Thanksgiving in Philadelphia

By Katie Sagal

Will your Thanksgiving plans find you in Philadelphia this year? Whether Philly is your home base, or you’re visiting family or friends for the holiday, you probably already have some ideas for the meal itself. However, if you’re entertaining out-of-town guests, or just trying to keep the kids occupied during their time off from school, you may be in search of some Thanksgiving-friendly things to do this time of year. Many of these Philly Thanksgiving events are a kickoff to festivals, events, and activities that lead into the holiday season, too, so we hope this article is of help for longer-term planning as well. We’ve put together a few of our favorite fall activities and seasonal things to do in November. Check our ideas below:

  • Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade
  • Christmas at Peddler’s Village
  • Winter at Dilworth Park
  • Franklin Square Holiday Festival
  • Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
  • A Longwood Christmas
  • Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade

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While it’s less famous than its New York City or Chicago cousins, the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade is the oldest of its kind in the country. It proceeds down Benjamin Franklin Parkway, bursting with colorful floats, massive balloons, and performers from all across the state. And it wouldn’t be a Thanksgiving parade without the appearance of the Man himself at the end! Plus, it’s the 100th year of this parade, so expect something super special.

Christmas at Peddler’s Village

November – December

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Encompassing the kick-off to the Christmas season on one end, and the official Christmas Celebration at the other end, this seasonal event series at Peddler’s Village is a local tradition. Located about an hour from Center City Philadelphia in New Hope, PA, this charming historic town boasts more than 60 specialty shops that are ideal for holiday shopping. Their festive decorations are practically unparalleled, too—a truly inspiring start to the holiday season.

Winter at Dilworth Park

November - February

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This Center City locale is a popular site for holiday festivities, offering up everything from an ice rink (opening usually early November) to an inside garden space in Dilworth Park called Winter Garden. You’ll also find an abundance of glittering holiday lights here, with vendors offering hot cocoa and apple cider, and all that welcomes you into the Christmas season. Dilworth Park also hosts many events throughout the year including fall and winter markets, concerts, and even an Oktoberfest event, should you be visiting before Thanksgiving.

Franklin Square Holiday Festival

Mid-November – Late December

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Another bastion of holiday cheer with its glittering lights, glamorous decorations, and cheerful music, Franklin Square is one of the top places in the city to celebrate the oncoming season. During the week of Thanksgiving, they usually host Thanksgiving craft-making events for kids, while after the focus is on Christmas. You can enjoy family-friendly activities throughout, such as a carousel, miniature train, mini-golf course, and more. And don’t forget the enchanting lights show that runs each day beginning at 4:30 pm.

Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market

November – January

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Also located in Dilworth Park, this expansive holiday market features nearly 50 different artists and artisans selling their beautiful handcrafted wares. You can find everything from unique gifts to specialty holiday foods. Admission to the market is free, but you’re sure going to want to set aside some money for the presents you’ll be purchasing. It’s right across the street from the Christmas Village, a German-style marketplace which is held in LOVE Park.

A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens

November – January

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Longwood Gardens is an inspiring sight year ‘round, but there’s just something about the acres of poinsettias, Christmas trees, and winter flowers that populate their Conservatory during the holiday season that makes it truly special. Outdoors, you’ll also find a cozy, blazing fire pit accompanied by thousands of twinkling lights on nearby trees. This season typically kicks off on Thanksgiving Day, but they’ve added a week this year to give everyone more time to enjoy the magic that is a Longwood Christmas.

BlueCross RiverRink Winterfest

Late November – Early March

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This holiday tradition is one of Philadelphia’s most beloved things to do on Thanksgiving weekend. This time of year, it’s typically cold enough to begin ice-skating, and families love to bring their kids to burn off a little bit of that Thanksgiving meal at the RiverRink. Winterfest is a seasonal extravaganza, with everything from fire pits and an ice rink to indoor arcades and a chalet-like lodge nestled in a picturesque winter landscape.

Other Things to do in November in Philadelphia

  • Skip the cooking and eat out! Many restaurants serve special meals for the holiday and you won’t have to do the dishes.
  • Register for a Turkey Trot – Philly loves running and you’re sure to find a race to suit your mileage. Or, run/spectate the Philadelphia Marathon (November)
  • Volunteer a food bank or shelter. There are many serving Thanksgiving dinners to the less fortunate.
  • Indulge your rural side and enjoy a hayride or some apple-picking outside the city.
  • Explore the local arts scene at CraftNOW Philadelphia, held at various locations throughout the city in November (select dates, November – December).
  • Take in a flick at the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (November).
  • Explore American heritage! From the Betsey Ross House to the Liberty Bell, you can learn more about American history during November—a good field trip season, too.

