It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of city living and forget to enjoy the little things – especially when you’re a broke college student. But Philadelphia is full of free, fun activities that will help you relax, explore, and maybe even learn something new. So take a break from studying (or Netflix) and check out these free things to do in Philadelphia!
Stroll through Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square Park in Philadelphia should be the first stop for anyone looking for a free, enjoyable way to experience some of the city’s history and natural beauty. Located in the heart of downtown, this historic park dates back to 1690 and is home to a variety of tree groves, landscaped gardens, paved paths, and sculptures.
With benches scattered throughout the grounds, visitors have plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the atmosphere. Whether looking for stunning views or morning jogs, Rittenhouse Square provides both locals and tourists with a great place to get out into nature without spending a penny. It’s no wonder why it remains one of Philadelphia’s most iconic landmarks!
Visit the Fairmount Park
Philadelphia is home to some amazing parks, but none compare in size and beauty to Fairmount Park. It’s America’s largest urban park, covering over 2,000 acres of lush land in the city of Philadelphia. It has two sections — East Fairmount and West Fairmount — divided by the Schuylkill River.
There is plenty to see and do within this massive park — take a hike through the various trails, kayak or canoe along its many waterways, have a picnic in one of its grassy fields, or simply sit back and enjoy its stunning views. With no admission fee, it’s the perfect way to experience everything that Philadelphia’s nature has to offer!
Take a walk or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail
Spend the day with some outdoor fun! Take a walk or bike ride along the Schuylkill River Trail and experience the incredible scenery this stretch of nature has to offer. The Schuylkill River Trail is part of the Circuit Trails network and runs through Philadelphia for 26 miles.
Enjoy picturesque views of the river and its banks, as well as its nearby parks, bridges, and stately buildings. There are also plenty of wildlife to spot — from herons, ducks, and geese down by the water to chipmunks, squirrels, and birds perched in trees above. Whether you’re a local looking for a leisurely stroll or a tourist hoping for an exciting adventure, take advantage of this free Philadelphia activity and soak in all the beauty larger than life along the Schuylkill River Trail.
Visit Boathouse Row
Visit the boathouses at Boathouse Row when you hike along the Schuylkill River Trail. Boathouse Row is where you’ll find the colorful and historic boathouses, all of which are free to view from the outside. Here you can explore the various architectural styles that characterize the structures. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see some rowers in action!
Check out the different neighborhood of Philadelphia
Experience the diversity of Philadelphia’s different neighborhoods and the unique cultures each one has to offer. From Chinatown in the east to Germantown in the west, there is something for everyone! And best of all — it won’t cost a penny. Take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets or join locals in their community activities for a real taste of Philly culture. There’s no better way to learn about the city and its people than by exploring it up close and personal.
Check out some street art in Philly
Philadelphia is a unique and vibrant city, brimming with art of all kinds. If you’re looking for an interesting and free way to explore Philly, then it’s worth checking out the street art there.
From historic murals painted on brick walls in the older neighborhoods to colorful graffiti tagging the sides of buildings in newer areas, there is always something fascinating to discover. Whether you want to hunt for iconic works or simply get lost in the visual splendor, Philadelphia has hundreds of pieces just waiting for you to explore!
Sample some free food at one of Philadelphia’s many food trucks or carts
Philadelphia is home to a vibrant street food scene filled with an ever-changing variety of options for every palate. Step out of your comfort zone and explore the city’s food trucks and carts! From classic cheesesteaks to more exotic fare, there is something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample all that Philadelphia has to offer — try some free food at one of its many food trucks or carts and be surprised by new flavors and cravings that you never knew you had!
Attend a free event or concert at one of Philly’s many parks and public spaces
There is a wonderful array of free public events and concerts to enjoy in the city of Philadelphia. From weekly jazz concerts in Rittenhouse Square to classical music recitals in the historic Spruce Street Harbor Park, there is truly something for everyone.
Visit Philadelphia museums for free!
If you’re looking for an incredible cultural experience without spending a dime, a perfect option is to visit one of the many museums in Philly. Here is how to visit them for free!
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is known for its vast collections of art from around the world and its impressive architecture. It’s a must-see for any college student looking to explore some of Philly’s culture!
With the museum’s pay-what-you-wish admission on the first Sunday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and every Friday night from 5:00 to 8:45 p.m., you can explore the museum for little to no money!
Rodin Museum
The Rodin Museum in Philadelphia offers visitors a unique and amazing experience that won’t break the bank. Admission is a “pay-what-you-wish” policy, so anyone can take advantage of all that the museum has to offer without breaking their budget. And if you just want to explore the beautiful courtyard and grounds, it’s always free!
Here, guests are treated to an oasis of art featuring some of Auguste Rodin’s iconic sculptures, surrounded by picturesque gardens. Whether you’re looking for a creative afternoon or simply appreciate having access to amazing works of art, the Rodin Museum is definitely worth exploring!
Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is an amazing destination for students and families alike. It offers a variety of educational exhibits and activities that spark curiosity and creativity, as well as hands-on learning opportunities.
The institute offers Community Nights starting at 5 p.m. when access to the museum is free of charge. These free educational and fun-filled science extravaganzas include The Franklin Institute’s famous permanent exhibits, special programs, and hands-on activities.
