20+ Lovely Philly Fall Locations You Must See

Fall…the time when overly large sweaters, fancy boots, and pumpkin spice lattes make their debut. Everyone begins preparations for fall festivities and family gatherings. People soak in the last moments of warm weather while enjoying new scenic views that soon will change again. The search for new places to visit before it gets too cold, begins. If you are close enough or are looking for some perfect spots to explore in Philadelphia, we are here for you.

Since Philadelphia is pretty large, for sanity purposes, we will break the places down to four particular sections of the city.

Old City

For anyone who loves history, Old-Town feels and very unique spots, we will begin with the usual historical landmarks, but will take you through some super scenic avenues.

Start your journey at Elfreth’s Alley Museum. This little alley will make you forget that you are in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. With the old brick, colorful doors, and seasonal decorations, you will feel like you are standing in a painting. With the fall leaves on the ground, it’s so difficult to not “fall” in love with this view. About 3 minutes away, you can swing by the Betsy Ross House, where Mrs. Elizabeth Griscom Ross stitched up the national design for Freedom and Justice. From Betsy Ross, if you could use a little yummy pick-me-up, there’s a yummy pastry spot called Tartes and (one of Alena’s fave Philly cafes) ICI Macarons. Tartes’ Pistachio and Pear Tart will not disappoint! Continue your walk toward Christ Church, for two reasons: One, it is an incredible church to see in-person and two, there is a historian at the church that usually sits in the main sanctuary. If you can spark up a chat, all your history needs will be fulfilled.

From here, walking along S. 2nd St, you will get to experience the 1800s, while feeling the crisp air and enjoying the fall views of the olden city of Philly. This street takes you to two perfect location endings.

One:  You can end your journey roaming around the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall Square, Carpenter’s Hall and Washington Square (P.S. If you are in the area for either a brunch or dinner, trust me, check out Talula’s Garden).

Two:  You decide to go the opposite way on 2nd St, toward the Delaware River, you will find the breathtaking fall views over the river and a glimpse of New Jersey in the calmest way. If you walk up Walnut Street, you can cross over to the river and head south toward Spruce Street Harbor Park. The harbor offers many activities during all seasons, but this for another blog post. The neatest part of exploring Spruce Street Harbor in the fall is you are surrounded by beautiful fall trees, fresh air from the river, lots of people, and you can enjoy unique food options while swinging in a hammock on the trees.

Fairmount Park

There is truly no similar view in Philly like what the Schuylkill River has to offer. There are two sides to the river that you can enjoy. We will start with the West Side of Schuylkill River. You can begin your journey at Shofuso House. Whether you go inside or explore around, you are in for a treat. The beauty of this park in the fall in unmatched. You will feel like you are somewhere in the most natural environment. If you choose to take the walking tour, here is a path to follow: starting at Shofuso House, continue to Food Forest at Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, then head to Centennial Arboretum. For the most part, your entire experience at Fairmount Park is going to be breathtaking. While on this side of the Schuylkill, take a walk up to Belmont Mansion. Right near the Belmont Mansion is a location called Belmont Plateau, where you can get a nice view of the city skyline. It is a sight to see in the fall.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

On the other side of the Schuylkill is East Fairmount Park, which offers just as many beautiful scenes as the West. Start at the Spring Garden Bridge, make your way to the Art Museum Gazebo and take a look inside Fairmount Water Works. However, the best part comes when you get near Boathouse Row and The Art Museum of Philadelphia. This area can keep you occupied for hours and hours. You definitely need a pair of comfortable shoes to enjoy all of what this area has to offer. Finishing this tour by running up the museum stairs like Rocky did is a must. Whether you are a local or tourist visiting, to feel like the legend, you must live like the legend lived.

If you still have some energy left, take a walk down Benjamin Franklin Parkway, where not only do the fall colors beautify the road, but also flags of the countries of the world.

Rittenhouse Square

As they say, save the best for last. The final location that is picturesque, social media-post worthy, #PictureDoesntDoItJustice kind of location is Rittenhouse Square. It is known as one of the wealthier neighborhoods of Philadelphia. It is full of shopping, fine dining, and absolutely gorgeous historic homes that Philadelphia has to offer.  The middle of Rittenhouse Square Park is designed in a square shape and each entrance/exit will lead you to a beautiful part of the neighborhood, all while enjoying the most beautiful fall views in the square park itself. Stop by K’Far for a delicious snack and coffee before taking a walk through Delancey Street to enjoy the beautiful historic homes and charming street. If you happen to fall in love with Rittenhouse Square and see yourself living there, we have numerous properties that we can tour in the area. If you have some time for one of the best brunches in town, check out The Dandelion, the decor there will not disappoint! For dinner, The Love, Parc, Via Locusta, Scarpetta and Barclay Prime are classics and great options.

Seemingly underrated, Philly has some beautiful places to explore, and it has something to offer for all walks of life. Children, adults, art enthusiasts, foodies, you name it, Philly has it. If you are looking to move to this lovely city, you can always reach out to Lovely Philly Home. We have listings for all desires and all budgets.

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