Save on November Activities in Philadelphia

Planning to explore a few of these ideas for your family during Thanksgiving break? Grab a Go Philadelphia pass to save up to 45% on tickets to top November activities. After all, the December holidays are rapidly approaching and you’ll want to save where you can now!

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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Philadelphia
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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Philadelphia

Over 60% of Americans have family who have served in the armed forces. That is an astronomical figure. It's no wonder, then, that Memorial Day is such a big deal here. A day when we all remember those who gave their lives for our country, Memorial Day gives ordinary folk like you and me a chance to show our gratitude to them. And if you're in Philadelphia, you might wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend? In this guide, we'll cover all the best events and experiences, as well as other fun things to get up to in the days before and after Memorial Day. Including: Philadelphia's History with Memorial Day Philadelphia's Memorial Day Parade The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall Special exhibits at the Museum of the American Revolution and more! Context is Key But what does Memorial Day mean to the city of Philadelphia? Well, over a century before the name and date were set in stone, a group of women in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. This very local act of kindness inspired a nationwide celebration, which was then termed Decoration Day (which became Memorial Day back in 1971). So, in a way, you can say that Philadelphians created Memorial Day! Of course, the city itself has seen its share of battles. It played a key role in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. As such, the city already contains myriad buildings and icons to commemorate both wars, so Memorial Day means a lot to the people that call Philly home. Now you know Philadelphia's Memorial Day history, let's talk about what to do in the city on the big day. Join the Memorial Day Parade Philadelphia's Memorial Day parade draws huge crowds every year. Held on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, viewers will see marching bands, military units, and veteran floats make the trip from the parade's starting point to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Once there, the Memorial Day ceremony takes place. The ceremony includes speeches, the laying of wreaths, and a minute's silence to commemorate the fallen. Notable people from the community and the city are often tasked with the speeches and wreath laying, helping those present to truly cherish what the people who serve do for this country. Remember those we lost at the Museum of the American Revolution The Museum of the American Revolution is one of the best museums in Philadelphia. Anyone curious about the country's history should visit when in Philly. However, on Memorial Day, the museum's permanent installations are joined by special exhibits dedicated to service people throughout our history. It's a great place to spend some time this Memorial Day! Even the little ones can get in on the celebrations as the museum offers some hands-on activities, including card-making and rosette-building. Veterans also get in free all weekend, which is a thoughtful nod from this powerhouse of a museum! See the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall A stop-off in Philadelphia almost demands you see two of the city's biggest landmarks - the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. And, given their significance to both American History and war, if you're wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend in Philadelphia, you could do a lot worse than giving them both a visit! The well-known Liberty Bell is a clear symbol of American independence. You'll find the cracked bell in Independence National Historical Park. And, though it's surrounded by protective glass, you can still get up close and take some pictures. Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, so it holds enormous significance for both Philadelphia and the United States as a whole. Take a guided tour of both and see them all in one fell swoop! Take a walk in Fairmount Park Spanning over 2000 acres, Fairmount Park is one of the largest city parks in the United States. So if you need a break from the city or just want to sit somewhere quiet to contemplate what people have sacrificed, it's the perfect place to reflect. Or, if you want to pay your respects by putting your body through the wringer, Fairmount Park also offers a number of outdoor activities for you to enjoy. You'll find plenty of people hiking, biking, and fishing around the park. While you're in town, check out The Franklin Institute Another attraction well worth checking out over the Memorial Day weekend in Philadelphia is The Franklin Institute Science Museum. Arguably one of the best science museums in America, it's sure to spark curiosity and wonder in even the most skeptical of minds. Alongside the museum's myriad of amazing permanent installations, this year, you should check out Disney100: The Exhibition. The museum's temporary exhibit gives visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how the mega-corporation created some of its most recognizable characters, how it built the worlds you know and love, and covers everything from Toy Story to Star Wars. If you're even a passing fan of any Disney franchise, it's worth the price of admission. Grab a drink - you've earned it And after all that, you might need to sit down and have a drink - proverbially pour one out for those lost, but perhaps down your throat, not on the floor. Philly's bar scene is well-known throughout the country, but why not try some places off the beaten path? We're talking secret bars - the best kind of bars. Cocktail lovers can either make their way to the back of a barbershop to get half-cut at the Blind Barber, or slip into the back of a laundromat and enter a speakeasy at Hop Sing Laundromat in Chinatown. Each has a drinks menu that will hit the spot, but ordering off-menu is a-okay. So, if you were wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend in Philadelphia, now you know! If you're staying in town for a few days and want to fill out your itinerary with fun, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Philly's best bits at one low price.
Dom Bewley
Two days in Philadelphia
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How to spend two days in Philadelphia

