See You There: Winter Outdoor Escapes

When the weather starts to turn many of us are running on low and need a pick-me-up. The weather can get confusing; cold, sunny, snowy, and wet all at the same time. How does one get out of the house and, more importantly, WHERE do we go? 

We asked our agents where they like to arrange a friend date, “work from park” meeting, or family outing. Here are various places around town (and beyond) that you may find your favorite Philly Home Girl. 

How does your garden grow? 

Philadelphia is steeped in horticulture knowledge. For instance, did you know poppy seeds should be sprinkled in your garden during these colder months as they’ll need to go through the natural freeze and thaw cycles to germinate? It may feel that gardens are sparse and sleeping, but learning all that happens within the winter months brings a new beauty to the growing cycle. So take a stroll through and educate yourself along the way. 

Longwood Gardens | Roam the 1083 acres to see the many botanical collections on the grounds. Don’t forget to bring your headphones to take advantage of audio tours. They have cool workshops such as wreath making, snow glob terrariums, and learning labs. You can pack your own snacks or dine at the cafe or the restaurant on premises.

Bartram Gardens | Many Philadelphians miss this magical place along the Schuylkill River. A public park and 50-acre National Historic Landmark whose mission is to connect people to nature through community activities. Check out the many gardens inspired by John Bartram, America’s first botanist. Check out the events schedule and bring the kids for planned activities and objects to explore while visiting. Warmer months bring more educational activities and a plant sale you won’t want to miss! 

Awbury Arboretum | Tucked away in Germantown, this gorgeous arboretum is peaceful and worth checking out all year round. They have weekly winter walks and stay up to date with weekly themes and schedule via the Awbury Wellness Group. If you want to explore on your own, print out this 4 senses scavenger hunt for a tailored walk. Psst... you don’t need to be a kid to play! 

Walk and talk

Those who participate in walking meetings are 5.25% more likely to report being creative at their jobs than those who do not, and 8.5% more likely to report high levels of engagement. Walking meetings can also support cognitive engagement, or focus on the job. Why leave it just for work? Grab a roomie, a partner, or a furball and stretch your legs and your brain! 

Ben Franklin Bicycle and Pedestrian Walkway | For a cool perspective on the city while checking that exercise box, cross the bridge between Old City and Camden. The entrance to the walkway is fitted with an ADA-compliant ramp that allows wheelchairs, bikes, and strollers easy access. For a special treat, time your walk to catch the sun setting behind the city.

Art Museum Steps and Schuylkill River Trail | Although the Rocky steps get most of the spotlight, the grounds around the museum are worth a gander. A brand new Christian to Crescent trail segment was just added to the Schuylkill River Trail. This addition now completes a seven mile uninterrupted off road pedestrian and cyclist trail. There is a neato suspended bridge that adds to the charm. Plan to take a walk once a month and watch the landscaping come to life.

John Heinz at Tinicum | Nothing beats the fresh snow and views at John Heinz. If you have any doubts, tune into their entertaining Facebook page, which features videos from park rangers that you’ll want to make your BFFs. You’ll also find info about their classes, organized group walks and bird watching opportunities.

A City of Parks 

It’s no accident that one of the most loved features of Philadelphia is the neighborhood parks. Small squares provide a place to take a break, walk the dog, and safely learn how to ride a bike. While you’re at it, take a chance on the larger green spaces nearby! 

Neighborhood Parks | No one said it had to be YOUR neighborhood park. Choose a park weekly and get to know the different green (or snow covered) spaces of Philly. Take a few laps around Washington Square Park and Rittenhouse Square Park before rewarding yourself with a coffee and scrumptious pastries at J’aime on S 12th St. Be mesmerized with river and bridge views at Penn Treaty, or snuggle up and hold hands on the swings in the Rail Park. 

Hiking Hound Adventures | In the winter months they have great organized hikes for kids and adults. Little Tykes go on Hikes pops up in various parks in the area or sign up for educational options like Practical Bushcraft where you learn the skills and techniques to “stay safe, confident and adaptable in the outdoors”.

FDR Park | Steeped in history, FDR park has become a haven to escape the hustle and bustle. Take a walk or birdwatch on the South Philly Meadow trails, observe or skateboard at the infamous FDR Skatepark, take advantage of the tennis courts when the snow melts. With various picnic groves, you can even reserve an area (via a permit). Set up your DIY hot chocolate bar and play some flag football to get the blood flowing.

Navy Yard Central Green | BYOBPPP. Ok, we’ll help you out with that one… bring your own ping pong paddles (and balls)! Get your game on at the outdoor ping pong tables and bocce courts. Walk or run the track that circles the green. Watch for the kiddos on razor scooters and bikes even when the temps drop.

Franklin Square | Who says it needs to be summer to score a perfect round of mini golf? Bundle up and play during the day or on special evenings. Take a spin on the carousel complete with blankets. December is festive with holiday lights, and a heated cafe with drinks and food for the whole family. Fun Fact: Walking the loop of the park 3 times equates to 1 mile.

Hop in the car

Cape May | Walk the boardwalk, let the pups run on the beach (offseason win!). December can feel almost as bustling as a summer month! With tons of activities and holiday decorations galore, aimlessly wandering and warming up with a toasty mug of something at the end is the perfect winter activity. We promise you’ll feel rejuvenated and full of hope after gazing at the ocean and enjoying the wind in your hair. If you want to spend more time in the area, look to Cape May Museum, Arts and Culture (MAC) for options or book a rez at our favorite spot, the Lokal Hotel in Cape May.

Crook Horn Creek Nature Trail | If you’re looking for a wandering marshy feel (that’s a thing right?), check out this South Jersey trail. A dirt road that runs along an old railroad track may not sound stunning, but with grasses, a bay, and plenty of room for the pups to explore, it’s an afternoon well spent. It’s perfect for visiting in cooler weather, as it can get buggy when it starts to get warmer and there is no cover from the sun. 

Grounds For Sculpture | With snow on the ground, the sculptures at this NJ destination take on a new life. In the rain, you can feel the melancholy of the artistic struggle, and in the sunshine, you’ll practically be prancing around. Worth the 45 min drive, all year round. 

Have an afternoon? Here are a couple of quick outdoor destinations that’ll be worth the change of scene. Looking for a longer escape? If you have a weekend check out this guide that PHG agent Kate McCann put together for overnight getaways near Philly.

Our good-times outside list could go on and on. For the sake of wrapping this up, here are some excellent sites to find up-to-date activities and inspiration. Have fun getting out there and stay safe!

Mommy Poppins | Hint: even if you don’t have kids, take a look around. