Summer weekend in Philadelphia
How locals do summer in Philadelphia — patios, beaches, festivals and the long-evening rituals that only happen in July and August.
Top spots in Philadelphia
Rocky Steps at the Art Museum
OutdoorsFairmount
Run the steps, then actually go inside — the museum is world-class.
Wissahickon Valley
OutdoorsNorthwest Philly
Forest gorge trails 15 minutes from Center City.
Fishtown
NightlifeFishtown
Indie venues, natural-wine bars and the city's best young food scene.
Reading Terminal Market
Food & DrinkCenter City
Amish pretzels, roast pork sandwiches and a century of vendors under one roof.
Where to eat
Federal Donuts
$Fried chicken & donuts · Multiple
Half-dozen donuts and a piece of Korean-spiced fried chicken.
Suraya
$$$Lebanese · Fishtown
All-day Levantine market, café and dining room with garden seating.
Vetri Cucina
$$$$Italian tasting · Center City
12-course Northern Italian in a townhouse — one of the country's best.
Zahav
$$$Israeli · Society Hill
Michael Solomonov's hummus and lamb shoulder — book a month out.
Pat's King of Steaks
$Cheesesteak · South Philly
Order 'whiz wit' and eat it standing up.
Live & on stage
Made in America
Benjamin Franklin Parkway · Aug 30 – Sep 1 · Hip-hop / Pop
Mummers Parade
Broad Street · Jan 1 · Parade / Free
Roots Picnic
Mann Center · Jun 6–7 · Hip-hop / R&B
Frequently asked
- Standouts right now: Reading Terminal Market, Rocky Steps at the Art Museum, Fishtown. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Philadelphia and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.