Things to do at midnight near me

Best known as the birthplace of America’s independence and constitution, Philadelphia is many things in one place.

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It’s the city of cheesesteaks, a prosperous arts scene, haunted sites, and enchanting parks.

But most importantly, it’s also a city that transforms into a wonderland of lights, sights, booze, food, and unique experiences when the sun sets.

If you have time, juice, and wanderlust to spare after a whole day of exploring the City of Brotherly Love, you probably won’t want to miss the nightlife that’s in store here.

To help you decide where to go or what to do, we rounded up the best fun things to do in Philadelphia at night, complete with expert tips.

1. Spruce Street Harbor Park

Spruce Street Harbor Park

301 S Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 922-2386

Opened in 2014, the Spruce Street Harbor Park is an urban beach located in Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia that is open during the summer and has been lauded as one of America’s best urban beaches.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Spruce Street Harbor Park is probably one of the most romantic places to visit in Philadelphia at night for couples.

It comes to life with enchantingly colorful lights and hammocks hanging from the trees, as well as craft brews from the beer garden.

Expert Tip

Your date night can start with a Philadelphian dinner at the park’s floating restaurant!

Note, however, that this park is only open to the public from spring through fall.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing

Related: Best Things to Do in Philadelphia

2. Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

Blue Cross Riverrink Summerfest

101 S Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 925-7465

Open from May through Labor Day, Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest opens to the public for free!

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

While Penn’s Landing looks pretty in the morning, it becomes an entirely different playground during summer nights.

Guests strap on a pair of skates for the Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, where a roller rink, boathouse-styled lodge, play area for kids, and carnival-style fun open from late spring till the end of the summer.

Expert Tip

If you brought the little ones along, there are arcade and carnival games at the Midway, where a Ferris wheel, carousel, and a wide array of colorful rides can be enjoyed.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Philadelphia Marriott Old City

3. Sonny’s Famous Steaks

Sonny’s Famous Steaks

228 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 629-5760

Click Here to See Ticket Price of Similar Activity

Regularly recognized as one of the best Philadelphia cheesesteak restos, Sonny’s Cheesesteaks is located at the heart of Philadelphia, Old City.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

One of the most iconic things about Philadelphia is their quintessential Philly cheesesteak.

So what better way to spend the night than by chowing down on one at Old City?

Sonny’s Famous Steaks actually tops all cheesesteak restos in Old City and is open till 3:00 AM!

Expert Tip

If you’re on specific diets, fear not!

Sonny’s menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options too!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia

4. Cherry Street Pier

Cherry Street Pier

121 N. Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-0818

Originally built in 1919 as Shipping Pier 9, Cherry Street Pier has been repurposed to celebrate Philadelphian identity and preserve its cultural value.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Designed by Philadelphians for Philadelphians, Cherry Street Pier was built on the century-old municipal pier and is currently a public space popular among artists and curious visitors.

Aside from watching artists at work, you are offered stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, and festivals now and then throughout the year, where concerts, exhibits, fairs, food, and drinks abound!

Expert Tip

Something’s always brewing at Cherry Street Pier, so it’s best to check their calendar ahead to know what’s up or to visit during events you want to witness.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Penn’s Landing

5. Benjamin Franklin Bridge

Benjamin Franklin Bridge

1 Benjamin Franklin Bridge
Philadelphia, PA 08102
(856) 968-2000

Formerly named the Delaware River Bridge, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge connects Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Camden in New Jersey.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

If you have time to spare to watch the day transition into night, there’s no other iconic spot better than the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to watch the sun set in the horizon and the city lights grow brighter in the distance.

Expert Tip

The bridge has a walkway that offers walkers, runners, and cyclists between Philadelphia and Camden the best views of Delaware River and the skylines of the cities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Penn’s View Hotel Philadelphia

6. Historic District

Historic District

231 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 592-7929

Philadelphia is particularly famous for being the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution.

But where exactly in Philadelphia did it all happen?

The answer is in America’s most historic square mile, Philadelphia’s historic district, popularly known as Old City.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

History buffs hungry for dinner will absolutely love the wide selection of restaurants at the birthplace of American independence.

Old City has eateries ranging from grab-and-go eats to fine-dining experiences that are sure to satisfy any visitor’s curiosity and craving.

Expert Tip

We can’t blame you if you’re stuck in a case of option paralysis; there’s simply too many great restaurants to try out here.

