Philadelphia — the only U.S. city featured in National Geographic Traveler’s Best Trips 2020 issue — is getting back to business.
Green means go — with safety precautions in place — for Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties, which moved to the green phase on June 26, 2020. And Philadelphia County followed suit, with a move to a modified green phase on July 3, 2020.
So what does green phase mean? It means the return of museums, zoos, shopping malls and so much more.
It also means residents, visitors and employees are all doing their part to keep everyone safe by wearing masks (which are required throughout the five-county region), as well as following social-distancing and other guidelines from both the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Now is a fantastic time to visit Philadelphia hot spots without the crowds; explore the city responsibly with friends and family; host socially distant celebrations you may have missed; and snag a great deal at one of the region’s acclaimed hotels.
Below, explore our guide to what you can do in Greater Philadelphia right now.
Dining outdoors is back in Philadelphia and the Countryside — and indoor dining is available in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties.
As of June 2020, outdoor dining returned — with precautions to keep everyone safe — to restaurants, bars, breweries and more in the five-county region.
And indoor dining is also back — at 25% capacity — at restaurants in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties. Remember your mask, as they’re required for indoor dining.
So if you’ve been waiting to explore one of the 10 most interesting food scenes in America (East Passyunk Avenue) or some of the best bakeries in the U.S. (Suraya, Lost Bread Co, K’Far, Beiler’s Bakery and Essen Bakery), now’s your chance.
Pair a meal with waterfront views aboard the Moshulu ship on the Delaware River. Remember: Masks are required in restaurants except when seated. — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Dreaming of a stay in one of Philly’s luxurious suites? Pining for some room service? Or just need to practice some self-care outside your apartment or house?
Most hotels in the region are accepting guests now that they’ve made numerous safety adjustments to ensure visitors feel and stay safe.
The Logan, Philadelphia's Hotel — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Take in waterfront views at the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing. Pair a night’s stay at the Golden Plough Inn with some retail therapy at Bucks County’s Peddler’s Village. Or throw a socially distant pool party at Center City’s Windsor Suites Philadelphia.
Note that some hotels are still prepping to welcome guests later this summer. Your best bet: Check with each individual property — and see if they have any deals available at the moment.
The Windsor Suites Philadelphia — Photo courtesy The Windsor Suites Philadelphia
Museums and attractions in the region are on a rolling reopening, with some open now and others prepping to welcome visitors later in the summer.
New safety precautions abound at the region’s stunning museums and attractions that are currently open or opening soon.
Pro tip: Plan your visit ahead of time, as many attractions require timed tickets or reservations.
This summer, discover (or re-discover) some of the gems throughout the region by:
And the region’s outstanding variety of outdoor spaces remain open for socially distant use. Explore our guides to awesome running and biking trails, great parks and open spaces, and outdoor adventures for ideas on exploring the best of the region.
To be safe, check ahead with any museum or attraction before visiting to confirm that it’s open — and to make sure you follow the correct safety protocols to visit. (Hint: Pack your mask!) Get more ideas on spots to explore on our Museums & Attractions page.
Pro tip: Many attractions, including Wayne's Chanticleer, now require visitors to make reservations or purchase timed tickets in advance. — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Retail stores are on a rolling reopening for in-person shopping with steps to keep shoppers safe and comfortable.
From Frankford to East Passyunk, Bristol to Chester, supporting local businesses has never been more crucial than it is now.
And residents and visitors throughout Greater Philadelphia can explore their neighborhood boutiques and local stores — and discover new neighborhoods — in the green phase, where in-person shopping is permitted. (But remember your mask!)
Explore a fine array of stores at the brand-new Fashion District Philadelphia in Center City. Or stroll the charming shopping corridors of Peddler’s Village and its 60-plus shops. Or explore one of the best shopping malls in America, the King of Prussia Mall.