Things to do for Labor Day & September in Philadelphia
If you’re still making travel plans for later this summer, then a trip to Philadelphia might be just the way for you to make the most of Labor Day Weekend and beyond. Want to explore art and history at top museums? Enjoy some frolicking fun at a riverside park? This city has it all. So if you’re looking for things to do in Philadelphia during Labor Day Weekend and into September, check out these great activities and attractions, including:
- Blue Cross RiverRink & Summerfest
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour of Philly
- Franklin Institute of Science
- Philadelphia Museum of Art Special Exhibits
- Camden Adventure Aquarium
- Made in America Festival
- And more!
Save on Attraction Admission
Regular admission to a number of these Philadelphia attractions is included in the Go Philadelphia Pass. Choose as you go from more than 30 top Philly activities, tours, and attractions, and save up to 45% off combined admission prices versus paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions, and prices – Learn more. Please note that some of the special events taking place at these attractions might be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Philadelphia Pass.
Blue Cross RiverRink & Summerfest
If you’re in search of some late-summer family fun, then the Blue Cross RiverRink is the place to be. The Summerfest includes everything from activities like mini-golf and an outdoor roller-skating rink to food, drink, and games for everyone. Come here for a fun-filled day of excitement. Please note that the Philadelphia Pass provides access to the RiverRink skating and rental only; additional activities will incur additional costs not included with the pass. Getting In: Blue Cross RiverRink tickets are not included with the Go Philadelphia Pass.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour of Philly
For those visitors who haven’t been to Philly before, this comprehensive bus tour is a must. You’ll see all the major sights without the hassle of driving in Philadelphia, which is a big win. Sights include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Love Sculpture, the Betsy Ross House, and much more. The entire loop takes about 90 minutes if you don’t get off at any of the included stops. Getting In: Big Bus Philadelphia tickets are included with the Go Philadelphia Pass.
Franklin Institute
Science lovers flock to the Franklin Institute from all over the country. This engaging museum offers the best in interactive and innovative science exhibits for all ages. Therefore, there’s something for everyone in your party to enjoy. Exhibits include a real train, a giant heart sculpture that kids can climb through, and an award-winning exhibition on the changing human brain. Plus, a historic exhibit on Sir Isaac Newton’s Laws of Motion, and more. Getting In: Franklin Institute tickets are included with the Go Philadelphia Pass.
Philadelphia Museum of Art Special Exhibits
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most prestigious art museums around and is a favorite among art lovers near and far. This summer, several exciting special exhibitions are coming to a close in September. So, late summer is your last chance to see these inspiring collections. Getting In: Philadelphia Museum of Art tickets are included with the Go Philadelphia Pass. Special exhibits may incur small additional costs not covered by the pass.
Camden Adventure Aquarium
Hop across the river to New Jersey (perhaps aboard the RiverLink Ferry), and spend a few hours at the amazing Adventure Aquarium. Your kids will love the special opportunities that abound at this interactive aquarium. They'll get the chance to meet a hammerhead shark and some entertaining hippos. With over 8,500 sea critters spread across 14 different exhibits, there is no shortage of underwater adventure here. Some highlighted exhibits include the Amazon experience, “Piranha Falls,” the vibrant “Caribbean Currents,” and the giant shark-filled tank in “Ocean Realm.” Getting In: Adventure Aquarium tickets are included with the Go Philadelphia Pass.
Fringe Arts Festival
September in Various locations
This festival spans nearly the entire month of September. The Fringe Arts Festival is a collection of dance, music, visual art, spoken word performance, and much more. You can find anything from family-friendly events to avant-garde theater, and everything in between. Events occur all across the city, too, so it’s truly a Philly-centric festival. Getting In: The Fringe Arts Festival is separately ticketed by individual event and is not included with the Go Philadelphia Pass.
Remember to Save on Attraction Admission
We hope these fun Labor Day and September ideas are helpful for you as you put together your late summer plans. Don’t forget – many of these great late summer options are included with the Go Philadelphia Pass, which can help you save up to 45% on combined admission prices. Please note that some of these events are not included with the pass. Happy end of summer, everyone!