South Philadelphia Sports Complex & The Navy Yard: A Guide to Philly’s Stadium District

Can’t Miss Experiences

1. Root, root, root for the home team and enjoy epic events

The three arenas in the Sports Complex can hold more than 130,000 people collectively. On game and concert days, the surrounding parking lots brim with tailgating fans who barbecue, drink and play games.

The Philadelphia Phillies’ home field — Citizens Bank Park — features seats for 43,000 fans and stellar views of the Center City skyline, while Lincoln Financial Field erupts into raucous E-A-G-L-E-S chants from sell-out crowds every time the Philadelphia Eagles take the field.

And Philadelphia’s 76ers, Flyers and Wings all play at Xfinity Mobile Arena, which also regularly hosts star-studded concerts and massive events like monster truck rallies and professional wrestling and boxing matches.

Citizens Bank Park   — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

2. Relax, stroll and dine at the birthplace of the U.S. Navy

When America realized it needed a strong naval defense system, the country’s first naval shipyard set up shop on the Delaware River. The Philadelphia Naval Shipyard built and repaired battle-ready warships until its closure in 1996.

In 2000, planning started for the massive revitalization effort that became The Navy Yard. Now a thriving business campus open to the public daily, visitors can relax in abundant green space, grab a bite at onsite eateries, enjoy public art and even stay the night.

  — Photo courtesy The Navy Yard

3. Play, learn and feast at FDR Park’s vast open spaces

Birdwatchers, picnickers, team players, cyclists and skaters flock to FDR Park’s 348 acres of courts, fields, trails and wetlands daily to enjoy a quiet respite from the bustling South Philadelphia neighborhood. Pro tip: Early mornings and sunset are the most tranquil times to visit.

Visitors here can also learn about the area’s first settlers at the American Swedish Historical Museum, and weekends from spring through fall bring dozens of vendors to the Southeast Asian Market at FDR Park, named “one of the best food markets in the United States” by Food & Wine.

Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park   — Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia

4. Sink your teeth into an authentic Philly cheesesteak

Those in search of the authentic Philly cheesesteak can find legendary offerings at Tony & Nick’s Steaks (formerly Tony Luke’s) and John’s Roast Pork, which continually ranks among the city’s top steak spots.

Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks (from the often-newsworthy “Skinny Joey” Merlino and partner Joe Perri) has gained a devoted following.

5. Ride the bull and party at Stateside Live!

Located in the heart of the Sports Complex, Stateside Live! becomes party central for pre- and post-game revelry, watch parties and celebratory holidays like New Year’s Eve and St. Patrick’s Day.

The venue’s 80,000 square feet features bites, brews and a high-energy atmosphere — complete with a free-to-ride-if-you-dare mechanical bull.

  — Photo courtesy Stateside Live!

Where to Stay

Attracting about 7 million visitors annually, the neighborhood features many hotels to lay weary heads including:

• Live Casino and Hotel Philadelphia, located within the Sports Complex with 200 upscale rooms and slots, table games, dining and entertainment
• the plush Courtyard Philadelphia South at Navy Yard, just a short walk from stadiums, and
• the Holiday Inn Philadelphia Airport/Stadium Area, with easy airport access.

Head here for a full guide to hotels near the Sports Complex.

The Courtyard South Philadelphia at the Navy Yard   — Photo by J. Goldman

Local Tips

• Locals love tomato pie at Cascia’s Bakery, Pop’s Water Ice (a summer staple), all-day breakfast at the Oregon Diner, all-you-can-eat at Royal Buffet & Grill and the OG Chickie’s & Pete’s, where the signature Crabfries flow freely.
• NRG Station — the last southbound stop on SEPTA’s Broad Street subway line — provides easy access to the neighborhood, with shuttle service available between the station and The Navy Yard. Driving to the complex is easy, too, with I-95 and I-76 both passing through.
• The Sport Complex opens up many of its parking lots for free on non-event days.