21 Fantastic Things to do this Winter in Philly

I have been enjoying the many wonderful museums and historical attractions since moving to Philly from Greenville, SC. While summer is a great time for walking around Old City (this is where most of the tourists congregate), I actually loved the winter season even more. Despite the oftentimes frigid temps and barren scenery, I enjoyed exploring the historical attractions minus big crowds. Plus, this city is a surprisingly great Christmas destination.

This city really gives NYC (which of course is dazzling around Christmastime) a run for its’ money. With world-class museums, 2 festive ice rinks, and a whole lineup of holiday festivities, braving the cold does not sound all too bad! It’s less crowded than New York, but just as fun and festive.

I am a big fan of cold weather, ice skating, and seasonal events so I easily survived a winter in “The City of Brotherly Love.” If you don’t like the cold, there are still plenty of indoor attractions, historical museums, and restaurants to keep yourself busy your entire trip. And, you will benefit with cheaper museum rates and more affordable lodging options. In my guide, I will highlight some of my recommended activities to look forward to this frosty time of year.

1. Ice skate along the Delaware River WaterFront

The seasonal Blue Cross Riverrink in Old City is my number 1 thing to do during the winter months if you like skating. Riverrink is the biggest and most scenic rink in the area; I’ve skated on this rink so many times that I kept a pair of skates in my trunk just in case. The official name of this event is Winterfest and addition to skating, you will find fire pits, seasonals drinks, and even marshmallow roasting.

By day, you can skate while taking in views of the quaint waterfront and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. By night, enjoy skating amongst twinkling lights. Take a break and roast s’mores by the firepit or get grab a cozy blanket, relax on a rocking chair & treat yourself to a coffee from renowned Philly roaster La Colombe.

• Location: 101 S Christopher Columbus Blvd
• Dates: Late November – March
• Pricing: Admission is just 5 bucks and skate rentals $12 (a great deal if you own your own skates!).

2. Treat yourself to a specialty hot cocoa

There are no shortage of local places to grab a steaming mug of hot cocoa to warm yourself up on a cold winter’s day. The Ritz Carlton offers the most decadent cocoa in a most luxurious setting, although it comes at quite a high price (a whopping 12 bucks!) A more moderate option is Max Brenner, an award- winning NYC originated chocolate shop. I love their signature “hug mugs” which warm up your hands. The Chocolate Pizza here was featured on a Travel Channel special entitled “The best thing I ever ate.”

Try one of 10 decadent cocoa varieties, served in a trademark warming hug mug. From peanut butter, to Oreo, to salted caramel, there’s an option for every taste. I love the Italian Thick! Dairy-free milk is available, so even those with lactose intolerance can partake in this winter treat! Sundaes, milkshakes, crepes, dessert waffles, and fondues are also on the lineup. I don’t indulge in sweets too often, but I really loved this place. It’s one of my favorite date destinations in the city

• Location: 1500 Walnut Street
• Full menu of chocolate goodness

3. Take in the holiday festivities

Despite little press coverage, Philadelphia actually offers a pretty engaging lineup of holiday activities, many of which have been going strong for decades. From a top notch zoo lights festival, to a traditional German style Christmas market, to a synchronized light & music show projected upon City Hall, the city is alive with holiday cheer all season long. There are diverse options for everyone whether your idea of fun is seeing a great show, ice skating, or listening to an orchestra.

I love this time of year and I was definitely impressed by the diversity of events. My favorite events were the Comcast Holiday Spectacular and the Wannamaker LED light show at Macy’s in Center City, both of which are free to the public.

Check out my Philadelphia Christmas guide for the full scoop.

4. Take advantage of free museum days

When it is cold and rainy, this is a great time to check out the fabulous museum scene. The world-class Museum of Art offers a pay-as-you-wish deal on Wednesday nights after 5 and on the 1st Sunday of the month. Not only is the collection amazing, but it is also a famous movie filming location. If you have seen Rocky movie than a time or 2 like me, then you are familiar with the famous stair running scene which took place at this museum. You can also take your pic by the famous statue.

As another bonus, with your art museum ticket, you get free admission to the amazing Rodin Museum, featuring the iconic Thinker and dozens of other sculptures. They also operate on a pay-as-you-wish format, although the outdoor sculptures are always free to check out. The Barnes Foundation and Brandywine River Museum (2 more great art museums) are both free on the first Sunday of each month.

2 iconic symbols of freedom, the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are free all the time and winter may be your best bet to avoid hefty summer crowds. I saw so many people lined up in the warm months.

A little hidden gem (which is free all the time) is the Second Bank Portrait Gallery. Here you will get to marvel at over 150 portraits of prominent figures. The National Museum of American Jewish History is also free during the wintertime. This city is home to so many interesting museums. Other options include: the Museum of the American Revolution, The Penn Museum, The African American Museum, and The Franklin Institute (not free, but still great attractions).

5. Get in a healthy workout

I try to stay active even during the cold months and having a nice state park to look forward to helps me stay motivated. While at times it is quite hard to get out there with the chilly air and leafless trees, it’s worth it to stay healthy and fit. You will be happy that you did so once you actually get moving and start to warm up. Plus, research says that working out in winter helps boost your immune system! This area is home to some great parks including the massive Wissahickon Valley Park featuring a variety of trails.

It’s much easier to leave your cozy warm surroundings if there is something to motivate you to get moving. And thus, taking in the historical sights at Valley Forge National Park, the 1777-78 winter encampment of George Washington and the Continental Army, is one of the best tourist options. Here you can burn some calories while taking in memorable sights like Washington’s headquarters and the National Memorial Arch. History plus cardio rolled into one! Dress warm, keep it simple, and rehydrate! I loved challenging myself to the big hills here!

• Location: 1400 N Outer Line Dr, King of Prussia (Valley Forge)
• More of my favorite parks to consider adding to your bucket list