Penn&#x27;s Landing

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/philadelphia-united-states/nature-parks/

Nature and Parks in Philadelphia

"Penn’s Landing, also located on the bustling Delaware River waterfront, is one of Philadelphia’s best hangout spots. No matter when you visit, there’s always something going on, whether it’s live music, cultural festivals, or film screenings. In the winter, Penn’s Landing turns into a scenic ice skating rink. Summertime brings carnivals, beer gardens, and hammocks to help you enjoy the good weather. History buffs can tour the Olympia and Becuna, two historic warships docked along the shore." - MATADOR_NETWORK

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/philadelphia-united-states/nature-parks/

Penn’s Landing

The Perfect Weekend in Philadelphia

"In warm-weather months, the Penn’s Landing waterfront area along the Delaware River is always busy with activity. On the Great Plaza there are ongoing free festivals, summer concerts, a movie series, and Fourth of July fireworks. Other attractions here include the RiverLink Ferry to New Jersey, the Independence Seaport Museum, and kayaks and swan boats available for rental. In winter, Penn's Landing is host to one of Philadelphia 's most spectacularoutdoor ice rinks, the Blue Cross RiverRink. Historic ships, including the Moshulu , a beautiful 1904 four-masted steel sailing vessel, are moored at the waterfront. The Moshulu now features a popular restaurant on its deck, and the tall ship is dramatically illuminated at night."

Family Fun in Philly

The Best Things to Do in Philadelphia

Val E.

Yelp

I used to frequent this place a decade ago. I went here last evening for their 2024 December holiday setup and it was not good. The decor is pretty so you can take strategic photos to give the impression of a good time but it basically has an ice skating rink, dusty arcade, concession stands with generic carnival/fair food, a merry go round (pretty to look at but I could have a better time doing jug handles in Nj), fire pit seating (one open seating and the other reserved), and there's a $20 charge to park. Now I came here on a Wednesday night. The place was practically empty. The security scanned my friend, nephew, and me. However, my nephew's gf was not scanned bc the security guard says she looks safe/fine (she's a different ethnicity and I'll leave it at that). When we walked into the empty reserved fire pit section a security guard came over to redirect us bc this was the "paid/voucher" section. Now, we didn't even sit down and I was trying to ask him what else can we do here etc. he couldn't even focused on my questions just tunnel vision about having us go over to the free fire pit section. Like sir chill out all we we were trying to do is understand the area and how to navigate it. So we walk over to the free fire pit section the ambers from the pit blow in the wind and that's scary but we say there for maybe 5 mins bc again this place looks better than it actually is. We walked through the lack luster concession stand area to the arcade. My friend played guitar hero and one of the buttons didn't work so that's a fail plus he's a hard core guitar hero fan. We exited the arcade to go to the Ferris Wheel that no one was on. It's pretty. The security guards near that were actually nice and kind. We didn't ride it. I think that's a level of insanity I haven't reached to be the only ones on a giant rotating circle in the freezing cold. Now if I wanted a great photo mayhaps.... Then we paused realizing like a bug at a bug light in the summer this was a bad idea so we left. If you have tiny children under 11 they might enjoy the lights. If you're an influencer great place for holiday themed photos. If you're trying to show people new to Philly a good time..... then it's a no. It seems to be some construction too. The occupant space is small. I will say other summer or other festival types might be better. This Christmas holiday winter city thing is a hard pass. :( not happy

Suzanne A.

Yelp

Penn's Landing is a great place to ring in the new year! It's crowded but festive. Tickets can be purchased that include a viewing area and other things but you can also find a spot to watch the fireworks.

Deanna D.

Yelp

This was a cute area to check out while in Philly. Like the water view of super area.

G M.

Yelp

Overpriced, overtaxed, crime infested, loud, rude, terrible parking. Someone tried to pickpocket me here, so watch your valuables. But what else would you expect in Philly aka the East Coast's Venezuela? Worth it for the history and view. FUN FACT: Improved by Kevin Bacon's father, architect Edmund Bacon.

Renee D.

Yelp

What can I say about this quintessential Philadelphia gathering space. Great place to stroll or bike from piers to parks. Great place to see street performers. Great place for festivals and fireworks but I love it just for the water. It can get pretty crowded during events but for the most part there's always a place to sit and enjoy the water front views

Matthew S.

Yelp

Pretty area right along the Delaware River. From my understanding they hold concerts here during the summer which brings out more people. There is also a Dave & Busters that is right near the pier so that is an added bonus. I like that there's a lot to walk past and that there seems to be an added nostalgia as you are walking along an angry river on a cloudy day. Maybe that is just me.

Dana S.

Yelp

I love Penn's Landing, there are always so many different things to do in the area. I have watched the fireworks on the 4th of July many times down here, as well as skated at the river rink with my family and friends. In the summer, they have roller skating, carnivals and rides. There are so many things for both kids and their families to do down there. There are also many food options to choose from, and they also have hammocks you can lay on and just relax. Or you could take a stroll by the river and take in the beauty of everything that surrounds you.

Fit C.

Yelp

Great location but pricing is absurd. The rides were empty so we purchased tickets for the ferris wheel and carousel. They were $5 per ride per person. Despite being the only people on the rides, they lasted 2 minutes. The ferris wheel went around 4x and it's quite a small ride. Major rip off for these activities. We went skating and that was fun, but almost $50 for 2 adults and 1 child. There is not a time limit, so that's a bonus, but the skates had busted laces. Parking is $20. It's rare to find street parking. The view of the water and boats is great and they have bathrooms accessible. High price, low value.

Lenore G.

Yelp

We paid a visit to Penn's Landing to take in the sights and the monuments. It turned out to be an AOK park. Walking here from downtown was pleasant, and the weather was mild enough to make the experience enjoyable. Tip: The monuments were very nice, with some very striking detail; they do their subjects justice and make a visit here worthwhile. While it's not worth making special plans to come here, if you find yourself with opportunity and time on your hands you'll probably enjoy a visit.

Yolimar S.

Yelp

They still have winter fest going on, there's not much anymore besides the arcade, ice skating and a stand for fried Oreos and funnels cakes but it was a great time. The view is amazing and picture worthy!

Katie L.

Yelp

I have been to Penn's Landing a handful of times. I have had a good experience each time. However, it does get pretty packed and it is almost impossible to get a spot on the hammocks unless you arrive first thing. There is a ton to do, with a floating bar that has above water hammocks, a Ferris wheel, an arcade, a roller skating rink, food trucks, a music venue, and a beer garden. Not the most socially distant place to go during COVID, other than the floating bar which takes reservations. Masks are required there unless sitting down at a table. I would definitely go back.

Nikki R.

Yelp

I love penn's landing! such a cool place to vibe out. grab a hammock, check out a food truck, watch fireworks, kayak on the river. great place to take your family/children as well.

Marissa B.

Yelp

I love Penn's landing no matter the season. In the summer time they have a roller skating rink paired with an arcade. If you walk along the river you'll also land at spruce harbor where they have hammocks set up with lights dangling from the trees and all the food trucks you could want. In the winter the roller rink becomes a winter wonderland. There's a skating rink where it's only a five dollar admission fee, or free for up to four people as long as someone has a blue cross insurance card. Skate rentals are $10, or free if you bring your own. Holiday music plays and you can enjoy a cabin filled with heaters and a lodge like atmosphere.

Jessie H.

Yelp

We came here to see the world's largest rubber duck. It was a cluster....$12 for a multi-day pass. They had drinks and food - overpriced. The baby duck was on land available for photo ops while the mama duck was deflated...no bueno. It's hard to find parking here so I recommend taking public transportation. Spruce harbor park is located here (pop up beer garden in the summer). I wouldn't usually come here unless it's for an event.

Annie S.

Yelp

Cool place to go and hang out for the day along the water. There are many things to do like carnival games, arcade games, rides, a roller rink, drinks and food. We went on a Saturday at 12pm and there was no one there. I was confused...where are all the people? Though I am not complaining. We played some of the arcade games and then did the roller rink once it opened. If you have Blue Cross you get a discount and you can keep your shoes and purses in a locker for a dollar.

