41 Reasons to Visit Philadelphia in Winter 2022

Winter’s crisp air and occasional snowfalls make the perfect backdrop for all sorts of events, exhibits and festivals in Greater Philadelphia this season — the most anticipated of which is Harry Potter: The Exhibition, making its world premiere at the iconic Franklin Institute in February. But before that, on January 11, Philadelphia welcomes an evocative Wofford Sculpture Studio-created Harriet Tubman statue outside of City Hall, arriving just in time for Black History Month, Women’s History Month and the 200th anniversary of Tubman’s birth.

Annual favorites return as well, including the Philly Home Show, the Philadelphia Auto Show and multiple restaurant weeks. Of course, February is Black History Month, and museums and attractions across the city celebrate Black heritage, history and culture with compelling exhibitions, discussions and more events.

Three long winter weekends (Martin Luther King, Jr., Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day) make it easy to explore all of Philly’s offerings this winter, as does the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package, which includes hotel parking (up to a $100 value) and buy-one-get-one-free tickets to 33 Philly museums and attractions.

There is so much to see and do in Philadelphia this winter. Here’s a look:

Expansion

1. Clay Studio

Formerly located in Old City, the Clay Studio opens a new, state-of-the-art facility in Kensington with programming dedicated to clay workshops, classes and community engagement. The new facility provides quadruple the classroom space, larger artist studios and galleries and even an outdoor pavilion. March 2022.

Winter Events & Festivals

2. Winter in Franklin Square

Franklin Square is set to sparkle and dazzle through most of the winter thanks to its Electrical Spectacle Light Show — complete with more than 150,000 lights choreographed to “Winter Wonderland.” Visitors can also play golf on the Chilly Philly Mini Golf course, take a spin on the Parx Liberty Carousel and grab a bite to eat at SquareBurger. Through February 27, 2022.

3. Winter at Dilworth Park

Fun abounds in Center City’s Dilworth Park this winter. Folks can: cruise around the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink, offering timed, 90-minute skating sessions (through February 27, 2022); relax in the Rothman Orthopedics Cabin, where seasonal food and cocktails await in a ski chalet-inspired setup (through February 27, 2022); and stroll through the Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn, an open-air wonderland of lights, topiaries and rustic décor perfect for photo ops (through April 3, 2022).

4. Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest

One of Philly’s favorite winter traditions, Winterfest brings the seasonal spirit to the Delaware River waterfront, offering guests a chance to go skating at the city’s largest outdoor rink, cozy up at one of the warming cabins and fire-pit stations, and gaze at the twinkling lights and holiday tree. Plus, there are carnival games and plenty of food. Through March 6, 2022.

5. Winter Wonder, Longwood Gardens

The horticultural minds at this mega garden prove winter is more than stark, bare trees with this cold-weather exhibit. In the Conservatory, Streptocarpus, Saintpaulia and Clerodendrum schmidtii fill up the space in purple and white while hundreds of orchids bloom magnificently. Outdoors, the gardens’ 400 acres are peppered with pops of yellow and orange witch hazel, and winter grasses provide texture to the landscape. January 22-March 27, 2022.

6. Chestnut Hill On Ice

The city’s beautiful northwest neighborhood transforms into a winter wonderland during this weekend festival, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a synthetic ice- skating rink, ice-sculpting demonstrations, a bonfire encased in ice, a Yurt Village for chic glamping inspiration, vodka tastings and chili specials at participating restaurants. January 28-29, 2022.

7. Founders Philly Freeze-Out

Founders Brewing Company transforms Manayunk into a winter wonderland with ice sculptures, live ice carving, Founders specials in neighborhood bars and restaurants, and in-store promotions and discounts at select boutiques. February 5, 2022.

Museum Exhibits & Programs

8. Jasper Johns: Mind/Mirror, Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway’s landmark circa 1928 institution partners with the Whitney Museum of American Art on simultaneous exhibitions of the work of Jasper Johns, considered the country’s most significant living artist. The unprecedented collaboration chronologically shows paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints and books that mirror the other’s display, creating an immersive exhibition that is a study in Johns’ fascination with reflections. Through February 13, 2022.

9. Invisible World of Water, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

The first project in the museum’s yearlong focus on water, Invisible World of Water renews water appreciation through artworks that combine the marvel and insight of both scientific and artistic inquiry. Centered around snow crystals and diatoms, the exhibition presents two parallel histories of observation and shows the interplay between the micro-cosmic and macro-cosmic. On view are: rare historical Victorian-arranged diatom slides by Harold Dalton and others, microphotographs by Ukichiro Nakaya, contemporary ceramic sculpture by Margarita Hagan and stop-motion imagery by physicist Kenneth Liebbrecht. Through February 13, 2022.

