12 Best Romantic Things To Do In Philly

Chantel
Chantel 
Updated
| 7 min read

When William Penn nicknamed Philadelphia the City of Brotherly Love, he drew inspiration from the Greek words philos (love) and adelphos (brother). An early settler, Penn established the early development of Philadelphia, wanting the city, more than anything, to be a seamless amalgamation of country and cityscape. The unique intertwining of historic and urban architecture already screams romance. Indeed the City of Brotherly Love, nicknamed Philly, does not exempt romantic lovers. In fact, it is a well-known couples’ hangout for many and comes with the best themed hotels and historic hotels that you can spend your romantic getaway at. Below are just some of the best romantic things to do in Philly, Pennsylvania—explore them all!

1. Experience collaboration painting with your partner (from USD 40.0)

Not a lot of us have experienced it before, but perhaps one of the best feelings in the world is creating art with your loved one. It Takes Two Collaboration Paint, an exciting Airbnb Experience hosted by Moneek, in Philly may be your chance to do so! The pleasure of painting together and collaborating with your partner is an experience of a lifetime. During this class, all art materials are already provided. Just bring yourself and your date and your thirst for creating art!

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It Takes Two Collaboration Paint

Duration: 2 hours

23 reviews

2. Indulge in a sumptuous cuisine on board Spirit of Philadelphia (from USD 82.0)

Set sail aboard Spirit of Philadelphia for an exquisite dining experience like no other. Be it watching the sunrise or the sunset while indulging in a scrumptious buffet, Spirit of Philadelphia never fails to disappoint with the amenities it provides, consisting of an all-you-can-eat buffet, a dance floor, and even DJ entertainment. Re-create a prom dance with your partner by swaying gently to old-school hits, or grab your significant other to party on the dance floor. While the city sleeps, Spirit of Philadelphia thrives, with romantic couples indulging in culinary delights and dancing amid the breathtaking view of the skyline.

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Delaware River: Philadelphia Lunch Buffet Cruise

Duration: 2 hours

40 reviews

3. Sweat it out together at Fairmount Park

Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ngilmour3 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

We have all heard of fitness couples and how “couples who work out together stay together.” Granted, you and your other half may not be into actively hitting the gym every other day or any intense sport for that matter, which is why embarking on a journey in one of the world’s largest municipal park, Fairmount Park, might just be the place for you and your significant other. This romantic place in Philadelphia is rife with flora and fauna, just perfect for couple photos against a beautiful backdrop, or even something as simple as a serene morning walk filled with the tranquility of nature instead of busy city sounds.

Fairmount Park

Address: Reservoir Dr, Philadelphia, PA

Website: Fairmount Park

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)

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4. Take your relationship to the next level atop XIX Restaurant

XIX (Nineteen at the Bellevue)
Source: Photo by user chrisinphilly5448 used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Situated on the 19th floor of The Bellevue Hotel, XIX Restaurant offers a dining experience that weaves in the jawdropping sight of Philadelphia with the restaurant’s modern yet minimalistic interior. This romantic spot in Philadelphia is known for its distinguished culinary delicacies, and you and your other half will be spoilt for choice as you weigh the multitude of gastronomical options. From seafood to steak to even a simple plate of pasta, the chefs at XIX make no exceptions in perfecting each and every dish just to ensure that diners can relish a top-notch quality meal. XIX Restaurant has been masterfully created to cultivate a favourable environment for lovebirds who revel in posh settings. So why not call it a date for two, when you get to don a suit and tie and an elegant dress while indulging in a hearty meal on the 19th floor of a hotel?

XIX Restaurant

Address: 19th Floor, 200 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA

Website: XIX Restaurant

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 6:30am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 6:30am - 2am

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Philadelphia Tour Guide

Annie Leguennec

Annie Leguennec

My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the city's rich heritage and its continuing legacy as the birthplace of the United States of America. Book my tour. Explore and learn about this unique city where you will walk on the footsteps of our America's founding Fathers. My tours are conducted in English, French and Italian.

Tours by Annie

Philadelphia Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com

Tours by Stephanie

Philadelphia Tour Guide

Vance Lehmkuhl

Vance Lehmkuhl

Tour operator and tour guide for American Vegan Center in historic Old City Philadelphia, administering walking tours focusing on Philadelphia's "veg history" - the vegans and vegetarians through history that started the US vegetarian and vegan movements in this city. Author of "Eating Vegan in Philly" (2016) and also "V for Veg: The Best of Philly's Vegan Food Column," a collection of my columns for the Philadelphia Daily News 2011-2016. Also a proficient musician (founded eco-conscious pop band Green Beings, 1999) and cartoonist (Philadelphia City Paper, VegNews, New York Times Syndicate). Developing french-language walking tour focusing on Anthony Benezet for March 2024.

Tours by Vance

5. Be serenaded by performances at The Kimmel Center

2013 Kimmel Center from north
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Beyond My Ken used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Do you have a flair for the arts? The Kimmel Center, quite literally termed Avenue of the Arts, is just the place for you. Visitors here are encapsulated in a spacious auditorium with a vaulted glass ceiling, allowing the life onstage to reverberate through the entire concert hall. Dwell on the clarity of each and every musical note the opera singer belts out, or get front-row seats with your other half and observe the nimble fingers of orchestra performers as they intricately produce melodies. Even better, if you and your sweetheart find excitement in watching stunts and daredevil acts, be prepared to be entertained by the French Circus, which will keep you and your partner gripping on to each other.

