Penn's Landing Philadelphia - a blurry photo of lights in the dark
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Penn's Landing Philadelphia

4.6
·491k reviews·Philadelphia, United States

Philadelphia's historic waterfront, offering scenic river views, vibrant events, family fun, and diverse dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Evenings

Festivals, cool breezes, and city lights.

CrowdHigh
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Penn's Landing Philadelphia - a blurry photo of lights in the dark

Penn's Landing Philadelphia

Best Time

Summer Evenings

Festivals, cool breezes, and city lights.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Philadelphia's historic waterfront, offering scenic river views, vibrant events, family fun, and diverse dining.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A lively hub for waterfront activities, from skating and museums to dining and spectacular fireworks."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Ride the RiverLink Ferry

Take a free ferry ride to Wiggins Park in Camden for a different perspective of the city skyline.

⛸️ Skate at RiverRink

Enjoy seasonal skating with stunning waterfront views. Check hours for ice or roller skating.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Delaware Riverfront Views

Delaware Riverfront Views

Waterfront Promenade

Stroll along the promenade for stunning views of the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline. Perfect for sunset photos.

Instagram
Independence Seaport Museum

Independence Seaport Museum

211 S Christopher Columbus Blvd

Explore maritime history with interactive exhibits and historic ships. A must-visit for history buffs and families.

Instagram
Blue Cross RiverRink

Blue Cross RiverRink

101 S Christopher Columbus Blvd

Enjoy ice skating in winter or roller skating in summer with fantastic river views. A lively spot for all ages.

Reddit
Liberty Point

Liberty Point

210 Christopher Columbus Blvd

A vibrant new spot offering great food and drinks with a lively atmosphere, perfect for gatherings.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Penn's Landing buzzes with activity, especially during summer festivals and holidays like the 4th of July. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons to avoid peak crowds and enjoy the waterfront views.

Getting Around the Waterfront

While Penn's Landing is walkable, exploring the wider area is best done with a combination of walking and public transport. Consider renting a city bike to easily navigate between attractions along the Delaware River. TikTok

Best Times

When
Summer Evenings
Why
Festivals, cool breezes, and city lights.
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere.
Crowd
Low
When
Winter Weekends
Why
Ice skating and festive cheer.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Step into another world at @Otherworld Philly👽🌸 Who’s going?? #pennsylvania #pennsylvaniacheck #philly #philadelphia #otherworld #otherworldphilly #museum #artexhibit #travel #visitpa #visitphilly #pabucketlist
@billyexplorespa
104.3K likes • 1.7M views

🚢 Ride the RiverLink Ferry

Take a free ferry ride to Wiggins Park in Camden for a different perspective of the city skyline. Instagram

⛸️ Skate at RiverRink

Enjoy seasonal skating with stunning waterfront views. Check hours for ice or roller skating. Reddit

New York to Philadelphia! 🏙 🇺🇸 The easiest and cheapest way! only takes about 1 hour ⏰ #nyctravel #nyc #phl #philly #newyorker #amtrak #ustraintrip #americantrain #philadelphia #acela #newyorkcity #pennstation #travel
@eymayinthecity
61K likes • 663.1K views
There's plenty to explore at Wiggins Park in Camden and Penn's Landing in Philadelphia! Take a free ride on the @riverlinkferry. Get your face painted for free on both sides of the river. Enjoy free paddle boat rides - but hurry, spots are limited! Admission to @phillyseaport's building is free. Catch the @philly_cup_regatta on the river from 11am-3pm. Go fishing at the RCA pier in Camden. ...
delrivfest
26 likes • 823 views

🚲 Rent a City Bike

Explore the waterfront and beyond with ease. A great way to see more of Philly. TikTok

🎆 Catch Fireworks

Penn's Landing hosts spectacular fireworks for New Year's Eve and other holidays. Instagram

📍Liberty Point Liberty Point is a brand new spot this summer in the Penn’s Landing area of Philadelphia. Enjoy with family, friends or a sneaky link 🤍✨ #bringyourappetite #philly #foodie #phillyinfluencer #libertypoint #phillydatenight #phillyfoodies
bringyourappetite_
31 likes • 1.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Ride the RiverLink Ferry

