5 Unique Things to do for a Great Weekend in Philly

Philadelphia is an important city in the revolutionary history of the United States. There are landmarks in the city where you can go to revisit historic footprints. But the city offers other experiences too. If you are a foodie, you can explore the city every weekend and try new things to eat. You can even combine different experiences and fun in the city. If you are newly-arrived in the city, perhaps you are looking for experiences and things to do and see in Philadelphia. 

Philly, as Philadelphia is lovingly referred to, has many museums, historic landmarks, markets, shopping places, restaurants, parks, and libraries. Here are unique things to do for a great weekend in Philly.

Challenge your mind at the Museum of Illusions. 

Head to 401, Market City to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of illusions. There are 60 exhibits to cover and you can have a fun weekend in Philly visiting each. Play around with optical illusions and holograms. The exhibits you can expect here are Anti-Gravity Room, Infinity Tunnel, Clone Table, Rotated Room, Tricky Stick, Hollow Face Illusion, and more. You can buy tickets from the museum’s website and even look up the timings for the weekend (as there may be a change due to holidays or special events). 

Attend classes or shop at the Clay Studio. 

The new studio is at 1425 North American Street. This 34,000 sq ft building is the place for classes, exhibits, and various community events. If creative work inspires you or if you want to buy clay products for your holiday gifting then spend a remarkable weekend in Philly here. You can attend a weekend workshop or opt for classes as per your convenience. But visiting this place will enthrall you in any case. You can shop by artists or special collections such as ‘Holiday Gifts Under $60’ ‘Philly Flavors’ ‘New Arrivals’, ‘Get it Before It’s Gone’, and more. You can shop collections from more than 130 artists here. You can attend events such as ‘Let’s Make’; a special Saturday workshop for beginners. Or attend ‘Date Nights’; an event for groups and couples on Friday evenings. 

Also Read: Top Attractions in Philadelphia for Outdoor Activities

Take a Self-guided tour of the city’s public arts. 

Philadelphia has an extensive collection of art displayed at public places. There are more than 4000 murals and other art pieces to see throughout the city. You can download digital maps from the Association of Public Art or Mural Arts Philadelphia. Going on this self-guided tour is a great way to know the city. If you are new to Philadelphia then this art tour may help you connect with communities. Spending a weekend in Philly exploring public places and art is an excellent activity for college students. 

Attend recitals at the Curtis Institute of Music. 

If you like classical music and are a student on a budget; visiting the Curtis Institute of Music is a great way to spend a nice weekend in Philly. The student recitals are free to attend. As a bonus, you also get to visit this historic building and do something different on weekends. 

Also Read: 5 Interesting Ideas for Day Trips near Philadelphia

Visit the historic Pennsylvania hospital. 

Spend a weekend in Philly visiting the first hospital in the United States (founded in 1751). You can visit this place for a free tour of the building along with its library housing 13000 items. You can see the herb garden and even spend time in the grounds. Visiting the oldest surgical amphitheater is certainly a unique way to spend a weekend in Philly. 

Go to the Franklin Institute for special events. 

There is always something to see at the Franklin Institute. As one of the prominent science centers in the country, there are exhibits here throughout the year. You can check the institute’s website for upcoming events. And it’s not all academia related. You can attend fun events too such as those organized for Halloween. There are many weekend and community events organized here. There’s a lot to do here at the Franklin Institute. Observatory is open during the weekends. You can come here one afternoon and spend an educational time. Exhibits and experiences include Your Brain, The Franklin Air Show, Sir Issac’s Loft, Space Command, and more. 

If you are a visitor in Philadelphia for a short duration, you can still explore any of the above places along with other tourist attractions. You can always extend your stay due to great deals available on flight tickets these days. For example, Indian Eagle offers flights from Philadelphia to Chennai (and other destinations) at cheap rates. Explore such deals to spend a nice time in Philadelphia or just about anywhere. 

So, are you excited to try these activities for a fun weekend in Philly.