10 Best Romantic Things to do in Philadelphia!
Philadelphia is often called the “City of Brotherly Love,” but it’s also a city filled with romance. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand through historic streets, enjoying candlelit dinners, or watching the sunset over the skyline, Philadelphia has countless ways to spark connection. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 best romantic things to do in Philadelphia, that help couples planning for a romantic trip with a mix of history and culture.
- 1. Walk Through Rittenhouse Square
- 2. Romantic Dinner Cruise
- 3. Take a Horse‑Drawn Carriage Ride
- 4. Sunset Views at Cira Green
- 5. Explore Longwood Gardens
- 6. Share a Kiss at the “LOVE” Sculpture
- 7. Walk Through Elfreth’s Alley
- 8. Wine Tasting in Nearby Vineyards
- 9. Explore Fairmount Park
- 10. Wander around Morris Arboretum
1. Walk Through Rittenhouse Square
Walking through Rittenhouse Square is one of the most romantic experiences in Philadelphia. It’s a place where history, nature, and everyday city life come together, making it perfect for couples who want to slow down and enjoy simple moments together. Rittenhouse Square is one of the five original public squares planned by William Penn in the late 1600s. Today, it sits right in the heart of Center City and is surrounded by tall buildings, shops, and restaurants. Couples can walk along tree‑lined paths, sit on benches, or watch the fountains and sculptures that decorate the square.
2. Romantic Dinner Cruise
A dinner cruise in Philadelphia is a romantic way for couples to spend time together while seeing the city. The boat travels along the Delaware River, offering scenic views of bridges and skyline as the lights shine on the water. Meals are served on board, and the slow pace of the ride makes the evening feel relaxed and special. Couples can walk out to the deck, enjoy quiet moments, and watch the city glow after dark. Some cruises include music or dancing. The trip usually lasts a few hours, and for many couples this experience becomes one of the highlights of their visit.
3. Take a Horse‑Drawn Carriage Ride
A horse‑drawn carriage ride in Philadelphia is a simple way for couples to enjoy the city together. The slow pace lets you take in the historic streets without rushing, and the sound of the horse’s steps makes the ride feel calm. Passing by old buildings and cobblestone paths gives you a sense of history while sharing the moment with someone close. Evening rides are especially nice, with city lights glowing around, and it’s not about covering every landmark but about enjoying the journey side by side. Many couples find this ride memorable because it feels different from walking or driving.
4. Sunset Views at Cira Green
The Cira Green is one of the most romantic places in Philadelphia to watch the sunset. Nearby 30th Street Station, this rooftop park sits above a parking garage, offering couples scenic views of Schuylkill River and the skyline. The park has open grassy areas, walking paths, and seating where you can relax together while the sky changes colors. From my own travel experience, the best time to visit is late afternoon, when the sun begins to set and the lights of the city slowly turn on. Food trucks sometimes park nearby, so you can grab something to eat and enjoy it while sitting on the grass.
5. Explore Longwood Gardens
The Longwood Gardens is a peaceful place outside Philadelphia where couples can spend time together surrounded by nature. The gardens cover a large area with flowers, trees, fountains and paths that make walking side by side feel special. The indoor conservatory is open year‑round and gives you a warm space filled with plants even in winter. Evening visits are romantic because the fountains light up and the gardens feel calm under the night sky. For couples, exploring Longwood Gardens is about slowing down and sharing simple moments that turn into lasting memories.
6. Share a Kiss at the “LOVE” Sculpture
The “LOVE” sculpture in Philadelphia is one of the most recognized symbols of the city and a favorite spot for couples. It sits in John F. Kennedy Plaza, which most people call Love Park, right in the heart of Center City. The sculpture was created by artist Robert Indiana in the 1970s and has become a landmark that represents the city’s spirit. For couples, sharing a kiss here feels special because the artwork itself is a simple but powerful reminder of love. The plaza around the sculpture has open space, fountains, and benches where you can sit together and enjoy the view of the city.
