With Valentine’s Day around the corner, our City of (Brotherly) Love really should not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a cozy date night or a fun meal out with a few friends, there are plenty of activities, attractions, and eateries all around Philadelphia. This year’s Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday with celebrations and specials happening on both the surrounding weekends. I decided to put together a list of potentially romantic (?) places to go that will enable you to enjoy what Philly has to offer this weekend.
- Spirit Cruises
Taking off from Penn’s Landing, Spirit cruises offer a two-hour cruise on the Delaware river, inclusive of a freshly prepared lunch buffet along with complimentary coffee, tea, iced tea, and water. On the cruise, you will be able to experience an incredible view of the Philadelphia skyline along with landmarks including the Naval Shipyard, Ben Franklin Bridge, Battleship New Jersey, the historic Olympia warship, and more. There is on board entertainment including a DJ that takes requests. They have both lunch and dinner cruises that vary in price, beginning at $33.
- Race Street Pier
Situated right under the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, the pier has the most incredible view of the Delaware river, and can be ideal for a picnic depending on the weather. Race Street Pier often hosts events throughout the year, so be sure to check for updates. Events include live music, classes, fireworks, and more.
- One Liberty / City Hall Observation Deck
Head to either one of these observation decks for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. One Liberty Observation Deck is on the 57th floor of Liberty Place with landscape views for miles. The deck also offers information on the history of Philadelphia and its evolution into a cosmopolitan American city. City Hall Observation Deck is known for its incredible view of the city, and stops right underneath the colossal statue of William Penn.
- The Italian Market
Stroll through Philadelphia’s iconic Italian Market, and sample their amazing spread of charcuterie — fresh meats, cheeses, and other gourmet treats. There is a two-hour tour that includes meeting the local store owners, learning the history of the place, and stopping along the way for more samples. Purchase dinner items at DiBruno Bros for either a picnic or a cozy dinner at home.
- Riverside Ice Skating
Located on Penn’s Landing, enjoy Winterfest at Blue Cross RiverRink. The atmosphere at Penn’s Landing is incredible with little places to eat right by the water. After ice skating, the lights and cozy places to sit will make it the ideal Valentine’s date place.
- Classic Love / Amor Statue
As cliché as it sounds, the classic visit to the Philadelphia Love Statue is a foolproof idea. There are two located around Philly, the ‘Love’ statue and the ‘Amor’ statue, whichever is your preference.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-see for everyone, and if you have not visited yet, then this time of year is ideal. Get lost in the gallery during the day, or go on a Friday for their weekly event called “Art after 5” that turns a part of the museum into a cabaret, featuring different visiting artists from all over the nation. The events are usually free after admission, and there is an option to make a reservation to order tapas and drinks. Although a little after Valentine’s Day, Feb. 24 has some incredible artists and performances including a Silent Disco and a performance called “Love Hurts” by Revolution Shakespeare.
- Mural Arts Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Mural Arts Program tends to be very underrated. The murals are absolutely incredible with over 3600 pieces that have been developed over the past 30 years. There is a “Love Letter tour” that is incredibly popular and takes you on a train ride past a sequence of 50 love letters created by the artist Stephen Powers. Furthermore, on Feb. 11, they are hosting an event called SExSE Valentine’s Day Pop-Up, which is a Southeastern Valentine’s Day sale where visitors can purchase textiles, weaving, and all sorts of gifts from community members.
