Things to Do in Philadelphia This Week & Weekend

Through Friday, April 3, 2026

The finalists are locked in, and this week is your last chance to vote in the 2026 Liberty Bells, Visit Philadelphia’s annual awards-season celebration of all the Philly people, places and things that you love most. (And seeing as Philly is the birthplace of American democracy, it’s only natural that we leave the voting up to the people.)

So what are you waiting for? Click here to vote for your favorites. You can vote once per day now through Friday.

Through Saturday, April 4, 2026

Channeling the spirit of the 1976 Sin Colonias March (aka “the People’s Bicentennial”), Fairhill Puerto Rican arts and culture organization, Taller Puertorriqueño, marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a year-long slate of programs amplifying Puerto Rican and Afro-Latine perspectives.

Wrapping up this week, Taller showcases Orisha Santos: An Artistic Interpretation of the Seven African Powers. This exhibition showcases the work of New York sculptor Jorge Luis Rodriguez, who collaborated with members of Philly’s Yoruba Orisha community to inspire his work.

Through Sunday, April 5, 2026

As she lies dying, First Lady Martha Washington can’t escape the wild visions holding her to account, as the enslaved people who will be freed upon her death put her on trial.

From the Wilma’s HotHouse Acting Company and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright James Ijames, The Most Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington delivers a biting satire that explores history, race and power dynamics.

Plus, there’s still time to cash in on the Citywide James Ijames Pass, offering access to this play and Ijames’ upcoming world premiere production, Wilderness Generation, for $90.

Now open

The Cult of Cream Puff has arrived.

Beard Papa’s — Japan’s wildly popular pastry brand — opened its first store in Philly last week, bringing its crunchy, flaky and oh-so tasty choux pastries to the City of Brotherly Love. The shop (Beard Papa’s 578th overall) is known for its cream-filled eclairs, and offers crowd-pleasing flavor bombs like the vanilla bean, Oreo cookie crumble, strawberry and chocolate eclairs, along with limited-time seasonal flavs like sakura-matcha and ube.

The thin and airy pastries stand out due to their pie crust bottoms and delicately sweet custard fillings (made fresh on site), and visitors can expect more flavors added to the menu as operations ramp up.

Now open

With Michelin-starred chef Laurent Tourondel at the helm, you know it’s gotta be good.

This brand-new steakhouse in Northern Liberties sports a sophisticated menu, classy decor, and global inspirations spanning Italy, Asia and the Mediterranean. The elevated food offerings riff on beloved favorites and add a few surprises into the mix, with items like Japanese-inspired lemon chicken parm sandwiches, wood-fired whole branzino, wagyu hot dogs with gruyère and ice cream sundaes (just because).

Plus, the curated drink menu features a robust wine list, right alongside an impressive roster of signature cocktails like the Golden Hour (white raspberry gin with Noveis Antico bitter liqueur and lemon-infused vermouth), and the Smokin’ Gun (mezcal, blackberry-infused brandy, Bonal aperitif wine, Thai basil and lime).

On the horizon: happy hour and a full brunch menu.

Now open

Quack *checks notes* quack. Lucky Duck — a brand-spankin’-new bar and restaurant along the Delaware River — is much more than the sum of its parts.

The second brainchild of Libertee Grounds owners Priyank Rambhia, Sanil Shah and Kanay Patel, this tavern-style American bistro dishes out the pub grub you’d expect (crispy pizzas, Cooper Sharp burgers, salads), as well as a number of surprise entrees like duck bolognese, steak frites and oysters with mango mignonette.

When the weather warms up, bring your craft cocktails and draft pours out to the patio and enjoy that sweet, sweet backdrop of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Through Sunday, April 12, 2026

Spring break, woo hoo! Philly cranks up the fun with a whole host of limited-time family events and activities at some of the city’s biggest attractions.

This week, experience immersive storytelling and interactive fun during The Great Escape at Eastern State Penitentiary (through Sunday); dive into special nautical crafts at the Independence Seaport Museum (Monday through Friday); or watch live theater bring history to life at the Museum of the American Revolution (through April 12, 2026).

Spring break activities are included with general admission to each attraction.

March 30 – April 1, 2026

When the bats get crackin’, you know it’s hittin’ season. The Fightin’ Phils are back for another week at Citizens Bank Park — this time against National League East rivals the Washington Nationals.

The starting lineup of the three-game stretch features Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper — and marks the return of Phillies all-star pitcher Andrew Painter on Tuesday.