Fork, however, stands out as the beloved restaurant that started it all and continues to be everyone’s favorite.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia

Related: Philadelphia Restaurants

7. Independence Beer Garden

Independence Beer Garden

100 S Independence Mall W
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 922-7100

About a minute away from the Liberty Bell sits a 20,000-square-foot outdoor watering hole well loved by locals.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Independence Beer Garden invites wanderers to dine and drink amidst rocks, boulders, Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, bar seats, shipping containers, and charming Philly greenery.

On top of this lovely landscape, there are board games and lawn games to enjoy!

Expert Tip

For the best prices, come here during happy hour!

Happy hour usually starts at 3 PM and ends at 7 PM!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Rittenhouse Hotel

8. Screenings Under The Stars

Screenings Under The Stars

101 N. Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 629-3200

Named after William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, who landed here in 1682, Penn’s Landing is another public space that hosts events all year round.

Aside from being one of the top places to visit in Philadelphia at night, Penn’s Landing also screens free outdoor films!

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Skip going to the theaters for a Thursday night at Penn’s Landing during the summer and fall.

Check out their calendar for the official lineup and catch the film you want to watch with your loved ones.

Enjoy great flicks and lovely views for free!

Expert Tip

If you’re here in the month of June, you also get the chance to witness Roots Picnic, an annual music festival hosted by Philadelphian hip hop legends The Roots.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Club Quarters Hotel in Philadelphia

Related: Free Things to Do in Philadelphia

9. Tippler’s Tour: Colonial Pub Crawl

Tipplers Tour Colonial Pub Crawl

1 N. Independence Mall W.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 629-4026

Click Here to See Ticket Price of Similar Activity

Tippler’s Tour introduces you to Philadelphia’s pubs and history of booze, complete with a costumed guide.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Have you ever drank so much you’ve wondered how getting buzzed was like in the 18th century?

Now’s the time to find out with Tippler’s Tour. Learn and try out drinking traditions, drinks, and snacks from the colonial era as you visit watering holes with a colonial guide!

Expert Tip

Don’t stuff yourself with a five-course meal before joining this tour!

This is one of the most filling Philadelphia night activities, so be prepared by bringing along a huge appetite.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Philadelphia Downtown Rittenhouse Square

10. Independence After Hours

Independence After Hours

520 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 965-2305

See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity

With an eventful history dating all the way back in 1776, the Independence Hall narrates the tale of 56 courageous men gathered at the Pennsylvania State House to defy the King of England.

This event shaped the US constitution into what it is today.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Independence Hall is one of the most visited attractions in Philadelphia where both the United States Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were formed.

After the museum closes, however, the Historic District takes on a different vibe.

It’s suddenly 1776 again, and Old City becomes populated with historical characters.

Good news is, you get to be part of it!

Expert Tip

Like the previous tour, this one requires space in your stomach, as it begins with a three-course meal at the historic tavern.

Also, if you were looking for things to do in Philadelphia at night under 21, this tour welcomes all ages to witness the founding of American independence.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Loews Philadelphia Hotel

11. First Friday

First Friday

(215) 625-9200

Steeped in history and culture, Philadelphia’s flourishing local arts scene has been celebrating its identity on the first Friday of each month all year since 1991.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

If you’re an art junkie, you can get your art fix on a Friday night with Philadelphia’s citywide First Friday event.

Shops, studios, and galleries open their doors to everyone.

Wander among artworks and enjoy special sales, food and drink deals, as well as live music all over the city!

Expert Tip

This event will involve a lot of walking, so wear the right shoes.

Also make sure both your phone and camera have enough juice to capture the best moments!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Suites Philadelphia Airport

12. Morgan’s Pier

Morgan’s Pier

221 N Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 279-7134

Named after George C. Morgan, the first person to cross the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Morgan’s Pier is located right below the very bridge he crossed.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Though just a few steps away from the Independence National Historical Park, Morgan’s Pier feels like another world.

It’s an urban oasis filled with trees, food, beer, music, and outstanding views of the Delaware River.

Expert Tip

Morgan’s Pier is open from spring till summer only but has fun-filled events scheduled throughout! Check out their calendar to join some!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Notary Hotel Autograph Collection

13. Franklin Square

Franklin Square

200 N 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 629-4026

Set right in the heart of Downtown, this historic square was built in 1682 to give settlers a taste of nature.

Today, it has transformed into a wonderland filled with cheap yet exciting experiences and attractions.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Franklin Square overflows with fun for kids and the kid at heart.

With a large, lively playground and a dazzling marble fountain, this historic landmark will give visitors across all ages a taste of nonstop wholesome Philadelphia nightlife.

Enjoy the historic Parx Liberty Carousel, Philly-themed mini golf course, and a burger joint that serves tasty Cake Shakes and fries on top of its signature burgers.

