10 Exciting Activities To Explore Near Upenn

Nestled in Philadelphia's bustling University City, the University of Pennsylvania is a hub of academic and cultural activity. But when the studying is done, and you're ready to explore this thriving metropolis, you'll find a plethora of exciting activities just waiting to be discovered. From museums to markets, parks to pubs, here are 10 exhilarating experiences to discover near UPenn!

Philadelphia Museum of Art

If you're a student at University of Pennsylvania, you may be wondering what there is to do in the vicinity of your campus. Fortunately, there is no shortage of things to do in Philadelphia. One of the top places to visit is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, a world-renowned museum that is home to a massive collection of art, ranging from classical to contemporary.

Located on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, just a few blocks from UPenn, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country, boasting over 240,000 objects that span over 2,000 years of art history. The museum has something for everyone, with collections of art from Asia, Europe, and America, as well as a wide assortment of contemporary works.

One of the most iconic attractions within the museum is the famous "Rocky Steps" that lead up to the entrance of the building, which were immortalized in the classic film "Rocky." Visitors can recreate Rocky's famous run up the steps, and take a picture with the famous statue of the boxer that stands at the bottom of the staircase.

Inside the museum, visitors can view some of the world's most famous works of art, including pieces by Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet. The museum's permanent collections include paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and photographs, as well as decorative arts and furniture.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, which bring in fascinating works of art from around the world. These exhibitions cover a wide range of topics, such as contemporary art, ancient civilizations, fashion, and photography, so there is always something new to see.

In addition to its extensive collection of art, the museum also offers visitors a variety of programs and events, such as lectures, tours, and hands-on workshops. Families will also appreciate the museum's kids' programs, which offer a range of fun and engaging activities for children of all ages.

Overall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the UPenn area. Whether you're an art lover or just looking for an interesting way to spend an afternoon, this impressive museum is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Reading Terminal Market

If you're a student or a visitor at the University of Pennsylvania and are looking for something to do nearby, then Reading Terminal Market is a great option. Located just 1.5 miles from the UPenn campus, Reading Terminal Market is a historic indoor farmers market that has been operating in Philadelphia since 1893. It's a unique and vibrant place, filled with delicious food stalls, fresh produce, artisanal products, and friendly people.

One of the main reasons to visit Reading Terminal Market is the food. With over 80 vendors selling everything from classic Philly cheesesteaks to organic smoothies, you're sure to find something that will excite your taste buds. Some of the most popular vendors include DiNic's Roast Pork, Beiler's Donuts, and the Dutch Eating Place. You can also find various international cuisines, such as Chinese, Mexican, and Mediterranean.

Aside from food, Reading Terminal Market is also a great place to buy fresh produce. Local farmers sell their fruits and vegetables daily, ensuring that you get the freshest and healthiest produce available. You can also find artisanal products like handmade soaps, candles, and jewelry, as well as fresh flowers, books, and toys.

The market is open every day except for major holidays, and it's free to enter. It's also conveniently located near other Philly attractions, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, as well as many shops and restaurants in Center City. If you're looking for a unique and tasty experience, then Reading Terminal Market is definitely worth visiting near UPenn.

Overall, Reading Terminal Market is a must-visit destination for anyone in Philadelphia, especially if you're near UPenn. With its endless food options, fresh produce, and unique artisanal products, it's a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon or grab something quick on the go. So next time you're looking for something to do nearby, head on over to Reading Terminal Market and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Penn's Landing waterfront

As a student at the University of Pennsylvania, you may be wondering what kind of activities and attractions are available nearby. One of the most popular destinations for students and locals alike is Penns Landing waterfront.

Located just a few miles east of UPenn on the Delaware River, Penns Landing offers a variety of fun things to do. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Take a stroll along the riverfront. Penns Landing boasts a beautiful waterfront promenade that's perfect for an evening walk or bike ride. You can take in stunning views of the river and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge while enjoying the cool river breeze.
• Attend a concert or festival. Penns Landing is home to two large outdoor concert venues: the BB&T Pavilion and Festival Pier. Throughout the year, these venues host a variety of performers and events, including music festivals and cultural celebrations.
• Visit the Independence Seaport Museum. This fascinating museum explores Philadelphia's maritime history and houses an impressive collection of boats and artifacts. You can learn about the Delaware River's role in commerce, explore a WWII-era submarine, and even try your hand at docking a virtual boat.
• Ride the Ferris wheel. If you're looking for some thrills, head to the Blue Cross RiverRink Summertime Fun Zone and climb aboard the Ferris wheel. From high up in the air, you'll get a panoramic view of the city and the river.
• Catch a movie or join a game night. During the summer months, Penns Landing hosts a variety of family-friendly events. From outdoor movie nights to board game gatherings, there's always something happening along the waterfront.

Overall, Penns Landing waterfront is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for fun things to do near UPenn. Whether you're in the mood for a scenic stroll, a thrilling ride, or some educational museum exploration, you'll find it all at Penns Landing. So why not make plans to visit this popular Philadelphia attraction?

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Looking for a fun and relaxing activity near the University of Pennsylvania? Look no further than Spruce Street Harbor Park!