Can’t decide which night to go? Tuesday is another buy-one-get-one hot dog night (translation: get those glizzies), and Wednesday is School Spirit Night (rah, rah, sis boom bah!).

Opens Monday, March 30, 2026 (select dates)

Located in the southeast sliver of Bucks County — between Northeast Philly and the Delaware River — is Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum, an early 1800s Greek Revival mansion on a 50-acre estate surrounded by native woodlands and formal gardens.

For opening week, the attraction kicks things off in style with two new exhibitions: Revolutionary Family — celebrating America’s 250th anniversary — and the stunningly abstract Radical Americana (Monday through November 13, 2026). Plus, Andalusia opens its doors on select Saturdays this year, including Open Saturday this week (the perfect time to catch the estate’s nearly two-dozen cherry blossom trees blooming in technicolor perfection).

Advance tickets are required, and both guided and self-guided tours are available.

March 31 – April 5, 2026

The hall is alive with The Sound of Music. The live musical version of one of the most cherished movies of all time kicks off a short run at Philly’s iconic Academy of Music this week.

Set in 1930s Austria, the story follows nun Maria and her musical musings with the von Trapp family. The story of love and resilience features the classic score from Rodgers and Hammerstein, now reinvisioned for the stage.

Part of Ensemble Arts Philly’s buy-two-or-more Family Discovery Series savings package, ticket buyers can save up to 25% when purchasing tickets to two or more shows.

When the City of Philadelphia proposed that a potentially disruptive new sports arena be developed right next to Chinatown, a grassroots movement of local community members banded together to remind everyone about the importance of protecting the city’s cultural heritage.

No Arena: Making a Movement captures stories of the people, moments and strategies that made the movement possible through archival documents, audio installations, and a schedule of programs and events — each exploring lessons learned and visions for preserving Chinatown’s history.

Want to get a first look and celebrate some of those who made the movement possible? Don’t miss the opening reception this Tuesday.

April 1-30, 2026 (dates vary by event)

Philly’s got a history that no other city can claim. How about we celebrate?

In addition to the year-long Semiquincentennial celebration, this April (and beyond!) cultural institutions across the city  — in collaboration with the Histories Collaborative of Philadelphia — have teamed up for the first-ever Philadelphia Histories Month, a citywide celebration featuring special events, tours, exhibitions, talks and more.

Want in on the historic action? Check out our detailed guide to see the slate of offerings.

April 1-30, 2026

April is National Arab American Heritage Month, and Philly recognizes the achievements and contributions of Arab Americans this month at restaurants, shops, galleries and institutions throughout the city.

Enjoy authentic experiences at popular Arab-owned and -operated eateries, like the James Beard-honored Suraya in Fishtown, the French-Lebanese Cafe La Maude in Northern Liberties, Casablanca Mediterranean Grill near East Passyunk, the Middle Eastern-influenced Malooga in Old City and Haraz Coffee House, the popular Yemeni coffee shop in University City.

Shop local goods at any of the city’s Arab-owned and -operated stores, including trendy threads at Beyond the Seams along North Broad and handcrafted Moroccan crafts at Little Marrakesh Bazaar in Reading Terminal Market, or check out the non-profit Al-Bustan gallery and online store, where each purchase supports art and education programs.

Plus, this week, don’t miss the film screening of The Travels of Ibn Jubayr at The Rotunda, featuring a special performance by acclaimed composer Maurice Louca (Tuesday).

April 1-30, 2025

As the birthplace and hometown of some of the most notable figures in jazz history, including Billie Holiday, John Coltrane, Ethel Waters and Dizzy Gillespie, Philly’s jazz roots run deep — and the city is celebrating this April with Philly Jazz Month. Here are some of the city’s top jazz events this week:

• Kick-off Celebration: Philly Jazz Month 2026 at City Hall: Start Philly Jazz Month on a high note inside City Hall with this lively kick-off event. Featuring welcoming remarks, smooth sounds, light bites and a splash of wine, the event honors Philly’s jazz legacy — this month and beyond (Tuesday).
• Various shows at Chris’ Jazz Cafe and SOUTH: Chris’ Jazz Cafe and SOUTH Restaurant & Jazz Club are two of the hottest jazz spots in the city — and you catch live performances most of the week at each venue (with a nice dinner to boot). Chris’ heats things up with a full lineup of sets this week (Tuesday through Saturday), while SOUTH takes us home with a few end-of-week shows (Thursday through Sunday).
• East Passyunk Jazz Crawl: East Passy gets brassy with a big lineup of performers for its second annual Jazz Crawl. Wander from spot to spot as free live sets spill out of local shops all afternoon — like one big ol’ jazz playground. Plus, stick around for Lindy Hop dancing and performances by popular local artists on the main stage (Saturday).
• Free First Sunday Family Day: Philly Jazz Month at the Barnes Foundation: The Barnes Foundation takes its Free First Sunday series — featuring art, music and family fun — and gives it a jazzy twist this month. Catch rising stars Equinox as they bring fresh energy to classic sounds, then explore hands-on activities and gallery treasures (Sunday).
• More Jazz in Philly: Looking for even more events? Check out the official Philly Jazz Month’s 2026 calendar, scroll through the year-round Philly Jazz Scene event round-up, or peruse Visit Philadelphia’s own guide to live music in Philly — featuring top jazz venues and so much more.

Opens Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Reopening for the season on Wednesday, this botanical wonderland — spread across 35 acres of Delaware County — features more than 5,000 plants on the grounds of the century-old former Rosengarten manor.

The lush, contemporary arboretum is home to several distinct gardens with perennial displays, vegetable gardens, orchards, landscaped terraces, wildflower meadows, ruins, shady woods and agricultural fields.

Opens April 1 & 2, 2026

Two of Philly’s historic heavyweights, Stenton and Wyck, reopen for tours in Germantown this week (by appointment only), each offering distinct windows into Philly’s past.

Stenton, a 300-year-old mansion and former plantation, explores the complexities of abolitionist history through art, artifacts and stories. The estate is known for its preserved 2,700-volume library — once used by revolutionaries like Benjamin Franklin — and its memorials to the enslaved people who once lived there (opens Wednesday).

Just down the road, Wyck — a 2.5-acre National Historic Landmark first conceived in 1690 — offers a gentler stroll back in time. The site is home to antique-filled outbuildings, a working urban farm and the oldest unmodified rose garden in America, including some roses found nowhere else in the world: the Elegant Gallica and the Lafayette Rose (opens Thursday).

Opens Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Walnut Garden is back for another season of sips and sunshine in Rittenhouse Square.

The lively outdoor beer garden sports two full-service bars (Garden Bar and Tent Bar), a dedicated draft trailer (with beer, wine and cocktails), and a kitchen trailer slinging plenty of crowdpleasers a la chicken tenders, cheesesteaks and hot dogs. Plus, kiddos can hang out on the wooden Jeep and slide in the children’s garden area, and leashed pups are welcome anytime.

Walnut Garden is open daily until New Year’s Eve.

Spring into wellness at the Penn Museum, when it transforms its gardens and galleries into a sanctuary of self-care during Mind & Mood Recharge, part of the museum’s popular First Wednesdays series.

The after-hours experience invites guests to pause the midweek rush and open their third eye with multisensory guided activities by different yoga, meditation and expressive arts practitioners.

Plus, the event features art-making, mindful gallery explorations, a wellness marketplace, and pay-as-you-go light bites and refreshments at the botanical bar. Tickets are required.

Attention aspiring historians and future history-makers: The National Constitution Center is all yours for the evening. As part of its spring break festivities, the Old City museum stays open late this Wednesday for Family Fun Night.

On the schedule for the evening, youngsters and their adults can look forward to guided flashlight tours of Signers’ Hall, a ton of 18th-century themed crafts, activities and workshops, and full access to the museum’s galleries, including the new America’s Founding exhibit. The best part? Admission costs only $5.

April 2 & 5, 2026

With the postseason in view, the Philadelphia Flyers continue their playoff push this week with two at-home match-ups.

Ready to leave it all on the ice at Xfinity Mobile Arena, the orange and black take on the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday.

Then, an afternoon game on Sunday pits the Fly Guys against the Boston Bruins, with the final promotional event of the season … Dollar Ice Cream Night!

April 2-16, 2026

The Academy of Natural Sciences celebrates Earth Month with the Confluence: Film Festival, its third annual film fest dedicated to all things environmental.

The festival showcases films — all focusing on this year’s festival theme of “Seeding the Future” — from regional filmmakers that explore the climate crisis, sustainability and justice. Things kick off with an opening night party this Thursday, featuring live music, film screenings, and pay-as-you-go food and drinks in Dino Hall.

Confluence was developed in partnership with BlackStar Projects, cinéSPEAK, the Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival and the Philadelphia Latino Arts & Film Festival. Tickets are required, and discounted four-day packages are available.

