Best Things to Do in Philly on a Rainy Day
Philadelphia, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of activities that can be enjoyed even on a rainy day. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax, here are some of the best things to do in Philly when the skies open up.
Explore the Museums
Philadelphia is home to numerous museums, and many of them offer indoor activities that are perfect for a rainy day. Here are a few must-visit museums:
| Museum | Highlights |
|---|---|
| The Franklin Institute | Interactive science exhibits, planetarium shows, and a chance to see the largest collection of Benjamin Franklin’s artifacts. |
| The Academy of Natural Sciences | Explore the natural world through exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, and more. Don’t miss the butterfly garden. |
| The Philadelphia Museum of Art | With over 240,000 works of art, this museum offers a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. |
| The Rodin Museum | Discover the works of Auguste Rodin, one of the most influential sculptors of the 19th century. |
Indulge in the Food Scene
Philadelphia’s food scene is one of the best in the country, and many restaurants offer indoor seating. Here are some recommendations:
- Reading Terminal Market: This indoor market offers a variety of food stalls, where you can sample everything from cheesesteaks to international cuisine.
- El Vez: A Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere and delicious food, perfect for a rainy day.
- Federal Donuts: Indulge in freshly made donuts with a variety of unique flavors.
- Philly Cheesesteak Museum: Learn about the history of the cheesesteak and sample some of the best in the city.
Take a Walking Tour
Even on a rainy day, a walking tour can be a great way to explore the city. Here are a few options:
- Ghost Tour of Philadelphia: Discover the city’s haunted history with this spooky walking tour.
- Philly Food Tour: Sample some of the city’s best food while learning about its culinary history.
- Liberty Bell and Independence Hall Tour: Explore the sites of American independence with a guided tour.
Enjoy the Performing Arts
Philadelphia has a thriving performing arts scene, with numerous theaters and concert halls. Here are some options for a rainy day:
- Academy of Music: This historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and ballets.
- Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts: Home to the Philadelphia Orchestra, this venue offers a wide range of performances.
- Wilma Theater: A non-profit theater company that produces innovative and thought-provoking plays.
Relax in a Cozy Caf茅
Philadelphia has no shortage of cozy cafes where you can enjoy a warm drink and a good book on a rainy day. Here are a few recommendations:
- La Colombe Torrefaction: A popular caf茅 chain with locations throughout the city, known for its high-quality coffee and pastries.
- The Bookstore Caf茅: A caf茅 and bookstore in one, perfect for a rainy day.
- Philly’s Own Coffee Co.: A local caf茅 with a cozy atmosphere and a variety of coffee drinks.
Visit the Libraries
Philadelphia has several beautiful libraries that are perfect for a rainy day. Here are a few to check out:
- The Free Library of Philadelphia: The main branch of the Free
