Summer in Philadelphia is famous for festivals and outdoor activities. While most residents head to the shore each weekend, the people that stay behind revel in shorter waiting times at restaurants and smaller crowds at their neighborhood pop up beer garden. Each weekend you can find a plethora of events and concerts, but if you’re looking for something consistent for family fun check out these summer hotspots:
Forever a South Philly favorite, this large park offers a variety of food trucks, colorful hammocks, larger-than-life board games, and a romantic boardwalk. Situated along the Delaware River, this is the perfect spot for drinking & dining with friends, spending the afternoon reading, or taking a walk with the whole family. During the day you can stroll through farmers markets and festivals, while nighttime brings colorful, flashing lights in the tree-tops. Moshulu is connected, and Penn’s Landing is accessible through the beautiful boardwalk.
Located just across the street from the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this pop-up park is a must-see! Featuring a giant beer garden, a soundstage offering free live music, outdoor games, pop-up shops, and a HUGE ferris wheel that can be seen throughout the city at night. Focused on local community growth and engagement, this safe space is welcome to all and emphasizes local businesses and artists.
The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival:
This iconic light festival is finally coming back after a 3 year hiatus and we couldn’t be more excited! Franklin Square will be transformed into a vibrant, eclectic array of lights and lanterns featuring adorable exhibits that the entire family is sure to love. You’ll find amusement and joy in the colors and lights from these handcrafted lanterns surrounding a central fountain, plus a merry-go-round and mini-golf course for even more fun! There’ll be a beer garden and cultural performances so make sure you put this limited exhibit on your summer to-do list!
Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest:
Each year, Blue Cross Summerfest takes over the Delaware River waterfront for roller skating, carnival games, boardwalk rides, mini-golf, and more. Bring your own skates for the roller rink – or rent them there for easy family fun. The beer garden offers a variety of food and drinks for the entire family, plus plenty of seating. This is the ultimate date night spot for a stroll by the water, testing your luck at the many games, or trying out the ferris wheel and merry-go-round.
Known for it’s annual haunted house, Eastern State Penitentiary is now offering a twilight summer beer garden. You’ll be able to explore the historic prison and walk the grounds on a tour that ends in a gorgeous beer garden. It’s recommend that you buy tickets in advance, and admission includes an audio tour with real voices, hands-on activities, and access to Al Capone’s cell! The pop-up garden will feature craft beer from local Triple Bottom Brewing Co in the penitentiary’s central baseball diamond.
Franklin Institute:
Harry Potter’s Wizarding World is a brand new exhibition making it’s debut at our very own Franklin Institute. This immersive new exhibit is promising a groundbreaking experience never seen before. You’ll be able to view authentic props and costumes from the world-famous blockbuster movies, plus the paintings move and the mandrakes scream! Bring Hogwarts to your fingertips by taking a master potions class, traveling by portkey, launching a quaffle, and earning points for your favorite house.