Located just a short walk from campus, Spruce Street Harbor Park offers a unique and inviting waterfront experience along the Delaware River. During the summer months, the park is transformed into a colorful and vibrant oasis that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of Spruce Street Harbor Park is its numerous hammocks that are strung up throughout the park. These comfortable and cozy hammocks offer the perfect spot to relax and take in the beautiful views of the river.

In addition to the hammocks, the park also features a boardwalk, popup beer garden, and dozens of colorful LED lights that illuminate the park at night. There are also several food vendors that offer a variety of delicious snacks and treats, such as fried chicken, ice cream, and funnel cakes.

For those who are looking to be a bit more active, Spruce Street Harbor Park also offers a variety of games and activities. Visitors can rent paddleboats and kayaks or play a game of shuffleboard or mini golf.

Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a fun-filled afternoon with friends, Spruce Street Harbor Park is the perfect destination. So grab some snacks and head down to the river for a day of relaxation and adventure!

Indego bike-sharing program

If you're looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the beautiful University of Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas, the Indego bike-sharing program is a great option for you. Launched in 2015, the Indego bike-sharing program has become a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike, offering a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.

The University of Pennsylvania is home to several Indego stations, located strategically around the campus, making it easy for students, faculty, and visitors to hop on a bike and start exploring. You can download the Indego app on your smartphone to locate the nearest station. Simply reserve a bike, unlock it using the app, and ride away!

With over 1,200 bikes spread out across the city, the Indego bike-sharing program offers a great way to explore the city's historic landmarks and tourist attractions, from the Philadelphia Art Museum to the Schuylkill River Trail. You can pick up a bike at one location and return it at any other station, making it easy to customize your own bike tour itinerary.

The University of Pennsylvania offers a range of scenic bike routes that you can follow, including the Penn Loop, which takes you through a scenic route that includes the Penn Museum, the Rodin Museum, and the Philadelphia Zoo. You can also explore the Schuylkill River Trail, a 30-mile trail that runs along the Schuylkill River and offers stunning skyline views of Philadelphia.

The Indego bikes are comfortable and easy to use, with adjustable seats and handlebars making it easy for anyone to hop on a bike and start riding. Helmets are also available at select stations, ensuring that you can ride safely.

In addition to being a fun way to explore the city, the Indego bike-sharing program is also eco-friendly, offering a sustainable mode of transportation that reduces your carbon footprint and promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Overall, if you're looking for a fun and affordable way to explore the University of Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas, the Indego bike-sharing program is a great option for you. With a range of bikes and locations to choose from, you'll have everything you need to explore the city at your own pace and enjoy all it has to offer.

Penn Park

If you are looking for things to do near the University of Pennsylvania, look no further than Penn Park. This stunning park sits on 24 acres and features plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are looking for a peaceful walk or something more active, Penn Park has something for you.

Firstly, the park offers a variety of sports facilities, including tennis courts, basketball courts, and soccer fields. These facilities are all available for public use, and you can even reserve a court or field if you want to play with friends.

For those who love to run, Penn Park has a fantastic track that circles the park. This is the perfect place to get in a quick jog or to train for a race. And if you are looking to take your workout to the next level, the park also has a state-of-the-art fitness center.

If you are just trying to take a relaxing stroll, the park has plenty of walking paths and trails that guide you through scenic gardens and water features. You can really take your time and enjoy the serene atmosphere. There are also several benches where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful views of downtown Philadelphia.

If you are looking for a spot to have a picnic, Penn Park has the perfect spot for you. The lawn area is open to the public and is a great place to have a picnic with friends or family. There are also picnic tables available for use if you want to have a more formal affair.

Finally, Penn Park hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts and outdoor movie screenings. This is a great way to enjoy the park while also engaging in some fun activities with others in the community.

In conclusion, Penn Park has something for everyone. Whether you are looking to exercise, relax, have a picnic or attend an event, this park is definitely worth a visit. So next time you are looking for things to do near UPenn, be sure to check out Penn Park.

Walnut Street Theatre

If you're looking for things to do near the University of Pennsylvania, one activity you won't want to miss is catching a show at the Walnut Street Theatre. Known as America's oldest theatre, the Walnut Street Theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1809 and offers a variety of productions throughout the year.

Located just a short distance from UPenn's campus, the Walnut Street Theatre is a great option for students looking to take a break from their studies and experience some culture. With a seating capacity of over 1,000, the theatre is able to offer a wide range of performances, including plays, musicals, and children's theatre.

One of the highlights of the Walnut Street Theatre is its history. The building has been standing for over 200 years and has hosted many famous performers over the years, including Edwin Booth (brother of John Wilkes Booth), Ethel Barrymore, and Helen Hayes. In addition to its rich history, the theatre has also undergone extensive renovations to ensure that it remains a top-notch performance venue.

If you're interested in catching a show at the Walnut Street Theatre, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's important to book your tickets in advance, as performances often sell out quickly. You can purchase tickets online or by phone, and there are often discounts available for students and groups.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the theatre does have a strict dress code, so be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion. Additionally, there are drinks and snacks available for purchase at the theatre, so you can enjoy a little refreshment during intermission.

