Best Spots for a Weekend Trip to Philadelphia during the Holidays
About Philadelphia
Philadelphia, or “Philly” as it is just as often called, is one of my favorite cities in the Northeast. The history, culture, and people are the main reasons I have loved visiting and working in this city time and time again. National Geographic recently named Philly as one of two American spots on their annual “Best Trips List” as one of the best cities in the world to visit in 2020.
Sure, the city is swarming with historical sites that history buffs will love! But that isn’t all Philly has to offer. The food scene is incredible, there is a large beer culture thriving here, and the architecture is stunning. I constantly find myself looking up in awe of the buildings around me.
Any type of food you could possibly want you will find in this wonderful, culturally diverse city. I always feel like I never stop eating in Philly, because I just want to try all the things! Luckily, it is easy to get lots of steps in walking all over exploring the beautiful streets.
Northeast cities often get a bad reputation for ‘rude people’. But I have found Philadelphians to be some of the friendliest in the NE. They are so proud of their city, and it won’t take long until you feel the strong sense of community vibe from the locals. Whether visiting in summer or winter, you’ll find there is always something wonderful going on!
Things to do in Philadelphia
Philadelphia City Hall is an iconic must-see in the center of the city. This beautiful building is the largest municipal building in the country. Right next door is Dilworth Park, a multifaceted space that in the Summertime has outdoor movies, musical performances, etc. In the winter, the park is transformed and you can enjoy ice skating, the holiday markets, and a fabulous “Deck the Hall” light show projected on the side of City Hall.
A short five-minute walk from City Hall is the Reading Terminal Market, a historic and quite famous indoor farmers market that has been around since 1893. Go hungry and grab donuts, cheesesteaks, ice cream, candy, seafood, and SO. MUCH. MORE!
A half-mile, or 10-15 minute walk from the Terminal will bring you to many historic sites! The Liberty Bell sits right across from Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Not far from there is the Betsy Ross house, the supposed home where the seamstress sewed the first American flag.
A four-minute walk from there and you’ll come to one of my favorite spots in Philadelphia - the historic Elfreth’s Alley. This darling cobblestone street is the oldest residential street in America. During the holidays, the alley is even more magical, and on certain days in December you can get tickets to tour the private homes during “Deck the Alley”.
One Liberty Observation Deck - 360-degree beautiful panoramic views of Philadelphia
Philadelphia Museum of Art - check out this stunning museum, and get an iconic photo on “the Rocky Steps” while you are there.
Edgar Allan Poe House - book tickets ahead of time if you want to take a tour!
Cira Green - Philadelphia’s “Park in the Sky”. This pet-friendly rooftop has gorgeous skyline views, food and drink, and a giant 50ft TV.
Eastern State Penitentiary- used to hold notorious lawbreakers like Al Capone, but this castle-like prison now sits unused. Get a tour! Or if visiting during Halloween season, go for what the Travel Channel deemed “One of America’s scariest Halloween Attractions”
Boathouse Row - this scenic riverside site has several rowing clubs that date back to 1853. They collectively make up the Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia, which is the oldest amateur athletic governing body in America. I love going at night to see all of the buildings lit up along the water.
Rittenhouse Square Park - one of five original squares planned by William Penn in the 17th century. the heart of Center City’s most expensive area. Surrounded by awesome dining, cute streets, and high-end apartments. I absolutely love the gorgeous Anthropologie on the square.
If you are interested in going to several major spots and want flexibility, you can purchase a “City Pass” which is 3, 4, or 5 tickets in a heavily discounted bundle: One Liberty Observation Deck, Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, Museum of the American Revolution, Please Touch Museum, and a half dozen more spots you can check out on their site HERE.
Love Park - home to the iconic “Love” Sculpture. If you want the “Amor” sculpture go to Sister Cities Park right off of Logan Square.
Philadelphia Magic Gardens - Get tickets in advance to this unusual sculpture garden with mosaic murals. Can get quite packed, so I prefer to go here during off-peak hours, or outside of the summer tourist months.