10. Designing Motherhood, The Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s fascinating museum of medical history mounts an exhibition that looks at the political, economic and social implications of how the world has medicalized reproduction. Produced in collaboration with the Maternity Care Coalition and others, the exhibit tells five stories: Means of Reproduction, Midwives, Parturition, Exam and Milk. Visitors can use their smartphones to scan QR codes to learn about the objects on display. Through May 8, 2022.

11. The Stories We Wear, Penn Museum

Showcasing 2,500 years of style and adornment through approximately 250 objects, The Stories We Wear reveals how clothing and accessories offer powerful expressions of identity, examining the purpose and meaning behind what people wear. Organized into five themes, the exhibit explores how people around the world have dressed for Ceremony, Performance, Battle, Work and Play, and Rule. Through June 12, 2022.

12. Liberty: Don Troiani’s Paintings of the Revolutionary War, Museum of the American Revolution

Nationally renowned historical artist Don Troiani draws from painstaking research to create paintings that capture the drama and reality of all aspects of life during the American Revolution. More than 40 of Troiani’s paintings and dozens of artifacts from his personal collection — most on public display for the first time — plunge visitors into some of the most pivotal moments of America’s fight for independence. Through September 5, 2022.

13. Deconstructing Bowie: Freedom in Eccentricity, National Liberty Museum

This exhibition focuses on David Bowie as a social disruptor and rebel, through work inspired by his music, art and fashion. All creations shown will be for sale, benefiting the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. January 7-March 2022.

14. CultureFest! Lunar New Year Celebration, Penn Museum

The Penn Museum celebrates Lunar New Year, typically honored in China, Vietnam and other Asian countries whose calendars are moon cycles, with arts and crafts, lion dances, a poetry reading, a pop-up lecture on the lion costume and a demonstration on the martial arts behind the lion dance. January 29, 2022.

15. Rodin’s Hands, Rodin Museum

The face gets all the glory in art, but Auguste Rodin was a master in expressive hands — full of tension and drama. This exhibition features 15 bronzes and plasters of hands, including The Cathedral, a 1908 sculpture depicting two larger-than-life-sized hands whose fingertips are about to touch. February 4, 2022-December 2023.

16. Tattoo: Identity Through Ink, American Swedish Historical Museum

This exhibit, on display deep in South Philadelphia, tells the story of why people have adorned their bodies with tattoos, from Indigenous cultures to today’s athletes and celebrities. While showcasing the last 150 years of tattooing in America, the exhibit also celebrates artists like Norwegian Johan Frederik Knudsen and Norwegian-American Amund Dietzel and explores the question of whether or not Vikings had tattoos. February 5-May 1, 2022.

17. Harry Potter: The Exhibition, The Franklin Institute

The most comprehensive touring exhibition about the Wizarding World makes its world premiere this winter at Philadelphia’s iconic science museum. The immersive experience reveals the artistry and craftsmanship behind the props, costumes and environments from the blockbuster films of the Harry Potter series, as well as Fantastic Beasts. February 18-September 2022.

18. Water, Wind, Breath: Southwest Native Art in Community, Barnes Foundation

Pueblo and Navajo pottery, textiles and jewelry are on display for the Barnes Foundation’s latest exhibit. The show comprises nearly 100 works, both collected by Dr. Albert Barnes from Santa Fe and Tao, New Mexico in the 1930s, as well as works by contemporary Native American artists highlighting the connections between historic pieces and modern practices. February 20-May 15, 2022.

19. Keith Haring: A Radiant Legacy, Michener Art Museum

Acclaimed pop artist Keith Haring, born nearby in Reading, Pennsylvania, used city graffiti as the inspiration for his colorful work. This display showcases a private collection of more than 100 works, including two rare drawings Haring drew in blank advertising spaces in the New York City subway and Medusa Head, Haring’s largest print. March 12-July 31, 2022.

20. First Amendment Tablet, National Constitution Center

Formerly housed at the Newseum building in Washington, D.C., a 50-ton marble tablet engraved with the 45 words of the First Amendment will be placed along a 100-foot wide wall at the National Constitution Center’s Grand Hall Overlook, the second-floor atrium overlooking historic Independence Mall. Winter 2022.