Friday, April 3, 2026

On the first Friday of each month, galleries, shops and attractions across Philly invite visitors and locals to experience the best of the city’s arts and culture scene with extended hours, monthly events and special showcases. This month’s highlights include:

• a Friday night fete featuring local art and handcrafted cocktails at the Gaslamp Hotel
• a new, nighttime art installation setting Kensington storefronts aglow
• hands-on activities and the debut of a new audio tour at the Science History Institute
• an art lover’s dream with free exhibitions, an artisans market and live entertainment at Cherry Street Pier
• a full day of events, live music, restaurant specials and new gallery showcases, plus deals and extended hours at local retailers in Chestnut Hill, and
• a DJ-fueled vendor market with free bites and vino at Plant & People.

Calling all sneakerheads, shoeaholics and sole-mates: It’s time to get your kicks at the largest sneaker marketplace on the East Coast.

More than 250 vendors set up at the Pennsylvania Convention Center with over 100,000 accessories, apparel and pairs of sneakers — ranging from vintage finds to the freshest drops.

New for 2026: The street-style hotspot gets into the trading card game, debuting a special marketplace for the collectibles and a limited-edition Allen Iverson card drop — complete with a special appearance from the NBA legend himself.

Opens Saturday, April 4, 2026

This beloved culinary treasure returns to the heart of South Philly’s FDR Park, ushering in outdoor market season. A nationally renowned seasonal market, the Southeast Asian Market pops up every warm-weather weekend (except for occasional special events), showcasing some of the best Lao, Khmer, Thai, Vietnamese and Indonesian cuisine in the city.

Last year’s market saw over 70 vendors offering traditional dishes, authentic street food and culturally specific produce, plus plants, jewelry and clothing. Pack a picnic blanket and don’t forget to bring cash — some vendors are cash-only, and there’s no ATM on site.

You know what spring means: It’s palooza season. Bring the littles over to Smith Memorial Playground for a fun and interactive day of games, snacks, hands-on activities, live entertainment and more.

The massive playground offers nature exploration, plenty of playground equipment and climbables, and, of course, its iconic 12-foot-wide, 60-foot-long wooden slide. The event is completely free to attend, but you can register in advance here. Complimentary snacks are up for grabs, courtesy of Herr’s, with additional refreshments available for purchase.

Through Sunday, April 5, 2026

Wicker baskets at the ready: The Easter Bunny is popping up all around Greater Philly this weekend, with colorful eggs a-plenty:

• Easter at the Philadelphia Zoo: The residents of the Philadelphia Zoo host an extra special guest this Easter season and a slate of holiday-themed activities, including a scavenger hunt highlighting animals across the zoo (through Sunday, April 12), a traditional easter egg hunt (Friday through Sunday) and a magical brunch with the head bunny as the guest of honor (Sunday).
• Easter Eggstravaganza at Shadybrook Farm: Shady Brook celebrates the Day of the Bunny with wagon rides, kid-friendly field activities and obstacle courses, pay-as-you-go food and drinks, photo ops, live music (Friday and Saturday only), and the Easter Treat Trail. Collect enough eggs on the trail and you can trade them in for sweet treats (Thursday through Saturday).
• Hop-A-Long Trail at Franklin Square: You bring the basket, they’ll bring the treats. Gather the littles and make your way over to Franklin Square to hit up the Hop-A-Long Trail, collecting eggs along the way. The family event is free to attend for kids under the age of 10, but registration is required (Saturday).
• Easter at Elmwood Park Zoo: Easter eggs filled with tasty treats are popping up all around this popular Norristown attraction — and it’s up to your little ones to find them. Free with zoo admission, Elmwood Park Zoo’s easter egg hunt is open to kids ages 2 through 10 (Sunday).
• 93rd Annual Easter Promenade on South Street: This beloved South Street Easter strut celebrates its 93rd anniversary this Sunday. Kids and grown-ups alike can come dressed in their Sunday best for a free promenade, complete with live music, free bunny ears, a Best Dressed contest, and a visit from the Easter Bunny and other local mascots (Sunday).
• Easter Brunch Events in Greater Philadelphia: Not looking to cook on this Bun-day Sunday? Celebrate the holiday with tasty brunch options at restaurants across the region, like  Little Walter’s in Kensington, Red Owl Tavern in Old City, Square 1682 in Rittenhouse Square, The Twisted Tail in the Headhouse District and Dolce Italian in Center City. Or brunch aboard City Cruises’ The Spirit of Philadelphia, which includes a full buffet, bottomless mimosas, a live DJ, spectacular views of the Philly skyline and Delaware River, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Around Saturday, April 4, 2026

Greater Philadelphia is looking mighty pretty in pink, as its cherry blossoms are anticipated to reach their peak this week.

