21 Fantastic Things to do this Winter in Philly
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
6. Explore the local coffee scene
Move over Starbucks! There are plenty of independent coffee shops throughout Old City, Center City, and the suburbs. I love exploring new indie coffeeshops no matter where I live or travel. The vibe is more personal and the drinks and pastries are usually 10x better.
Pictured above is Bodhi Coffee in Queens Village. This local gem serves Stumptown Coffee and is located in a charming historical neighborhood.
Take in the local flavor and enjoy a hot cup of coffee at any one of the city’s wonderful local options (a few of my faves to get you started). Winter is a great time to cozy up with a great drink and delicious pastry. La Colombe serves awesome croissants and ICI fabulous macaroons. Also, I highly recommend the amazing shakshuka at Cafe Ole in Old City.
7. Cozy up at a great local restaurant
Philly’s local restaurant scene continues to expand with new hotspots opening every year. A brisk cold day is a great time to explore the foodie scene. You can find almost anything today – classic cheesesteaks, historic old-world Italian restaurants, 100% plant based cafes, unique ethnic fare, and 5 star steakhouses.
One of my favorite places to escape the city clutter is Su Xing House, a wonderful Chinese restaurant that just happens to be 100% vegetarian. Not only is the food really delicious and affordable, but more importantly, this place is so low-key and just the perfect place to escape the crowds. Also, for old school Italian fare you can’t beat The Victor Cafe featured in Rocky Balboa.
- A few of my recommended Center City restaurants: Parc, Su Xing House, Isot Mediterranean
- A few my recommended Old City restaurants: Han Dynasty, Continental Diner, Spasso Italian
Check out my restaurant guide for additional details and more pictures
8. Hit the shops
Shopping is always a fall back option if you run out of things to do or need to kill some time in between activities. There are numerous large shopping complexes downtown when you need a break from the cold and/or rain.
The Shops at Liberty Place is a great option as it is located right in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Center City. You will find over 50 shops, dining options, plus access to the Liberty Observation Deck where you can enjoy 360 degree views of the city.
Fashion District is another option. Although the ambiance is a bit bland in my opinion, the space includes the usual shops and dining, plus a movie theater and bowling alley. This is a great one stop entertainment destination for a full afternoon of indoor fun.
Location: 1625 Chestnut Street (Liberty Place shops), 9th & Market (Fashion District).
9. Relive the golden age of arcade gaming at Dave & Busters
While Dave and Busters can be found in almost every major metro today, this does not make it any less appealing to me and I love playing old-fashioned skeeball and carnival style games. On a cold, windy day, nothing really beats a few hours of old-fashioned arcade gaming. It’s a blast to the past for all of us who grew up with arcades. Super pricey, but I try to go on Wednesdays for half priced games.
Featuring dozens of classic & modern games, and a full restaurant and bar, you can easily escape the cold for the entirety of the afternoon. Another plus, this D & B is conveniently located within walking distance of the ice rink, so you can warm up here after a brisk skating session.
Be on the lookout for game day specials. Also, the restaurant offers a special dining/game play deal every day of the week.
Location: 325 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
10. Warm up with a hot milkshake at The Franklin Fountain
The Franklin Fountain is a summertime staple for cool treats. On a hot, humid afternoon, nothing really beats a scoop of fresh ice cream or a sundae with all the trimmings. The nostalgic 50’s vibe is pretty cool. As this treat shop is located in Old City, it’s a great place to fill up on some calories after all that walking from attraction to attraction.
However, summer isn’t the only time you can partake in the fun. I recommend treating yourself to a hot cocoa or a seasonal hot milkshake, available in a variety of indulgent flavors. I love that they offer dairy-free ice cream for vegans and lactose intolerant guests. For a real treat, go ahead and splurge on the Caramel Apple pie shake.
- Location: 116 Market Street
