30+ Things to Do Along Greater Philadelphia's Delaware River Waterfront

Penn’s Landing, just a short walk from Old City and the center of the Historic District, hosts attractions and events for all ages, all year long. The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing is one of the city’s premier locations for outdoor concerts and festivals, and offers panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline, the Delaware River and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. (Remember this spot during the fireworks-viewing season.)

An iconic Philadelphia sight and once the longest suspension bridge in the world, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge allows for crossings between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Camden, New Jersey by car, by transit (PATCO high-speed rail), and by foot or bike via a popular pedestrian walkway and bikeway located at 5th and Race streets. Architect and engineer Paul Cret (who also designed the Benjamin Franklin Parkway) designed the bridge, constructed in 1926. A+ for the skyline views you’ll peep from this vantage point.

This riverfront destination, which opened in 2018, took an old indoor-outdoor pier and revitalized it with artist and maker spaces (made out of shipping containers) and food and drink vendors. The airy spot also features a weekly summer farmers market and plenty of year-round community programming.

One of Philadelphia’s many amazing outdoor spaces, Race Street Pier is located in the shadow of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Its upper terrace — dubbed the grand sky promenade — is connected to the lower terrace by a multi-tiered seating area that’s perfect for watching the tide roll in. The pier is picnic-friendly and dog-friendly, with a lawn and plantings galore.

With a hammock garden, boardwalk, beer garden, food vendors and floating barges with lily pad water gardens, Spruce Street Harbor Park has proven to be one of Philadelphia’s most popular warm-weather destinations in recent years. Open in spring, summer and fall, it’s no surprise that Spruce Street Harbor Park was named one of the world’s best urban beaches. Come through to hang in a hammock, float above the river or for one of the many seasonal events, including free live music and family-fun days.

In winter, this riverside village features an open-air Olympic-size ice skating rink, cozy lodge with fireplaces, festive landscaping, twinkling lights, fire pits, arcade games and a variety of food and beverages. Come summer, the space transforms into a day-to-night hangout with an outdoor roller rink, an arcade, classic Philly foods and plenty of playful spaces to chill out, including a Midway with carnival games and rides.

Wrapped around the Independence Seaport Museum, this massive new outdoor restaurant features five bars, live music and views for days. With enough room for all of your friends — well, 1,400 of them, at least — it’s designed to appeal to a wide range of guests. The casual, seafood-centric menu features vegetarian and vegan options.

With historic vessels to board, an underwater remotely operated vehicle to maneuver and a mock cannon to fire, Philadelphia’s interactive maritime museum conveys what the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers have meant to the city throughout history. Berthed outside is the Olympia, the nation’s oldest floating steel warship used by Admiral Dewey during his Spanish-American War victory in Manila Bay; the Becuna, a World War II submarine that fought battles in the South Pacific; and Liberty Point, Philly’s largest restaurant.

One of Philadelphia’s most popular outdoor hangout spots, Morgan’s Pier is an oasis of craft beer, casual eats, and live music and DJ nights right on the water. Named after George C. Morgan, the first person to cross the Ben Franklin Bridge, the “backyard beer garden” on Columbus Boulevard is an ideal outdoor location with plenty of seating to enjoy the glorious waterfront views.

This landscaped waterfront path, running just under four miles from Pier 70 in South Philadelphia to Fishtown’s Penn Treaty Park, features an asphalt bike path alongside a scenic sidewalk designated for pedestrians. Highlights along the way include Spruce Street Harbor Park, Cherry Street Pier, a public art installation by Studio Ball Nogues called Weaver’s Knot: Sheet Bend and several other noteworthy experiences.

According to legend, Pennsylvania founder William Penn signed his historic peace treaty with the local Lenape tribe under an elm tree just off the Delaware River in 1683. Though the tree fell in a storm in 1810, the city officially opened Penn Treaty Park on the surrounding land in 1894. Today, a statue of William Penn greets local picnickers and dog walkers, and throughout the year, people from all over the city come for special events and festivals in this beautiful Fishtown park, part of the broader East Coast Greenway trail network along the waterfront.