Named one of the best places in the nation to enjoy cherry blossom blooms by AFAR magazine, Philly is a prime place to observe the blooms’ fleeting beauty with plenty of picturesque locales to cherry blossom peep across the city and countryside.

Explosions of pink, white and purple frame the breathtaking Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, and dot the grounds of Longwood Gardens. There are also a ton of low-key places to park, sit or stroll under the blossoms throughout the region, including Belmont Plateau and Rittenhouse Square. Get a full rundown on where to view this year’s blooms with our 2026 guide.

Also, keep an eye out for special events, like Morris Arboretum’s Sake and Sakura Sip and Stroll, a ticketed self-guided tour and sake sampling sesh (Thursday, April 2, 2026).

52 Weeks of Firsts honors 250 years of Philly pioneering by celebrating the city’s many historic achievements — every Saturday, all throughout 2026. Featured Philadelphia “firsts” include inventions like the Slinky, cultural milestones such as Mother’s Day and significant locations like the first African Methodist Episcopal church.

The free celebrations take place at the original location of each first (or in spaces that represent where these significant milestones occurred) and include guest speakers, a sculpture, monthly marquee events and historic deep dives by Once Upon a Nation.

This Saturday, don’t miss the celebration of America’s first sports stadium (1895) at Franklin Field on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus.

April 5-11, 2026

The twice-a-year Dine Latino Restaurant Week aims to boost business for local Latino restaurants both in the city and the countryside, as the promotional event that started in 2020 enters its sixth year.

The list of participating restaurants for the Spring 2026 edition continues to grow, featuring over two-dozen of Filadelfia’s best Latino eateries, including Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Colombian, Peruvian and more.

Each spot offers either a buy-two-entrees, get-an-appetizer-or-dessert-free promotion or a special limited-time menu, and participating restaurants this spring include Adelita Taqueria & Restaurant, El Merkury, Casa Mexico, Mixto Restaurant, and more. ¡Buen provecho!

April 5 – May 17, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Sundays only)

Roam the streets and shop till you drop. For seven Sundays this April and May, one of Philadelphia’s top shopping and dining destinations transforms into a car-free oasis.

During Open Streets: West Walnut, pedestrians can shop, dine and mosey along seven car-free blocks while enjoying acoustic music, strolling performers and family-friendly activities.

The Open Streets zone runs on Walnut Street between Broad Street and 19th Street, and on 18th Street between Locust Street and Chestnut Street. Check out the official website for an entertainment schedule and a list of retailer and restaurant happenings.

Dates vary by event

Treat yourself at one of these food-related happenings in Greater Philadelphia. Hungry for more? Chow down on our guide to Philly’s newest restaurant openings this spring.

• Corio x Poi Dog Pizza Collaboration at Corio: Picture this: a pizza pie packed with crunchy red cabbage, fresh scallions, generous morsels of mozzarella and toasted sesame seeds. And the final piece of the pizza-shaped puzzle: tender pieces of chicken marinated in a fruity, gingery, guava-flavored sauce. It’s sweet. It’s savory. It’s tropical. And it all could be yours with this limited-time collab at Corio that pairs Poi Dog’s Hawaiian-style sauces with the University City restaurant’s pies (through Tuesday).
• Opening for the Season: The Beer Garden at the Lawn in University City: Take happy hour outdoors this Friday. University City’s warm-weather open-air hub, The Lawn, returns for the season with $5 brews from Two Locals Brewing, $8 ciders, $10 cocktails and $9 wines, plus a live DJ set. Keep an eye on the official website for more information about upcoming events (Friday).
• Ocho Supper Club X Cafe Lyft Presents Spring Inception at Cafe Lyft: Ring the alarm: This is your chance to snag Philly’s hottest dinner reservation right now. Ocho Supper Club — Chef RJ Smith’s elusive supper club and restaurant residency known for showcasing Afro-Caribbean flavors, culinary traditions and culture — takes over Cafe Lyft for a vibrant multi-course meal inspired by the season’s first harvests (Saturday).
• Liquid Brunch at Fabrika: Why should all the fun be had at night? This new daytime event series makes its grand debut at Fabrika with champagne, DJs, elevated vibes, pay-as-you-go food and drinks, and — wait for it — guaranteed seating.  Plus, guests get a complimentary glass of bubbly and a curated gift on arrival (Saturday).

