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Did you make a resolution to save more money this year? Spending less is great, but it doesn’t mean you have to sit around at home. Philadelphia is full of exciting, inexpensive things to do – even in the middle of winter. Learn how to save money on your next outing with this guide to upcoming events and local favorites. 

History and Culture

Philadelphia is the birthplace of American freedom, so it is appropriate that so many of its historical sites are free to the public, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, Carpenters’ Hall, the U.S. Mint, the Science History Institute, and the Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site. While not free, tickets to the Betsy Ross House and the Benjamin Franklin Museum are just $5 each. On Presidents Day weekend, February 16 to 18, some area museums and historical sites, including the National Constitution Center, offer free admission.

The Philadelphia area is culturally diverse, and that diversity is reflected in many of its museums and many of this winter’s events. For example, enjoy pay-what-you-wish admission to the National Museum of American Jewish History throughout February, and celebrate Black History Month with Free Library of Philadelphia events like African drumming, a screening of a documentary about ballerina Misty Copeland, and Black History @ the Oscars, a series that will feature screenings of “ Monster’s Ball” and “ Training Day.” In addition, admission to the Franklin Institute is free to everyone on February 25 in honor of Black History Month.

Looking for a cultural experience that is unique to Philadelphia? The Mummers Museum is always free.

Art, Music, and Theater

Philadelphia is home to some of the country’s finest art museums, and many of those museums have free or pay-what-you-wish days. The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers pay-what-you-wish admission on Wednesday nights and the first Sunday of every month, as does the Barnes Foundation.

There is always live music happening somewhere in Philadelphia. Much of it is cheap and some of it, like student performances at the Curtis Institute of Music, is even free. The world-renowned Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts offers some free events as well as free tours. In addition, Philly Theatre Week takes place February 7 to 17 and features more than 100 events, with free or cheap admission at many.

Have you ever taken part in First Friday? Some Philadelphia art galleries and other businesses stay open late on the first Friday of the month, and many of them serve free food and drinks to entice patrons. Old City is the center of the action, but many businesses in Fishtown and other neighborhoods participate too.

Outdoor Fun

Sure, it’s cold out, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside all the time! Some of Philadelphia’s most fun activities take place outside, and outdoor activities make for easy ways to save money. Take a photo next to the Rocky statue outside of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and afterward, warm yourself up by running up and down the museum’s “Rocky Steps.” Then check out some of the city’s many other pieces of public art, including the famous “LOVE” sculpture, with these free self-guided public art tour guides.

Some of the city’s coolest activities, like its outdoor ice skating rinks, are only available in the winter. Blue Cross RiverRink is open through March 3 and the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park is open through February 24. Both spots feature cabins that let you take a break from the cold with a warm drink. Admission plus skate rentals costs just $15 or less per person and admission to Blue Cross RiverRink is free for Independence Blue Cross cardholders and employees, first responders, and military personnel.

Food

Restaurant week deals, in which participating restaurants offer multiple-course, low-cost menus for a short period of time, are a great way to try a restaurant that might normally be out of your budget. Enjoy East Passyunk Avenue Restaurant Week from February 25 to March 8.

Do More With Special Membership Perks at American Heritage

American Heritage Credit Union wants to do everything we can to help our members save money. That’s why we offer discounts on:

• Phillies, Sixers, and Flyers tickets
• Museum of the American Revolution tickets
• Rental cars
• Tax software
• Home security
• …and more!

Put Your Savings to Work

These member perks are just the beginning. Take a look at our many checking and savings account options to make the most of your time and money all year long.