
Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Philadelphia, United States
1. Fairmount Water Works
Historic water treatment facility with a beautiful view of the Schuylkill River and Boathouse Row.
- Rich History: Built in 1815, it's one of Philadelphia's oldest waterworks.
- Art Gallery: Features rotating art exhibitions by local artists.
- Environmental Education: Educational programs about water conservation and sustainability.
2. Kelly Drive
Scenic road along the Schuylkill River with bike lanes and views of Boathouse Row.
- Biking & Jogging: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to exercise while enjoying the city.
- Boathouse Row: Offers a unique perspective of Philadelphia's rowing community.
- Sunrise & Sunset Views: Beautiful backdrop for early morning or evening walks.
3. Spruce Street Harbor Park
Seasonal waterfront park featuring cabanas, hammocks, food vendors, and a pier with boat rentals.
- Summer Atmosphere: A popular destination for Philadelphians during the warmer months.
- Local Food & Drinks: Offers a variety of options from local food vendors.
- Riverfront Activities: Includes kayak, canoe, and paddleboat rentals.
4. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest
Seasonal waterfront attraction with an outdoor roller rink, mini-golf, and food vendors.
- Outdoor Roller Skating: A fun activity for families or friends.
- Miniature Golf: Offers a mini-golf course with unique waterfront holes.
- Ice Cream & Snacks: Features ice cream and other tasty treats from local vendors.
5. Bartram's Garden
18th-century botanical garden with a waterfront location on the Schuylkill River.
- Historic Botanical Garden: One of America's oldest botanical gardens.
- Horticulture Education: Offers workshops and classes on gardening and horticulture.
- Scenic Riverfront Walks: Beautiful walking paths along the river.
6. Penn's Landing
Waterfront park featuring a boardwalk, river views, and historical exhibits.
- Historical Significance: Commemorates the site of William Penn's landing in Philadelphia.
- Riverfront Walking Path: Ideal for a peaceful walk with beautiful river views.
- Historical Exhibits: Displays artifacts and information about the city's history.
7. Eastern State Penitentiary
Historic prison turned museum, located on the Delaware River waterfront.
- Spooky Atmosphere: Known for its haunting and eerie ambiance.
- Historical Prison Tour: Guided tours provide insight into the prison's history.
- Art Installations: Featuring contemporary art exhibitions and installations.
8. RiverWalk at Penn's Landing
Boardwalk along the Delaware River featuring river views, historical exhibits, and a carousel.
- Historical Perspective: Offers a unique view of Philadelphia's waterfront history.
- Riverfront Carousel: A fun and nostalgic attraction for visitors of all ages.
- Scenic River Views: Beautiful views of the Delaware River and Philadelphia skyline.
9. Delaware River Trail
Scenic bike trail running along the Delaware River from Bristol to Philadelphia.
- Biking & Jogging: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the city.
- Riverfront Views: Offers stunning views of the Delaware River and surrounding landscapes.
- Historical Sites: Passes by historical sites such as Fort Mifflin and the Battleship New Jersey.
10. Fort Mifflin
Historic fort located on the Delaware River, offering tours, events, and educational programs.
- Military History: One of the oldest and most historic military installations in the U.S.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours exploring the fort's history.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs about military history and tactics.
11. Battleship New Jersey
Historic battleship docked on the Delaware River offering tours and events.
- Military History: A floating museum showcasing WWII history.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours exploring the ship's history and engineering.
- Events & Workshops: Hosts events and workshops, including overnight stays on the battleship.
12. Independence Seaport Museum
Maritime museum featuring historic ships, exhibits, and a boat ride.
- Maritime History: Showcases Philadelphia's rich maritime history.
- Historic Ships: Features a collection of historic ships, including the tall ship Olympia.
- Boat Ride: Offers a boat ride along the Delaware River.
13. Adventure Aquarium
Located in Camden, New Jersey, across from Philadelphia, it features marine life exhibits and shark bridge.
- Marine Life Exhibits: Showcases a variety of aquatic animals, including sharks, seals, and penguins.
- Shark Bridge: A glass bridge walkway above shark tanks for a unique experience.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.
14. Marshall's Creek Waterfront Park
A park located along the Delaware River in Bristol Borough, offering river views and a variety of recreational activities.
- Recreational Activities: Offers fishing, picnicking, and boat rentals.
- Scenic River Views: Beautiful views of the Delaware River and surrounding landscapes.
- Historic Bristol Borough: Located in a charming historic town, with shops and restaurants nearby.
15. Tinicum Park
A park located on Tinicum Island in the Delaware River, offering hiking trails, bird watching, and scenic views.
- Nature & Wildlife: Ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers.
- Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails through the park's natural habitats.
- Scenic River Views: Beautiful views of the Delaware River and surrounding landscapes.