Attraction of the Week: Winterfest 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.
While most tourists think of Philly as more of a summer destination, I really recommend a winter visit if you like ice skating. Skating is my favorite winter activity and I’ve been to many great rinks around the country. Philly’s gorgeous waterfront rink is easily one of my favorites. The setting is so gorgeous and the ambiance so festive at night with all the lights. By day, you can enjoy the river scenery and by night beautiful Christmas lights.
Even though it doesn’t get too much press, this city is home to 2 incredible ice rinks, alongside a popular holiday festival known as Winterfest. The best rink, the Indepence BlueCross Riverink is located in historic Old City. Conveniently, it is located within walking distance of the city’s most important historic attractions so you can easily incorporate a session into your plans. Anytime I headed downtown, I kept my skates in the trunk and enjoyed a session on the whim in between exploring history.
Update: Unfortunately, tickets are now timed so you must reserve in advance online. It takes out a bit of the spontaneity, but it’s still a fabulous rink I recommend checking out.
These rinks definitely rival the best-of-the-best I’ve come across in other major cities like the wonderful Wollman Rink in NYC and Millennium Park rink in Chicago. Compared to the nearby Central Park and Rockefeller rinks in NYC, skating here is more affordable, not to mention way less crowded. I also love the scenic setting on the Delaware River; it’s really unique.
One of the best winter activities in Old City
I would definitely say that this is one of the top winter activities to add to your bucket list. Not many ice rinks feature wonderful views of the waterfront, so this alone gives it an edge. On top of fabulous scenery, it’s a great value coming in under 20 bucks (skates +admission). Bring your own skates and a session will only set you back 5 bucks: a wise investment for locals looking for endless outdoor fun during the chilly months. I have saved tons of money over the past 15 years by purchasing a pair of skates: those rentals really add up.
The Olympic sized rink is so huge that even on the most busy days you will still feel like you get plenty of space to practice your moves. Whether you are a novice or avid skater, you will have a blast, taking in the riverfront scenery, the bustling vibe, and the fun holiday cheer and decor surrounding the rink. I can’t see anyone being disappointed in this event: it’s one of the top holiday events in my opinion.
Winterfest
Winterfest is a annual event which features a hot cocoa stand (from local favorite The Franklin Fountain), seasonal treats, fire pits for roasting smores, an arcade, a warming lodge, a huge Christmas tree with thousands of LED lights, and plenty of cozy seating. It’s free admission even if you are not hitting the ice which is nice for spectators. Mike doesn’t skate that often so it’s nice that he can still relax and enjoy a hot drink while I am practicing my moves.
Grab a seat on a cozy rocking chair, wrap yourself up in a thick blanket, and curl up with a hot chocolate or coffee (from local roaster La Colombe) as you watch the skaters glide by. There is no better way to liven up a dreary overcast Northern winter day! Also, there are some fun photos opp.
The event typically runs from late November (sometime around Thanksgiving) to the beginning of March.
New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
One of the premier events is the New Year’s Eve celebration. For anyone looking for something fun to do outside of the house, this is it. We usually kick back and watch New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, but did venture out with the crowds for this fabulous event. We were so impressed with the beautiful fireworks over the river and the great package deal.
Compared to most bar coverage charges, admission to this festive event is a real steal. For under 50 bucks a person, you will get a front row ticket to the city’s best firework show, hours of ice skating (including rentals), along with complimentary snacks, a champagne toast and an open bar.
Note: There are 2 different three hour skating sessions (5pm and 10pm), so if you are not one to stay up until Midnight, you may want to consider the earlier time slot. A bit hard to skate so late at night when you are falling asleep! Don’t worry, the fireworks over the Delaware River take place at both 6 and Midnight.
Update: 2025 pricing is $57 per skater and $47 per spectator. Not a bad deal compared to what some of the bars are charging.
What is the weather like this time of year?
Unlike many other Northern cities, “The City of Brotherly Love” does not get bombarded with endless snowstorms. The city sees just 23 inches on average which isn’t too bad compared to many cities. Yes, the temps are brisk, skies often overcast, and light snow is not rare. However, it’s never gets too bone chillingly cold where you want to hide inside. I actually love the weather here. It is cold enough to always need a nice coat, hat, scarf, and gloves, but never bone chillingly cold like it was when I was growing up in Chicago. You won’t see many negative degree days.
My hands and feet get cold really easily and I’ve never had a problem walking around the city feeling like I am freezing to death. Ice skating is the perfect way to enjoy the winter ambiance while also working up a sweat. As one of the best cardio workouts, you will quickly warm up as soon as you hit the ice. Sometimes, I even need to take off my gloves and hat because I get so overheated.
What to do in the vicinity
There’s lots to do within an easy walk of Riverrink. Being located in Old City puts you within easy reach of many historical attractions, as well as local cafes and restaurants. Here are a few of my recommended winter activities.
- Grab a cup of coffee at a local roaster. My favorites are La Colombe (great croissants), Cafe Ole (I love their Shakshuka), and Menagerie.
- Take a tour of Independence Hall. See the room where the Declaration of Independence was signed. It’s a must for history buffs!
- Check out the Christmas festivities. This city is an underrated holiday destination. I had no problem filling my itinerary with amazing events each weekend. I really recommend seeing the amazing Macy’s light show in Center City and the Comcast spectacular, both of which are free.
- Explore one of the city’s great museums. The Museum of the American Revolution, the National Museum of Jewish History, the Second Bank Portrait Gallery, and the Fireman’s Hall Museum are all fantastic.
- Treat yourself to a Hot winter milkshake at The Franklin Fountain, conveniently located steps from the rink.
- Enjoy a fabulous Chinese dinner at Han Dynasty. Delicious food in a gorgeous historical setting.