The Kimmel Center

Address: 300 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA

Website: The Kimmel Center

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: Varies

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6. Inflate your experience with a hot-air-balloon ride

International de montgolfières de Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (7819695250)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Matias Garabedian used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Feeling deflated from the mundane humdrum of urban life? Fret not. In Philadelphia, multitudes of hot-air-balloon rides are available all across the city to provide you and your partner with an uplifting experience. Have your relationship soar to greater heights on board a hot-air balloon, and not to worry, there will be a pilot assigned to each ride, ensuring a smooth journey. Be sure to take in the spectacular view from the top as you and your partner drift through midair slowly, making the romantic experience one that is just like the movies. This Philadelphia attraction for couples will definitely brighten your mood with the dash of colors they add to the sky.

Endless Mountains Hot Air Balloons Inc.

Address: 942 Cedar Ln, Penns Park, PA

Website: Endless Mountains Hot Air Balloons Inc.

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)

Price: From 225 USD

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7. Make magical memories at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Magic Garden in Philadelphia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Cassiopeia321 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

In Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, every nook and cranny radiates sparks of creativity. Taking up the space of about three city lots, the mosaic tiles are an art medium that can hardly be found in any other country. Furthermore, the unique stories behind each and every piece make it all the more whimsical and intriguing, possibly even personal for you and your other half on some level. The installations consist of various objects from household items to sports equipment. You can even sign up for a workshop with your significant other and bond over the mosaic-tile-making process!

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Address: 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA

Website: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 11am - 6pm (closed on Tue)

Price: 0 - 10 USD

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8. Unwind at Le Reve Rittenhouse Spa


A spa is the best way to unwind with your significant other after a long day of touring Philadelphia. Travels and dates, for all their excitement, can get fairly draining after an entire day of spending long hours together. Release the tension from your bodies by getting a session at Le Reve Rittenhouse Spa, which offers services ranging from massage facials, aromatherapy, and massage therapies, which are sure to rejuvenate your exhausted selves. The staff at Le Reve Rittenhouse Spa ensures that each visitor’s experience is a deeply individualised one, cleansing the mind and soul of the day’s fatigue. The place consists of classy, luxurious decor, which cultivates a soothing environment.

Le Reeve Rittenhouse Spa

Address: 255 S 17th St #400, Philadelphia, PA

Website: Le Reeve Rittenhouse Spa

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

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9. Feel like a celebrity with a photoshoot (from USD 30.0)

Can’t think of creative ways to remember your Philly trip? Why not be a hot celebrity couple for a day and sign up for this photoshoot with Look Great, Feel Great? This Airbnb Experience hosted by Sophia and Matthew lets their studio be your playground for the day. The immersive experience will take you to nine unique photo booths that are either Philadelphia-themed or inspired by mind-bending concepts. We’re certain the end photos will be worth hanging on your wall. Sign up for this quirky activity now!

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Look Great, Feel Great-Selfie Museum of Backdrops and Props

Duration: 1 hour

50 reviews

10. Delight your eyes at Philadelphia Museum of Art (from USD 25.0)

Feasting your eyes on age-old artworks at the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art sounds like the absolute ideal date for you and your partner. Home to over 240,000 collections of art, the museum is sure to entice both of you with its vast array of exhibits. Special shows even allow you and your partner to dive into hands-on experiences. For example, the Japanese ceremonial teahouse allows you and your partner to perform a tea ceremony. All in all, the venue is an ideal spot for a date as you will not run out of things to experience, as one after another, the stories behind each work unfold.

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Philadelphia Museum of Art General Admission Ticket

Duration: 2 to 10 hours

4 reviews

11. Be on top of the world at One Liberty Observation Deck (from USD 16.0)

For many, the idea of standing 833 feet (254 m) above ground level incites their fear of heights. But in Philadelphia, standing above the Philadelphia cityscape is an eye-opening experience. You lovebirds will quite literally be getting an extensive bird’s-eye view of Philadelphia’s streetscape from the “top of the world”—and might even identify iconic landmarks. For those who wish to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, interactive digital exhibits are situated around One Liberty Observation Deck to stimulate curious minds. What’s more, the place operates on a flexible schedule, and couples are more than welcome to capture scenic moments at various hours of the day, so be sure to get that Instagram-worthy shot with your lover!

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One Liberty Observation Deck Philadelphia General Admission

Duration: 60 to 90 minutes

4 reviews

12. Roam the streets on a horse carriage for two (from USD 150.0)

From Liberty Bell to Independence Hall, Philadelphia is home to a vast variety of historical landmarks. What better way to indulge in Philadelphia’s history than by traveling back in time in a horsedrawn carriage for two? It is one of the best things for couples to do in Philadelphia. Roam the streets like royalty as you and your partner tour the historical features peppered all around Philadelphia. There are few, if any, more romantic ways to take in Philadelphia’s noted architecture and rich history than on a horse carriage with your loved one. Indeed this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you and your significant other will remember for a long time.

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Philadelphia Horse Drawn Carriage Tour

Duration: 1 hour

62 reviews

Experience endless romance in Philadelphia

The City of Brotherly Love without a doubt exudes romance in its every nook and cranny. If anything, Philadelphia seems to typify the notion of romantic love, in particular for those who indulge in and greatly appreciate arts and historical culture. Indeed, two like-minded people roaming Philadelphia and appreciating the city for its past, present, and progress is the kind of romantic getaway every couple would wish to have.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Explorer by day, writer by night. In my waking hours I roam both the city streets and the rural areas in search of new thrills, every nook and cranny of this world a wonder waiting to be...Read more

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