Weekend In Philadelphia
Spending a weekend in Philadelphia? The city is known for its historical landmarks and diverse food scene - making it the perfect trip for history buffs, art enthusiasts, or foodies. Even though there is plenty to do, you can spend a weekend in Philadelphia and accomplish a good amount of sightseeing. Here is how I would maximize my weekend in Philadelphia.
Day 1
Breakfast @ Sabrina's Cafe
Sabrina's is a staple breakfast spot in Philly. There are a few locations, but the Art Museum location would be best for this weekend in Philadelphia itinerary.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
After breakfast, head over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It's about a 19-minute walk or a 5-minute drive. If you choose to walk, you'll pass by gorgeous buildings and other museums. Don't forget to run up the iconic Rocky Steps for a great view of the city!
Stroll Through Pennsport
Pennsport is a historic neighborhood in South Philadelphia along the Delaware River. It’s known for its rowhouses, historic churches, and great restaurants.
Lunch @ The Dutch
Head over to The Dutch for lunch (they close at 3p on weekends, and 2p on weekdays). The food has a Dutch twist, with dishes like the Sweet Dutch Baby, the Savory Dutch Baby, and the Ring Bologna Eggs Benedict.
Sunset Cruise
What better way to see the city than a sunset cruise along the Delaware River? The sunset cruise is about 1 hour long and serves mixed drinks, wine, and beer along the way.
Dinner @ Barbuzzo
Barbuzzo is a cozy Mediterranean restaurant located in the heart of Center City. It's known for its farm-to-table approach with Italian, Greek, and Spanish dishes. From handmade pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, the food is flavorful and expertly crafted. Save room for dessert, because their famous Salted Caramel Budino is a must.
Drinks @ Time
If you're not ready to end your night after dinner, head to Time (less than a minute walk from Barbuzzo). There are three floors - the Whiskey Bar, the dining area, and the nightclub. They have live Jazz music Thursdays - Saturdays and the Upstairs room is a club with a DJ Fridays & Saturdays.
Day 2
Breakfast/Browsing @ Reading Terminal Market
Start your day at Reading Terminal Market, where you can grab breakfast and coffee from one of the many vendors. Try a bagel from the Dutch Eating Place or apple cider doughnuts from Beiler’s if you're looking for something sweeter.
City Tour
From Reading Terminal Market, walk over to Independence Visitor Center (~4 minutes) to start your hop-on hop-off tour of the city. Even though these are pretty "touristy", they are a great way to see the city/learn about its history in a short period of time. It's also built-in transportation around the city. Tickets are around $36 and can be purchased online or at the Independence Visitor Center stop. If you plan to stay on for the full tour, it lasts about 2 hours. You can also buy 1, 2, or 3-day passes. On the tour, you'll be able to see the following (and of course, more):
The Betsy Ross House
Love Park
Cathedral Basilica
One Liberty Observation Deck
The Liberty Bell
Lunch @ Pat's or Geno's (Philly Cheesesteaks)
A weekend in Philadelphia would not be complete without trying a Philly cheesesteak. If you're looking for the two most popular spots, head to Pat's or Geno's - both across the street from each other. The rivalry between who serves the best cheesesteak has been going on for years. If you're up for it, grab one from each spot and compare the two for yourself.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Spruce Street Harbor Park is a park located on the Delaware River waterfront. There are hammocks to lounge in, activities (giant Jenga and Connect Four), a beer garden, and food stands. The park is only open between May - September (special hours during the week) so if you're spending a Spring/Summer weekend in Philadelphia, be sure to spend time at Spruce Street!
Dinner @ Talula's Garden
Talula's is a cozy restaurant with an outdoor garden perfect for al fresco dining. Be sure to start with The Master Class cheese plate and Cheddar-Chive Biscuits.
Drinks @ Attico Rooftop & McGillin's Olde Ale House
End your weekend in Philadelphia with gorgeous views of the city at Attico Rooftop. The rooftop deck is decorated with string lights, comfortable lounge seating, and fire pits. It's only a 5-minute drive from Talula's. If you're looking for another spot after Attico, McGillin's Olde Ale House is a less than 5-minute walk too.
The Quick List
Day 1
Breakfast @ Sabrina's Cafe
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Stroll Through Pennsport
Lunch @ The Dutch
Sunset Cruise
Dinner @ Barbuzzo
Drinks @ Time
Day 2
Breakfast/Browsing @ Reading Terminal Market
City Tour
Lunch @ Pat's or Geno's (Philly Cheesesteaks)
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Dinner @ Talula's Garden
Drinks @ Attico Rooftop & McGillin's Olde Ale House
Looking for more?
*If you're looking for more, be sure to check out the Philadelphia travel guide post
*Be sure to also check out the Philadelphia travel guide which includes where to stay, how to get around, 40+ things to do, and 50+ places to eat/drink
**This post is not affiliated with any of the mentioned establishments.