Dates vary by event

Soak up these live performances at venues across Greater Philadelphia. Looking for an encore? The curtain’s rising on plenty of acts this spring and summer in our seasonal guide to Philly performing arts.

• Zara Larsson at The Fillmore: Summer’s not a season; it’s a lifestyle. See: Swedish pop star Zara Larsson’s dreamy and danceable songs that bring the shine and heat 24/7, 365. Step into the Blue Moon-singer’s sun-soaked world when her Midnight Sun Tour takes The Fillmore this week (Monday).
• kwn at the Theatre of Living Arts: A rising-star out of East London, kwn (pronounced kay-wuhn) gives quiet storm 2.0 — and her hits do what i say, back of the club and worst behaviour are all prime candidates for a sensual, late-night soundtrack. The singer-songwriter-producer brings the confessional lyrics and alt-R&B vibes to South Street’s Theatre of Living Arts (Wednesday).
• Oops! All Trans at Tattooed Mom: Just as colorful — with just as much bite — as a big ole box of Cap’n Crunch, this all-trans stand-up comedy show at Tattooed Mom delivers big personalities and even bigger laughs, just in time for Trans Day of Visibility (Wednesday).
• Whitney Cummings at Miller Theater: Mama’s back outside and back on stage! Emmy-nominated comedian, author, podcaster and all-around multi-hyphenate Whitney Cummings embarks on a brand-new comedy tour with a bevy of tales inspired by life as a new mom. Laugh right along with the funny lady when she comes to the Miller Theater (Friday).
• Peppa Pig: My First Concert at the Miller Theater: Your favorite family of farm animals is going to the orchestra. Peppa Pig — with Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and George, of course — discovers all the magic of a classical orchestra, alongside your own itty bitty piggies, at this interactive concert featuring the children’s show’s most popular tunes and iconic compositions by Beethoven, Mozart and more (Saturday).

Dates vary by tour

Are you with the tour? (You should be.) Check out our picks for some of the top guided tours in Philly this week. Looking for more? Go at your own pace and head out on one of these self-guided tours.

• Jewish History Self-Guided Tour at Eastern State Penitentiary: Learn all about Jewish life behind the walls of Eastern State Penitentiary with a self-guided tour highlighting how prisoners and other community members stayed connected to their faith and cultural traditions, even behind the historic prison’s gates (Wednesday through Wednesday, April 8, 2026).
• Science & Activism Tour at the Science History Institute: Believe it or not, science and activism go hand-in-hand. This free, drop-in tour at the Old City museum spotlights scientists, activists and organizations, like ACT UP and the Black Panthers, who reshaped our understanding of science through their environmental justice and public health efforts (Saturday).
• Death and Taxes: The Man Behind the Legend Tour at Christ Church: From the free library to the fire department, Ben Franklin’s influence reaches far beyond the grave. Get to know the man behind the myths and the legends better with this ticketed tour of his final resting place and those of his loved ones, rivals and fellow revolutionaries (Saturday through Saturday, April 25, 2026).

Dates vary by event

Can we get a “whoop whoop”? Can we get an “oh yeah”? Philly nightlife is looking cooler than cool with these dance parties this week:

• El Coro Presents: Benito Only at Silk City: Kick off Easter weekend with the baddest bunny in all the land at this 21-and-over fiesta at Silk City. It’s all Benito, all night long, so join other Bad Bunny-loving fans on the floor to dance along to his hits from X 100PRE to DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS (Thursday).
• COLORS Worldwide Presents R&B Only at The Fillmore: Can we talk for a minute? If soul set the soundtrack to your most memorable moments, this is the Saturday night move for you. This 21-and-up all-R&B dance party hits you with popular beats, classic hits and deep cuts from the genre’s past through now (Saturday).
• Gyal Tunes at Winston Social Club: DJs Bobby Flowers and AMH take turns behind the tables at this Old City joint, spinning R&B, dancehall, afrobeats, bounce and hip-hop hits for all the ladies — but guys, you can come, too (Saturday).

Ongoing

Give the City of Brotherly Love a standing ovation: The internationally renowned TKTS ticket booth service is now here in Philly. Joining the ranks of New York City, Tokyo, and London, TKTS Philadelphia offers an unbeatable deal: 30% to 50% off tickets to select Philly theater and performing arts shows within 72 hours of the performance.

