We loved creating our guide for fall dates in Philadelphia, so we thought we would pull together a winter version…with a twist. We adore date nights and our winter favorites are perfect for a night out, but our new list of go-to ideas for the coldest season is a gift for your visiting guests. From relaxation to exploration, plus things kids will love, we’re answering their question for you about what to do while they’re in town whether they’re visiting for the holidays or your wedding with our top 10 ideas for indoor and outdoor winter fun in Philadelphia. When they ask (and they will!), send them here:
Longwood Gardens: Longwood Gardens is lovely during any season, but the indoor greenhouses are the perfect escape from the cold weather outside. The holiday display continues through January 11, and includes tons of floral arrangements, plus fountain displays and musical performances.
Blue Cross Riverrink Winterfest: Ice skate along the Delaware River at the Blue Cross Riverrink. The rink debuted as an Olympic-sized space this year, plus The Lodge is the perfect escape to warm up for lunch, enjoy hot chocolate, play games, and view art. Penn’s Landing is the place to be! Dilworth Park is another great place to skate.
See a Play: Philadelphia has a number of fantastic arts venues, including the Kimmel Center and Walnut Street Theatre. The Kimmel Center is welcoming Stomp, Motown the Musical, The Illusionists, and Annie during the winter, while highlights at the Walnut Street Theatre include Mary Poppins and Private Lives.
Bear Creek Mountain Resort: Located just over an hour outside of Philadelphia, Bear Creek is one of PA’s hidden gems for skiing and snow tubing. The terrain is varied, lines are never very long for lifts, tickets are reasonably priced, plus there’s a lodge onsite if guests decide to stay for an even longer weekend instead of making a day trip.
The Franklin Institute & Please Touch Museum: Both museums are perfect for kids! The Franklin Institute focuses on science, and there are special exhibits for animals and LEGO happening during the winter. The Please Touch Museum is a great go-to for the youngest guests. It has two floors filled with Philly-themed play areas, and there’s a carousel.
The Rittenhouse Spa & Club : We love The Rittenhouse Hotel, and they have a number of massages, facials, and treatments perfect for a luxurious day of post-wedding relaxation at their Spa.
Cheer on the Flyers: Send sports fans to see a Flyers game at the Wells Fargo Center! You can find their schedule here and tickets here.
Philadelphia Auto Show & Philadelphia Flower Show: Two of the best events at the Pennsylvania Convention Center during the winter are the Philadelphia Auto Show (January 31-February 8, 2015) and the Philadelphia Flower Show (February 28-March 8, 2015). Both are recognized as top events in their industries and in our city!
See the Sites: Suggest a trip to the heart of Philadelphia’s historic center where guests can tour the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, National Constitution Center, and detour to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Seeing any of these landmarks is a history (and art) buff’s dream day.
Center City District Restaurant Week: After exploring the city for the day, enjoy a three-course dinner at one of the many participating restaurants during Restaurant Week. This is one of the most sought after weeks for restaurants, so make sure to make reservations in advance. The event runs from January 18-23 and 25-30, and each meal is $35. PS: Parking locations!
