It’s reported that 43% of travelers are planning to stay at a hotel or short-term rental this holiday season, and as a result, the hospitality industry is already experiencing an uptick in tourism – primarily from drivable markets.
So why note put Philadelphia on your destination list. They will be hosting an array of holiday festivities for travelers of all kind. And with Philadelphia recently being named the 4th most walkable city in the country, it’s safe and easy to get around!
What To Do:
- The Philadelphia Holiday Festival, Philadelphia’s premiere holiday celebration offers light shows, market, interactive experiences and much more. It is also home to Philadelphia’s official tree outside of City Hall. Surrounding Philadelphia’s holiday tree, enjoy Dilworth Plaza Ice Rink & Christmas Village
- In the heart of Center City’s hottest new neighborhood, East Market’s Holiday Celebration features a huge holiday tree, surrounded by carolers, and twinkle lights spanning Chestnut Walk. Cozy up with some hot chocolate from Philly’s favorite, Federal Donuts
- If you’re looking to take in the holiday lights, look no further than Franklin Square’s Holiday Festival and Electrical Spectacle, or head to the Italian Market for streets lined with lights while enjoy some of Philadelphia’s most iconic eats – like DiBruno Bros, Angelo’s Pizzeria, or Isgro Pastries (the cannoli’s are a must!)
- Blue Cross River Rink at Penn’s Landing is another Philadelphia Holiday staple. From an Olympic-sized skating rink, to a ski chalet-style lodge and winter garden, holiday tree (featuring tens of thousands of LED lights!), an outdoor seating area with fire pits, cozy warming cabins, a kids’ lodge with arcade games and plenty more.
- If you’re looking to explore festivities outside of the city, be sure to check out Winterfest at the King of Prussia Town Center, Longwood Gardens Christmas and Holiday Display, or Peddler’s Village holiday shopping and Grand Illumination Celebration.
Where To Dine:
- With cozy fireplaces and every inch decked out in holiday décor, Chef Jose Garces’ The Olde Bar is a local favorite during the holidays
- Just steps away from East Mark is Moriarty’s Pub, arguably one of the most festive bars in Philadelphia
- If you’re planning an evening at the Blue Cross River Rink, make sure to The Lodge at RiverRink – cozy up with Spiked Cider and the signature Lodge Cabin Lager by Sly Fox Brewery while noshing on seasonal bites from Philly faves including Chickie’s and Pete’s, Garces, Selly’s and Franklin Fountain Confectionary.
- Tinsel, Philadelphia’s Christmas-themed pop-up bar
- For those uncomfortable with indoor dining, Nicole Marquis’ restaurants, Charlie was a sinner, Bar BomBon, and HipCityVeg are offering wintry cocktails, each one served with a complimentary thermos and logo-emblazoned fleece blanket for guests to take home, as a fun way to keep patrons feeling cozy outdoors.
Where To Stay:
- In the middle of all stands Canopy Philadelphia, a boutique hotel by Hilton. Located in the storied Stephen Girard Building, Canopy personifies Philadelphia’s rich culture merging history, grandeur, hip hop and street art to creating the most intriguing and stunning interiors. As a bonus – Hilton rewards members will receive 2x points for bookings during the holiday!
- Don’t forget to add the Wayward, Canopy’s on-site restaurant to your list of places to dine. The Wayward is an American Brasserie inspired by the rebellious spirit of Stephen Girard and his journey from Bordeaux to Philly – a place where travelers and locals alike can come together over good food and easy conversation.
** Proper COVID health and safety measures are being taken for all holiday festivities, dining establishment and hotel accommodations to ensure an enjoyable, worry-free trip**