Race Street Pier - a former shipping pier turned green space with a great photo op of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge looming behind.
Where to Eat & Drink in Philadelphia
Charlie was a sinner. A dark, sexy little hotspot serving incredible drinks and vegan small plates. We looooved this place and thoroughly enjoyed eating at the bar, while watching the incredibly talented bartenders create intricate craft cocktails. A great experience! Neighborhood: Center City
Mission Taqueria This was such a fun, energetic spot! We stopped for drinks before dinner and loved the bright colorful vibe of this spot. The food looked incredible, and it was tempting to just stay there and eat their tacos and homemade tortillas. Neighborhood: Center City
Geno’s Steaks or Pat’s King of Steaks Iconic Philly Cheesesteak rivals Gino's and Pat’s sit across from each other. Geno’s serves sliced steak, while Pat’s (credited with inventing the sandwich) serves the traditional chopped steak. Neighborhood: Passyunk Square
Zahav Won the James Beard award for Best Restaurant in the Country. Reservations go two months in advance for this Israeli gem. They have one of the best-tasting menus around for $48. The hummus is also DIVINE. Neighborhood: Edge of Old City and Society Hill
The Love A touch of retro vibes in a beautiful, welcoming New American restaurant with friendly staff and delicious food (get the fried chicken!) Talula’s Garden sister restaurant. Neighborhood: Rittenhouse
Fork Their brunch is pricey, but really delicious, Mimosas with cucumber mint, grapefruit basil, or blood orange juices are divine. Neighborhood: Old City
Talula’s Garden This farm-to-table restaurant borders between fancy and casual. The staff is so hospitable, and the multiple cheese board options will thrill cheese lovers. Neighborhood: Center City
Cheu Fishtown Murals and graffiti mix with exposed brick walls in this former horse stable turned hip ramen bar. The menu features delicious dumplings and other asian fare. Hit up the arcade and game bars in the area afterwards. Neighborhood: Fishtown
Aqimero - This is a gorgeous spot in the Ritz Carlton! I haven’t eaten here but have enjoyed cocktails and champagne in their beautiful space! Neighborhood: Center City
Pizzeria Beddia Get a reservation ahead of time for this incredible spot! Want a unique food experience? Reserve a spot in the “Hoagie Room” for a $75 two-hour private pizza and hoagie Omakase (chef’s choice) experience. Get their espresso soft serve! Neighborhood: Fishtown
HipCityVeg A casual vegan spot with multiple locations. As someone who doesn’t normally eat veggie burgers, I found them to be quite good as well as their lil’ golden nuggets that are made with organic grains.
Vetri Cucina This $165 prix fixe menu with courses made according to your individual tastes, at your own pace. Chef Mark Vetri takes Italian to a new level in an intimate townhouse dining room setting. Get a spot during lunch on a Friday for $85. Neighborhood: Midtown Village
El Vez Trendy Mexican in a fun, colorful, environment. Delicious cocktails and food. Neighborhood: Center City
High Street on Market This place makes the BEST BREAD! This small rustic-chic spot is one of my favorite breakfast or lunch spots. Highly recommend stopping here after exploring the historic Old City spots. It’s sister restaurant “Fork” is right next door. Neighborhood: Old City
Best coffeeshops in Philadelphia
Ultimo A small batch roastery local chain, with award winning baristas. The industrial-chic Point Breeze original adjoins a specialty beer shop.
La Colombe La Colombe was founded in Philly in 1994, with its first location right near Rittenhouse Square. Their Philadelphia Roastery serves most of their locations across the U.S.
Rival Bros. What started as a local coffee truck grew to three local storefronts. My favorite location is in the historic Touraine building lobby featuring gorgeous tall ceilings.
