Best Times to Visit Philadelphia, USA

Philadelphia, USA travel destination - best times to visit — Image: Independence National Historical Park INDE0004 b.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

✈️ Ready to book your trip?

Compare flights, hotels, and packages on Trip.com

Quick Answer:

Philadelphia truly shines in the late spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October), when the city breathes with a captivating energy. Imagine strolling through historic cobblestone streets under a canopy of budding leaves or witnessing the golden hues of autumn paint the iconic architecture. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring Independence Hall, enjoying the bustling Reading Terminal Market, and experiencing outdoor festivals before the chill of the winter months sets in or the summer heat becomes too intense.

Best Months to Visit:

AprMayJunSepOct

Airport Code

PHL

Coordinates

39.95°, -75.17°

Top Things to Do

Independence Hall at Dawn

Step back in time by visiting Independence Hall as the first tour of the day begins. Witness the very room where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted, feeling the weight of history in the quiet morning air before the crowds descend.

Reading Terminal Market's Culinary Delights

Dive into the vibrant chaos of Reading Terminal Market, a historic food hall buzzing with local energy. Sample a diverse array of flavors, from a classic Philly cheesesteak to Amish baked goods and exotic international cuisines, and don't miss the chance to chat with the passionate vendors.

Exploring the Magic Gardens

Wander through Isaiah Zagar's whimsical Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, an immersive outdoor art environment crafted from mosaic tiles, found objects, and vibrant colors. This unique urban oasis is a feast for the eyes, offering countless photo opportunities and a truly one-of-a-kind artistic experience.

A Stroll Through Wissahickon Valley Park

Escape the city bustle with a refreshing hike or bike ride along Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Valley Park. This sprawling urban oasis offers stunning natural beauty, historic covered bridges, and the soothing sounds of the Wissahickon Creek, making it a perfect nature retreat.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

food

You absolutely *must* get a cheesesteak, but skip the super touristy spots. Locals swear by Jim's South St. or Dalessandro's Steaks in Roxborough for the real deal. Remember to order it 'wit' (with onions) or 'witout' and specify your cheese preference – 'whiz wit' is a classic!

transport

Philly's public transit, SEPTA, is pretty decent for getting around the core city. Grab a SEPTA Key Card when you arrive; you can load it with money for individual rides or a weekly pass, which is usually the most cost-effective if you plan on using it a lot. It's way easier than fumbling for cash on buses.

culture

Embrace the 'Philly attitude' – we're direct and passionate, especially about our sports teams! Don't be offended if someone gives you a blunt answer; it's usually not personal. Just be ready to talk Eagles, Phillies, or Sixers, and you'll fit right in.

money

Many of Philly's best attractions are concentrated in a few walkable areas, especially around Old City and Center City. Consider purchasing a 'Philly Pass' if you plan on hitting many museums and historical sites; it can save you a bundle compared to individual tickets, but do the math based on what you *actually* want to see.

safety

Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. While generally safe, like any major city, be aware of your surroundings. If you're exploring neighborhoods like Fishtown or South Philly, it's good to have a general sense of where you're going and avoid looking too lost.

packing

Philly weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Pack layers! A comfortable pair of walking shoes is non-negotiable – you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot. Also, bring a light, packable rain jacket, just in case.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan

10 days

Feb

9 days

Mar

11 days

Apr

11 days

May

11 days

Jun

10 days

Jul

10 days

Aug

9 days

Sep

9 days

Oct

9 days

Nov

9 days

Dec

10 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

Month	High (°C)	Low (°C)	High (°F)	Low (°F)	Rainfall (mm)	Rain Days	Daylight (h)
Jan	4°C	-3°C	39°F	27°F	75mm	10 days	9.5h
Feb	6°C	-2°C	43°F	28°F	70mm	9 days	10.5h
Mar	11°C	2°C	52°F	36°F	90mm	11 days	12h
Apr	17°C	7°C	63°F	45°F	85mm	11 days	13.5h
May	22°C	12°C	72°F	54°F	95mm	11 days	14.5h
Jun	27°C	17°C	81°F	63°F	90mm	10 days	15h
Jul	30°C	20°C	86°F	68°F	100mm	10 days	14.5h
Aug	29°C	19°C	84°F	66°F	95mm	9 days	13.5h
Sep	25°C	15°C	77°F	59°F	90mm	9 days	12.5h
Oct	18°C	8°C	64°F	46°F	80mm	9 days	11h
Nov	12°C	2°C	54°F	36°F	75mm	9 days	10h
Dec	6°C	-1°C	43°F	30°F	75mm	10 days	9.5h

All Things to Do in Philadelphia, USA

Independence Hall at Dawn

attraction

Best time: Apr-Oct

Reading Terminal Market's Culinary Delights

food

Best time: Year-round

Exploring the Magic Gardens

cultural

Best time: May-Oct

A Stroll Through Wissahickon Valley Park

nature

Best time: Apr-Nov

Elfreth's Alley: America's Oldest Residential Street

attraction

Experience the charm of colonial Philadelphia by walking down Elfreth's Alley, the nation's oldest continuously inhabited residential street. Imagine life centuries ago as you admire the preserved Georgian and Federal rowhouses, and pop into the small museum for a glimpse into the past.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Rittenhouse Square's Evening Ambiance

activity

As dusk settles, find a bench in Rittenhouse Square and soak in the sophisticated atmosphere of one of Philadelphia's most beloved public spaces. Watch locals mingle, enjoy street performers, and perhaps indulge in a treat from a nearby patisserie as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Best time: May-Sep

South Street's Eclectic Shopping

shopping

Discover the vibrant and edgy spirit of Philadelphia along South Street, a hub for unique boutiques, vintage shops, and quirky art galleries. This street offers a refreshing alternative to mainstream retail, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs and fashion finds.

