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Uwishunu Article last updated on March 31, 2023

Things to Do in Greater Philadelphia for Memorial Day Weekend 2023

New Philly experiences, museum exhibitions, outdoor fun and more...

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Logan Square Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
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Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute Photo by Visit Philadelphia
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Victory Brewing Company Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia
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The unofficial start to summer, Memorial Day weekend (May 26-29, 2023) is when we put things in cruise control for a while, breaking out our sunglasses and white clothes in preparation for all the summer fun ahead.

Looking to jumpstart your Memorial Day planning? The long weekend is the perfect time to visit Philadelphia (and trust us, we know a thing or two about that).

Set aside some time to discover a new Philly restaurant or hidden attraction, check out can’t-miss exhibitions like Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute and explore the city’s green spaces and dual waterfronts.

The Visit Philly 3-Day Stay hotel package is tailor-made for long weekends. The deal is straightforward: Buy two nights and get one free at participating hotels in Philadelphia. Easy peasy. Or choose to level up your stay by booking the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and a choose-your-own-adventure perk, including tickets to Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, or the National Constitution Center and the Museum of the American Revolution.

Get into a summertime frame of mind and partake in some long-weekend action with our top picks for things to do over Memorial Day weekend in Greater Philadelphia.

Discover Something New in Philly

New and new-to-you experiences in the City of Brotherly Love …
01

Find a Favorite New Restaurant

Friday – Monday

New restaurants are popping up in Philly all the time, adding to the city’s already-stellar reputation as a can’t-miss dining destination (see: Philly’s recent James Beard Award nominees ). Stay ahead of the culinary curve with our list of new restaurants in Philadelphia , which includes the plant‐based Italian BYOB Pietramala, conveyor‐belt sushi spot Kura Sushi and more.

Where: Various locations including Kura Sushi, 1721 Chestnut Street

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02

Uncover a Hidden Gem

Friday – Monday
Egyptian Hall at the Masonic Temple Egyptian Hall at the Masonic Temple
Egyptian Hall at The Masonic Temple — Photo courtesy The Masonic Temple

A high-rise rooftop park (Cira Green), the 150-year-old headquarters of the Pennsylvania Freemasons (The Masonic Temple), a full-scale model of a 17th-century Japanese temple guest house (Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center). No, these aren’t scenes from Everything Everywhere All at Once . They’re all spots you can visit right here in the City of Brotherly Love. Get familiar with another side of Philly with our list of the city’s hidden gems , featuring 21 places you (probably) don’t know about.

Where: Various locations including The Masonic Temple, 1 N. Broad Street

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03

Shhh! Discover a Secret Philly Bar or Restaurant

Friday – Monday

Can you keep a secret? Yeah, neither can we. Just be cool because Philly is full of low-key backroom bars such as Backroom at Blind Barber, sensual speakeasies like Hop Sing Laundromat in Chinatown and even an underground bowling alley at Harp & Crown. Feel like the ultimate insider on your visit with our guide to hidden bars and restaurants in Greater Philadelphia .

Where: Various locations including Stevens' Prophecy at W Philadelphia, 1439 Chestnut Street

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Ongoing Highlights

The best of Greater Philadelphia — during Memorial Day weekend and beyond ...
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Mid-Century to Manga: The Modern Japanese Print in America at the James A. Michener Art Museum

Friday – Monday

Through Sunday, July 30, 2023

This new exhibition spotlights Japanese printmaking in the post-war period and celebrates the continued local interest in, and contributions to, contemporary Japanese and Japanese-American print-making and illustration.

Where: James A. Michener Art Museum, 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown

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05

Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute

Friday – Monday

Through Sunday, August 27, 2023

The House of Mouse celebrates a century of dazzling audiences with a brand-new exhibition, making its world premiere in Philadelphia. Disney100: The Exhibition opens the vaults for behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creation of the company’s most popular characters, films, shows and attractions, offering 10 themed galleries with interactive installations covering everything from Snow White to Star Wars. Pro tip: Score complimentary tix to the exhibition when you book the Visit Philly Overnight Package for stays through August 20, 2023.