Andres A.

Yelp

Great place to visit on the water. You can go for a leisurely stroll or visit one of the many different and fun venues. We absolutely enjoyed our visit there and had loads of fun just people watching and having a drink. Plenty of things to do if you are with little ones as well.

Karla D.

Yelp

Definitely a tourist spot and though I don't live in Philly it's been a second home to me for years. And though I don't consider myself a tourist I still like to see the sights. Honestly whether you're a local or tourist there are fun things to do. Loads. I love strolling along the water on a beautiful day. The area often has a variety of events from live music to fireworks and other activities. Nice area to grab food and drinks. Lots of places to sit outside and relax as well.

Bill M.

Yelp

I'm kind of mixed on Penn's Landing. I've been to some real fun things here like Irish Festivals, and Concerts (Saw Yeah Yeah Yeahs for free way back when and it was freaking awesome). The Moshulu is a good boat restaurant and it has some good historic boats that are worth checking out. you also can't go wrong with Jam On The River, and it's one of the best places to watch fireworks on 4th of July. But the brown water can be pretty unattractive to the eye. And for a riverfront pier side view it doesn't really give you a whole lot to look at. The Christopher Columbus memorial that's here can be another turn off.

Rose W.

Yelp

Nice place to visit if you have a half a day and just want to stay in city , enjoy some ice cream and take a seat by the river . Would suggest to have couple more food vendors . You can kayak or ride the swan boat there . Good place family outing

Amee S.

Yelp

Love this gem for so many seasons and reasons!! They bring out great talents at the live concerts. Summer jazz is free! And so are a lot of festivals! Check out their calendar... It's right on the water, Delaware river, and the picturesque spot makes for a great date spot as well as a family gathering... You can walk by the nearby spruce street harbor park and catch more live music, great street food and icecream, hammocks in the summer, and a gorgeous ambience.. Water ferry tours and duck/swan boat rides are available too.. And in the winter, Ice skating! Short walk from old city or society hill...lots more dinner options before getting here...

Dave W.

Yelp

Only 3 stars due to the overall condition of the space. Maybe they have plans for the future, but there are numerous areas where the grouting is crumbling and light stands are damaged or missing. We walked from the hotel (Penns View) but parking in the general area is very, very limited. That said, it is a wonderful amenity for the city of Philadelphia, adjacent to the Maritime Museum. We were there on March 1 for the commissioning of the USS Somerset. The ship had pride of place at the base of the amphitheater - an awesome sight. Next to the amphitheater an ice rink was in full use. There is a beautiful monument across the highway dedicated to Irish settlers who landed here. Looks like a great place for any kind of festival so we will have to keep an eye on the calendar for a return visit in warmer weather.

Zareena M.

Yelp

Bathrooms are horrible, this place has potential but they need to keep up with it or its a waste of space. HIGHLY DOUBT the employees wash their hands seeing as the bathrooms are filthy with no water or working soap dispensers.

Andrea W.

Yelp

Nice place to walk along the river and there are some places to sit as well. There's something like a stage too, but not sure what it's for. I came during the spring with some friends on the weekend just to walk around, and the view's not super impressive though we could see the bridge. Not the cleanest place but not too dirty, and there are public bathrooms too. Try parking on the street because the parking lot right next to this place is super expensive (though street parking isn't cheap either). Not too many people were there the day we went, but there didn't seem to be any events going on so maybe that's why. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here.

Robnkia M.

Yelp

The live music was really nice! In fact we had a wonderful breeze blowing right in front of the live band where we sat. There were hammocks all around...I didnt really care to swing in them...too many random people getting on. Bring sun screen and bug spray...the nats were out pretty thick. Overrall I had a wonderful time with the love of my life.

Shannon R.

Yelp

Penn's Landing in chick full of things to do! You can go for a nice walk along the river, lay in a hammock at Harbor Park or play a round of mini golf at the River Rink-the list is endless. On this occasion, we took a trip to Penn's Landing for the Memorial Day fireworks display. The weather was not cooperating so it was cold and rainy. There weren't many people there just the few brave souls who weren't afraid of the rain. We lucked out with a unobstructed "front row seat" for the display! The display itself was brief it was over within 8 minutes. Although it was brief it was still nice to see. I'll be back again for the 4th of July display!

