The Best Things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia

There are three inevitabilities in life; death, taxes, and gentrification. For the sake of levity, let's focus on the third one. No city is safe from the artsy, techy glow-up gentrification brings these days. Just look at Fishtown. Once Philly's industrial hub, this long-abandoned neighborhood has become the haunting ground of hipster millennials and their unique brand of entertainment. Craft beers, pop-up markets, and art installations are in, and you should be too. Fishtown demands a visit, and thanks to our tips on the best things to do, you'll know what to try on your Philadelphia vacation!

Including

  • Fishtown's top craft joints
  • The best eats in the neighborhood
  • Get artsy
  • Lounge in Penn Treaty Park
  • Get thrifty at the local shops
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Fishtown's best watering holes

If you're looking for historical experiences or classicly touristy things to do in Fishtown, then you're probably in the wrong part of Philadelphia. Instead, Fishtown is known for its gentrified offerings. Take the bar scene, for example. It's great. So great that you should tour the neighborhood's best watering holes! But where to begin?

Well, the first stop on your bar crawl should be Johnny Brenda's. This cozy spot has a great beer selection and an intimate setting that's perfect for enjoying a few drinks with friends.

Next up is Frankford Hall, a German beer garden that's perfect for spending a sunny afternoon drinking outdoors. There's also plenty of food to soak up all the refreshments, including pretzels, sausages, and burgers.

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If you're looking for something a little more low-key, head to Fishtown Tavern. This local favorite has a relaxed atmosphere and serves up classic American pub fare.

Finally, no bar crawl in Fishtown would be complete without a stop at Kraftwork. This industrial-chic spot has a large selection of craft beer and a menu that features locally sourced ingredients.

Then, drink a load of water and go to bed. You'll thank us in the morning.

Fishtown's best restaurants

With all those inebriation opportunities, you'll need to line the ol' stomach with some sweet sustenance. Thankfully for you, Fishtown has plenty of eating opportunities, and it would be irresponsible to miss out on them, so check out our recommendations.

Numero uno on our list is Suraya. Its middle eastern delights will water the mouth and trigger the happy bits in your brain. Do yourself a favor and grab some fatteh and kafta kebab before your journey to Fishtown's boozy underworld begins.

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If you're in the mood for something a little more upscale, then be sure to check out Kensington Quarters. This farm-to-table restaurant is known for its excellent steak and seafood dishes. The roasted chicken is our pick for a standout dish, especially when paired with one of their delightful wines.

Or, if you be needing a hit of sweet, sweet pizza, try Pizzeria Beddia. This no-frills pizzeria is all about the pizza, and they make some of the best pies in town. The menu may be limited, but each choice yearns to be tasted. Simply yearns.

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And finally, if you crave the sweet embrace of Philly's classic cheesesteak, head to the humbly delightful Joe's Steaks + Soda Shop. Generous portions, great service, and juicy steaks covered in cheese and wrapped in bread await you.

Explore the neighborhood's brilliant street art

As soon as you enter Fishtown, you'll realize that the neighborhood itself has become the canvas for its residents. Trashcans, air-con units, fire hydrants, and other typical urban sights have been given a rather atypical glow-up thanks to the artsy crowd that calls Fishtown home.

But the best bits are the myriad murals you'll find adorned on walls across the district. Some of these are DIY jobs, but many were actually commissioned by the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, which supports local artists and helps them get their work into the public eye.

Image of Wall, Art, Modern Art, Painting,

The Front Street Walls display, for instance, is a rotating roster of street art you can find throughout the year. If you've an eye for street art, or just self-expression in general, be sure to check it all out.

Park your buns and pay homage to William Penn

Need to take a load off and want to admire some amazing views of the Ben Franklin Bridge while doing so? Head to Penn Treaty Park, and get among all the green!

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Built on the site of William Penn's treaty with the Native Americans, this delightful spot offers you acres of space to stretch out and relax, a place to let your furry friends loose, and even fishing spots on the Delaware, if Deadliest Catch is up your alley.

You can also see a statue of the park's namesake if you want to add a little history to your park visit. Bring a boozy picnic and toast to the big man himself. Even Penn would agree it's one of the best things to do in Fishtown on your Philadelphia vacation!

Bargain hunt at the local thrift stores

What would an artsy, gentrified neighborhood be without its fair share of thrift shops? Nothing. It would cease to exist, pulled into the chasm of oblivion where even light fears to tread. For our final tip of the best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia, we're talking thrift stores. So, if you're in the market for some rare goodies, golden oldies, or hipster attire, check out our recommendations!

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The Dumpster Diver is a goldmine for those who love a good bargain. They sell items donated by local businesses and residents, which gives the place a lovely sustainable vibe. Everything from clothes to furniture to electronics can be found here, and it's all priced incredibly cheaply.

Fishtown Second-Hand is run by a local non-profit organization, and all of the proceeds go towards supporting their programs. More brilliant schemes! They sell a wide variety of items, including clothes, furniture, books, and more.

