Things to Do in Philly

Whether you’re here for a long weekend or just a couple days, Philly is an incredible city to explore. Below are some of our favorite spots — a mix of iconic sights and personal favorites.

☕ Eat & Drink Like a Local

Breakfast & Brunch

Middle Child – A favorite for delicious chunky breakfast sandwiches in a fun casual space

Dutch Eating Place (Reading Terminal Market) – Carina loves the pancakes, homemade jam and scrapple (if you’re feeling brave)

Alif's Brew (West Philly) – Ethiopian coffee, pastries, and breakfast plates. A spot Jake and Carina went to on their first date <3

Morning Glory Diner (Bella Vista) - Old school diner with a very liberal twist (politicized decor and menu names). Absolutely delicious breakfast food including house made ketchup and marshmallows (for their hot chocolate).

Lunch

Angelo’s or Woodrow’s – Classic Philly cheesesteaks

Paesano’s (Italian Market) – Italian sandwiches done right

Pho 75 (Washington Ave) – No-frills, excellent pho

Ba Le Bakery (Washington Ave) – Banh mi's and baked goods

Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House (Chinatown) - Cash only homey local favorite. Noodles, dumplings, soup, boba, and more!

Doro Bet (West Philly) – Ethiopian fried chicken spot. Enough said.

Vic's Sushi (Center City) - Best reasonably-priced sushi in Philly. Hole in the wall/ just the sushi counter vibes.

Mama’s Falafel (Center City) – Quick, tasty, and vegetarian-friendly

Octopus Halal Food Truck (Center City, weekdays) – Legendary and slightly chaotic in the best way

Dinner

Trattoria Carina (Rittenhouse) – Fresh seasonal pasta dishes and cozy vibes

Penang (Chinatown) – Malaysian-Chinese comfort food

Tabachoy (Bella Vista) - Elevated Phillipino cuisine. Forever known for their ube soft serve sundae.

Suraya (Fishtown) - Award-winning Lebanese food

Honestly, you can’t really go wrong eating in Philly.

🥕 Markets, Shopping & Thrifting

Reading Terminal Market (Center City) – A must-visit for food lovers

Italian Market – Grab fresh produce (Charlie’s Produce Stand is a favorite) and wander

Clark Park Farmer's Market (West Philly) - Fresh produce, vendors, thrifting

Philly AIDS Thrift (Queen Village) – Great thrifting for a good cause

4th Street (Queen Village) – Vintage shops and small stores

🚶 Walks & Neighborhoods to Explore

Passyunk Avenue – Shops, restaurants, and classic South Philly energy

South Street – Eclectic, historic, and fun to wander

Old City – Cobblestone streets, art galleries, and early American history

Rittenhouse Square & Washington Square – Perfect for relaxing walks and a pic nic

West Philly + Clark Park - Take the trolly or walk slightly longer distances along Baltimore Avenue for delicious food, shops, beautiful architecture, and green spaces

The Woodlands Cemetery – A peaceful, beautiful spot (and where Carina & Jake had their first date)

🖼 Culture, Parks & Iconic Philly

Museum Mile / Benjamin Franklin Parkway:

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Rodin Museum

The Barnes Museum (Art)

The Franklin Institute (Science)

The Free Library

Academy of Natural Sciences

Fairmount Park – One of the largest urban park systems in the country, trails, gardens, all by the Schuylkill river

Schuylkill River Trail – Great for walking or biking

Liberty Bell & Independence National Historical Park – Classic Philly history

FDR Park – If you’re already there, take time to explore the park and lake

🍻 Bars & Nightlife

Bob & Barbara’s – A true Philly institution on South Street and home of the Citywide

Trestle Inn – Go-go dancers, great music, late-night vibes

Velvet Whip – Cozy, intimate cocktail spot, live entertainment

⚾ Bonus: Phillies Game

There will be a Phillies game the night of our wedding, right next to FDR Park, if you want to keep the celebration going.

C&J

Wedding Day