Events

21. Jurassic Quest, Pennsylvania Convention Center

More than 100 life-like animatronic dinosaurs will call the Pennsylvania Convention Center home for a week when this dino fest comes to town. With displays dedicated to the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods, visitors can see the types of creatures who roamed the land and sea in realistic scenes. The attraction also features dinosaur-themed rides, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, a “Triceratots” soft play area, bounce houses and inflatable attractions, photo opportunities and more. January 15-23, 2022.

22. Philadelphia Tattoo Festival, Pennsylvania Convention Center

Local and nationally renowned tattoo artists convene for a weekend of inking and entertainment. Festivalgoers can schedule a tattoo appointment in advance or test their luck with a walk-up. Also on tap: tattoo contests, sideshow acts and burlesque. February 25-27, 2022.

23. Philadelphia Auto Show, Pennsylvania Convention Center

The automotive industry’s latest creations fill up a 700,000-square-foot display during this annual show, returning after a one-year hiatus and running for nine days. Attendees get an up-close look at hundreds of classic, luxury and exotic cars — and can even climb behind the wheel of some. March 5-13, 2022.

24. Philly Home Show, Pennsylvania Convention Center

Hundreds of home exhibitors and home-design experts head to Philadelphia for this two-weekend event that inspires homeowners and renters alike to freshen up their spaces. Experts in gardening, landscaping, interior design, furnishing, architecture and construction set up shop to answer questions and help guide attendees seeking advice and inspiration. March 18-20 & 25-27, 2022.

Black History Month

25. Harriet Tubman – The Journey to Freedom, City Hall

An evocative statue of Harriet Tubman created by Wofford Sculpture Studio takes up residence outside Philadelphia’s City Hall to coincide with Black History Month, Women’s History Month and the 200th anniversary of Tubman’s birth. The months-long celebration of the Underground Railroad conductor also includes more than 20 in-person and virtual events. January, 11-March 31, 2022.

26. (Quilt) Pieces of Black History, Free Library of Philadelphia

All month long, visitors are encouraged to stop by the library’s Philadelphia City Institute to create a paper quilt square featuring their favorite Black author, book written by a Black author or quote by an influential Black figure. At the end of the month, all of the squares will be pieced together to make a beautiful quilt. February 2022.

27. Angel Blur Sings Barber, Kimmel Center

With Yannick Nézet-Séguin and the Philadelphia Orchestra, soprano singer Angel Blue transports concertgoers to Knoxville: Summer of 1915 through Samuel Barber’s dream-like depiction of the world through the eyes of a child. The performance incorporates the works of contemporary Philadelphia-based poets and features American folk music, spirituals and church hymns. February 3-5, 2022.

28. Varied Programing, Barnes Foundation

Home to one of the world’s most important collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and early Modern paintings, as well as African sculpture, the Barnes Foundation celebrates Black History Month with two programs. On First Friday, Philadelphia-based jazz and soul vocalist Lee Mo entertains with her incomparable sound and rich vocals. February 4, 2022. Later in the weekend, attention turns to the kids during PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: A Love Letter to West Philly, featuring activities, stories and gallery exploration. Advance registration is encouraged. February 6, 2022.

29. Black History Month Programming, Betsy Ross House

Throughout the month of February, the pint-size home of the famed flag maker will offer free programming on weekends that celebrates the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. On the first Saturday of the month, visitors can “meet” Francis Harper and hear first-hand accounts of the abolitionist’s life. February 5, 2022. Then, on subsequent Saturdays, Reverend Richard Allen talks about his journey from enslaved person to powerful religious leader and abolitionist. February 12, 19 and 26, 2022. On Sundays throughout the month, Once Upon A Nation Storytelling’s award-winning storytellers share short, interactive and little-known tales about Black Americans through history. February 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2022.

30. Varied Programming, African American Museum in Philadelphia

From the beginning of the month through the end, the African American Museum’s calendar is packed with musical performances, movies, readings, living history presentations and artistic activities in honor of Black History Month. Highlights include sets by Clef Club musicians (February 6, 13 and 20, 2022), living history performances featuring Revolutionary War hero Ned Hector (February 12 and 26, 2022), art activities inspired by architect Julian Francis Abele (February 12, 2022) and Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman (February 26, 2022) and so much more.

31. Varied Programming, Museum of the American Revolution

Throughout Black History Month and beyond, this Old City museum hosts programs, lectures and activities that highlight a fuller and more inclusive history of the nation’s beginnings. Offerings include a Meet James Forten Performance & Panel Discussion (February 10, 2022), a forum about fostering racial understanding (February 12, 2022) and a Read the Revolution Speaker Series focused on “The Blind African Slave” (February 17, 2022).