Housed within a historic 1903 former pumping station beneath the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, FringeArts offers concerts, theater performances and special events throughout the year. Looking to quench your thirst? Head next door to the new-for-2023 Fringe Bar, featuring an extensive drink menu, varied food options and a full beer garden.

Featuring more than 2 million gallons of water and 8,500 animals, Adventure Aquarium offers hands-on activities, animals, exhibits and unforgettable moments on the Camden side of the river. Adventurous types can roll up their sleeves to pet and feed stingrays, and walk across the Shark Bridge or through the Shark Tunnel. Pro tip: Don’t miss the attraction’s star hippos, Button and Genny.

While exploring the Battleship New Jersey museum and memorial, visitors can enjoy exhibitions that display artifacts from the ship’s past, which included stints in World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam and the Gulf War. A highlight of the tour is the 16-inch turret, where 2,700-pound shells were loaded and fired to hit targets up to 23 miles away. America’s most decorated battleship also hosts special events and overnight encampments.

The green space and elevated boardwalk around Washington Avenue Pier allow visitors to stroll along the water’s edge or enjoy panoramic views of the Delaware River and the Philadelphia skyline. Guests can also read signage about the site’s history as the nation’s first Navy Yard and as the site where more than 1 million people entered the United States. The most striking feature: Land Buoy, a 55-foot-tall public art piece with a spiral staircase created by artist Jody Pinto to honor the immigrants who arrived at the pier.

The Navy Yard — dubbed the coolest shipyard in America by POLITICO —  includes more than 20 acres of open park space, a riverfront jogging and biking path, a number of eateries, and the Courtyard Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard. The shipyard is also home to a collection of public art by both local and international artists. Learn more on the official two-mile-long self-guided tour.

Located just off the Delaware River in Fishtown, Philadelphia’s first casino houses an exciting array of tables and slot machines. On-site restaurants, special events and great views of the Delaware River waterfront and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge from Jack’s Bar + Grill attract non-gamers, too.

The breathtaking views keep diners coming back for twilight cocktails and delicious fare aboard this fully restored four-masted sailing ship — the world’s largest! — berthed on Penn’s Landing. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine in the gorgeous dining rooms or, during warmer months, alfresco on the upper decks.

For three decades, the City Cruises (formerly the Spirit of Philadelphia) ship has provided an excellent combination of dining, dancing, entertainment and incredible skyline views on the Delaware River. Operating year-round from Penn’s Landing, the Spirit of Philadelphia offers lunch, dinner, moonlight and special cruises for Mother’s Day, the Fourth of July and more. While aboard, guests enjoy food stations and a lively soundtrack.

Billing itself as “Philly’s first private picnic boat,” Sea Philly offers six passengers a choice of excursions down the Delaware River aboard the Argonaut, their 27-foot mahogany vessel (and 2022’s best place to pop the question). Day cruises ride past noteworthy riverside sites with plenty of chances to spot wildlife. Romantic Sunset cruises explore river backchannels and include charcuterie service. And Expeditions offer longer luxury experiences, where the cruiser anchors inside coves and passengers can swim or float among the tributaries.

Fort Mifflin is the oldest fortification continually used in the United States. In November 1777, during the Revolutionary War, British troops fired more than 10,000 cannonballs at the fort. The colonial army managed to defend to buy George Washington time to get to Valley Forge. Visitors at the fort today can enjoy annual reenactments, tours, sleepovers and other activities (including ghost tours!).

Part of the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation system, this massive riverside park features paved and natural trails in an area teeming with wildlife. (With more than 250 bird species sighted, it’s one of the best spots for birding in the city.) Also available: fishing, hiking, cycling and an environmental center offering educational programming.

Many of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods have peaceful fishing piers at small parks along the Delaware River. At Pleasant Hill Park, one of the northern-most spots on the city’s waterfront, visitors can cast a line or pitch in to help keep the fishponds clean. Lardner’s Point Park and Pennypack on the Delaware in Northeast Philadelphia and Pulaski Park in the Port Richmond neighborhood are quiet spots with sweeping views where many neighborhood residents stop by to see if anything’s biting. In South Philadelphia, Pier 68 gets visitors away from the car traffic of nearby Columbus Boulevard for fishing, sunbathing and picnicking. Visitors should bring their own fishing equipment, or check for community fishing days at individual piers.

