Summer is officially here, and not all of us are lucky enough to spend every weekend getting away at the beach. For those of you looking to soak up the sun in the city, don’t miss these must-visit outdoor spots open all summer long.
FRANKFORD HALL
1210 Frankford Avenue – Philadelphia, PA
Yes, our first pick is open all year long, but there’s nothing better than sipping a liter of beer and sharing a Bavarian pretzel with friends in this super relaxed yet super hip beer garden during the summer. Be sure to grab a picnic table underneath the string lights and a game of Jenga to keep yourself entertained.
MORGAN’S PIER
221 North Columbus Boulevard – Philadelphia, PA
If we had to pick a favorite bar in Philly, this would probably be it. Situated along the Delaware River, this bar boasts the best views of the Ben Franklin Bridge by far. Pair that view with the spot on cocktails (i.e. the Watermelon Ricky) and energetic crowd, and you’ll have yourself one hell of a night.
INDEPENDENCE BEER GARDEN
100 South Independence Hall Way – Philadelphia, PA
What’s probably the largest beer garden in the city is our go to spot for happy hour or prime Saturday day drinking. Around every corner is something new to discover: multiple bars to grab craft beers, picnic tables to socialize, and games to play all surrounded by beautiful greenery and string lighting.
BOK BAR
1901 South 9th Street – Philadelphia, PA
This controversial school turned rooftop bar is home to Philadelphia’s best skyline views in South Philly. Seriously, how can you beat this view? It’s the perfect spot to impress your date or to enjoy a laid back night out with friends. It’s quirky, hip, and totally unpretentious. P.S. the Filipino menu ain’t too shabby either.
DRURY BEER GARDEN
1311 Sansom Street – Philadelphia, PA
You can’t really ask for a better location than Drury Beer Garden for bar hopping on a Saturday. This intimate venue sits across from the ever popular Bru and adjacent to long-withstanding McGillan’s. And, once you’re ready for a bite to eat, head right inside to munch on some of the best Mediterranean food in the city at Opa. Unlike it’s swarming neighbors, this outdoor spot is low-key, no frills, and manageable. Grab yourself a table, sip on a cold beer, and challenge a friend to Connect Four in between the madness.
GRAFFITI BAR
124 South 13th Street – Philadelphia, PA
Squeeze your way down a tiny alley, and you’ll find yourself a miniature bar surrounded by graffiti-ed walls and spray-painted tables. This hidden space seats only thirty, but there is something special about this seclusion that makes it so worthwhile. If the atmosphere doesn’t do it for you, the food and cocktails will. All of the Asian specialties from the crowd-pleasing Sampan are available here – don’t miss the edamame dumplings. They’re to die for!
STRATUS LOUNGE
433 Chestnut Street – Philadelphia, PA
If you’re looking for a classier establishment, look no further than this glamorous bar atop the Hotel Monaco. Indulge in a craft cocktail next to the insanely gorgeous fireplaces the spans the width of the outdoor area. This venue is best for impressing a date for some after dinner drinks, or starting your party right on a weekend. Don’t forget to throw on some heels to fit in with the fashion forward crowd – seriously, you might even forget you’re still in Philadelphia.
SILK CITY
435 Spring Garden Street – Philadelphia, PA
So, you want to catch a bite to eat after work or unwind on a weekend afternoon. Silk City’s quirky outdoor garden provides an alfresco setting like no other in Northern Liberties. Kick back and admire the strange (but cool) art nouveau decor, complete with iron gates, mosaics and sculptures. Choose from a variety of well priced beverages and note-worthy beers while snacking on their delicious macaroni and cheese.
SPRUCE STREET HARBOR PARK
121 North Columbus Boulevard – Philadelphia, PA
SSHP is a must-visit family-friendly park, perfect for cooling off with a drink while enjoying time with the kids. Soak up the sun on the waterfront, reserve a hammock and lounge around, or graze the boardwalk with a craft beer or seasonal cocktail in hand. Some of Philly’s best restaurants feature pop-ups along the way – don’t miss tacos from Distrito, sandwiches from The Little Fat Ham, doughnuts from FedNuts, and crab fries from Chickie’s and Pete’s. Even better, cool down with a sundae from my absolute favorite ice-cream parlour, Franklin Fountain.
