9 fun, locals-recommended things to do in Philadelphia for students

Moving to Philly for school? If so, you’re about to become a part of one of the richest educational histories in the US! The city’s reputation as “America’s Greatest College Town” began in the 1700s with the founding of The University of Pennsylvania (formerly known as The Academy of Philadelphia). Other noteworthy historical universities include Thomas Jefferson University (est. 1824), Temple University (1884), and Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, the nation’s first Historically Black College and University (HBCU), established in 1837.

Today, the city has over 24 four-year universities, but higher learning isn’t the only thing you’ll find here! The ripples of influence from the city’s universities can be felt throughout all aspects of Philly life, including quality of living, cultural diversity, urban renewal, and more. There’s so much to see and do in The City of Brotherly Love, where do you even begin? We asked some of the locals for their input, and they came up with plenty of great suggestions! In this post, we’ll explore the locals’ recommended things to do for students pursuing education in Philadelphia!

1. Become a darts wizard at Flight Club

“For any new student or freshman moving to Philadelphia, I highly recommend checking out Flight Club,” says Iesha Vincent, a Philly content creator. “While it might sound like a typical bar, this spot has transformed the traditional game of darts into an interactive, high-tech experience that is perfect for breaking the ice and meeting new people.”

“Located in Center City, Flight Club uses sophisticated technology to keep score and guide you through various game modes, making it feel more like a video game than a classic pub sport. This levels the playing field, so you don’t need any prior dart-throwing experience to have a blast. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed, with a communal energy where groups often cheer each other on!”

Vincent explains that Flight Club is much more than just a place to have a couple of pints and hone your darts game. “Beyond the games, they also have a surprisingly strong menu of creative cocktails and delicious food,” she says. “It’s an ideal spot for a group hang, a birthday celebration, or just a fun night out with new friends, proving that one of the best tips for any freshman is to seek out unique experiences beyond the campus bubble!”

Good to know: Flight Club is open Tuesday through Thursday from 3-11 pm, Friday noon to 1 am, Saturday from 11 am to 1 am, and Sunday from 11 am to 10 pm.

2. Try an iconic Philly cheesesteak at Reading Terminal Market

Need some help getting settled into your new place? Annie Kilbride, professional organizer and founder of Life Simplified, can assist. She also had a great one-stop idea where newcomers can immerse themselves in Philly culture. “One unique experience I always recommend to new students in Philadelphia is visiting Reading Terminal Market,” she says. “It’s not just a food hall, it’s a taste of the city’s culture, history, and diversity all in one place! From authentic Philly cheesesteaks to Amish baked goods, you can explore so many flavors while feeling the energy of the city. It’s a great way to get a real sense of what makes Philly special.”

Good to know: The Market is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.

3. Get lost in The Philadelphia Museum of Art

“For any student looking to move to Philadelphia, we highly recommend visiting the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art,” says Donte Ennis, founder of Philly-based cleaning service Hometress. To modernize its image, the museum was rebranded as the Philadelphia Art Museum (PhAM) in 2025 (but most natives still call it the Philly Museum of Art). The rebrand aims to expand the museum’s audience, cultivate inclusiveness, and highlight underrepresented artists and cultures.

If you plan to go, be sure to give yourself plenty of time! The museum has a massive collection of approximately 240,000 works, including European, American, and Asian art; decorative arts; sculpture; prints, drawings, and photographs; armor; textiles; and more. The building itself is a major landmark: its grand neoclassical style, columns, and the famous “Rocky” steps make it as much a part of Philadelphia’s identity as many of its artworks.

Think you can’t afford a visit to the museum? Ennis says no worries: “The museum offers a student discount of $14 ($25 for adults), making it accessible for those on a budget!”

Good to know: Hours are 10 am to 5 pm, except on Fridays, when it stays open until 8:45. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

4. Enjoy an outdoor study sesh (or people watching) at Rittenhouse Square Park

“After exploring the art, take a stroll through Rittenhouse Square Park,” Ennis recommended. “It’s a perfect spot to study outdoors, take your dog for a walk, or hang out with friends. You can also grab a bite to eat at the surrounding restaurants. We highly recommend that you try Parc for French bistro fare or The Love for an upscale date night.” The Square has been a gathering place for locals and visitors alike since 1913 (though it has existed in various forms since the 1600s) and hosts several annual events. For example, attendees can enjoy the spring festival in May with arts, food, and more. There’s also a fine art show in the fall and magical decorations galore during the holiday season.