Take a free ferry ride to Wiggins Park in Camden for a different perspective of the city skyline. Instagram

⛸️ Skate at RiverRink

Enjoy seasonal skating with stunning waterfront views. Check hours for ice or roller skating. Reddit

🚲 Rent a City Bike

Explore the waterfront and beyond with ease. A great way to see more of Philly. TikTok

🎆 Catch Fireworks

Penn's Landing hosts spectacular fireworks for New Year's Eve and other holidays. Instagram

🍔 Casual Dining Options

Look for spots like Khyber Pass Pub or Han Dynasty for great food without the fuss. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Penn's Landing for its beautiful waterfront views, lively atmosphere, and diverse range of seasonal activities, from ice skating to summer festivals. The Independence Seaport Museum and dining options like Liberty Point are frequently highlighted as enjoyable experiences. Some visitors note that parking can be expensive and crowded during peak times.

What People Like

Scenic riverfront views
Seasonal events and activities
Family-friendly attractions

What People Dislike

Expensive parking
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest and quickest way from NYC is by Amtrak, taking about 75 minutes. TikTok+1 You can also consider bus services for a more budget-friendly option.

Yes, there are several parking garages and lots available near Penn's Landing, though they can be pricey during peak times. Consider public transport or ride-sharing if possible.

If you're staying in Old City or Society Hill, Penn's Landing is within walking distance. It's a pleasant stroll along Christopher Columbus Boulevard.

The area is very walkable. For longer distances or to explore further, consider renting a city bike or using the SEPTA public transportation system.

Yes, several SEPTA bus routes stop near Penn's Landing. The area is also accessible via the RiverLink Ferry from Camden, NJ. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Penn's Landing itself is a public space and generally free to access. However, specific attractions like the Independence Seaport Museum or the Blue Cross RiverRink require tickets. Instagram

The waterfront promenade is generally open 24/7. Individual attractions and seasonal events will have their own operating hours, so it's best to check their specific schedules.

Yes, during special events like summer festivals, you can often find free activities such as face painting and live music. Admission to the Seaport Museum's building is also free. Instagram

Penn's Landing hosts numerous events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations, summer festivals, and fireworks displays. Check the official Penn's Landing calendar for upcoming events. Instagram

No, the Independence Seaport Museum is a separate ticketed attraction. However, admission to its building is free during certain events. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy waterfront strolls, visit the Independence Seaport Museum, skate at the Blue Cross RiverRink, dine at various restaurants, and attend seasonal events and festivals. Instagram+2

The waterfront promenade offers great views of the Philadelphia skyline, especially at sunset. The historic ships at the Seaport Museum also make for excellent photos. Instagram

Absolutely! Families can enjoy the Seaport Museum, seasonal activities at RiverRink, and open spaces for kids to run around. Instagram

Penn's Landing hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, holiday markets, and spectacular fireworks displays for New Year's Eve. Instagram

Yes, Penn's Landing is a prime spot to view fireworks displays, especially for New Year's Eve and other major city celebrations. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

For casual dining, consider neighborhood ramen, Khyber Pass Pub for sandwiches and beer, or Han Dynasty for solid Chinese cuisine. Reddit

Yes, Penn's Landing has several dining options, including Liberty Point, which offers a lively atmosphere and good food. Instagram You can also find places offering funnel cake and other treats. Instagram

You can find a variety of options, from casual waterfront dining and pub fare to international cuisine and sweet treats like funnel cake. Instagram

Yes, places like Liberty Point offer a great atmosphere for dates, and dinner cruises on the Delaware River provide a romantic setting with skyline views. Instagram+1

Many of the casual eateries and waterfront spots offer kid-friendly menus. The general atmosphere is welcoming for families. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for skyline shots. Nighttime provides a different perspective with city lights reflecting on the water. Instagram

The waterfront promenade, the historic ships at the Seaport Museum, and the views from the RiverLink Ferry are all highly photogenic. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas and near attractions. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for cityscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive waterfront. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots. Instagram

