After navigating crowded streets, long workdays, and cramped living spaces, getting away for the weekend can be a welcome respite for any New Yorker. If you’re looking for a slower pace and a destination full of outdoor activities, look no further than Philadelphia. Philadelphia and its nearby towns are exploding with history and culture, and it’s easy to navigate without renting a car. If you’re looking for ideas to spice up your date nights, impress your partner with the ultimate proposal or just spend the day outdoors and away from New York City, Philadelphia is the perfect place to visit.
Wander the Museum Mile
If you find yourself gravitating to the Met or MoMa and want to explore new museums, head to Philadelphia own “Museum Mile” on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Here you’ll find the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to the famous Rocky steps and statue. You can’t visit without running up the steps and snapping a triumph picture at the top. The Barnes Foundation is home to the world’s most extensive collection of art by impressionist, post-impressionist, and early modernist masters compiled by the late educator Dr. Albert C. Barnes. Nearby is the Rodin Museum, home to 120 of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures and other art, including a bronze cast of The Thinker and a marble copy of The Kiss. The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts hosts a permanent collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Soar to Great Heights on a Hot Air Balloon
If you’re up for an outdoor adventure away from the bustle of New York City, imagine floating high in the air over greater Philadelphia in a hot air balloon with Lancaster Balloon Rides (operated by The US Hot Air Balloon Team). From 1,500 to 3,500 feet, you’ll see views of a glittering Philadelphia skyline, the Schuylkill River and its tributaries, the historic town squares, and the rolling hills and farmlands. Safely resting in a large wicker basket, you’ll enjoy an experience of a lifetime, taking in the beauty of Chester, Montgomery, Berks County, and beyond.
Stroll Through Longwood Gardens
An hour outside Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is one of the premier botanical gardens, attracting people from around the world. The renowned gardens are known for their dedication to horticulture, design, education, and art. Visitors to Longwood Gardens have free reign to tour its 1,083 acres of 40 gardens comprised of 11,000 plants. It’s a tranquil paradise for plant lovers and design aficionados alike.
Explore Foodie Paradise
To taste local Philadelphia fresh produce, seafood, meats, and cheese, head to Reading Terminal Market. At America’s oldest farmers’ market, you’ll find global cuisine from over 80 vendors, including Pennsylvania Dutch foods and DiNic’s hot roast pork sandwiches. Another popular stop for foodies is Philadelphia’s Italian Market, one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in America. Vendors line the streets in South Philadelphia selling vegetables, fish, meat, spice, and more. While you’re in South Philly, be sure to try cheesesteaks from rivaling cheesesteak shops Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s King of Steaks.
With beautiful scenery at every turn, the greater Philadelphia area has much to offer visitors from New York City, and it’s only a two-three drive away. From its quality museums and excellent food to unique sights and high-flying outdoor adventures, you’ll find there’s something for everyone in Philadelphia.