A K.

Yelp

Suburban Coney Island boardwalk, just much much smaller and crowded. Summer hammocks filled with people sleeping and couples necking. Walking around it is pretty dirty. Fried food was good and also beer was good. Other items are expensive food truck prices, fancy but small portions. Seasoned fries were oversalted. Birds also hang around which can become annoying to some.

Yadira S.

Yelp

Beautiful place to spend a day with your family and friends we have a great time .Relax time woking around eating water ice ..really nice place !

Scott H.

Yelp

First time I have been here in many years ... Maybe 25? Even in 1990 the concrete structures that make up Penn's Landing were getting old. Now, it is serviceable but really needs repair and a facelift. It is true that the view is great and there are many activities (if you pick the right day) but the 1970's design is very stale. It must be boiling hot when all this cement heats up during a hot summer day. We attended a John Butler concert that was just fantastic. Beer, soda and food pricing were all decent and there is plenty of parking. So, lots of good things and even more potential. Time to reinvest Philly.

K P.

Yelp

Great spot to take the family or a group of friends. Lots of activities, food options, and driving spots.

Emma S.

Yelp

There's a lot of concrete here. Are those toilets or fountains? If they're fountains, why doesn't the water run? Did they film Candyman in the bathrooms downstairs? If you're here early to set up for an event, joggers who aren't allowed in will give you the stinkeye. The screens around the stage look like IKEA flags. Where can I get Swedish meatballs? View to the East: New Jersey. View to the South: parking lot. View to the West: highway. View to the North: Walt Whitman Bridge, combining the best of the highway with New Jersey! Thing I liked best about Penn's Landing: Coast Guard air rescue practice going on right past the fakey pirate ship.

Sarah H.

Yelp

This review is specifically for "Screenings Under the Stars." There's nothing like grabbing a cheesesteak and heading over to Penn's landing for an outdoor movie. Every Thursday in July and August , the Delaware Riverfront Water Corporation sponsors the screening of a different film for your enjoyment. Why you need to come: -Um, it's free? How many things in this world are really, truly 100% no-you-don't-need-to-reach-into-your-pocket GRATIS?! My point exactly. Sometimes, they even throw in some free samples from their sponsors (mm stonyfield honey mango yogurt) -It's convenient. The el/bus 33,17,25,43/a nightly stroll. Whatever it is, Penn's landing is an easy place to meet up with friends living all over the city. SEPTA actually makes it kind of painless (gasp) to get here. -It's an excuse to spend an entire evening outside. I don't know about you, but after working inside most of the day, I am more than ready for some fresh air! - Feel the breeze on your face, stretch out your legs and admire the orange-tinted moon as it climaxes (along with the movie!) above the Camden waterfront. -Fantastic Mr. Fox. Love. Quick recap for all my ADD friends out there: you + friends + cushion + Penn's landing = necessary. Go.

Colleen B.

Yelp

Place to chill, i am a big fan! Very open and just relaxed. Can't really compare it to waterfronts in other cities because there is not much "going on," however, that is what makes it kinda nice. Concert venue, eh...quite large - so i'll have to say...depends on the artist. It is pretty dope to hear a great song in the evening with the moon out and having the bridge all lit up as a backdrop, and you can FEEL the energy of this amazing city!

Monica O.

Yelp

"Screenings Under the Stars" at the Great Plaza Stage review--Who wants to always pay $10 or more per person to go to the movies? No one. Who wants to watch a good movie outdoors on Penn's Landing for free? Everyone! See, that's the beauty of the summer...and the beauty of ballin' on a budget. Bring your own snacks and drinks, a chair or blanket, and come and enjoy a great movie al fresco. This is happening every Thursday night until August 25th, 2011. The next films to be shown are The Social Network (July 21st) and Eat, Pray, Love (July 28th).

Caroline L.

