Whether it’s to go to a BYO, a downtown, or a date night, most students have ventured out off of Penn’s campus into Center City or Rittenhouse at some point. But as great as Philly’s nightlife is, there’s plenty to do in center city during the day. Here’s a couple ideas of the best experiences the city of brotherly love has to offer:
If you’re looking for a nice way to spend an afternoon after classes, there’s plenty of shops to visit in Rittenhouse. On your way there, take a nice walk along the Schuykill. If need an afternoon pick-me-up, or want to sit and study for a little while, a good coffee place is Good Karma Café, right on Walnut and 22nd. It serves fairtrade coffee and vegan treats, and its location between campus and Rittenhouse makes it the perfect pit-stop. There’s also La Colombe on 19th in Rittenhouse.
If you’re feeling like shopping, keep walking down Walnut and once you hit 18th street there’s a plethora of stores to choose from, you could spend hours there! If you stay long enough, maybe grab dinner at any one of the restaurants in Rittenhouse. If you’re up to try something new, Dizengoff is a middle eastern restaurant on 16th and Sansom known for it’s hummus. If you want more of a “grab and go” experience on your way back to campus, stop at Picnic on 31st and walnut right near DRL for awesome take out healthy and fresh foods.
If you’re going into Center city on a Friday afternoon, every first Friday of the month all the art galleries in old city from 5 to 9 PM. The district houses more than 40 galleries, encouraging art enthusiasts to get out and experience the crowds and art on Front and Third and Market and vine Streets. There’s also Bird Park on Third Street below Arch which showcases installations by sculptors. Old City also has great dining experiences, like the famous Buddakan, or the always-popular Fork.
If you want more free outdoors experiences, go spend time in Dilworth park on South 15th st. While you’re seeing the sites, you should check out City Hall, and if you want a more cultural experience, head to Chinatown.
If you’re going on a Saturday, definitely head to the farmer’s market in Rittenhouse square for healthy farm fresh produce. Or, head to the famous Reading Terminal Market on 12th street for an even larger selection. Pro tip: go in the morning before the crowds hit, if you get there before 10am you won’t have to deal with the crowds.
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a Sunday and de-stress before the week ahead, you should definitely check out one of the great group exercise classes in center city. If you like spinning, try Flywheel, or Body Cycle Studio. If you’re into yoga try Focus Barre and Yoga. Or- there’s always the long jog next to the Schuykill that’s equally as challenging and completely free! Plus, you get a great view of the Philadelphia skyline.