Penn's Landing

The spot where William Penn stepped ashore in 1682 is the hub of a 37-acre riverfront park that stretches from Market Street south to Lombard Street. Walk along the waterfront for a view of pleasure boats moored at the marina and cargo ships chugging up and down the Delaware River. Philadelphia's harbor, which includes docking facilities in New Jersey and Delaware, is one of the world's largest freshwater ports. Attractions at Penn's Landing include historic vessels like the world's largest four-masted tall ship, the Moshulu, which doubles as a restaurant. The waterfront is also the scene of July 4 fireworks, as well as jazz and big-band concerts, ethnic festivals, and children's events. Recent years have moved the on-again, off-again development of the waterfront forward in a positive direction. Race Street Pier Park, designed by the architects behind New York's High Line, is a great place to stroll, jog and take in views of the Ben Franklin Bridge stretching overhead, while pop-ups like Spruce Street Harbor Park and the Lodge at Winterfest are insanely popular with locals for snacking, sipping, and lounging.