7. Walk Through Elfreth’s Alley
The Elfreth’s Alley is often called the oldest residential street in America, and walking through it is one of the most romantic things couples can do in Philadelphia. The alley dates back to the early 1700s and is lined with small brick houses, cobblestone paths, and lanterns that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Couples can walk hand in hand, pause to admire the details of the old homes, and imagine what life was like centuries ago. Seasonal events, like open house tours or festivals, add extra reasons to visit and make the walk even more memorable.
8. Wine Tasting in Nearby Vineyards
Near Philadelphia, wine tasting in the vineyards is a romantic way for couples to spend time together outside the city. Pennsylvania has several wineries within a short drive, including areas like Bucks County, Brandywine Valley, and Montgomery County, where you can find family‑owned vineyards and tasting rooms. Many of these places offer guided tastings where you can sample local wines, learn about how they are made, and enjoy the quiet countryside. Seasonal events like harvest festivals or live music evenings, make the experience even more memorable.
9. Explore Fairmount Park
The Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, and for couples it offers endless ways to enjoy time together. Covering thousands of acres, this park has plenty of well-kept trails, old houses, gardens, and green spaces along Schuylkill River. The park is also home to landmarks like the Philadelphia Zoo, Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, and Boathouse Row, which add more reasons to spend a full day here. Couples who enjoy history can tour the old mansions inside the park, while those who prefer nature can find quiet trails away from the crowds.
10. Wander around Morris Arboretum
The Morris Arboretum is one of the most peaceful places for couples to explore together in Philadelphia. Located in Chestnut Hill, it is the official arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania and covers 92 acres filled with gardens, trees, and walking paths. The best part of wandering here is the variety — you can walk through rose gardens, enjoy the Japanese water garden, or walk across the canopy tree adventure that gives you a view from above. The arboretum also has sculptures, fountains, and seasonal displays that make each visit feel different depending on the time of year.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are some classic romantic activities in Philadelphia?
Couples often enjoy visiting the “LOVE” sculpture in Love Park, which has become a symbol of romance in the city. Walking hand in hand through Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in America, is another timeless choice. A sunset view from Cira Green rooftop park gives couples a quiet moment together above the busy streets. Exploring Longwood Gardens nearby is also a favorite, with flowers, fountains, and peaceful paths.
2. Are there any romantic evening activities to do in Philadelphia?
Taking a dinner cruise along the Delaware River is a favorite option for most couples, with live music, meals and glowing city lights shining across the water. Walking along Boathouse Row at night is another romantic idea, since the houses glow with colorful lights. Couples can also enjoy rooftop views at places like Cira Green or relax in Fairmount Park under the stars. For those who prefer something quiet, walking through Old City after dark offers charm and history.
3. What are some budget-friendly romantic ideas in Philadelphia?
Romance in Philadelphia does not have to cost much. Couples can take a walk through Fairmount Park, which is free and full of trails, gardens, and river views. Visiting the “LOVE” sculpture or Elfreth’s Alley is simple and does not require tickets. Packing a picnic and enjoying it by the Schuylkill River is another easy idea. Free events and seasonal festivals often take place in the city, giving couples more options without spending money.
4. Are there seasonal romantic activities in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia offers different romantic experiences depending on the season. In spring, couples enjoy blooming flowers at Morris Arboretum or Longwood Gardens. Summer evenings are perfect for dinner cruises or outdoor concerts by the river. Fall brings colorful leaves, and couples often enjoy walking through historic neighborhoods or parks. During winter, couples can enjoy skating at Dilworth Park or spend evening time together in one of the cafés.
5. What’s a unique romantic idea beyond the usual spots in Philadelphia?
Couples looking for something different can explore smaller, less crowded places in the city. Morris Arboretum offers quiet paths and rare plants, making it a peaceful escape. Another idea is visiting Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, where the setting feels calm and special. Exploring hidden murals or street art together can also be fun and memorable. Even simple activities like visiting local markets or small cafés can feel unique when shared.
6. Which Philadelphia’s neighborhoods are best for romantic dining?
Old City offers cozy restaurants surrounded by historic streets. Rittenhouse Square is known for fine dining and cafés with outdoor seating. The Italian Market area has authentic spots for couples who enjoy traditional meals. Manayunk is popular for its riverside restaurants, where you can eat with views of the water. Each neighborhood has its own style, so couples can choose the one that matches the mood they want for their evening.