5. Find your thrills at Eastern State Penitentiary

Ennis’s final suggestion would be a perfect Halloween activity, but it would be just as fun any time! “If you are looking for something fun yet creepy, Eastern State Penitentiary may suit your fancy,” he says. “It’s Al Capone’s former prison turned haunted destination!” The prison’s spooky vibe comes not only from its history, but also from its state. It sat abandoned for years, overgrown and decaying. Its eerie, crumbling cells have earned it a reputation as one of the most haunted places in America. Aside from its “Halloween Nights” haunted attraction, you can take daytime history tours, learn about the US prison system and its evolution, and enjoy night tours and special exhibits exploring criminal justice and human rights.

Good to know: You can visit the penitentiary Wednesday through Monday from 10 am to 5 pm in January and February (it’s closed on Tuesdays). From March through December, it’s open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Tuesdays in December, when it’s closed.

6. Visit Havana in Philly at Cuba Libre

“One unique experience I always recommend to students new to Philadelphia is weekend brunch at Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar in Old City,” says local Rebekah Pineda. “It’s not just a meal, it’s an escape to Havana without needing a passport! The menu features brunch favorites with a Cuban twist, along with incredible coffee options. A must-try is the Café Cuba Libre, made with espresso, steamed coconut milk, and raw sugar for a rich, energizing start to your day. If you’re not drinking alcohol, you’ll love the playful NOjitos, non-alcoholic mojitos crafted with fresh-pressed sugarcane and lime juice, refreshing and perfect for a daytime hangout.

Cuba Libre’s lively, open-air setting makes it a great spot to gather with friends, whether you’re just exploring the city or celebrating something special. And if you are celebrating, go big with the Havana Banana Split, a jumbo ice cream sundae brought to the table with flair, complete with a personalized marquee sign, light show, and music. It’s an unforgettable way to mark a milestone or just kick off your college years in style. But again, for any freshman looking for a fun, delicious, and memorable Philly experience, the brunch is a must!”

7. Check out University City

University City (UCity for short) is an area located in west Philly across the river from Center City, featuring a bunch of fun things to do for students getting their bearings in Philadelphia. (The area is home to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University campuses, hence the name.) It’s a diverse neighborhood with a mix of students, young professionals, and families, and it hosts an array of restaurants, theaters, galleries, performance spaces, and more. UCity has over 100 acres of parks and green spaces where individuals can gather, study, and enjoy the day. The area also hosts community-based events, including movie nights in the park and pop-up performances.

8. Get educated at the African American Museum (AAMP)

Located in the Historic District near Independence National Historical Park, the AAMP is among the first major institutions funded and explicitly built to preserve and exhibit African American culture and heritage. The museum features a variety of permanent exhibits that use artifacts, multimedia, and historical documents to tell the story of many African Americans in Philly from the founding of the US through post-Reconstruction. You’ll also find rotating and special exhibits on art, social issues, culture, and history.

Good to know: The AAMP is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

9. Escape into nature at Wissahickon Valley Park

Wissahickon’s wooded gorge, steep ravines, rocky creek beds, and forested slopes will make you feel like you’re in the middle of the wilderness, despite being inside city limits! There are more than 50 miles of trails in the park, ranging from flat, easy paths to steeper, more challenging ones. As a National Natural Landmark, the park also offers plenty of historic sites and structures to see, such as the Valley Green Inn, Rittenhouse Town (the site of an early paper mill), and various stone bridges and rustic shelters built during the mid-1930s to 1940s. The autumn foliage is stunning throughout the park, and during your visit, you’ll likely see a variety of regional wildlife, including many bird species and small mammals.

Welcome, promising scholars!

Any Philadelphia local will tell you that the city’s universities are among its biggest influences, drawing a diverse population of people of all ages, cultures, and ethnicities. Philly’s rich heritage and innovative vibe are among the many things that make it one of the most exciting places to live and study in the US. If you’re visiting, we hope our list of locals’ suggested activities points you in the right direction! If you’re a new student in Philly, search RentCafe.com and find your perfect Philadelphia apartment to settle down!