Delaware River Waterfront: Philly’s Riverside Retreat

Can’t-Miss Experiences

1. Lounge at Spruce Street Harbor Park or lace up at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a warm-weather fave with food vendors, a beer garden, floating barges and free concerts — plus a twinkly hammock grove you’ll never want to leave.

Just upriver, Independence Blue Cross RiverRink hosts Summerfest (roller skating) and Winterfest (ice skating), with an open-air rink, rides, boardwalk games and seasonal treats like funnel cake.

Spruce Street Harbor Park   — Photo by Beaumonde Originals for Delaware River Waterfront Corporation

2. Celebrate major festivals and firework shows

Some of Philly’s biggest celebrations happen right here on the waterfront.

The area is a major fireworks destination, with a pre-Fourth of July fireworks celebration each summer and dazzling fireworks displays every New Year’s Eve.

Plus, the annual PECO Multicultural Series showcases diverse cultures, crafts and cuisine throughout the year at events like the ACANA African Festival, the Mexican Independence Day Festival and the Festival of India.

New Year’s Eve fireworks display   — Photo courtesy Delaware River Waterfront Corporation

3. Support the arts at Cherry Street Pier and FringeArts

The art scene on the water is electrifying.

Cherry Street Pier offers maker pop ups, events, rotating exhibits and open studios — all with panoramic river views.

Nearby, FringeArts hosts avant-garde performances in a historic building under the Ben Franklin Bridge, along with a beer garden next door at Fringe Bar and the annual Fringe Festival.

Art Star Craft Bazaar pop up at Cherry Street Pier   — Photo courtesy Art Star

4. Enjoy dinner and drinks with a view

Fun on the water extends to Philly eateries, with skyline views and riverside brews.

Enjoy fresh seafood at spots like Liberty Point (Philly’s largest restaurant), waterfront dance parties at seasonal hangs like Morgan’s Pier, and contemporary American and twilight cocktails aboard anchored ships like the Moshulu.

Liberty Point   — Photo courtesy Liberty Point

5. Get nautical with maritime attractions

The Independence Seaport Museum highlights Philadelphia’s history both from land and sea with interactive exhibits and an award-winning pair of military vessels — the Cruiser Olympia and Submarine Becuna.

Just steps away, Paddle Penn’s Landing puts you at the helm of a (swan-shaped) vessel of your own to cruise the river for yourself.

Looking for an even bigger voyage? Climb aboard the impressive Spirit of Philadelphia or charter an intimate luxury cruise with Sea Philly.

  — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

6. Explore more green spaces along the Delaware River Trail

Connecting our favorite riverfront destinations, this expansive trail offers over three miles of scenic views and prime space for biking, walking, boarding, skating and more.

Wake up with sunrise yoga at Race Street Pier, stroll through historic Penn Treaty Park, admire the Land Buoy — a tribute to Philly’s immigrant communities — at Washington Avenue Pier, or just take to the trail and see where it leads you.

  — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

7. Hop across the river for Adventure Aquarium, Battleship New Jersey & Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

The fun doesn’t stop on the Philly side of the river.

The Camden waterfront (yes, that is New Jersey on the other side of the Delaware River) offers major all-ages fun — and impeccable views of the city skyline — at Adventure Aquarium, Battleship New Jersey and Freedom Mortgage Pavilion.

Pro tip: The seasonal RiverLink Ferry offers easy access to the Camden waterfront from Penn’s Landing — no driving required.

Adventure Aquarium   — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Where to Stay

Take your pick. Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing and Holiday Inn Express are right on the water, plus Penn’s View Hotel and Philadelphia Marriott Old City are close by.

King Bed Waterfront Room at Hilton Philadelphia at Penn's Landing   — Photo courtesy Hilton Philadelphia at Penn's Landing

Local Tips

Ready to experience the area firsthand? Here are some tips to get you started:

• Accessing the waterfront via public transportation is as easy as hopping on SEPTA’s L (Market-Frankford) subway line, the seasonal PHLASH shuttle, or one of the many nearby buses.
• Parking is limited due to the construction, but lots are available along Market Street, Lombard Circle and Penn’s Landing. Rates and availability may vary by event.
• Insider secret: Early evening is one of the best times to visit Spruce Street Harbor Park. As the sun goes down, the LED lanterns turn on, washing the hammock lounge in a magical glow — plus the lines for food tend to be shorter.
• Looking to catch the sunset? Cherry Street Pier offers peaceful, secluded views of the sun setting over the Ben Franklin Bridge from its outdoor garden area.