If you're trying to plan a dream vacation to Philadelphia, you'll need to know the best time to visit.
Although the City of Brotherly Love hosts beautiful sights, a vibrant history regarding our nation's roots, and massive cultural festivals throughout the seasons, it's overwhelming to determine when you should book that flight or vacation time. Looking for the best weather, most budget-friendly times to visit, and fewer crowds? Use our guide below before you go.
Of course, there are various factors to consider when planning a trip such as work and school schedules, budgets, and travel preferences. To help you save time while planning, decide which factors are most important to meet your travel needs:
- When Should I Visit Philadelphia for the Best Weather?
- When is the Most Affordable Time to Visit Philadelphia?
- What Time of Year is Ideal for Families?
- When is the Perfect Time to Visit Philadelphia?
photo credit: Rikumo via Facebook
When Should I Visit Philadelphia for the Best Weather?
Although each season offers stunning views of the city and fun events, spring is the best time to visit Philadelphia. Because of the optimal weather, spring foliage, and reasonable room rates, you don’t want to miss out on booking a vacation during this prime time. Late March through May brings average temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to lower 70s, perfect for springtime strolls. Moreover, cherry trees blossom throughout the city and are particularly vibrant in Fairmount Park.
In addition, several key events and festivals take place in the spring. For instance, The Philadelphia Flower Show, which takes place in March, presents the most expansive and longest-running horticultural event in the nation. Showcasing gorgeous floral displays by the world's most renowned horticulturalists, the Flower Show hosts intriguing competitions, demonstrations, and citywide events. Another massive celebration is the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Rain or shine, the parade takes place every year in March since 1771. Celebrate your heritage or your neighbor's at this cultural and religious commemoration, complete with bands, floats, throngs of people, and a sea of green.
Other key springtime events include:
- Philly Craft Beer Festival
- Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival
- Philly Black Pride
- Philadelphia Children's Festival
photo credit: Fort Mifflin via Facebook
When is the Most Affordable Time to Visit Philadelphia?
Looking to save? The drop in temperatures also brings lower flight and hotel rates, so fall and winter are prime for cutting costs. During the fall, average temperatures can range from 50 to 70 degrees, and the city experiences breathtaking fall foliage. Also, it’s great to get out of the city to see the changing of the seasons in the surrounding countryside. Further, during the winter, the average temperatures can range from the 40s to the 20s. Bundled up, you can trek through the snowy streets to most local attractions.
In addition, there are many seasonal events to check out, particularly when it comes to holiday cheer. For example, October brings citywide Oktoberfest celebrations with brats, Bavarian pretzels, German beer, and more. Multiple institutions like the local zoo and Uptown Beer Garden, as well as neighborhood block parties, observe Oktoberfest. Another noteworthy festival includes the Philly Holiday Festival, which encompasses Philadelphia's historic holiday traditions. The Philly Holiday Festival begins with the Thanksgiving Day Parade and ends with the New Year's Eve fireworks display and the Mummers Parade. Further, enjoy the Philly Holiday Tree at City Hall, shop, dine, and make memories with your loved ones.
Other special fall and winter events:
What Time of Year is Ideal for Families?
Because of the many outdoor events and festivals that take place, try to plan your big family trip during the summer months. Also, due to vacation schedules, this will line up well when traveling with little ones. Average temperatures still only range between the lower 70s and mid-80s, so it shouldn’t be sweltering if you decide to visit in the summertime. Although flight and hotel costs may raise, you can plan ahead and book through Tripster to cut costs. Also, Philadelphia offers numerous public transportation options to save while traveling to your top destinations, and you won't be freezing!
As summertime nears, the city shows its appreciation by hosting expansive concerts, parades, and festivals. If you're a fan of beer, check out Philly Beer Week to sample premium brews. The city commemorates with a ten-day festival that begins the Friday following Memorial Day. Other major events include Philly's Pride Parade and Festival in June, which features citywide festivities to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, as well as Philly's Independence Day revelry. Because it's the birthplace of America, you better believe the city shows up with a series of over-the-top events. Experience displays of marching bands, floats, orchestras, military members, and more. In fact, the celebration typically starts in late June and brings in big names like Meghan Trainor and Jennifer Hudson.
Other top summer events:
- Mann Music Center Summer Concerts
- XPoNential Music Festival
- Philadelphia Folk Festival
- Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest
photo credit: Battleship New Jersey via Facebook
When is the Best Time to Visit Philadelphia?
In order to avoid crowds and frigid temperatures, planning a trip in the spring is the best time to visit Philadelphia. If you go between March and May, the weather will be crisp but not too cold, and you’ll see gorgeous spring foliage bloom. Further, flight and hotel prices remain reasonable because of fewer crowds, so you can’t beat visiting during spring.
