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outdoor dates

Feeling the call of the wild? Or maybe just bored of the same bars, coffee shops and restaurants? Taking things outdoors can be a great way of mixing it up, and making memories that you, and your date, will remember for the rest of their lives. 

Here’s our pick of the best outdoorsy dates Philly has to offer, for when you’re stuck for ideas but know you want to be outside.

A Farmers Market 

The ideal summer date in Philly has to be a farmer’s market. You can spend the morning tasting local produce and baked goods, and checking out some excellent handmade crafts. 

Farmer’s markets are great because you can wander through them slowly and browse the produce on offer, and then take your date back to your place to cook up a storm. 

West Philly Waltz 

Want to see something really beautiful? The best stroll through West Philly will start you off on the corner of Baltimore Avenue and 50th Street, then east along Baltimore. This walk will have you enjoying the colorful houses, the old-growth trees, and some gorgeous cafes. 

Once you hit 46th Street head left for a quiet shortcut and then right onto Larchwood, and right again onto 44th Street. You can end your walk in Clark Park and relax after that mile long waltz. 

Fairmount Park

If you’re looking for something less leisurely and more activity-packed, then Fairmount Park might be the place for you. 

You can start at the absolutely gorgeous Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, then head over to Horticultural Drive before strolling through the cherry blossoms at the Centennial Arboretum at the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center. 

The Park is also home to the amazing Museum of Art, which could easily take up a whole date by itself.

Fall in love with the city center 

If you’re looking for an outdoors experience that still feels like you’re in the heart of the city, then you’re going to adore this little walk that’s the perfect first date. 

Always within reach of a great café or bar, you can move through the city center and really take in the views. 

Head down Ben Franklin Parkway with your eyes on the Museum of Art (and if you’re a film buff, don’t forget to stop off at the Museum’s infamous Rocky Steps), then walk along Kelly Drive to take in the waterfront at Boathouse Row.

You can head back along Kelly Drive until you hit Waterworks Drive, and connect with the Schuylkill River Trail. Then simply take a breath and enjoy the sweeping views of the skyline. 

Pennypack Park 

On the other hand, if you want to forget you’re in a city at all, then Pennypack Park is the spot for you. Even if you don’t fall in love with your date here, you’ll definitely fall in love with nature.

A little over 14 miles of paved and unpaved trails, a walk along Pennypack Creek and the densely wooded area will leave you feeling inspired. Plenty of shade makes it perfect for a summer’s day, and it’s also a great place for a couple’s bike ride, with dedicated bike trails that explore the whole stretch of the Park. 

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