Consider capturing the contrast between historic ships and modern cityscapes, or the vibrant atmosphere during festivals and events. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Penn's Landing is a fantastic destination for families. The Independence Seaport Museum offers interactive exhibits and the chance to explore real historic ships, which kids often find fascinating. Instagram The Blue Cross RiverRink provides seasonal fun with ice or roller skating, and the open spaces along the waterfront are perfect for letting kids burn off energy. Reddit Many events held at the Great Plaza are also family-oriented, featuring activities and entertainment suitable for all ages. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Penn's Landing offers several free or low-cost activities. Simply walking along the waterfront and enjoying the views is free. Instagram Taking the RiverLink Ferry to Camden and back provides scenic views without a high cost. Instagram Look out for free events and festivals hosted at the Great Plaza, which often include live music and community activities. Instagram For dining, exploring casual eateries or grabbing a treat like funnel cake can be more affordable than full-service restaurants. Instagram

💑 Couples

Penn's Landing offers a romantic backdrop, especially during sunset or at night. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river, taking in the city lights. Instagram For a special evening, consider a dinner cruise on the Delaware River for stunning skyline views and fine dining. Instagram Liberty Point provides a lively yet intimate setting for drinks and a meal, perfect for a date night. Instagram The seasonal ice skating at Blue Cross RiverRink can also be a fun and romantic activity. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Waterfront Attractions

Penn's Landing is Philadelphia's historic waterfront, offering a vibrant mix of attractions along the Delaware River. The Independence Seaport Museum is a cornerstone, housing fascinating exhibits on maritime history and providing access to historic vessels like the cruiser USS Olympia and the submarine USS Becuna. Instagram Adjacent to the museum, the Blue Cross RiverRink transforms into an ice-skating rink in winter and a roller-skating rink during warmer months, providing year-round fun with stunning river views. Reddit

Beyond these mainstays, the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing serves as a central hub for public events, concerts, and festivals, especially during the summer. Nearby, Liberty Point offers a popular spot for dining and drinks with a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the waterfront ambiance. Instagram For a unique perspective, consider a City Cruises dinner or sightseeing tour, offering unparalleled views of the Philadelphia skyline from the water. Instagram

Exploring Penn's Landing is also about enjoying the simple pleasures of the waterfront. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, rent a city bike to cover more ground, or simply relax and watch the boats go by. The area is well-connected, making it easy to combine a visit to Penn's Landing with other Philadelphia attractions. TikTok

Events and Seasonal Activities

Penn's Landing truly comes alive with a packed calendar of events throughout the year. Summer is particularly vibrant, often featuring festivals, outdoor concerts, and the popular Summerfest series. The waterfront is a prime location for major city celebrations, including spectacular fireworks displays for New Year's Eve and the 4th of July. Instagram

During the colder months, the Blue Cross RiverRink transforms into a magical ice-skating destination, often accompanied by holiday markets and festive decorations, creating a charming winter wonderland. Reddit The Independence Seaport Museum also hosts special holiday-themed events and exhibits, making it a great indoor option. Instagram

For those looking to experience the local culture and community spirit, checking the Penn's Landing event schedule is a must. Many events are family-friendly and offer a chance to enjoy the city's atmosphere and waterfront beauty. Instagram+1

Dining and Entertainment

Penn's Landing offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual waterfront eateries to more upscale options. Liberty Point has quickly become a popular destination, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu, making it ideal for both family outings and nights out with friends. Instagram For those seeking a more relaxed meal, options like neighborhood ramen or pubs offering sandwiches and a wide selection of beers are recommended by locals. Reddit

Beyond sit-down restaurants, you can find classic boardwalk treats like funnel cake, perfect for a quick snack while enjoying the waterfront. Instagram For a truly memorable evening, consider a dinner cruise on the Delaware River. These cruises offer gourmet dining with breathtaking views of the illuminated Philadelphia skyline, providing a romantic and unique way to experience the city. Instagram

The entertainment at Penn's Landing extends beyond dining. The Great Plaza frequently hosts live music and performances, especially during summer festivals. The Blue Cross RiverRink provides active entertainment with its seasonal skating rinks. Reddit

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