Autumnal Activities in Philadelphia

In the Autumn, Philadelphia swaps out the cheesesteaks for pumpkin pie and the Liberty Bell for spooky cells as the city embraces Halloween and the season of autumn. Check out these Autumnal activities in Philadelphia, from spooky to cozy.

Halloween-themed Fun

Visit America’s most historic prison and the world’s first true penitentiary during Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary. This immersive experience includes five difference spine-chilling haunted houses and mazes, themed bars and lounges, and live performances, all within the walls of a real, abandoned 10-acre prison. Open select nights between 20th September and 9th November 2024. Tickets start from $39 per person.

Above: Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary. Photo by Andrew Garn

For a ghostly good time, check out Spooky Twilight Tours at Betsy Ross House. Visitors can navigate the 18th-century former home of the patriotic seamstress and learn more about Philadelphia’s macabre past.The tours will run on 5^th, 11^th, 12^th, 18^th, 19^th, 25^th and 26^th October.

Above: Betsy Ross Spooky Twilight Tour. Photo by EnRoute

Discover the eerie past of Philadelphia’s most historic sites on a Ghost Tour of Philadelphia. These candlelit walking tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will lead you through the historic streets at night. Visit historic houses believed to have a spiritual presence while hearing ghost stories and creepy tales from Philadelphia’s past. Tickets are $27 per person ($16 ages 4-12).

Above: Ghost Tour of Philadelphia. Photo by J.Ryan for PHLCVB

Craftsman Row Saloon, a short walk from Philadelphia’s historic district, throughout October you can embrace spooky season by transforming into a haunted Halloween-themed bar. Their chilling, eerie cocktails and seasonal eats make this ghoulish bar a real treat.

America’s first zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo hosts Boo at the Zoo every October during the three weekends leading up to Halloween. Visitors of all ages can explore the zoo’s grounds for special treats, photo opportunities, and a not-so-scary extinction graveyard.

Above: Boo at the zoo. Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Zoo

Franklin Square presents Spooky Mini Golf, where miniature iconic Philadelphia landmarks, get an eerie makeover. Players putt their way through 18 holes surrounded by ghosts, creepy cobwebs, and another spooky seasonal décor.

Every October, The Franklin Institute turns into a family-friendly haunted wonderland with trick-or-treating, live shows, and immersive activities every weekend. Kids can dress up, explore themed doors for treats, and enjoy surprises from characters throughout the museum, all included with admission and take place every Wednesday in October.

Above: Franklin Fright at the Franklin Institute. Photo courtesy of The Franklin Institute.jpg 

Fall Foliage 

Admire the breathtaking foliage in the 2,000-plus outdoor playground of Fairmount Park, one of the largest city-owned urban park systems in the world. Start at the historic Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, a replica of a traditional 17^th-century Japanese home. Then head to the Horticulture Center, where you can explore the vast outdoors or learn more in the center’s greenhouse. Go for a walk or run along Kelly Drive to take in even more fall foliage with trees lining the trails along the Schuylkill River.

Above: Shofuso in the Fall. Photo by Albert Lee

Spend an autumn afternoon strolling through one of the city’s five original squares – Dilworth Park, Franklin Square, Logan Square, Rittenhouse Square, and Washington Square. Embrace the cooler temperatures while taking in all the seasonal hues of fall in the city.

Above: Kelly Drive Fall Foliage. Photo by Albert Lee.

Seasonal Events

Get some fresh air while getting into the fall spirit by attending one of Philadelphia’s seasonal events. Head to the city’s historic district for Old City Fest in early October. The annual event highlights the neighborhood’s premiere arts community by showcasing local designers, restaurants, retailers, galleries, and theaters.

Or sip cider and carve pumpkins along the Delaware River for Fall Fest at Morgan’s Pier. Sit on a deck overlooking the Delaware River with unbeatable views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Oktoberfest is hosted each year by Brauhaus Schmitz, an authentic German restaurant on South Street. Enjoy live entertainment, German food, and plenty of bier on 11^th and 12^th October.

Above: 23rd Street Armory Oktoberfest photo by Kory Aversa

Another festive event worth attending is the Northern Liberties Night Market on 25^th September. Sample the vibrant neighborhood’s best food trucks, shop from local vendors, and enjoy live music and street performances.

For more information on Philadelphia go to www.discoverphl.com