Overall, the Walnut Street Theatre is a must-visit destination for anyone in the UPenn area. Whether you're a theatre buff or just looking for a fun night out, catching a show at this iconic venue is sure to be a memorable experience. So, book your tickets today and get ready to be entertained!

Franklin Institute Science Museum

If you're looking for things to do near University of Pennsylvania, the Franklin Institute Science Museum is an excellent place to visit. Located just outside the University City area, the Franklin Institute offers an exciting and educational experience for people of all ages.

The Franklin Institute Science Museum is home to countless exhibits that showcase the wonders of science and technology. One of the most popular exhibits is the Giant Heart, a 5,000-pound model of a heart complete with sound effects. Visitors can walk through the heart and learn about the cardiovascular system of the human body.

Another popular exhibit is Space Command, which features a space station simulator that gives visitors the opportunity to experience what it's like to be an astronaut. The Franklin Institute also has a planetarium, where visitors can watch shows about space and astronomy.

If you're interested in learning about the history of science and technology, the Franklin Institute also has several exhibits dedicated to major inventions and discoveries. The museum's famous Electricity exhibit, for example, features everything from the world's first battery to modern power grids. There's even a section of the exhibit that lets visitors experiment with electricity and magnetism themselves.

For kids, the Franklin Institute offers plenty of hands-on exhibits and activities where they can learn about science through play and exploration. They can make their own paper airplanes and test them in the Wind Tunnel exhibit, or try their hand at engineering and design with the Build It! exhibit.

Finally, the Franklin Institute Science Museum also hosts special events and programs throughout the year. From guest speakers to summer camps, there are always new and exciting things to do at the museum.

Overall, if you're looking for an educational and entertaining way to spend the day near University of Pennsylvania, the Franklin Institute Science Museum is a must-visit attraction. With its many exhibits, hands-on activities, and special events, there's something for everyone at this fascinating museum.

Sister Cities Park

If you're searching for fun things to do near UPenn, Sister Cities Park is one attraction you don't want to miss. This urban oasis offers a variety of activities that will appeal to people of all ages and interests.

Located just a few blocks from the University of Pennsylvania campus, Sister Cities Park is a beautiful green space that covers over 1.2 acres. The centerpiece of the park is the impressive fountain, which shoots water 30 feet into the air. It's a popular spot for photos, especially during the summer months when park visitors can cool off in the fountain's spray.

In addition to the fountain, Sister Cities Park features multiple interactive installations designed for visitors of all ages. The Imagination Playground, for example, is a play area that lets kids build their own unique structures using a variety of oversized foam blocks. It's a great way to encourage creativity, problem solving, and physical activity all at once.

For those who prefer a more peaceful experience, Sister Cities Park offers a number of serene water features and garden spaces. Relax by the reflecting pool or take a stroll through the many different types of plant life showcased in the park's various gardens. The Children's Discovery Garden, in particular, is a highlight of the park, with its winding paths, whimsical sculptures, and hands-on activities that help kids learn about the natural world.

Another popular feature of Sister Cities Park is the cafe, which serves a variety of food and drink options. You can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the view of the fountain from the outdoor seating area. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as outdoor movie nights, live music performances, and family-friendly activities.

Overall, Sister Cities Park is a gem of Philadelphia's public park system, and a must-visit attraction for anyone spending time near UPenn. Whether you're looking for a place to relax with friends, explore with your family or take a break from a busy day, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss this beautiful green space the next time you're in Philadelphia.

Rittenhouse Square Park

If you're visiting the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) campus, taking a break from classes, or simply looking for something to do in the area, one of the best options is to explore Rittenhouse Square Park. This scenic and historic park is located just a few blocks away from UPenn, making it a convenient destination for students, faculty, and visitors alike.

Here are some of the top things to do at and near Rittenhouse Square Park:

Explore the park: Take a leisurely stroll through the park's lush greenery, or find a bench to sit and take in the sights and sounds. There's always something interesting happening, whether it's live music, street performers, or simply a group of friends enjoying a picnic. You might even spot a few furry friends, as Rittenhouse Square is a popular destination for dog owners.

Visit the art museum: Located just a few minutes' walk from Rittenhouse Square Park is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in the country. Explore the collections and exhibitions, or take a selfie at the famous Rocky Steps, featured in the "Rocky" film series.

Try some local cuisine: Philadelphia is known for its food scene, and Rittenhouse Square Park is surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants and cafes. From classic Philly cheesesteaks to upscale fine dining, there's something to satisfy every craving. Some top recommendations include Parc, Zahav, and Vernick Food & Drink.

Shop and explore: Rittenhouse Square is also home to a variety of boutique shops and galleries, offering everything from handmade jewelry to locally sourced gifts. Check out places like Verde, Open House, and Urban Outfitters for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Attend a cultural event: Throughout the year, Rittenhouse Square hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. Check the park's schedule to see what's coming up during your visit.

Overall, Rittenhouse Square Park is a must-visit destination near UPenn, with plenty of activities and sights to explore. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing afternoon or a lively night out, this historic park has something for everyone.

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