Long Weekend Happenings

32. Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend and Day of Service

Every year, Philadelphia honors the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of giving back and an extended weekend full of activities across the city. Residents and visitors can partake in one of the hundreds of service projects throughout the city and the region during the Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Day of Service, and check out a full weekend of programs celebrating King at museums and attractions like The African American Museum in Philadelphia and Woodmere Art Museum. January 15-17, 2022.

33. Valentine’s Day Weekend

Philadelphia, aptly dubbed the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection, caters to lovers looking to reenergize their relationships on Valentine’s Day weekend and beyond. The city abounds with romantic cultural sites, eateries, outdoor attractions and other swoon-worthy spots. Couples can make it a weekend — or longer — by booking special hotel packages with just the perks they’re looking for. February 12-14, 2022.

34. Presidents Day Weekend

There’s no better place to spend Presidents Day weekend than Philadelphia, a city intimately linked with the country’s Founding Fathers and presidents. Visitors can commemorate the holiday, which officially falls on Monday, February 21, 2022, with special programming at some of the region’s historical institutions or take advantage of the long weekend at top attractions like the Franklin Institute, hosting Harry Potter: The Exhibition (see Museum Exhibits section). February 19-21, 2022.

Food & Drink

35. New Brewery Openings

The lengthy Craft Beer Trail of Greater Philadelphia will soon grow even bigger with new breweries and expansions debuting in and beyond the city. Olde Kensington’s Human Robot Brewery opens its second location in Jenkintown dubbed The Haus, opening in late February 2022. Slated for early 2022 is the Fishtown outpost of East Passyunk’s Brewery ARS. Originally expected to debut in late 2021, Other Half Brewing Co. will soon open its doors to unveil an indoor-outdoor concept in the former Goose Island Brewhouse location in Fishtown. Mystic Ways Brewing and Van Lieus Brewing are set to become the second and third breweries in Perkasie, joining the lauded Free Will Brewing Co. in town.

36. New Restaurant Openings

The city’s lauded dining scene continues to top itself. The wholesale bagelry that gained a cult following, Kismet Bagels, will open their first brick-and-mortar location in Fishtown in early 2022. The powerhouse duo behind Safran Turney Hospitality transforms the Midtown Village space that was once Jamonera into a neighborhood pizza joint, Good Luck Pizza Co., for full service early this year.

Chef Michael Schulson gets into the pizza game with Prunella, coming soon. The former Philadelphia Academy of Social Dance transforms into a 4,500-square-foot restaurant, bar and event space called Wilder, slated for March. Out in the suburbs, the second Pennsylvania location of taco and cocktail bar Bomba Taco + Bar opens in Newtown in February, when Char & Stave Coffee by Bluebird Distilling, Ardmore’s newest spot for elevated coffee creations by day and craft cocktails by night, is also slated to open.

37. Center City District Restaurant Week

More than 60 restaurants in the Center City District offer signature three-course dinners for $40 per person and three-course lunches for $25 per guest during the winter edition of this long-running dining promotion. Participating restaurants this season include Amada, Barbuzzo, Bud & Marilyn’s, Mixto, SOUTH Kitchen & Jazz Club and Village Whiskey. January 9-21, 2022.

38. Kennett Square Winterfest

Lagers, stouts, hazy IPAs, hard ciders and more are available for endless sipping at the annual Kennett Winterfest, an afternoon-long celebration of beer in Chester County. Tickets include all-you-can-drink brews from 2SP Brewing Company, Cape May Brewing, Levante Brewing Company and more. February 26, 2022.

39. Winterfest Live, Xfinity Live!

Wander through the sprawling Xfinity Live! entertainment complex while sampling beer at Winterfest Live. With over 100 beers from 75-plus breweries to choose from, you’ll have endless options of hard ciders, stouts and porters to sip from your complimentary stein. February 27, 2022.

40. East Passyunk Avenue Restaurant Week

Diners can score three-course prix-fixe lunch and dinner deals at many popular eateries in Philly’s East Passyunk neighborhood — known for its diverse dining scene and restaurants helmed by acclaimed chefs — during this once-a-year event. February 22-March 5, 2022.

New Hotels

41. Independence Park Hotel

A fire on the street shuttered this historic Old City hotel in 2019, but it returns in winter 2022 with 41 fully restored rooms. One of the boutique hotel’s best features is its location, just steps away from Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and dozens of lauded restaurants and shops. February 2022.