City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Whether you’re seeking authentic Philly cheesesteaks or visiting historic attractions and the fountains, statues and museums of the tree-lined Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia is a terrific destination for boaters who just happen to love history, iconic sites and great food.

Located north of Wilmington, Delaware, between the Delaware River on the east and the Schuylkill River to the west, boaters can enjoy time fishing, cruising or sightseeing on a sailboat, pontoon or cuddy cabin. It makes a fun side excursion or day trip while traveling along the ICW or staying at a private boat dock for rent.

Let’s check out some things to do while you’re in the City of Brotherly Love.

The Liberty Bell

Photo: Wikimedia

If you go to Philly and don’t go to the Liberty Bell, have you really gone to Philly? Don’t risk it. This must-visit site is at 526 Market Street. It’s part of the Liberty Bell Center, which features other exhibits ranging from the founding of the bell to its use by civil rights advocates, women’s suffrage activists and abolitionists in the fight for liberty. It’s one of our favorite places to visit from a private boat lift rental in Philly.

Independence Hall

Photo: Independence Hall (Facebook)

Channel the Founding Fathers and their revolutionary spirits at Independence Hall. Originally known as the Pennsylvania State House, this is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. In 1787, the U.S. Constitution was created and signed by delegates to the Constitutional Convention. The hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of Independence National Historical Park. You can take guided tours of the hall and areas such as Congress Hall, Old City Hall and the West Wing.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Photo: Wikimedia

Another iconic spot to visit in Philadelphia has to be the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This is where that famous scene from the 1976 movie Rocky was filmed. See if you can outrun Stallone. There’s also a bronze statue of Rocky at the bottom of the stairs if you’d just like to take a selfie instead of doing all that leg work.

Of course, you can always just check out the artwork inside the museum. It features a large array of American, European and East Asian paintings, sculpture, drawings, textiles and costumes. Artists include Monet, Van Gogh, Cassatt, Renoir, Rodin, and many more.

Reading Terminal Market

Photo: Reading Terminal Market (Facebook)

The destination for snackers and foodies of all types, Reading Terminal Market is one of the country’s oldest farmers’ markets. It’s located beneath a former railroad terminal and holds several retail and food vendors selling cheese, seafood, produce and more. You can also purchase prepared items from dozens of restaurants. Open since 1893, you’ll find bakeries, ice cream, arts and crafts, candy and Pennsylvania Dutch food vendors like Beiler’s Bakery, Kauffman’s Dutch Market, Lancaster County Dairy, Miller’s Twist, and Riehl Cheese Shop & Deli. This is a wonderful way to bring local fare back to a private boat slip rental to enjoy later. 

Philadelphia’s Magic Garden

Photo: Philadelphia's Magic Garden (Facebook)

Completely covered in colorful mosaics, Philadelphia’s Magic Garden is a whimsical tribute to the art world. You’ll walk along mosaic-lined paths and walls covered by tiles and other folk art. It was created by Isaiah Zagar using a variety of recycled and found items such as bicycle tires, bottles, tiles, mirrors and other decorative objects. This gallery and art community offers tours, hands-on experiences, art activities, concerts, art and photography exhibitions and workshops.

Philadelphia Zoo

Photo: Wikimedia

The Philadelphia Zoo was America’s first zoo. Opened in 1874, it has more than 160 years of experience in conservation, animal care and education. Take a break from the private boat life rental and spend a few hours with lions, tigers, flamingos, giraffes and more. There’s also a zipline, a carousel, a ropes course and a train.

Eastern State Penitentiary

Photo: Eastern State Penitentiary (Facebook)

Yes, a prison made the list. The historic cells of Eastern State Penitentiary once held prisoners “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone. In operation from 1829 to 1971, it now hosts historic daytime and nighttime tours. It’s particularly popular at Halloween for ghost tours. You can learn about the penitentiary and America’s criminal justice system through activities, tours, events and hands-on experiences. Capone’s cell is the most popular on the tour.

Delaware River Waterfront

Photo: Penn's Landing (Facebook)

Philly’s Delaware River waterfront features great views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge (which connects Philly to New Jersey). Parks in the area include Spruce Street Harbor Park and Blue Cross RiverRink as well as Cherry Street Pier and Race Street Pier. The center of it all, Penn’s Landing stretches along the river and hosts a variety of activities and attractions like ice skating, festival, beer gardens, concerts, festivals and more. This is one of our favorite spots to visit from a private boat dock rental.

We hope this has helped you discover some fun and interesting places to visit on your next boating excursions. Whether you’re traveling the Great Loop or taking a day trip from Cape May, Philadelphia offers a variety of activities and attractions. Don’t forget to get that Rocky selfie.