How better to acquaint yourself with the good old US of A than with a trip to the ‘Birthplace of America’? That’s right, fabulous Philadelphia brims with things to do for travelers looking for urban adventures. With city tours, views from skyscrapers, unending culinary delights, and glorious summer weather, you won’t be left wanting for things to do here. After all, they say it’s always sunny in Philadelphia... Day 1 Morning Dive headfirst into exploring the city by boarding a hop-on hop-off Big Bus tour. This is the most efficient and exciting way of seeing the best that the city has to offer and getting your bearings of Philadelphia at the same time. Along the 25-stop route, your friendly Philly guide will let you in on the city’s history, culture, dining spots, and, of course, where to get the most authentic Philly cheesesteak. You’ll see Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (with the famous steps that Rocky climbed), the Eastern State Penitentiary, and much more. Your ticket is valid for 1 whole day, so you can explore the best of the city at your leisure. All that sightseeing is sure to work up an appetite. En route your guide will point out where to get some of the best Philadelphia soft pretzels you can get your hands on, and not hopping off to get a bite would be criminal! Lunch Did you think you’d start reading about what to do in Philly and not be recommended a cheesesteak? Think again! And get straight down to Jim’s South Street to get your hands on a soft bread bun packed with prime beef, gooey cheese, pickles, and peppers. They claim it’s the best cheesesteak you can find, and who are we to argue with their 80 years of experience churning out these mouthwatering subs? Afternoon Enjoy a moment of calm in the center of the bustling city at Longwood Gardens. This 1,077-acre botanical paradise in the heart of Philadelphia presents lush flower displays, plants from across the globe, and awesome fountain shows over the summer months. What’s more, the center also incorporates a treehouse you can climb up to, waterlily gardens, topiary displays, and a living art gallery of miniature manicured bonsai trees. Evening An afternoon of perusing plant life will mean that you are re-energized to explore the city by night, and there are all sorts to be doing when the sun goes down. Dine at Baology for the best dim sum this side of Taiwan, classic pizza at Stina Pizzeria, or Vedge where the upscale vegan within you will delight at the meat-free menu. Later on, sip lurid libations at either Hop Sing Laundromat which serves classy cocktails with a speakeasy vibe, or enjoy a famously friendly welcome at the chic underground Franklin Bar. Day 2 Breakfast Now that you’re settled into the City of Brotherly Love, it’s important to seek out the best breakfast to fuel the second day of adventures. Sam’s Morning Glory Diner will more than suffice for your fill of classic American breakfast items. They serve up everything you could desire from bacon and eggs with sausage gravy to waffles with ice cream, pancakes, and fluffy French toast piled high with fruit. They even make their own ketchups and jams to accompany breakfast. The difficult part is choosing what you’ll order. Morning Take a jaunt down to the riverside at Penn’s Landing and let your food digest with a view of the Delaware River glimmering in front of you and the skyscrapers of downtown reaching to the heavens behind. This is the historic site where William Penn landed in 1682 and founded the Province of Pennsylvania. On the waterfront, you’ll also find the Independence Seaport Museum which provides visitors with an educational and interactive glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage. Afternoon The afternoon calls for a taste of classic Philly culture, and how better to discover this fabulous city than by following in the footsteps of one of its most famous inhabitants? The Franklin Footsteps walking tour will lead you on a path forged by Benjamin Franklin, writer, philosopher, scientist, inventor, and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Your guide in traditional colonial dress will take you past the Betsy Ross House where the first US flag was made, Franklin’s home, his final resting place, and the picturesque Elfreth's Alley lined with 32 original colonial-era homes. Stroll down cobblestoned pathways, through pretty alleys, and learn all about the Founding Fathers and the forging of a nation. Evening As evening draws in on your 2-day Philly break, why not step back in time in the Old City and learn some gruesome tales on a Murder by Gaslight walking tour? This spooky murder mystery trail teaches you about the darker side of the city's Victorian era. Led by your guide - who just happens to be the victim of a 130-year-old murder - you will also be tasked with inspecting a crime scene, gathering clues, and questioning the suspects you meet along the way. This rather unusual end to your trip might just intrigue you enough to want to extend your stay...! Remember to Save on Attraction Admission So there’s our list of fun things to do in Philadelphia. Don’t forget – many of these top attractions are available with a pass by Go City, which will help you save on combined admission costs. We hope you enjoyed this list, and consider adding a few options to your vacation itinerary. See the list of attractions on our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes.
Samuel Ford
Philadelphia skyline
Blog