Tickets must be purchased in person at the Independence Visitor Center and include shows by Ensemble Arts, the Philadelphia Orchestra, The Wilma Theater and many more. Want the full scoop? Read on in our guide.

Ongoing

Visitors to the National Constitution Center can now experience the highly anticipated America’s Founding gallery, offering high-tech snapshots of Revolutionary America in dramatic detail.

The new permanent gallery tells the story of how early Americans fought for independence, created the U.S. Constitution, drafted the Bill of Rights and ultimately laid the groundwork for our democracy. Visitors can explore immersive corridors, interact with tactile installations, watch engaging videos and view real-life artifacts.

In addition to other artifacts, the new space includes an original copy (!) of the U.S. Constitution — one of only 14 surviving — on display throughout 2026, along with rare first printings of 17 constitutional amendments.

Ongoing

Two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter’s work takes center stage at the African American Museum in Philadelphia’s latest exhibit, Afrofuturism in Costume Design, which explores how Carter’s hand-drawn costume images helped define iconic film characters.

The modular exhibition — which features interactive elements — showcases award-winning costumes and artifacts from Carter’s esteemed career, including a rare glimpse of the artist’s personal sketches and costumes from Carter’s private collection.

Carter — aka the most nominated Black woman in Oscar history — won Oscars for her costume designs for the Black Panther films and is the first Black woman to win multiple Academy Awards in any category.

Through Sunday, April 12, 2026

Where my Peeps at? The Pennsylvania-made marshmallow treats serve as artistic inspiration for the creation of marshmallow masterpieces — including wall art, dioramas, sculptures and more — at the always-adorable PEEPS in the Village annual event at shop-play-dine destination, Peddler’s Village.

2026 marks the seventh year of the beloved springtime tradition at the Bucks County indie shopping haven. View the colorful and extremely Instagram-worthy candy creations inside the Visitor & Event Center.

Note: The popular event attracts crowds each year. Visiting mid-week offers easier parking and peeping at the sugar-coated art.

Through Sunday, April 26, 2026

Seeking to “represent the people around [him],” Noah Davis spent his career capturing the intriphilamuseum.org/exhibitions/noah-daviscacies and beauty of everyday Black life in Los Angeles.

Though he was known for his visually interesting — often dreamlike — paintings exploring politics, race, mythology and more, Davis’ practice included photography-collecting, experimental sculpture-work, collage- and website-making, and, eventually, the opening of his own museum.

This landmark retrospective pays homage to the full breadth of the acclaimed artist’s life and work. After stops in LA, Germany and England, the incredible collection of over 60 pieces comes to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

March 27 – May 3, 2026

Spring has officially sprung at Longwood Gardens, Philly’s largest horticultural display garden.

The familiar colors and fragrances of the season are ready to be experienced during the annual Spring Blooms event, offering opportunities to take in the world-renowned thousand-acre attraction’s early spring bulbs, vibrant blooms of aromatic tulips, beloved wisteria, flowering trees and more.

Pierre du Pont’s tranquil botanic oasis showcases nearly 10,000 varieties among its indoor and outdoor grounds. Timed admission tickets are required.

Through Sunday, May 24, 2026

The tiniest creatures come alive in Eric Carle’s iconic children’s books, like The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The illustrations of these Small Living Things take center stage at the Michener Art Museum’s latest exhibit, showcasing the author-illustrator’s art.

Opening on Valentine’s Day, the exhibit at the Doylestown museum features original art from beloved Carle titles like: The Very Quiet Cricket, The Very Busy Spider and Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Visitors also have the opportunity to see Carle’s early sketches along with a peek into the artist’s process.

Through Sunday, July 12, 2026

When the world tried to erase them, their work and their subjects, these Philly-based artists claimed their space — on their own terms, through their own work.

Unfolding across not one, but two Philly museums — Woodmere and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts — Bodies and Souls explores how artists’ work asserted the complexities of the human experience, tackling gender, sexuality, relationships and more; cultivated compassion; and imagined a better world.

The powerful exhibition showcases over 130 paintings, drawings and sculptures, by artists such as Barbara Bullock and Marta Sanchez, and from Philadelphia art collectors Robert and Frances Coulborn Kohler’s collection.

Through Sunday, August 9, 2026

You can tell a lot about a person from their home. For the Shakers — a religious community that originated in 18th-century England and flourished in the United States — their strong beliefs around community, labor and equality extended to every facet of life, including their furniture, architecture and everyday goods.

