Discover Philadelphia: Beyond the Expo
With the U.S. 250th Anniversary (Semiquincentennial) celebrations in full swing, September 2026 will be an amazing time to visit Philadelphia! Below is a schedule and a short explanation for the top curated experiences for your evenings in the "City of Brotherly Love."
Entertainment
Philadelphia is more than just a historic city, it is a world-class sports and cultural hub. Philadelphia offers a rich cultural and entertainment scene. From historic landmarks and museums to theaters, music venues, and festivals, the city is alive with creativity.
Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour
When: All day
Where: Stops at all major attractions
The Hop-On Hop-Off bus is the easiest and most relaxed way to explore Philadelphia’s biggest highlights in one go. With open-top views and guided audio, it lets you take in the city at your own pace. Whether you want to dive into history, admire the skyline, or snap photos on the go, this ride gives you the perfect overview of the “City of Brotherly Love.”
Ed Sheeran: LOOP Tour
When: 5:30 PM, Saturday, September 19
Where: Lincoln Financial Field
Tickets: northamerica.edsheeran.com
There is nothing quite like an American "Stadium Show." Watching a global superstar like Ed Sheeran in a venue that holds nearly 70,000 people is an incredible assault on the senses. The energy of a Philadelphia crowd is legendary, passionate and loud. It’s the perfect high-energy kickoff to your trip before the business week begins.
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Philly Fringe Festival
When: 7:00 PM, Tuesday, September 22
Where: Old City District
Tickets: phillyfringe.org
The Fringe Festival turns the city into a living stage for creativity. You’ll find "pop-up" theater, dance, and art in unexpected places like old warehouses or street corners. It captures the artistic soul of Philadelphia, offering a unique, non-touristy glimpse into the local culture.
Sports
Baseball is known as "America’s Pastime," and the Phillies have one of the most loyal fanbases in the country. Attending a night game is all about the atmosphere: the smell of fresh grass, the sound of the crack of the bat, and spectacular skyline views. It’s a relaxed yet social environment, perfect for your night in the city.
Tickets: mlb.com/phillies/tickets
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NBA: Basketball (76ers)
When: To be released in August
Tickets: nba.com/76ers/tickets
NBA basketball is pure showmanship. Even in the pre-season, the speed of the game is incredible. Between the music, the cheerleaders, and the massive Jumbotron, there is never a dull moment. It’s a high-production experience that represents the pinnacle of American professional indoor sports.
NHL Hockey: Philadelphia Flyers (Pre-season)
When: To be released in August
If there is a pre-season Flyers game scheduled, it is a "must." Ice hockey in Philly is intense, it's fast, physical, and the fans are incredibly passionate. It’s a different, colder, and more electric kind of excitement compared to any other sport.
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Food and drinks
Philadelphia is truly a city of great food, and nothing represents it better than the iconic Philly cheesesteak.
It’s the kind of local specialty that gives you an authentic feel of Philadelphia’s culture and energy.
Don’t miss the chance to try a real Philly cheesesteak during your visit, it’s absolutely worth it!
City Winery Philadelphia
When: All day
Tickets: https://citywinery.com/pages/events/philadelphia
A great spot to visit if you enjoy a cozy atmosphere where good wine, great food, and live music come together. The venue offers intimate concerts, handcrafted wines made on-site, and a warm, welcoming setting right in the Fashion District, perfect for a relaxed night out or a unique live show experience. Tickets are necessary most nights, please make sure to book in advance via their website.
Cultural activities
Explore the Historic District, home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in the U.S. Art lovers can visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for its “Rocky Steps,” or the Barnes Foundation, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of impressionist and modern art.
250th Anniversary Light Show
When: 8:00 PM, Wednesday, September 23
Where: Independence Hall
As part of the 250th anniversary of the USA, the city puts on a breathtaking 3D projection show on the facade of Independence Hall. It’s a high-tech visual journey through history. It’s short, impressive, and located right in the historic heart of the city, a great way to end a Wednesday evening.
The Historical Core
When: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Friday, September 25
Where: Independence Hall
Tickets: https://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/independencehalltickets.htm
You cannot leave Philadelphia without seeing the Liberty Bell. It’s the ultimate symbol of American freedom. Walking through Independence Mall feels like stepping back to 1776. In this anniversary year, the area will be buzzing with extra exhibits and historical reenactors.
The Art Museum & Rocky Steps
When: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Friday, September 25
Where: Philadelphia Museum of Art
Running up the "Rocky Steps" at the Art Museum is a global rite of passage. It’s a fun, iconic moment with a rewarding view of the city. While you are there, you can explore the world-class art collection or the special 2026 exhibits.