Herman’s Coffee Small batch coffee roaster located in a former auto repair shop. Features rotating food trucks Friday-Sunday. Neighborhood: Pennsport
One Shot Cafe Rustic coffee shop serving up coffee from Stumptown, has a delicious cafe and an upstairs library. Great atmosphere and very friendly staff. Neighborhood: Fishtown
The Monkey & the Elephant Philadelphia’s first and only non-profit coffee shop employing former foster youth, providing them with personal and professional skills, employment, and community. Neighborhood: Brewerytown
Best Spots in Philadelphia for Desserts
Shane Confectionery Established. in 1863, this is America’s Oldest Continuously Operated Candy Shop. Head to the back room of this gorgeous shop, which feels like a hot chocolate speakeasy. Neighborhood: Old City
The Franklin Fountain Really cute old-time ice cream parlor and soda fountain. The staff looks fab in their bow-ties! Their sister spot, Franklin’s Ice Cream Bar is down the street, selling hand dipped ice cream bars. Neighborhood: Old City
Sweet Box Sure you could go get their fabulous cupcakes, but my favorite items to get from Sweet Box’s delicious menu is the Jawns (SO GOOD) and their edible cookie dough push pops! Yum! Neighborhood: Center City
Federal Donuts Local Philly Donut chain. I love the cookies and cream or strawberry lavender donuts. They also serve pretty fab fried chicken. Neighborhood: Multiple Locations
Sweet Nina’s Located inside the historic Reading Terminal. Sweet Nina’s has multiple flavors of incredible banana pudding! Neighborhood: Center City
Beiler’s Bakery Located inside the historic Reading Terminal. Delicious donuts with tons of toppings and yummy creme fillings. Neighborhood: Center City
And many other spots within the Reading Terminal Market!
Where to stay in Philadelphia
The possibilities are endless (from Airbnbs, chain hotels, and luxury style accommodations) that fit any budget:
Lokal Hotel
Originally we wanted to stay in this DARLING boutique apartment style hotel, but with only six available, this is a spot you should book far in advance. Located in Old City, it’s right by the charming Elfreth Alley, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and surrounding historic neighborhood.
The Dwight D Hotel
This boutique hotel is in a historic 1840s brownstone, located in the Rittenhouse Square section of Center City Philadelphia.
Kimpton Hotel Palomar
Art Deco Lodging with chic rooms and free bike rentals, right in between City Hall and Rittenhouse Square.
ROOST Apartment Hotel
This is a pet-friendly extended stay option that has studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments with full size kitchens and tons of amenities and services. They have locations in Rittenhouse, Midtown, and East Market.
Four Seasons at Comcast Center
This high-end hotel recently opened, and boasts the highest hotel lobby in North America. Every single hotel room has floor to ceiling views of the entire city. The pool’s view is STUNNING. If you’ve got the cash, splurge for an incredible experience and stay here!
French Style Rittenhouse AirbnB
Old World Charm Rittenhouse AirbnB
Cambria Hotel Philadelphia
My sister and I recently stayed at this hotel, and the location is perfectly situated right on Broad Street. The rooms are modern and clean, the staff was wonderful, and was walking distance to practically everything we wanted to see and do, yet an easy spot to grab an Uber. It also has the stylish rooftop bar Attico, which boasts incredible views of Broad.
Tours to take in Philadelphia:
Chew Philly Food Tour
Philadelphia Urban Adventures
Free Tours by Foot
Percy Street Project - take a walk by magical neon murals.
Elfreth’s isn’t the only picturesque alley to walk down. Check out Quince Street (love this one!), Addison Street (trees are lit up year-round!), Saint Albans Place (Pedestrian only street with a beautiful garden down the middle), and Panama Street (go here during Fall leaves!)
South Street Bridge - Chances are if you’ve seen a photo of Philadelphia’s skyline, it was probably taken from this bridge.
You can even book this Photography Tour of Philly.
If visiting during the summer, Spruce Street Harbor Park is a must-see. Dozens of colorful hammocks throughout, unique lights all over the trees that slowly change color and sparkle - creating pure magic at night. There are lots of food vendors on the boardwalk, as well as incredible beer gardens. Be sure to check out the ‘Oasis’ which has gardens on top of floating barges. My favorite spot to relax is in the ‘net lounges’ which hang several feet over the water.
If you’ve been to Philly, and have a favorite spot that I should try on my next trip, let me know!