The best time to travel to Philadelphia
depends on your must-see list, tolerance for extreme temperatures, and budget. History and museum lovers will like the fall and spring for the lighter crowds, budget travelers may favor the low winter prices, while the summer is perfect for those seeking outdoor events and activities. The City of Brotherly Love has been an American destination since the country’s early days—but don’t think that means this Pennsylvania
city lacks modern attractions. Today, visitors flock to Philadelphia for the iconic food scene, world-class museums, countless music and artfestivals, and tranquil parks. But trying to balance the drastic temperatures with your budget and interests can turn trip planning into a major headache.
That’s why car insurance
broker, super app
, and road trip guru Jerry
created this guide to help you pick the best time of year for your vacation. Here, you’ll find everything from the average temperatures, popular events and activities, and top tips for planning your best Philadelphia trip. 
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The best times of year to travel to Philadelphia
Peak Season: June to September
The good: Many outdoor festivals, events, and activities
The bad: High prices, more crowds
The weather: High-70s to 90s
Philadelphia is alive and active during the summer months, making this the perfect time of year to visit if you want a range of events and activities that go beyond the standard sightseeing.
Visit in June to take part in the Philly Pride Parade and Festival
or wander through the stunning PHS Philadelphia Flower Show
. July and August are the time for music, whether it’s jamming at the Mann Music Center Summer Concerts
or the Philadelphia Folk Festival
. And of course, you can’t mention summer in Philadelphia without the five-day Fourth of July parade and festival
. Off-season: October to February
The good: Budget-friendly prices, no crowds
The bad: Bitterly cold weather
The weather: 20s to mid-50s, depending on the month
Yes, the fall and winter bring some harsh weather to the City of Brotherly Love. But with a good coat, gloves, and hat, an off-season visit lets you savor the best of the city with low prices and no crowds.
Fall in Philly has stunning fall colors in addition to popular events like the Philadelphia Marathon
, the city’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the festive Holiday Light Show and Wanamaker Organ Concert at Macy’s Center City
. You can attend the city’s famous Mummers Parade
if you attend in January, or visit in February for the Philadelphia Auto Show
. Shoulder Season: March to May
The good: Mild weather, spring blooms, moderate crowds, reasonable rates
The bad: Higher prices, occasional snow,
Philadelphia’s shoulder season just happens to be one of the city’s most beautiful times of the year. With trees and flowers in bloom, mild days, and a range of events, the spring is when the city shakes off the winter and becomes alive.
If you visit in March, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
and Craft Beer Festival
are must-sees. Take part in the Philly Black Pride
celebration by checking out the many activities throughout April. And not-to-be-missed is the Shofuso Cherry Blossom Festival
which annually draws crowds in April. May sees the largest intercollegiate rowing event at the Dad Vail Regatta
. The cheapest time to travel to Philadelphia
Plan your visit to Philadelphia for the fall or winter if you’re looking to keep costs low. Not only will you have to battle fewer tourists, but you’ll benefit from the cheapest prices. Be prepared though—winters in Philly are bitterly cold, so a good coat, boots, and gloves are a must.
Find the best month for your visit to Philadelphia
Whether you’re visiting the city to walk in the footsteps of American history or to attend one of the city’s many events, Philadelphia has something to offer year-round. This also makes choosing a month for your visit one of the hardest parts of planning your trip!
Check out the chart below to help you choose the best month for your Philadelphia visit:
| | |
|---|
Museums and historical landmarks | | If museums and landmarks are on your must-see list, the off-season will allow you to visit these popular sites without the summer tourist crowds. |
| | From the Made in America festival curated by Jay-Z to the Philadelphia Folk Festival, and concerts from numerous headlining performers, summer is a music lover’s heaven. |
| | The spring offers the best of the city’s thriving craft beer scene with countless beer festivals that allow you to sample brews from across the city in one place. |
| | The mild spring weather is the perfect opportunity to get outside and seek out as many of Mural Arts’ masterpieces as you can find! |
| | Though incredible food can be found year-round, head to The South 9th Street Festival in May to appreciate the city’s Italian culture and, of course, food. |
| | Ring in the New Year at the city’s iconic and elaborate Mummers Parade |
| | Do as the locals do and seek out an iconic Philly cheesesteak at the Pat’s or Geno’s when these touristy-in-the-summer spots return to their less-busy, more enjoyable pace in the off-season. |
| | Stick to the milder months if you want to explore the city’s numerous parks and urban gardens. |
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars 4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers Pro Tip Once you figure out your must-do list and decide on the month you want to visit, it’s a good idea to make any museum, restaurant, or activity reservations asap!
How to save on car and rental insurance
Whether you decide to drive into Philly, rent a car, or go forgo the car altogether (hello, SEPTA transit
!), it’s recommended that you make sure you have a good car insurance policy
before hitting the road. Meet Jerry
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