Pairing historical Shaker-made artifacts straight out of the Testament of Ann Lee with contemporary artworks inspired by the community, this new exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art explores how the group developed a distinctive visual language marked by simplicity, innovation and purpose.

Wanna learn even more? The exhibition was recently featured in this article from The New York Times.

Through Monday, September 7, 2026

No need to leave the city to enjoy a Universal theme-park experience. This world-premiere exhibition, brought to you by The Franklin Institute and Universal Destinations & Experiences, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the innovation and world-building that goes into each Universal amusement park.

Spanning 18,000 square feet and eight immersive galleries, the interactive experience showcases more than 100 vehicles, props and other original artifacts from world-famous rides, attractions and live shows. And, in true Franklin Institute form, the display has an educational focus, playing up all the technology, engineering and artistry involved in theme park design.

Through Fall 2026

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s the Philly PHLASH! Everyone’s favorite way to conveniently travel from one iconic Philadelphia attraction to another is back for a brand-new season.

All-day passes run just $5 (free for SEPTA Key holders) and stops include Reading Terminal Market, Eastern State Penitentiary, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Philadelphia Zoo and many more. For the first time ever, the distinct purple bus also stops at 30th Street Station, the Mütter Museum and the Fashion District.

Through Sunday, January 3, 2027

“When in the course of human events …” The document from which that seminal phrase originates is the centerpiece of the Museum of the American Revolution’s 2026 programming. The Declaration’s Journey exhibition traces the history of America’s founding charter and its continuing influence, inspiring over 100 independence movements worldwide.

The Declaration’s legacy is explored through records, art and artifacts, including Thomas Jefferson’s chair, a Marquis de Lafayette-annotated draft of the French Declaration of Rights, the prison bench where Martin Luther King Jr. penned “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” a spinning wheel presented by Gandhi and more.

March 28, 2026 – February 14, 2027

In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson tasked Meriwether Lewis and William Clark with exploring the nation’s western territories following the Louisiana Purchase. But did you know that Philadelphia’s Academy of Natural Sciences holds nearly all the explorers’ original journals and preserved specimens related to their botanical research in its Lewis & Clark Herbarium?

The museum’s new Botany of Nations exhibition reexamines that rich collection through an Indigenous lens, blending botany (the study of plants) with ethnobotany (the study of how people use plants) to reshape the way we interpret the colonial journey.

Through Monday, January 3, 2028

We all know how the American Revolutionary War ended. Now, a brand-new exhibition — timed to coincide with the year-long Semiquincentennial celebration — at the Independence Seaport Museum explores how our new nation built its economy back up in the aftermath.

Featuring roughly 150 rarely seen objects and artifacts, Seeking Profit and Power: Philadelphia, China Trade and the Making of America examines how the dream of America survived (and thrived) through new economic relationships and international trade alliances — and how China helped build America into the global superpower it is today.

It’s true: Philly is an award-winning, headline-grabbing kinda town. Need help keeping up with all the buzz? Get the scoop with this weekly roundup of our favorite Philly stories. Hot off the presses:

• Philly just set a delicious world record. Any guesses?
• Your favorite Philly photo could end up in an art exhibit.
• Coming soon: Here’s how you can shop, dine and stroll in a car-free oasis.
• The Roots Picnic announces a mega-star headliner and new location for 2026.

Can’t stop. Won’t stop. And you don’t have to because there’s more visitphilly.com content where that came from.

• Food trucks? Check. Giveaways? Check. Giant screens broadcasting the world’s largest soccer tournament? Triple check! Philly’s FIFA World Cup 26 celebration just got a whole lot bigger. This June, the FIFA Fan Festival takes over a historic pocket of  East Fairmount Park for an epic, free watch party. Find when, where and how to get tickets to the 39-day (yes, you read that correctly) festival in our brand-new guide.
• Get ready: A historic Philly landmark — once the cornerstone of Alexander Hamilton’s visionary plan to create a central banking system to support our nation — is set to reopen as a brand-new attraction this summer, just days before the country’s milestone 250th anniversary. Get all the insider details in our primer on the reopening of the First Bank of the United States.
• The Rocky Statue and the Rocky Steps are undeniably two of the most popular and quintessential stops in Philadelphia, with a steady flow of fans arriving daily at the Philadelphia Museum of Art to channel their inner Balboa. Starting this week, visitors have noticed a few changes at the iconic Philly landmark. Find out all about them in our updated guide to the Rocky Statue and Steps.