The Philly Free Store is exactly what it sounds like - a store where everything is free. They accept donations of gently used items and then make them available to the public at no charge. This is a great place to find unique treasures. Magnifique, non?

And those were our picks of the best things to do in Fishtown Philadelphia! Keen to explore the other delights Philly has to offer? With Go City, you can choose All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, and see the city at your own pace. So what's stopping you?

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Best time to visit Philadelphia

Visitors to Philadelphia may be forgiven for feeling like they’re traveling through time in this former capital city, as they chart its evolution from the birthplace of the United States to the modern, cosmopolitan city it is today. No stone of history is unturned in its museums, and no corner of its streets devoid of its own work of art or world food café. You can also travel through the seasons, and it’s particularly vibrant in the summer months with its stacked schedule of outdoor festivals and events. But for those who prefer a little space, there’s plenty to enjoy in the cooler months too, with its abundance of galleries and restaurants to escape into, and of course a profusion of parks and gardens that are continually changing as the year goes by. So whether you prefer hot or cold, bustling or quiet, or are at the mercy of your schedule, you can be sure to find plenty of interest, and people ready to welcome you, in the city of brotherly love. Summer Summer is the busiest and most expensive time to visit Philadelphia, but if you love warm weather, outdoor festivals and the company of other extroverts then there’s no better place to be. June is Pride month, so be sure to hop onto an LGBTQ history tour, scope out restaurants serving LGBTQ themed food to support pride-related charities or go and see one of the city’s famous drag shows. If you find yourself in Philadelphia for the Independence Day celebrations in July, brush up on your history by visiting the National Constitution Center or the Museum of the American Revolution, or contemplate heroes from around the world at the National Liberty Museum. Beer, folk and food festivals continue well into July and August, and although they say it’s always sunny in Philadelphia this is also when the rain is most likely to roll in. Beat the humidity by escaping to Spruce Street Harbor Park, considered to be one of the best Urban beaches in America, or escape to Longwood Gardens where the water lilies will be in full bloom and the pond’s fountains dazzling crowds with water and light displays. Fall September is a refreshing time to be in Philadelphia, as temperatures cool, crowds disperse and the colors begin to change – so if you’re after some fiery photographs head to Independence Hall or the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, where the autumnal leaves contrast against the city skylines. A month-long Fringe Festival also kicks off this month, or if you’re a fan of all things fungi, check out the annual Mushroom Festival at Kennett Square, just outside the city. October is Halloween month and festivities abound, with German food and music taking center stage as part of several Oktoberfest celebrations. At Peddler’s Village, about 45 minutes out of town, a hundred scarecrows pop up every year, and visitors can vote for their favorite while exploring winding brick walkways and quirky restaurants. If you’re still in Philadelphia on the third Thursday of November you’ll be able to watch the country’s oldest Thanksgiving Day Parade, which runs from 20th Street to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Santa himself makes an appearance at the parade, which officially starts the winter holiday season. Winter If you like to save money, avoid crowds and don’t mind the cold, then Philadelphia in winter could be the perfect city for you. After the Thanksgiving Parade the dark evenings are brought to life with annual traditions such as the RiverRink Winterfest, the Philadelphia Christmas Village and Christmas at the Wanamaker Building. Franklin Square lights up with Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa celebrations every year and there are light displays in almost every park and public garden. The new year celebrations begin with a fireworks display on the Delaware River on New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day locals flock into the city once again to marvel at the lavish floats and costumes of the Mummers Parade, a much-anticipated annual tradition since 1901. January is the coldest month in Philadelphia, with an average temperature of just above freezing – but it’s also the best month for snow, so snow angels are your thing you’re in the right place! In February things begin to brighten a bit and you’ll start to see buds appearing on trees and hedges. Try wrapping up for an invigorating walking tour, then head indoors to the Aquarium or the Penn Museum to thaw out. If you’re feeling brave, liven up the dark evenings with a Dark Philly Adult Night Tour. Spring Although Spring in Philadelphia is still brisk with average temperatures rising from just the mid-30s in March to the 50s in May, it’s a good time to visit before the crowds – and accommodation costs – increase in summer. There’s plenty to do in spring, as outdoor markets start popping up and street festivals – complete with outdoor skating rinks, ferris wheels and carnival games – come back to life along the river. In April sports fans can cheer on Olympic hopefuls at the high school and collegiate Penn Relays, and in May many of the attractions that have been closed for winter begin to reopen, including the Delaware RiverLink Ferry which links the Camden and Philadelphia Waterfronts. Nature lovers will find plenty of inspiration in spring, as pops of color begin to appear on street corners in the form of tulips and other early emerging flowers. At the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden the cherry blossoms burst into life in a profusion of pink and white petals, reassuring walkers and passers by that warmer weather is on the way. See more with Go City Summer, winter, spring or fall, you’ll find plenty to fascinate you in Philadelphia. And whether you prefer indoors or outdoors, museums or tours, you’ll see and save more with Go City.
Karleen Stevens
free things to do in philadelphia see the liberty bell
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Free Things to do in Philadelphia