Expert Tip

Be sure to check business hours before heading to the park tonight as park hours change depending on the season.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center

14. Arden Theatre Company

Arden Theatre Company

40 N. 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 922-1122

Since 1988, the now award-winning Arden Theatre has been offering theatrical productions and educational programs to artists and audiences all year round.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Ranging from William Shakespeare to Stephen Sondheim and Tennessee Williams, Arden Theatre never fails to deliver brilliant stage productions and children’s plays.

The theater’s intimate seating intensifies the beauty of the artistry onstage, and every show is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Expert Tip

Get ready for a question and answer session after each performance and a chance to meet the actors of the play!

Make sure to check out their website ahead to see what’s playing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Points Philadelphia City Center

15. The Deck Philly

The Deck Philly

Moshulu, 401 S. Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-2500

Open from May through September, the Deck Philly is an open-air venue for drinking, dining, and entertainment.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

If you’re looking for the usual bar setting to spend one late night in Philadelphia, the Deck Philly offers you spectacular views of the city and riverfront but with a twist.

Enjoy exquisite seafood, sushi, contemporary American cuisine, outstanding waterfront views, and alfresco cocktails on the world’s oldest and largest four-masted tall ship — Moshulu!

Expert Tip

Don’t forget to drop by inside to take a look at the well-preserved original interior of the ship!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Study at University City, Study Hotels

16. Cuba Libre

Cuba
Libre

10 S 2nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 627-0666

Cuba Libre is a mini Latin American escape in the middle of Philadelphia’s Old City.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Want to witness more than just live music in Philadelphia tonight?

Have a glimpse of the vibrant Latin American spirit as you salsa the night away at Cuba Libre.

Enjoy contemporary Cuban cuisine, cocktails, Latin American decor, a tropical ambience in the middle of Pennsylvania, and of course, upbeat music that makes anyone dance.

Expert Tip

Cuba Libre transforms into everyone’s most awaited salsa dance club every Friday and Saturday night at 11:00 PM.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: ROOST Midtown

17. Spirit of Philadelphia

Spirit Of Philadelphia

401 S. Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-1419

Click Here To See Ticket Price

While Moshulu stays docked, the Spirit of Philadelphia takes hungry patrons on a cruise along the scenic Delaware River.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Sail amidst the cold Philadelphian evening breeze as you enjoy contemporary cuisine, unrivaled views of the city’s skyline, and old-school music under the moonlight.

Whether you’re here for special date nights or adventurous dinners, the Spirit of Philadelphia can assure you a unique way to experience the city.

Expert Tip

This cruise is best experienced during seasonal celebrations such as New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas for additional spectacular entertainment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Philadelphia Marriott Downtow

18. The Franklin Fountain

The Franklin Fountain

116 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 627-1899

Established in 2004, the Franklin Fountain has been serving Philadelphia with handmade old-timey ice cream.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Is your sweet tooth acting up way past bedtime?

There’s a Victorian-inspired ice cream shop just for you.

Serving flavors like Franklin mint chip, hydrox cookie, teaberry gum, rum raisin, cotton candy, and many others, Franklin Fountain lures dessert monsters of all ages all week until midnight.

Expert Tip

If you’re visiting Philadelphia during colder months, you don’t have to worry.

Franklin Fountain also serves hot chocolate, hot milkshakes, and homemade pie for autumns and winters.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Windsor Suites Philadelphia

19. FringeArts

Fringearts

140 N. Columbus Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 413-1318

Housed in a historic pumping station underneath the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, FringeArts is Philadelphia’s home for world-class contemporary performances.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

You could be an eccentric artist with an eye for innovation or an average curious spectator; whatever there is to witness at FringeArts will wow just about anyone.

Featuring avant-garde performances across various art disciplines, FringeArts explores the boundaries of art by offering you the newest art that boldly defies expectation.

Expert Tip

If you’re here in September, FringeArts celebrates a citywide festival for three weeks, filling neighborhoods with over 1,000 performances!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton

20. Ghost Tours of Philadelphia

Ghost Tours Of Philadelphia

5th & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 413-1997

Click Here To See Ticket Price

Widely acclaimed throughout the country for the exciting experience it offers, Ghost Tours of Philadelphia has been in the business since 1995.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

If you’re a thrill seeker who can’t decide on what to do in Philadelphia at night, ghost tours are probably the best idea.

Besides, you can’t just leave one of America’s most historic cities without getting to know its darker side.

Ghost Tours of Philadelphia leads you to the back streets, secret gardens, haunted houses, graveyards, and more while you listen to chilling tales of old late at night.