Best time: Year-round

A Taste of the Italian Market

food

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the 9th Street Italian Market, America's oldest outdoor market. Browse stalls overflowing with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and specialty imported goods, and grab a cannoli from a local bakery for an authentic taste of the neighborhood.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Planning your Philadelphia, USA adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

Getting Around Philadelphia, USA

SEPTA Regional Rail

This is Philadelphia's commuter rail system, connecting the city center with surrounding suburbs and attractions like Valley Forge or the Jersey Shore. It's a fantastic way to escape the urban bustle without needing a car, especially for day trips.

Cost:Fares vary by zone, typically $3.50 - $7.50 one-way. A weekly pass can be cost-effective if you plan multiple trips.

Tip:Download the SEPTA app for real-time schedules and ticket purchasing (though some older lines may still require paper tickets purchased at the station). Be aware that trains can sometimes be delayed, especially during rush hour, so factor in buffer time. Don't be surprised if conductors don't come around immediately; they'll get to you.

Indego Bike Share

Philadelphia's bike share program offers a healthy and enjoyable way to explore the city's neighborhoods and waterfront paths. It's perfect for covering medium distances between attractions or for a leisurely ride through Fairmount Park.

Cost:Single rides start at $1.50 for 30 minutes, with various monthly and annual passes available. A 24-hour pass is around $15.

Tip:Use the Indego app to find nearby stations and check bike availability. Always lock the bike securely at a docking station to avoid extra charges. A common mistake is not checking the bike's condition before riding; give the tires and brakes a quick once-over.

Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop

This seasonal bus service is specifically designed for tourists, with stops at major historical sites and attractions within the downtown core. It's incredibly convenient for hitting the highlights without constantly navigating complex transit maps.

Cost:Around $5 for a day pass, with multi-day options available. Exact change is often preferred if buying from the driver.

Tip:PHLASH operates from roughly Memorial Day to Labor Day, so check their operating dates and hours. The buses run frequently, but during peak times, you might have to wait for the next one. Don't try to use this for travel outside the downtown loop; it's strictly for sightseeing.

SEPTA Subway & Trolley Lines

The Market-Frankford Line (MFL) and Broad Street Line (BSL) are the city's main subway arteries, while the trolley lines serve specific corridors. They are the fastest way to traverse longer distances within the city, especially during peak hours.

Cost:$2.50 per ride using a SEPTA Key Card or exact change on trolleys. A weekly pass is also available.

Tip:Get a SEPTA Key Card to avoid fumbling for exact change and to benefit from fare capping. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially late at night on the MFL. Avoid standing directly in front of the doors when the train arrives; let passengers exit first – it's a simple courtesy that goes a long way.

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

These services are ubiquitous in Philadelphia and offer door-to-door convenience, especially for late-night travel or when carrying luggage. They are a good option when SEPTA routes are inconvenient or when traveling in a small group.

Cost:Variable, but generally more expensive than public transit. Expect to pay $10-$30 for most intra-city trips.

Tip:Check surge pricing before booking, as it can significantly increase the fare during busy periods. Always confirm the license plate and driver's name match what's displayed in the app before getting in. A common mistake is not setting your pickup location accurately, leading to confusion for the driver.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Philadelphia to soak up the atmosphere without the biggest crowds?

For that sweet spot between pleasant weather and manageable crowds, I always recommend late April to early June, or September into October. You'll get gorgeous spring blooms or crisp autumn air perfect for walking, and you can explore Independence Hall or wander through Reading Terminal Market without feeling completely overwhelmed by tour groups.

Beyond the Liberty Bell, what's a must-see historical spot that often gets overlooked?

You absolutely have to check out Elfreth's Alley, America's oldest continuously inhabited residential street. It feels like stepping back in time with its charming colonial-era houses, and it's just a short walk from the main historical sites. It's a fantastic place for photos and to imagine what life was like centuries ago.

How do I navigate Philadelphia like a local, especially getting between neighborhoods?

Honestly, SEPTA's Broad Street Line subway is your best friend for north-south travel, and the Market-Frankford Line covers east-west. For shorter distances or exploring specific areas like Old City or Rittenhouse Square, walking is often the most enjoyable and efficient way to discover hidden gems. Just grab a SEPTA Key Card for easy tap-and-go fares.

What's the deal with 'Philly cheesesteaks'? Is there a 'right' way to order one?

Ah, the cheesesteak! The key is knowing what you want: 'Whiz wit' means Cheez Whiz with onions, 'Provolone without' means provolone cheese and no onions. Don't be afraid to ask for your preference, but be ready to order quickly – they move fast! Pat's and Geno's are iconic, but don't sleep on places like Jim's or Dalessandro's for a slightly different, equally delicious take.

Are there any unique cultural experiences or events I should look out for?

Philadelphia has a vibrant arts scene! If you're visiting in the summer, check out the outdoor performances at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, or keep an eye out for the many street festivals and block parties that pop up, especially in neighborhoods like Fishtown or South Philly. The Mummers Parade on New Year's Day is also a truly unique, albeit loud, Philadelphia tradition.

What's a great way to experience Philadelphia's food scene beyond the famous cheesesteaks?

You absolutely must spend a few hours at Reading Terminal Market; it's a culinary institution with everything from Amish baked goods and DiNic's roast pork sandwiches to fresh produce and international delights. For a more upscale experience, explore the restaurants in the Rittenhouse or Midtown Village areas, which offer fantastic farm-to-table options and diverse cuisines.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.

Book Hotels on Booking.com Find Hotels on Trip.com Find Tours on GetYourGuide

Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!