Hello! How are you? Well, we hope. Why don't you sit down and take a load off, so we can talk about free stuff. Nothing is quite as sweet as paying nothing to do fun stuff, is it? That's why you're here, isn't it? So if you're visiting the fine city of Philadelphia, you'll be wanting the low down on all the best free things to do in the city, right? Right this way, please. We've curated this brilliant list just for you. So, without further ado, here are the very best free things to do in Philadelphia! Including: The Liberty Bell Independence National Historical Park Independence Visitor Center The 'Rocky' Steps Science History Museum and more! Ring the Bell Let's start with one of Philadelphia's most famous artifacts. This here's a revolutionary town, thanks to the city's role in the War of Independence. In the past, The Liberty Bell stood for America's secession from the United Kingdom. Basically, Brexit before it was cool. It was one of many bells that rang out on the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Today, its cracked facade stands as a reminder of America's triumph. And, thankfully, for those of you working to a budget, you can go and see the metal ringer free of charge! Alongside said bell, you can also see documents and images that explore the bell's history and its role in the formation of America. However, given its popularity, you may have to line up to see it up close. But what's a little waiting when a special selfie is prime for the taking? Deck the halls with Independence Running with the Independence theme, let's talk about one of Philadelphia's best green spaces. Not only is it free, but it stands for freedom too. Does it get much more American than that? We think not. We're talking about Independence National Historical Park, where, among the greenery, you'll find the famous Independence Hall. For the uncultured among you, that's where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed! But getting into the Hall will cost money, so let's instead focus on the free goodies you'll find around the park! For starters, it's a park, so expect plenty of trees, wildlife, and green spaces to stretch out for a relaxing picnic or just to read a book. It's also where you'll find the Liberty Bell, so it ticks a box off your historical itinerary. And even though Independence Hall does require a small fee to get to the touristy stuff, you're free to explore Old City Hall and Congress Hall, which you'll find in the Independence Hall's complex. A free summary Visiting Philadelphia from out of town and want to get the lay of the land? Of course you do, traveler. How else will you know where to buy your convoluted coffee orders? Well, look no further than the Independence Visitor Center. Right in Independence National Historical Park, you'll find this grandly inviting building. Inside, you'll get a free comprehensive orientation to the local culture, the city's history, the best shopping areas, and where to eat. All of that courtesy of the fantastic staff you'll find manning the trenches. So, if you want a head start on your trip, go check it out. And you'll be pleased to know that the whole thing is 100% freebies. Adrian! Boxing fans and cinema fans rejoice! Philadelphia is known for many historical things, but it's also the playground for celluloid's most famous haymaker. That's right, Philly was the setting and stomping ground of one Rocky Balboa, and it was also the scene of one of the most famous training montages of all time. That's right, cinephile, you too can ascend the steps that Rocky so famously ascended, turn back to look upon your victory, and raise your arms in glory. Just as he did. For bonus points, hire a photographer to capture your moment of utter dominance, or simply drag a friend or partner along to begrudgingly snap a pic. Then, head right back down and snap another pic with a statue of the man himself. No, not Stallone, but a statue of Rocky stands tall at the foot of the stairs. Commissioned for the third Rocky move, the bronze Adonis now keeps watch over the area like a shiny golem. And best of all, it's totally free. Take that, money! Science but free Yes, even scientific discoveries can be discovered for free in sweet Philly. That's all thanks to the Science History Museum, an interactive collection of hundreds of years of scientific progress, successes, and failures. Inside, you'll find nearly half a millennia of artifacts, information, and exhibits about breakthroughs in the scientific community and how they benefited both the people of Earth and the planet itself. Of course, not all discoveries are intentional, which is why you'll find some of the biggest surprises are the discoveries made entirely on accident. Alongside a slew of permanent exhibits, you'll also have the chance to see seasonal content about different parts of scientific history. Definitely one of the best free things to do in Philadelphia. Fund-free fire fun Speaking of free museums, if you want to know more about the history of firefighting in the US, go check out the Fireman's Hall Museum. There, you'll find plenty of old firefighting gear, from old-timey fire wagons (yes, they're actual wagons), to hundred-year-old hats, hoses, and ladders. Kids can even try on some of the gear, if firetrucks are still the most exciting thing they've ever seen. On a more somber note, you can check out the museum's tribute to first responders during 9/11, as well as displays about the heroes. It's well worth a visit if you have a passing interest in history, firefighting, or both. And here ends our list of the best free things to do in Philadelphia! Looking for money-sapping entertainment to tackle between the free stuff? See all of Philly's best bits with Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the city at your own pace.
Dom Bewley
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Things to do in Chinatown Philadelphia

Delve into the history of Philadelphia's Chinatown, experience the sights and smells of its markets and create some unforgettable memories using our guide for inspo!
Dom Bewley

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