrubs that usually go unnoticed as they bear through frigid Philly temperatures. Colorful fountain shows are also a highlight of the event, and you’ll hear carolers and organ music throughout the garden to enhance the outdoor experience even more.
3. Take A Winter Hike
Outdoor temperatures may be cold, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy the beautiful trails in the city. Consider the Haverford Nature Trail near Haverford College. This 2.2-mile trail is covered in wood chips making it a sweet spot to walk or run despite the winter weather. This award-winning trail is popular in the area and is a great spot to enjoy the snow-capped trees and winter beauty in the area.
Boxer’s Trail located in East Fairmount Park is another spot that is popular for hikers. This trail is nice to enjoy clear from cyclists and strollers and will offer fantastic winter views of nature. Hikers enjoy the almost 4-mile trail that overlooks the Schuylkill River as well as the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood.
4. Ice Skating at Dilworth Park
Enjoying the cold weather is a natural part of ice skating at Dilworth Park this winter. Drop by the ice rink located in the heart of downtown to take a spin with friends. You’ll enjoy views of the city, including City Hall, as well as many winter plant displays in the Wintergarden. The Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink is open seven days a week and also features a warming cabin on sight for steamy drinks and a bite to eat as well. A nice bonus, the Made in Philly Market is at Dilworth Park through January 1st so you can shop in between sipping hot chocolate and skating around the rink.
5. Peddler’s Village Twinkling Lights
Located just an hour from the city, Peddler’s Village offers a more quaint winter experience. Over 1.6 million visitors tour the village each year to enjoy its small-town charm. 42-acres of land await visitors who flock to see the gorgeous twinkling lights as well as get some holiday shopping done among the 60 specialty shops. There are visits from Santa himself as well as a competitive gingerbread house competition that always draws a crowd.
There are plenty of things to do to fight off cabin fever this winter in Philadelphia. Tour one of the many holiday light displays in the city as well as lace up a pair of ice skates to enjoy nature this winter. Check out all of these five must-visit outdoor spots in Philadelphia this winter to experience the majesty of the season.
Sam Lambert is an outdoor living expert. Sam loves cultivating his own fruit and vegetables in his backyard. You might have seen Sam riding past you on a local dirt biking trail or climbing a nearby rock wall.