Where: The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street

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06

Rising Sun: Artists in an Uncertain America

Friday – Monday

Through Sunday, October 8, 2023

“Is the sun rising or setting on the experiment of American democracy?” Nearly two dozen artists interpret that question in new artworks that appear in this collaborative exhibition at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and The African American Museum in Philadelphia . This landmark exhibit invites visitors to consider complex issues from multiple viewpoints.

Where: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 118-128 N. Broad Street

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The African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch Street

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07

Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink at Dilworth Park

Friday – Monday

April 21 – July 16, 2023

Lace up! This spring, the Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink at Dilworth Park paints the town rainbow with colorful springtime skate sessions. Vibrant overhead art and the checkerboard rink floor bring good times and retro vibes. For more fun, chow down at the Dilworth Park Café, fuel up at the Air Grille pop-up beer garden or hop your way through the Dilworth Park dancing fountain. Advance reservations for hour-long skating sessions are strongly recommended, and discounted Matinee Skate sessions are offered Mondays and Tuesdays.

Where: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street

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08

Night Tours: Summer Twilight at Eastern State Penitentiary

Friday – Monday

Summer Twilight takes the historic tours, exhibits and art installations that the Eastern State Penitentiary is known for, and mixes in hands-on activities, monthly themes and new events. Cool off with drinks at the Fair Chance Beer Garden on the penitentiary’s baseball diamond, offering craft brews from Triple Bottom Brewing Co .

Where: Eastern State Penitentiary, 2027 Fairmount Avenue

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Memorial Day Events

Commemorate the holiday with programming at museums and institutions — and stay tuned for more events to come …
09

Memorial Day Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution

Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Kids at the Museum of the American Revolution Kids at the Museum of the American Revolution
— Photo by J. Fusco for the Museum of the American Revolution

In addition to the Museum of American Revolution ’s permanent exhibits, special programming for Memorial Day includes pop-up discovery carts highlighting the daily lives of Revolutionary War soldiers, sailors and privateers. In addition, kiddos can participate in hands-on activities by making memorial-themed ribbons and creating revolutionary-themed thank you cards for members of the American Legion. Admission is free for all veterans, active military members and Blue Star Families all weekend long.

Where: Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. 3rd Street

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More Things to Do

Additional goings-on over Memorial Day weekend …
10

Devon Horse Show & Country Fair at the Devon Show Grounds

Friday – Monday
A horse on the Devon Horse Show Grounds in front of a crowd in the grandstands A horse on the Devon Horse Show Grounds in front of a crowd in the grandstands
— Photo courtesy Devon Horse Show

Giddy up! The country’s oldest and largest event of its kind features equestrian disciplines, exhibitions and an old-fashioned country fair at the Devon Show Grounds.

Where: Devon Horse Show Grounds, 23 Dorset Road, Devon

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11

Beyond the Bell Philly Gayborhood and LGBTQ History Walking Tour

Saturday

Put on your most comfortable and glamorous walking shoes. This 90-minute walking tour (covering about one mile through Philly’s Gayborhood ) focuses on local LGBTQ icons, the evolution of Pride in Philadelphia and modern issues facing the community. Tickets are required.

Where: Tour departs from 1300 Locust Street

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12

Paddle Penn’s Landing

Saturday
Sunday
Monday

Every year, Paddle Penn’s Landing makes a splash with boat rentals and aquatic fun for the whole family. If you’re not floating on the Delaware in an animal-themed paddle boat, what are you doing?

Where: Penn's Landing Basin

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13

Philadelphia Latino Film Festival

Sunday
Monday

Film fans can find works by established and emerging Latino filmmakers at the annual Philadelphia Latino Film Festival . The lineup typically includes feature films, shorts, animations, web series and documentaries, along with workshops and discussions. Stay tuned to the festival website for scheduling details.

Where: Various locations around Philadelphia

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14

DJ Deejay: ’90s VS ’00s Moshulu Boat Party aboard the Moshulu

Sunday

Boat dance party? Boat dance party! This DJ mash-up on the Moshulu — a historic sailing ship permanently docked at Penn’s Landing — pits throwback hits from the ’90s against more modern Top 40 tracks. Tickets are required for the 21-plus-party, which lasts until 2 a.m.

