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As proud Philadelphians (fun fact: we were founded in Pennsylvania over 70 years ago!), we enjoy exploring our city and all of the activities Philadelphia has to offer, especially in the summertime. That’s why we’ve compiled a summer bucket list of our top 5 things to do in Philadelphia this summer and encourage our members to check them out and share with us on our social channels!

1. Attend a Philadelphia Union Soccer Game
   Has the World Cup sparked your soccer fever? If yes, schedule a day or night out to check out Philadelphia’s very own Major League Soccer team, the Philadelphia Union. The team is a member of the league’s Eastern Conference and they play at the Talent Energy Stadium in Chester, Pennsylvania. Check out their website to learn more about the team and view this season’s schedule.
   
2. Explore the Schuylkill River Trail
   Join your fellow runners, bikers, and river explorers on the Schuylkill River this summer—a 30-mile recreational trail, from Philadelphia to Parkerford, that is a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts.
   
3. Get in Tourist Mode!
   Don’t wait on your out of town visitors for an excuse to visit some of the city’s, and nation’s, most historic destinations. Not sure where to start on your historic tour? Check out these ideas!
   • Liberty Bell: A legendary symbol of freedom and independence, the Liberty Bell is the “chime that changed the world on July 8, 1776, when the Liberty Bell rang out from the tower of Independence Hall summoning the citizens of Philadelphia to hear the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence by Colonel John Nixon” (org). Today, viewing the liberty bell among other exhibits and videos are free and open the public.
   • Independence Hall: Are you a history buff, but have never been to Independence Hall? Change that status this summer and visit the site where both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed. Check out the hours and grab your free (but required) tickets via this site.
4. Visit the Philadelphia Zoo
   If historic architecture, tree-lined walks, and seeing furry animals is more your speed, make sure you add a trip to the Philadelphia Zoo to your list of things to do in Philadelphia this summer. From reptiles and amphibians to birds and mammals, the Philadelphia Zoo has something for every visitor to explore. And don’t forget the zoo is also “known for its historic architecture, which includes the country home of William Penn’s grandson, botanical collections of over 500 plant species, groundbreaking research and fine veterinary facilities” (Visit Philly).
   
5. Check out the Philadelphia Magic Gardens
   Are you more of an art enthusiast? If the answer is yes, we recommend visiting Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, an indoor and outdoor creative space that was started by local artist, Isaiah Zagar, who “began tiling South Street in the 1960s and never stopped” and as a result, “constructed the space out of cement, bicycle spokes, bottles, ceramic shards and other artistic knick-knacks” (Visit Philly). One of the many cool things about Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is how it showcases folk, mosaic and visionary art—right in our city. Learn more and plan your visit by visiting this site.

We hope you enjoy your summer exploring all of the wonderful things to do in Philadelphia and don’t forget to share your journeys with us on  Facebook and  Instagram.