Yelp

Rather than trying to make a cohesive review of Penn's Landing, let me describe the features of this concrete park and recreation area. Fitness: Plenty of running spaces here, without worries of cars. But be mindful of the staff on golf carts, who frequently drive through. They won't run you down, but they may startle you. There are grassy areas by the Columbus phallus where you can stretch and do ground workouts. There are plenty of ramps and stairs to get your hill work in. Philly is pretty flat so the stairs add a level of difficulty to your workout. Festivals: Lots of special events in the pavilion, with a covered stage area. Many of the events are free, but there are some that are pay only. Thus, there may be times your full access will be blocked by these events. Romance: The recessed seating areas along the water is make out point for lovers of all ages. I've done that myself, although it's in full view of passers by. So keep it classy! Food and Water: No food vendors unless there's an event. This can be considered a good thing. There is limited access to water. I think there must be a fountain somewhere, but I use Race Pier for refreshment (2 blocks north of Penn's Landing). Some people may think it's gross that I drink from fountains, but back when I was a little girl, we didn't have portable water bottles. Instead, we drank desalinated water sourced from our sweat and tears. Reflection: The area in open at all times, I believe. It's a good place to look at the water, see twinkling lights on the Ben Franklin bridge, and reflect on how lucky we are to be healthy enough to be able to enjoy the sights.

Jenn C.

Yelp

Every major city has a peir/harbor and Philadelphia has Penn's Landing... being from Philly, lots of history, for one, did you know Penn's Landing is where William Penn, Philadelphia's founder, first touched ground in his "greene country towne." PL runs off the west bank of the Delaware River. This is a prime area for festivals, concerts, fireworks, dining, partying, dancing, skating, strolling around with friends and/or dates... an area worth checking out for out of towners. Just remember, it gets HOT in the summers and COLD in the winters!

Colette C.

Yelp

One of the Beautiful places in the city of Philadelphia. So much to do in this area morning, noon and night!

Rahkia M.

Yelp

I love this peaceful sanctuary i love to come here to relax and have some peace i love literally everything about coming here you guys should come get your zen on

Jason C.

Yelp

This is a review for the Great Plaza Stage. What a sick venue to see a spin or summer show! I saw My Morning Jacket here in August and it was such an intimate show. Its all GA, and its tiered so unless you are behind some behemoth, your sight lines will be great. The back drop of the stage is usually transparent which allows views of the water, and the beautiful Camden skyline. The bad news is that I think the Great Plaza is short lived. Whatever plans the imbecile planners come up with next for Penn's Landing will surely end the life of the Great Plaza. p.s. RIP Jam on the River

Tara B.

Yelp

The venue was completely disrespectful... we were told to wait because there was a chance of thunderstorms & were unsafe for Train to perform... it was vital that the performers not leave the venue. HOWEVER PATRONS LIVES ARE WORTH THE RISK. We were not told to seek shelter. Also ppl blew smoke in my face THE ENTIRE TIME. disrespectful. Hate PA at this point.

Anthony W.

Yelp

Depending on the event, Penn's Landing can be very hit or miss. I had a fairly good time at the Hispanic Festival yesterday (Fiesta Fest I call it). The Colombian food was ROCKIN! Although they were famine or feast, there were lots of nice looking women out. Before this summer, I hadn't been down to Penn's Landing since I was a child. It's a shame to see how much it remains the same. When are they going to "do something" with this waterfront?

Hunny P.

Yelp

Went here for a concert last night and it was great. The wind off the river cooled things down. The crowd was typical, drunk and dumb. But the location was great. I would love to go there again for something else. And after the concert, we stopped and chilled in a hammock at the Spruce Street Harbor Park. That was awesome. The bathrooms definitely need attention. There were a few with no doors which created lines and by the end of the night, it was disgusting in there. No toilet paper and messy.

Ade B.