Where: Moshulu, 401 S, Christopher Columbus Boulevard

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Essential Philly Experiences

The absolute have-to-dos in Greater Philadelphia …
15

Enjoy a Classic Philly Treat (Or Two Or Three …)

Friday – Monday

We knew you’d ask about the cheesesteaks. And you’re absolutely right to — Philly’s most famous sandwich is famous for a reason. Check out our picks for the best places to find a cheesesteak in Philly , including the tourist-y spots you’ve likely heard about and more than a few places you may not have. While you’re in town, be sure to grab other iconic Philly treats like a delectable, doughy soft pretzel and water ice , a spring and summer staple.

Where: Various locations including Campo's Philly Cheesesteaks, 214 Market Street

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16

Check Off the Essential Philly Must-Dos

Friday – Monday
Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

First time in town? With all the history, art and culture, it’s hard to know where to start. We get it. Why not begin with the basics? Get a jump on your Memorial Day weekend itinerary with this list of the 10 most essential things to do on your (first) visit to Philadelphia , including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and, yes, the Rocky Steps.

Where: Various locations including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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17

Explore Philly’s Parks and Green Spaces

Friday – Monday
People walking along Wissahickon Creek People walking along Wissahickon Creek
Wissahickon Valley Park — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Late spring is arguably one of the best times to visit Philadelphia. Philly’s green spaces spring to life this time of year, with residents and visitors picnicking in Center City squares, sunbathing on the waterfront, and exploring miles and miles of walking, hiking, and biking trails. Check out our list of Philly parks for warm-weather fun.

Where: Various locations including Wissahickon Valley Park, Valley Green Road

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18

Hit the Greater Philadelphia Craft Beer Trail

Friday – Monday
Two people sit in love seats at DOck Street in Philadelphia drinking beers underneath a neon sign Two people sit in love seats at DOck Street in Philadelphia drinking beers underneath a neon sign
Dock Street Brewery South — Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia

You’re bound to be thirsty after all that exploring. Cool off with a round or two at one of the more than 115 (yep, we counted) craft breweries located in Greater Philadelphia . Looking to hit more than one brewery? Do the responsible (and convenient) thing by taking the train. Check out our guide to craft breweries within a 10-minute walk of Philly subway stations or spots within a five-minute walk of regional rail lines .

Where: Various locations including Dock Street Brewery South, 2118 Washington Avenue

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Bonus: Keep Cool with a Hotel Pool

Plan ahead and keep cool …
19

Unwind and Take a Dip!

Friday – Monday
Pool at the Four Seasons Hotel Pool at the Four Seasons Hotel
— Photo courtesy Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center

There’s nothing better after a summer-like day of exploring the city than cooling off in a pool — preferably one with a view. Before you book your stay , check out our complete guide to hotel pools in Philadelphia .

Where: Various locations including Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, 1 N. 19th Street

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Discover Something New in Philly

Find a Favorite New Restaurant
Uncover a Hidden Gem
Shhh! Discover a Secret Philly Bar or Restaurant

Ongoing Highlights

Mid-Century to Manga: The Modern Japanese Print in America
Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute
Rising Sun: Artists in an Uncertain America
Rothman Orthopaedics Roller Rink at Dilworth Park
Night Tours: Summer Twilight at Eastern State Penitentiary

Memorial Day Events

Memorial Day Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution

More Things to Do

Devon Horse Show & Country Fair at the Devon Show Grounds
Beyond the Bell Philly Gayborhood and LGBTQ History Walking Tour
Paddle Penn’s Landing
Philadelphia Latino Film Festival
DJ Deejay: ’90s VS ’00s Moshulu Boat Party aboard the Moshulu

Essential Philly Experiences

Enjoy a Classic Philly Treat (Or Two Or Three …)
Check Off the Essential Philly Must-Dos
Explore Philly’s Parks and Green Spaces
Hit the Greater Philadelphia Craft Beer Trail

Bonus: Keep Cool with a Hotel Pool

Unwind and Take a Dip!

Come for Philadelphia. Stay (Over) for Philly.

The only way to fully experience Philly? Stay over.

Book the Visit Philly Overnight Package and get free hotel parking and choose-your-own-adventure perks, including tickets to Disney100: The Exhibition at The Franklin Institute.

Or maybe you’d prefer to buy two Philly hotel nights and get a third night for free? Then book the new Visit Philly 3-Day Stay package.

Which will you choose?

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