Philadelphia is known as the “City of Brotherly Love.” It has a wealth of nature spots, parks and trails to explore, making it the perfect place to take a romantic stroll. Stroll around Rittenhouse Square Park, a public park located in the center of Philadelphia, surrounded by a mix of historic and modern high-rises. It offers plenty of benches and fountains, as well as a variety of sculptures. Boathouse Row is an iconic riverside walk that is home to several of Philadelphia’s rowing clubs. The Friendship Gate is the perfect spot to take a romantic photo of the two of you. Or, take a walk along the Schuylkill River Trail, a 60-mile greenway that starts from the city and goes to Valley Forge National Historical Park.
1. Places for a Coffee Date in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to a number of charming coffee shops perfect for a casual first date. Try to La Colombe Coffee (which has three locations in the city), which serves organic coffee roasted in-house. There's also the Good Karma Cafe in South Kensington, a cozy spot which serves locally-made pastries and breakfast dishes. ReAnimator Coffee has two locations in Philadelphia and is known for its quality coffees and teas, as well as its pastries, scones, and muffins. And lastly, Rival Bros Coffee Bar, which serves craft coffee and espresso drinks, located in the heart of South Philadelphia.
2. Philadelphia Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions to Visit On A Date
Philadelphia is a cultural hub with many galleries, museums, and exhibitions to enjoy on a first date. Check out the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the United States, where you can wander through its expansive galleries and discover works from around the world. Or, the Barnes Foundation, which features the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. The Mutter Museum takes you on a tour of medical history and features medical curiosities, such as a wall of human skulls and a collection of medical antiques. Or, the Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion, where you can explore thousands of live insects and butterflies.
3. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To In Philadelphia
Philadelphia is known for its vibrant music and nightlife scene. Check out the Electric Factory, which hosts a variety of concerts, from emerging indie bands to big names like Bjork and The xx. The theater also often plays cult classic movies. The World Cafe Live at The Queen is an intimate live performance venue that hosts a variety of genres—from Jazz to Rock and Blues. Johnny Brenda’s is a popular Philly music venue and bar, featuring live music from local and touring bands seven nights a week. The TLA is a classic venue in the city, with a range of concerts from rock to hip-hop and everything in between.
4. Philadelphia Pubs, Bars, or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
After a stroll or museum visit, head to one of Philadelphia’s pubs, bars, or restaurants for a first date drink or food. Head to Prohibition Taproom, which features a rotating selection of craft beers, ciders, and cocktails and is known for its delicious sandwiches and burgers. The Irish Pol is a cozy dive bar/restaurant serving up traditional Irish fare and Guinness. There’s also Strangelove’s, a craft beer bar that offers an impressive selection of rotating taps and a menu of small plates and snacks. And don’t forget the Good King Tavern, a popular BYOB spot serving seasonal French-inspired dishes.
5. Other Date Ideas to Try in Philadelphia
If you’re looking for something a bit more creative for your first date, Philadelphia has plenty of options to choose from. Take your date to Penn’s Landing for a whale watching tour for some fun and romance on the high seas. Or, challenge one another to an escape room. Escape the 1980's is a popular spot in the city where you can work together to solve a series of clues in order to escape the room. For a more relaxed activity, try the Climb UP Indoor Climbing Gym, where you can challenge each other while having a blast. Or, why not try a yoga class? There are plenty of studios in the city offering classes for all levels.