Yelp

A nice place to spend time in the summer. In the summer this riverfront area plays host to the Multicultural Series, a succession of outdoor festivals that celebrate cultural traditions from across the globe. There are also free concerts and the city's only roller skating rink. The spruce street harbor park is listed separately on yelp, but it's also a part of Penn's landing. The only reason I only give it three stars instead of four is that the quality of the free concerts is on the decline. In 2015 I didn't know any of the artists performing. Also note that some of the reviews are referencing a separate waterfront concert venue that is not free and not really a part of Penn's landing. But past years have seen stars ranging from Demi Lovato to Kendrick Lamar to En Vogue to Bell Biv Devoe to Meek Mill to Shiela E. performing for free. But it seems the concert budget has been cut and those great free concerts are a thing of the past. Now you get some nice Jazz on Friday night's in August but that's not the same. With the proper budget Penn's landing could be back to 4 or 5 Stars in 2016.

Sheila G.

Yelp

Great place to go during the holidays! It has a great view and m the fireworks show on New Year's Eve were super fun. Dress warmly and bring your own drinks ad food there was nowhere to eat.

Benjamin M.

Yelp

3.5 Stars. Penn's Landing is fun gathering spot on the edge of the Delaware River. You can pay $7.00 to take the ferry over to the Jersey side if you're going to check out the aquarium, catch a ball game at Campbell's Field or jam out to your favorite band at the Susquehanna Bank Center. However, they also host a number of varying events and concerts during the year, obviously concentrated around the nicer weather months. We had a ball viewing the crazies participating in the Redbull Flutag on the water last September. In the winter, you can enjoy testing out your leg muscles you forgot existed by skating around the seasonally constructed ice rink with friends/family. So, check out the calendar and find a reason to stop by Philly's waterfront. http://www.delawareriverwaterfront.com/events

Sim L.

Yelp

My sister told me that on nice days I could find some activities by the pier, so I took a nice walk to Penns Landing. There is an ice skating rink there and they have a concert space there too, but when I went none of that was going on, so I just enjoyed great company & weather while other people jogged, chased seagulls and took pictures by the river. It's just a nice place to relax.

Shakalohana A.

Yelp

It's a great place to run to from Center City in the morning... you see the sun rise and smell the water. It's a nicer scent than the Schuykill! There aren't too terribly many people around, and it can feel really good to have the new day's sunshine on your face first thing in the morning. You can do stretches to your heart's delight on the bars there, and just have a quiet moment. It's also one of my favorite places to chill out and have a quick lunch picnic if I'm cycling home from IKEA. I love all the boats, and seeing the families and children have a time on the cute two-seater rentable Swan boats in the small marina. A great place to read a book, and a peaceful oasis from booming south st.

Jen M.

Yelp

Really nice for craft fairs because they usually have tents around. But for festivals? You'll BAKE in the sun. Parking is a nightmare too.

Theodore H.

Yelp

I went here in high school with my girlfriend for a 4th of July fireworks show. I wasn't sure if this place was it, so I pulled up to the lot and asked to turn around to see if there was something else. They asked for 5 dollars before I told them I just wanted to turn around and they did without a problem. I drove up and down Columbus blvd for like 10 min and was like hey, that's it so best go there. We pulled up again and the ticket to park went up to like 25 (I don't have the exact price, but it jumped something stupid like that!) I thought that was absurd but paid anyways and parked. My gf and I walked up and down the area for a bit and there was pretty much nothing there. The fireworks were amazing but all that was out were pretzel vendors and some nut vendors, no real places to sit and have a drink or relax. I think if Philly would work on this area and add to tourist attractions and put some restaurants or something in there it would be much better. I think they rely on south street or center city to attract people, but even those things have been lacking lately.

Christina F.

Yelp

This place is super cool when spruce street harbor park is going on. It's a kind of European feel with people talking, drinking, hanging around and enjoying each others company. You could come and not spend any money and enjoy yourself if you come with a group of friends that simply enjoy each other's company. I just went today (mid December) and it was empty. Not really sure what you do there when there isn't a concert or food options open. I wish they would keep the lights up from the harbor park all year round!

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/philadelphia-united-states/nature-parks/

Nature and Parks in Philadelphia

https://matadornetwork.com/destinations/north-america/united-states/philadelphia-united-states/nature-parks/

Penn’s Landing

The Perfect Weekend in Philadelphia

Family Fun in Philly

The Best Things to Do in Philadelphia