Ever truly wondered how big Philly is? As a second-year, I feel like I have barely scratched the surface and am always looking for more places to explore and see.
With this being my first summer on campus (I am on co-op, but on Penn’s campus, so have I really left?) I found myself quite bored with the rotation of things I do on campus with friends.
I have accumulated a list of things to do in the city and taken suggestions from others to create the ultimate Philly bucket list.
So, these are the top ten things you should do before you leave campus (whether it is for co-op, celebrating your graduation or a freshman relishing your last free summer for the next couple of years)
- Penn’s Landing: The perfect summer hangout spot with friends that has so much to offer. Spruce Street Harbor Park offers beautiful scenery for a photo op, while
Penn’s Landing’s Summer Fest activities include bungee jumping, boat rides, roller skating and more.
- Schuylkill River: Biking the trail alongside the scenic views is highly recommended, but a walk is just as beautiful!
- South Street Thrift: If you are an avid thrifter like me or want to try it out for the first time, South Street is very beginner-friendly. With multiple thrift spots within walking distance, I would hit the big three, Philly Aids Thrift, 2nd Street and Retrospect.
- Rittenhouse Square: The perfect spot to people-watch, there is always a flea or farmers market going on, but my favorite activity is strolling the aisles of Barnes & Noble.
- Chinese Lantern Festival: Starting on June 20 and running through Aug. 18 on Franklin Square, you can enjoy live performances, authentic food options, and support artists who have created lantern displays.
- Dessert in Chinatown: Mango Mango will never fail you! Other recommendations I have heard include Matcha Panda Cafe and A La Mousse.
- First Fridays in Old City: Galleries open new exhibits and design showrooms have free entry on the first Friday of every month.
- Trying new restaurants: Here are some favorites: El Ray, Amma’s South Indian Cuisine, Suraya, Grandma’s Philly, Erawan, Saad’s Halal Restaurant, Manakeesh and Giorgio On Pine.
- Philadelphia Art Museum: No matter how many times I visit, I never get bored of the museum, there are always new exhibits to see and great art to appreciate!
- Go on a hike: If you consider yourself an even remotely outdoorsy person, Wissahickon Valley Park and the Manayunk Bridge Trail are the perfect trails for a hike.
You may have already checked all these off your list, but if you have not, I recommend you try at least one thing. Unfortunately, you have to find some more on your own because I am definitely gatekeeping.