Whether your day was good, hard, or just plain bad, it's always made better with a soothing sunset, and Philadelphia's magnificent views are not to be missed.
Share a scenic vista with a partner, sink in the warm colours while sharing a toast with friends, or simply absorb the natural beauty for a moment of self-reflection.
Whether you prefer the fresh air of a park or an artistic setting; wish to pair your delight with a meal or are on a quest for adventure, our handpicked selection offers a wide range of wonderful sites across the city. Whatever your style, peruse our list of Philly's best locations to enjoy the pastel panorama.
See also: The 10 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Chicago
Moshulu
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401 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard / Website
Ahoy, and step aboard the legendary Moshulu, the world’s oldest and largest square-rigged sailing vessel still afloat. This state-of-the-art sailing ship welcomes parties and provides a top-tier menu to its passengers. It's the ideal floating vessel to carry you across Philadelphia's waves into the sunset's infinite horizon.
INSIDER TIP: Reservertions are not required but highly recommended. Moshulu is presently accomodating indoor and outdoor seating in accordance with social distancing guidelines.
Philadelphia Zoo
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3400 W. Girard Avenue / Website
Satisfy your wildlife curiosities and watch the sunset gradually envelop nature at the Philadelphia Zoo. For a kid-friendly experience or a unique date night, this spot is perfect for a fun sunset watch like no other. How many people can say they've watched the sun set sitting by a graceful giraffe?
Philadelphia Museum of Art
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2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway / Website
Visit one of Philly's most iconic destinations, admire the beguiling masterpieces, then step outside the East and West entrances for a breathtaking view. This immersive outing begets scenes of the city in all its glory. Sit on the museum's steps and watch the sun's reflections glide across the skyscrapers along Ben Franklin Parkway.
The Mann Center for the Performing Arts
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5201 Parkside Avenue / Website
Music lovers will enjoy a blissful concerto while taking in this view. Settle down alfresco at the top of the hill and delight in a breathtaking sunset with a spontaneous picnic. A glorious show, a magical panorama and a snack - what more can one ask for?
INSIDER TIP: The center is now presenting "Farandol," conducted by Maestro Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
Four Seasons Hotel
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1 North 19th Street / Website
Get a great vantage point by making your way up the Top of the Tower. Enjoy the panorama while sipping on one of the Hotel bar's unique cocktail creations. The art nouveau and modern blend render this one of Philadelphia's most stylish rendezvous.
INSIDER TIP: Try the signature Butterfly pea flower tea. Its unexpected colors and exquisite flavors will blow you away.
Water Works Restaurant and Lounge
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640 Waterworks Drive / Website
Reminiscent of ancient Greek bathhouses, this restaurant and lounge is situated in one of Philadelphia's most renowned landmarks. With an award-winning view, Water Works is the perfect place to enjoy olive tapenade while marveling at a romantic sunset over the Schuylkill River and Boathouse Row. It'll be an evening you'll never forget.
See also: The 10 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in NYC
Penn's Landing
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101 N. Columbus Boulevard / Website
Take a stroll down the boardwalk as the sun sets after a meal at any of the Old City's restaurants. Watch as the sun sets majestically by the famous Delaware river and imagine how this scene must have looked for centuries.
INSIDER TIP: Make the most of the evening at this hub of urban activity.
South Street Bridge
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2800 South Street / Website
Before you browse the district's diverse shops or catch a show at the TLA, make sure you stop by South Street Bridge. This pedestrain-friendly crossway offers a picture-perfect panorama of the sunset, shining brightly through the silhouette of the city's skyline.
French Creek State Park
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843 Park Road / Website
For a getaway outside of the city, escape to this verdant sprawl. French Creek State Park is an oasis for people and wildlife; an idillic venue for a sunset evening in rose shades. With about 7,730-acres of protected land, the park boasts the largest contiguous forest between Washington D.C. and New York City.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
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Logan Circle to Philadelphia Museum of Modern Art / Website
Dubbed "Philadelphia's most artistic mile" and often referred to as the American Champs Élisées, this gorgeous parkway extends from Logan Circle all the way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Perfect for a promenade, you can take a relaxing stroll while watching the sky's blue morph into deep reds and violets.
Photography by: Jumping Rocks
