What To Do On a Date In Philadelphia
Whether you’re a Philly native or you’re taking a trip to Philly with a significant other, you may be wondering how to get out of the same old dinner and a movie (or worse, Netflix and carry out) rut. You don’t have to spend a lot of money, or go too far out of your area (or comfort zone) to plan a sick date. We’ve highlighted some of the best Philadelphia date ideas, sourced from Philly dwellers themselves. Here’s what to do on a date in Philadelphia.
1. Picnic On The Rocky Steps
The “Rocky Steps”, Visit Philly
If you’re not a Philly native, you’re going to have to stop by this cinematic landmark. Even if you are from Philly, you’d be surprised how great of a view you get from sitting atop the Rocky steps. Pack some sandwiches (and maybe some sangria) and enjoy the sunset with bae on a nice evening. Yes, there may be some annoying workout junkies or dare we say aspiring boxers running up and down the steps, but we’re sure you and your boo can block them all out and zone in on each other.
2. Indulge In Some BYOB
The Signature Burger at Rex 1516, Philly Mag
One great thing about Philly that not all other states boast is its variety of BYOB restaurants. What’s BYOB? Bring your own booze, of course. Instead of shelling out $12 a glass for some wine you’ve never heard of, you and your date can purchase your favorite bottle at a fraction of the cost and bring it with you to one of Philly’s many BYOB restaurants. Some local favorites for date night include Giorgio on Pine and Pumpkin. If you’re looking for something a little more casual but equally boozy, Rex 1516 has a special Monday-Wednesday nights that gets you a specialty burger, a pint of beer, and a shot of whiskey for just $15.
3. Have a Laugh
Woode Rice
You know when you watch a dating show like Millionaire Matchmaker and the couples go on some ridiculously elaborate and participatory date? That’s kind of like Comedy Sportz. Comedy Sportz is a center for “applied improv” and one of the longest running improv shows in Philly. Their services are popular for groups of co-workers and team building, but also would be equally fun for a date. Regardless of if you consider yourself funny or not, engaging in improv activities is an awesome way to get to know your partner in ways that a wine bar wouldn’t.
4. Go To Spruce Street Harbor Park
Spruce Street Harbor Park, Al Día News
If it’s the summertime and you want to take your boo to the boardwalk without driving all the way to the beach, or it’s winter and you want to teach your honey how to ice skate, Spruce Street Harbor Park has all the ingredients to mix up a perfect date. Whether you’re grabbing brews, snacking on street vendors, or chilling out by the water (or fire, depending on the weather) this spot is a great low key date spot that can be as elaborate or chill as you want. If you want to grab dinner at a cool Old City restaurant before, you can head over to Spruce Street for a romantic walk and a night cap.
6. Have a Night (or Day) at the Museum
The Franklin Institute, Luckey Climbers
Although Philly is traditionally known for its American history (news flash: the Liberty Bell is way smaller in person), their museums hold an impressive amount of European art. The majority of these museums are sadly not free, but most have certain “pay what you wish” days. The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers free entry for art students, and has “pay what you want” days on Sunday. The Academy of Natural Sciences is also free for students, but worth the money even if you’ve graduated. The Barnes Foundation offers free weekday access to college and graduate students as well as free admission on the first Sunday of the month during their PECO Free First Sundays. Basically, if you’re currently a student in Philly, go to all the museums you can before you graduate.
7. Take a Bike Ride
Kelly Drive, Ladot Bike Blog
Like most major cities, Philly boasts its own rental bike system. Unlike other cities, Philly has one of the country’s best running/biking trails, Kelly Drive, which allows you and your equally un-athletic partner to smoothly bike by the Schuylkill River and down to Boathouse Row.
8. Go See Some Creatures
A tiger at the Philly Zoo, Green Philly Blog
What better way to remind your boo that he needs to shave his chest than to take him down to see the hairy baboons at The Philadelphia Zoo? Unfortunately, entry is not free unless you’re a member.
9. Have a Night at The Theater
Memphis at the Walnut St. Theatre, News Works
It’s not Broadway, but the Theater District in Philadelphia has some equally amazing and affordable shows for you and your significant other to check out when you’re sick of staring at a screen. If you buy tickets the day of, you can score 1/2 price tickets at The Walnut Street Theatre, they also sell a limited number of $20 tickets for select shows.
10. Bowl Your Heart Out
North Bowl, 34th Street Magazine
Remember when bowling was the sickest thing you could do with your weekend? Take a trip down memory lane and add alcohol to your old favorite pastime by visiting Lucky Strike, North Bowl, or South Bowl. Unfortunately, drinks can get pricey at these locations, so perhaps have a few drinks at home beforehand or see the BYOBs listed above.
11. Takes Two to Tango
A pair of previous Ballroom Philadelphia students, Ballroom Philadelphia
If all you know how to do is grind and dab, sign you and your bae up for some dance lessons. Ballroom Philadelphia, which is right near the famous Geno’s and Pat’s cheesesteaks, is a favorite among Philly college students looking for something new to do with their s.o. If you can score a Groupon, you can get a private lesson, group lesson, and two practice sessions for the low cost of $26. Plus, you and your man can tear up the dance floor the next time you hit the club.