Expert Tip

Ghost Tours of Philadelphia offers tours on weeknights and weekend nights from March to November.

If you’re visiting anywhere from December to February, the ghost tours are only available on the weekends.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: ROOST Rittenhouse

21. Boathouse Row

Boathouse Row

1 Boathouse Row
Philadelphia, PA 19130
(215) 685-3936

Boathouse Row is a historical spot situated in Philadelphia just off the east bank of the Schuylkill River and north of the Fairmount Water Works and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an expert, rowers of all ages and skill levels flock to the Schuylkill River to practice, compete, learn, and explore the sport of rowing along Boathouse Row, whether during the day or under the otherworldly atmosphere at night.

Expert Tip

Row down the Schuylkill River along the Boathouse Row to witness the enthralling light display and reflections on the river of the different houses.

This serene nocturnal scene continues to make Boathouse Row one of the most popular places to go in Philadelphia at night.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square

22. Philly Improv Theater

Philly Improv Theater

2030 Sansom Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(267) 233-1556

Established in 2005, Philly Improv Theater has since been the heart of Philadelphia’s comedy scene.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Producing over a thousand performances a year, Philly Improv Theater delivers freshly whipped up comedy seven nights a week, every week of the year, a perfect ender for any day of your Philadelphia getaway.

Expert Tip

All shows at the theater are BYOB!

If you didn’t know that sooner, there’s a great bodega around the corner with a good beer selection, so if you need to down a few drinks in your seat to amp up the experience, go ahead.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square

23. Founding Footsteps

Founding Footsteps

302 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(609) 795-1776

Click Here To See Ticket Price

Top-rated on TripAdvisor, Founding Footsteps offers visitors a variety of tours to get to know Philadelphia from different angles and drop by taverns here and there.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

Aside from the usual tours to Philadelphia’s landmarks, Founding Footsteps offers a tavern walking tour and holiday tour.

But perhaps the best one for the night is the Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia Tour, where you get to hear the stories of the worst crimes committed in the city and visit where they happened!

Expert Tip

Founding Footsteps encourages you to bring your own booze if you can.

If you didn’t, the tours start and end in a location with beer-to-go for your convenience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia

24. Science After Hours

Science After Hours

222 N 20th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 448-1200

Located at the bustling heart of Philadelphia, the Franklin Institute is a science museum well loved by all of America for being one of the first centers of science education in the country.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

After the institute’s museum hours, there’s a wacky evening event exclusively intended for adults (21+).

From 7 PM to 10 PM, guests engage in experiments, games, challenges, and unexpected activities, depending on the evening’s theme.

Expert Tip

Definitely book early for this activity; because of its popularity, tickets sell out fast!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Philadelphia

25. Jim Loewer Glass Co.

Jim Loewer Glass Co.

1241 Carpenter Street
Philadelphia, PA, 19147
(267) 243-5843

Jim Loewer Glass Co. is a glass art studio by Jim Loewer, who offers some of the most unexpected yet fun things to do in Philadelphia at night.

Why We Recommend This Night Activity

With Philadelphia being a major hub for artists, it’s almost no surprise to find a glass art studio here that offers evening lessons.

In this class, Jim Loewer himself will show you the rarely appreciated world of fine glass art, which involves fire and lots of blowing.

Expert Tip

There could be discounts for the classes at Groupon and LivingSocial!

Check them out before booking.

Also, if you’re not comfortable working with flames, you can always look around Jim’s studio and watch him work his magic.

Though you can bring your own booze here, think twice.

Glass and being tipsy don’t go well together.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Bellevue Hotel, in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt

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25 Fun Things to Do at Night in Philadelphia, PA for 2022

Fun Things To Do In Philadelphia At Night
  • Spruce Street Harbor Park
  • Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest
  • Sonny’s Famous Steaks
  • Cherry Street Pier
  • Benjamin Franklin Bridge
  • Historic District
  • Independence Beer Garden
  • Screenings Under The Stars
  • Tippler’s Tour: Colonial Pub Crawl
  • Independence After Hours
  • First Friday
  • Morgan’s Pier
  • Franklin Square
  • Arden Theatre Company
  • The Deck Philly
  • Cuba Libre
  • Spirit of Philadelphia
  • The Franklin Fountain
  • FringeArts
  • Ghost Tours of Philadelphia
  • Boathouse Row
  • Philly Improv Theater
  • Founding Footsteps
  • Science After Hours
  • Jim Loewer Glass Co.

25 Fun Things
to Do in Philadelphia at Night — The Best Night Activities!

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