Academy of Natural Sciences
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is a great learning environment for students. Here, you can explore the depths of science and nature through engaging lectures and experimental classes.
The museum offers Dinos After Dark — an event for those aged 18+ featuring special programming with fossils and live animals from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays. Best part is, you can pay what you wish for admission.
Institute of Contemporary Art
Since its establishment in 1963 by the University of Pennsylvania, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) has gained a world-renowned status as one of the top places to witness modern art and culture. ICA is known for hosting engaging family programs such as its monthly Create with ICA, where all ages are welcome to experience interactive art projects.
Admission to ICA is always free.
Barnes Foundation
If you’re looking for fun and educational activities to do, the Barnes Foundation is a great place to visit. Every first Sunday of the month, they host free family festivals that are themed differently each time. Enjoy vibrant music performances, creative art-making sessions, intriguing stories from around the world — all while having full access to their galleries!
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)
Get in touch with one-of-a-kind art at the PAFA. This iconic Philadelphia establishment provides you a chance to delve into masterpieces from remarkable American artists like Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt, and Charles Willson Peale. Tucked away inside an old edifice on North Broad Street, PAFA is packed with both classic and contemporary pieces that will ignite your imagination!
Make sure to visit PAFA’s free Family Art Academy every Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. during the school year (approximately once a month in summer). Here you will get complimentary admission and have the opportunity to complete different art projects as a family each week. In addition, they also take part in Wawa Welcome America, Smithsonian Museum Day, and Philly free Street festivities. Admission is also free every day for college students who attend certain schools in the Philly area, making it a great spot to explore the city’s exquisite culture without breaking the bank.
National Constitution Center
The National Constitution Center is a great place to visit and learn about the history of our country. On select days, admission is free for the public, making it an affordable way to explore and experience the center’s exhibitions. College students with valid ID can also get discounted admission, allowing them to save even more.
Whether you’re interested in learning about the nation’s founding documents or curious about the impact of our constitution on current society, there truly is something for everyone at the National Constitution Center.
African American Museum in Philadelphia
Every second Saturday of the month, the African American Museum in Philadelphia offers free Family Fun Days for all to enjoy! With discounted admission for students with valid ID and free admission for Philly residents aged 14-19, this is an excellent opportunity to experience one of the city’s most amazing cultural institutions. From historical exhibits to stimulating activities and events, AAMP has something special for everyone.
Fireman’s Hall Museum
The Fireman’s Hall Museum is a museum dedicated to the Fire Department of Philadelphia, the oldest paid fire department in the United States. Established in 1976 and housed in a repurposed firehouse, it seeks to provide an educational resource on fire safety as well as giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the Fire Department of Philadelphia’s history.
Visitors can browse through artifacts such as antique firefighting equipment and uniforms, plus exhibits ranging from fire engines to horse-drawn steamers, providing valuable context into different eras of firefighting practice. There are also interactive areas such as a virtual reality firefighter experience and firefighter scenarios. The Fireman’s Hall Museum offers family-oriented special events, group tours, and classes throughout the year for everyone who wants to learn more about this unique part of Philadelphia’s heritage.
Best of all, admission to the Fireman’s Hall Museum is always free!
The Fabric Workshop and Museum
The Fabric Workshop and Museum is a great place for students to explore and learn. It offers free admission, so there’s no entry fee required to experience the amazing works of art and installations.
Here, visitors can discover the world of textiles, technology, and contemporary art, with opportunities to attend workshops and lectures that touch on everything from sculpture to fashion design. It even includes a massive fabric library where you can check out large fabrics for educational use or research. Whether you’re looking for an inspiring experience or just want to browse around, FWM is well worth a visit!
Fairmount Water Works
Located right on the banks of the Schuylkill River, Fairmount Water Works offers free admission for all visitors. Here, students can learn about Philadelphia’s history and its role as one of America’s first cities of modern sanitation. They can also explore beautiful architecture from the 19th century, take in views from atop a two-story viewing pavilion, and discover some of the city’s most fascinating natural wonders and wildlife.
Whether you’re looking to learn more about Philadelphia’s past or just appreciate its beauty, the Fairmount Water Works is an amazing spot with something for everyone!
Wagner Free Institute of Science
The Wagner Free Institute of Science is an incredible resource for students who are looking to explore and learn. Admission here is always free, so you can take advantage of the Institute’s educational offerings without spending a dime.
Here, visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits and rotating galleries that focus on science and history, as well as attend lectures and workshops led by experts in those fields. The Institute also sometimes hosts museum nights, where visitors have exclusive access to its galleries after hours. Whether you’re interested in learning more about science or just appreciate having a unique experience, the Wagner Free Institute of Science is the perfect place for you!
Science History Institute
The Science History Institute is a great place to explore the interplay between science and culture. Formerly known as the Chemical Heritage Foundation, this amazing institution offers visitors the opportunity to dive into the history of science without spending a dime — admission is always free!
Here, students can experience exhibitions that cover topics like chemistry and biology, attend lectures and workshops led by experts in these fields, and even explore rare materials related to these disciplines. Whether you’re looking to learn more about science or just appreciate having an immersive experience, the Science History Institute is an incredible resource with something for everyone!
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many free activities that can be experienced in Philadelphia! No matter what your interests may be, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. So get out and explore all that Philadelphia has to offer – without spending a penny!
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