The best way to take in all that the waterfront has to offer? Stay over:

• Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing: The only Philadelphia hotel located directly on the Delaware River waterfront also happens to be steps from attractions like Spruce Street Harbor Park and the Independence Seaport Museum and within walking distance of the Historic District.
• Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Penn’s Landing: Further north, you’ll find this hotel, located just across the street from top waterfront attractions like Race Street Pier and Cherry Street Pier.

The Philadelphia Union, the region’s first Major League Soccer Club, hosts its enthusiastic fans — affectionately known as the Sons of Ben — at Subaru Park in Chester. Guests enjoying a game can also take in stunning views of the river and the Commodore Barry Bridge along the adjacent Chester Riverwalk.

This 60-mile park stretches along the Delaware River from Easton to Bristol and features 11 river islands. There’s plenty of space for cyclists, joggers, fishers, hikers and nature lovers to partake in fishing, canoeing, kayaking and great views of the river.

Where the Neshaminy Creek meets the Delaware, this 330-acre park in lower Bucks County offers hiking trails, a swimming pool and spray park, playground and areas for fishing and boating. Good news for your furry friends: Pets are welcome at Neshaminy. And you can even reserve a picnic pavilion up to 11 months in advance for a fee.

Head to the scenic Washington Crossing Historic Park to see the spot where General George Washington and his troops famously crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776. The park is open daily, and guests can enjoy tours of the historic village or check out Bowman’s Hill Tower for an amazing view of the countryside and river. Don’t miss the annual reenactment of the famous crossing on Christmas Day.

Enjoy a great river view before or after a show at the Bucks County Playhouse. Grace Kelly, Audra McDonald, Robert Redford and other stars have graced the stage of the theater, which was converted from a gristmill along the Delaware River in 1939. Since its reboot in 2012, the New Hope theater has hosted world premieres and returned to its roots of incubating Broadway hits.

Bucks County has no shortage of tasty eateries along the water. Here are just a few:

• King George II Inn: America’s oldest operating inn has been serving guests since 1681 (including George Washington himself), and the stately building remains a top destination for dining, banquets and uninterrupted waterfront views (Bristol).
• Charcoal BYOB: This eclectic gem offers guests a casual dining experience with seasonal ingredients and a highly creative menu — all while enjoying the riverfront scenery (Yardley).
• Nektar Wine Bar: Located steps from the Bucks County Playhouse, this intimate bar treats visitors to a robust array of beer, wine, whiskey and small plates, with an airy patio overlooking the water (New Hope).

Just north of Philadelphia, several historic mansions sit along the Delaware River for guests to tour and peruse. Visit Pennsbury Manor, a recreation of William Penn’s former colonial estate, or take in the stunning home and gardens at Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum. Further south, find Glen Foerd on the Delaware and take part in mansion tours, paddle boating on the river and more.

Once the site of New Sweden, the first permanent European settlement in the U.S., Governor Printz Park is a scenic riverside green with two playgrounds for kids, several picnic gazebos, a small amphitheater and paved paths. The park also includes several historic markers and a statue of Johan Björnsson Printz, governor and founder of the old settlement.

Escape to the countryside and rejuvenate with incredible views at these riverside getaways:

• River House at Odette’s: A luxury hotel with spectacular views, this waterfront location features elegant suites, a piano lounge, a rooftop bar and the eponymous Odette’s restaurant, offering elevated comfort foods and a stylish ambiance (New Hope).
• Black Bass Hotel: The Black Bass Hotel transports guests to another time with themed suites, two historic taverns, an on-site fine dining restaurant and picturesque vistas (Lumberville).

Bucks County River Country has been getting folks out on the Delaware for more than 50 years. Guests can enjoy tubing, kayaking, rafting and more just 40 minutes away from Philadelphia. Need other ways to get out on the water? Rent kayaks at Independence Seaport Museum, hop in a swan paddle boat at Penn’s Landing Marina or take a stand-up paddle board yoga class by Aqua Vida.