The Delaware River has the best places to eat, drink, and take in amazing views along the Philadelphia waterfront. It’s also full of charm and history, with plenty of opportunities to explore and learn about the historic ships docked there. The river flows through Bucks, Delaware, and Philadelphia counties out to the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Although it’s had a few name changes along the way, The Delaware River is named after Thomas West, Virginia’s first royal governor. The waterfront area is called Penn’s Landing after founder William Penn who landed on its shores in 1682.
If you’re looking for fun times, check out the many parks, restaurants, piers, museums, and more – a trip along Philadelphia’s Delaware River is just what you are looking for. We’ve rounded up some of the top things to do in the area to get your whole gang excited for a visit, including a fun experience or two with City Cruises Philadelphia.
Drink, Eat, and Views that Can’t be Beat on the Delaware River in Philly
From no-frills mom-and-pop joints to fine dining and floating restaurants, there is no shortage of delicious food for the gastronomically inclined. Throw in unmatched waterfront views along the Delaware River and you have a recipe for success. If you’re looking for kid-friendly there’s nothing like Craft Hall which offers an indoor playground and craft beer from its on-site Mainstay Independent Brewing. Dry-rub spare ribs, smokehouse pizzas, and BBQ anything from its 700-pound smoker keeps people coming back for more. There’s a wide range of kids’ selections and you can even bring the pooch (treats available)!
Set inside a historical riverfront pumping station, find Fringe Bar which is the latest addition to the Fringe Arts site. This newly renovated restaurant/bar combo provides a versatile menu to enjoy indoors with funky and eclectic beverage options to enhance their soulful pub cuisine while gazing at the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Delaware River – all to the tunes of jazz, funk, and even cabaret.
If you’re in the mood for seafood then, Moshulu offers an unbelievable dining experience. Seafood-leaning American fare can be enjoyed from the belly of the ship or up on deck under the sun. This vessel which dates back to 1904, has been featured in several films.
The real star of the show is to become the view on a Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise and dine, dance, and relax as you enjoy the beauty of Philly’s historic waterfront and take in the beauty surrounding you. This will surely be a night to remember. Those who prefer an earlier experience should opt for a Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise. Get your groove on and dine on the Delaware River with spectacular skyline and architectural views, and marvel at famed city landmarks. The spirits will be flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and music from a live DJ for a one-of-a-kind day.
Historic Attractions Around the Delaware River Are All They’re Cracked up to Be
If you are in the Philadelphia area, there’s no doubt you will want to check out the Delaware River waterfront area, or Penn’s Landing for a glimpse of
exciting things the city has to offer for locals, history buffs, and out-of-town visitors. One of the coolest sights to explore are historic vessels that you can board and remotely operate, maneuver, and fire a mock cannon. Visit Olympia, the nation’s oldest floating steel warship used by Admiral Dewey during his Spanish-American War victor, and the Becuna, a World War II submarine that fought battles in the South Pacific. The Independence Seaport Museum, founded in 1961, houses collections that document maritime history and culture along the Delaware River, and offers various exhibits to explore throughout the year. The Benjamin Franklin Bridge, once the longest suspension bridge in the world, allows cars commuting to and from New Jersey to get across. Enjoy the pedestrian walkway or bike across for an amazing vantage point. Bonus skyline views from atop will surely impress from this iconic landmark.
The Historic District is a short walk from Penn’s Landing and hosts attractions and events throughout the year for all ages. Here you will find the birthplace of the nation buzzing with history. It spans from the Delaware River to 7th Street and from Vine Street to Lombard Street smack dab in the heart of Philadelphia. Initially used to call Pennsylvania Assembly meetings, the Liberty Bell is a must-see on your trip around the Delaware River. Soon after, abolitionists, Civil Rights Advocates, suffragists, Native Americans, immigrants, and war protestors adopted the Liberty Bell as their symbol. This exhibit is free and can be toured year-round as part of the U.S. National Park Service and Independence National Historical Park. If you want to see where our Founding Fathers came together to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776, stop by Independence Hall with a guided tour that operates year-round. These tours sell out, so plan accordingly, as they too are part of the U.S. National Park Service and Independence National Historic Park.
There are plenty of historic sites around Philadelphia, but few are more iconic than the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Visitors flock to these famous sites year after year. Make sure to make a bucket list of attractions you would like to see as these are just the beginning of explorations for this fine city and its amazing history.
There A-Piers to be A lot to See and do Along the Delaware River Waterfront
Cherry Street Pier serves as a collaborative space for creative entrepreneurs and artists. It features live performances and serves as an event space with food vendors, and pop-up shops year-round. It was built into the shell of a century-old municipal pier and redeveloped into a mixed-use public space.
Another great pier that shouldn’t be missed is Race Street Pier, which is picnic-friendly and offers views of Benjamin Franklin Bridge. This is a great spot to snap some Instagram-worthy shots.
Also known as Pier 53, Washington Avenue Pier features an elevated walkway and the Land Buoy, a 55-foot-tall spiral staircase open to visitors for their viewing pleasure. This serves as a memorial to honor thousands of immigrants who passed through what was once called, “Philadelphia’s Ellis Island.”
Let The Music Play on the Delaware River in Philadelphia
The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing is one of Philadelphia’s premier locations for outdoor concerts and festivals and the skyline views of the City of Brotherly Love and the Delaware River are unbeatable. Located at the end of Chestnut Street and the Delaware River, The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing is home to legendary festivals and concerts in an amphitheater-style setting with beautiful river views. It’s open year-round, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, and is part of the New Delaware River Waterfront project spanning 11.5 acres of space between Chestnut Street, Walnut Street, Front Street, and the Delaware River. There will be a wide variety of performances and festivals, play areas, RiverRink for winter ice skating, a water play area in the summer, and delicious food and drink options. The city aims to be a fully inclusive park where all Philadelphians from all backgrounds feel welcome.
Dine, Dance, and Delight on the Delaware River in Philadelphia
The Delaware Riverfront is home to unbeatable outdoor experiences and is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Philadelphia area. Enjoy parks, museums, live music, dining cruises, and amazing restaurants along the waterfront as you take in the unique atmosphere and historic skyline views. The waterfront is a vibrant area to explore for residents and visitors alike, looking for things to do in the City of Brotherly Love.
