Cherry Street Pier

"Let’s start big picture here. The historic spot where William Penn first landed in 1682 is now a series of piers and parks on the Delaware River waterfront, each with its own personality and draw. Since 2012, the nonprofit Delaware River Waterfront Corporation has been slowly transforming the stretch of riverfront between Oregon and Allegheny Avenues, adding public parks, running and biking trails, and spaces for recreational and cultural activities—all with the goal of giving Philadelphia’s public spaces a beautifying boost for residents and visitors to enjoy. Any standout features or must-sees? It’s easy to hop to a couple of piers or parks in one day. I like to start at Cherry Street Pier for a cocktail in the garden bar, rotating art exhibitions and concession stands. If the kids are in tow, we stroll the half-mile to Spruce Street Harbor Park for a beer while they run around on the lawn, play with a giant Connect Four, and gawk at the tall ships docked nearby. Was it easy to get around? The piers and parks are all easy to navigate, with access to each just off Christopher Columbus Boulevard. All of the DRWC parks are ADA compliant. Some get more crowded than others—Spruce Street Harbor Park and Morgan’s Pier on a summer weekend, namely—so go early or on a weekday. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? There’s something on the Delaware River Waterfront for just about everyone, but if you wouldn’t be comfortable at an Irish Pub on Saint Patty’s Day, steer clear of Morgan’s Pier on warm summer Saturdays. For much more serene vibes, head to Cherry Street Pier for one of their Saturday flea markets, Race Street Pier for a walk, or Pier 68 for catch and release fishing." - Regan Stephens