Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Philadelphia, United States

Philadelphia, United States, Philadelphia, Outdoor & Adventure, Beaches & Waterfront Activities

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.