Whether you’re from out of town or are a born-and-bred Philadelphian, there are so many exciting places in the city that will make you pull out your camera. Here are eight Instagram-worthy spots that will inspire you to do just that.
Getting drinks and seeing a show is a great way to spend a night out. If you’re at the Kimmel Center, savor not only the drinks but the views at the Balcony Bar as well. While you’re enjoying the light fare and speciality cocktails like the Sparkling Yuzu Gimlet, take in the view of City Hall without having to stand in Broad Street traffic for the perfect picture. 300 S. Broad St., kimmelcenter.org
One of Philly’s most mesmerizing places, the Magic Gardens is a can’t-miss spot on South Street. In 1991, artist and South Street resident Isaih Zagar wanted to leave an impact on his community, and so the Gardens were born. Colorful tiles, bicycle tires and antique plates cover the walls and stairs of this walk-through art piece. 1020 South St., 215.733.0390, phillymagicgardens.org
On the eighth floor of the Sonesta Hotel in Rittenhouse Square lies the largest rooftop pool in the city. Relax poolside or in a secluded cabana, and enjoy cocktails from the hotel’s bar, ArtBar. 1800 Market St., 215.561.7500, sonesta.com
With its retro feel and colorful drinks, Burg’s Hideaway Lounge is a fun spot to take a few pictures. They have great brunch and dinner menus, along with specialty cocktails like the Aloha, Mr. Burg and the Singapore Sling. The colorful drinks come topped with tiki umbrellas and fresh flowers. Burg’s is secluded so it’s the perfect place to hideaway. 1200 S. 21st St., 215.271.6627, burgshideaway.com
The BOK Building opens its roof to the public for the summer at the Bok Bar. Impressive beer and wine lists are great, but it’s the view that will keep you coming back all season long. 800 Mifflin St., 484.727.8864, bok-bar.com
Down by the banks of the Delaware River, Race and Cherry Street Piers provide summer lovers with the greatest views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Head to the Cherry Street Pier on July 15 for an outdoor movie screening of “Moana” after enjoying a picnic with friends at Race Street. Race St. and N. Columbus Blvd., 215.922.2FUN, delawareriverwaterfront.com
The oldest residential street in the country is a beautiful backdrop for documenting a day in historic Philadelphia. Go back in time thanks to brick-exterior homes that have been preserved for centuries. 124-126 Elfreth’s Alley, 215.574.0560, elfrethsalley.org
This bar was meant to be photographed. Blume is lit by pink and purple lights and its walls are covered in plants and flowers. Shareable plates, like loaded fries and calamari, allow everyone to get around one table, and each signature cocktail is just as vibrant as the space itself. 1500 Locust St., 267.761.5582, blumephilly.com
Local restaurants and artisans turn shipping containers into their pop-up shops this summer at the Piazza Pod Park. Expect vendors like Urban Village Brewing Company, Dim Sum House and Spread Bagelry. Snap a picture in front of BeBot, a 33-foot tall robot from Burning Man who welcomes you into the park. 1075 Germantown Ave., 215.710.8185, piazzapodpark.com
Photography by: From Top to Bottom: Photography courtesy of the Kimmel Center; Photography by C. Smyth, Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia; Photography courtesy of Cashman and Associates; Photography courtesy of PUNCH Media; Photography by Sam Oberter, Courtesy of Bok Bar; Photography courtesy of DRWC Cherry Street Pier; Photography by C. Ridgeway, Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia; Photography courtesy of Society Hill Films; Photography courtesy of Society Hill Films