Where To Stay in Philadelphia

Wondering where to stay over your vacation in Philadelphia? Wonder no more, because we've put together this handy guide to Philly's neighborhoods just for you! Whether you're looking to explore the city's historical landmarks or its impressive nightlife, we've got you covered. Read on, and check out our recommendations! Including: Old City Washington Square West Chestnut Hill Bella Vista West Philly and more! Is Philadelphia safe? Philly may have a reputation for being a relatively dangerous city, but that doesn't really paint the right picture. Most violent crime occurs in neighborhoods where tourists rarely step, and tends to be among residents. Therefore, for budding travelers such as yourselves, you won't really get mixed up in that. So, yes, Philadelphia is a city that's safe for travelers. With any big city, it's worth keeping belongings close, valuables at your hotel or Airbnb, and being mindful of your surroundings when out and about. Otherwise, go get on with the fun! Can I get around Philadelphia without a car? Cars are great and all, but if we're hopping on a plane to our vacation destination, sometimes the last thing we want to do is hire a car and drive about. Thankfully, Philadelphia has a fantastic transit system that means you can leave your car keys at home. Old City As the name suggests, Old City is where you'll find most of Philadelphia's historical landmarks and its oldest buildings. It played a massive role in the War of Independence, and as such, you'll find plenty of iconic landmarks on its streets. Highlights such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both drafted and signed, the Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House are all found in this historic neighborhood. It's also a charming neighborhood in its own right, with plenty of period buildings, delightful restaurants, and Independence-themed bars and attractions. For instance, you can take a walking tour that combines all the Independence highlights in one fell swoop. If you're in Philadelphia for the history, then Old City is the answer for where to stay in the city! Fishtown If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia and you're not really here for the history, then let's switch gears to something more quirky. Fishtown was once the industrial hub of the city that was abandoned many years ago as said industries moved away. In their wake, myriad buildings, warehouses, and even homes were left unclaimed. And, thanks to those crafty millennials (pun absolutely intended), this concrete limbo has been transformed into a hipster's paradise. Now, you'll find quirky, millennial-style entertainment on every corner, from warehouses converted to theatres, to craft beer bars in old shopfronts. You'll also find plenty of converted lofts to stay in, if you want to be close to the warehouse parties, slapdash art exhibits, and neon-soaked boozy arcades. Northern Liberties Northern Liberties is Fishtown's neighbor, and it received an equal glow up during the invasion of the plat-shirt snatchers. Like its next-door neighbor, you'll find plenty of laid-back entertainment in Northern Liberties. If you want to be closer to nature during your visit, you'll find plenty of park space there to stretch out and make the most of it. Couple that with plenty of top restaurants, bars, and art galleries, and you've got yourself a top place to stay in Philadelphia! Washington Square West Washington Square West is Philadelphia's LGBTW+ hub, so if inclusivity is top of your list, look for a place in the neighborhood. Eschewing larger department stores and chains for small businesses, you'll find plenty of unique and delightful boutiques, jewelers, and heaps of food and drink opportunities. It's also the home of Washington Square Park, one of Philadelphia's most popular parks. Perfect if you want to have a picnic or go for a walk among the trees. Chesnut Hill If you want to be close to the center of Philadelphia but not right in the middle of it, then take a trip up to Chesnut Hill. Considered one of Philly's safest neighborhoods, its delightful name gives you some idea of what to expect. Known locally as 'the Garden District' due to its brilliant green spaces like Wissahickon Valley Park, you'll find plenty of family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and even pubs. If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, and you're a sucker for the picturesque, then Chesnut Hill might just be perfect for you! Bella Vista With a name that literally translates to 'beautiful view', if you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, why not Bella Vista? If you like your food Italian, your vibe Italian, and your people Italian-American, then Philly's own Little Italy should be top of your list. On the outskirts of the city's Downtown, you'll find plenty of great eateries, places to have a quiet drink, parks to explore, and great people to meet. West Philly Known locally as University City due to the number of top higher education establishments that call it home, West Philly is a great place for younger travelers to go and kick back. Do bear in mind that you'll be rubbing shoulders with college students, for better or worse, when you head out to one of West Philly's many bars or eateries. But maybe their youthful exuberance will rub off on you, and you'll evolve (or devolve) into a hacky sacking wonder in no time. Graduate Hospital While its name might evoke a visit to the doctor, Graduate Hospital is actually one of Philadelphia's quieter, family-friendly districts. You'll find bars, restaurants, and entertainment opportunities on the neighborhood's South Street, but it's also far enough off the beaten path that you'll get a peaceful sleep too! The good news is that you can walk to Old City or the center of Philadelphia with relative ease, ensuring you'll hardly be bored. East Falls East Falls is ideal for you water-seeking wonders. Backing onto the delightful Schyukill River, you can spend many a morning walking or jogging along the river trail or wrangling up a picnic at the foot of Blue Bell Park. One of Philly's quieter areas, it's perfect if you're bringing the little ones along for your vacation. If not, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to keep adults happy too. And hey, if fishing's your game, you can even indulge as many do throughout the year. If you're wondering where to stay in Philadelphia, hopefully this guide has given you some ideas! Wondering what to do on your vacation? Don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Philadelphia's best bits at your own pace.
Dom Bewley

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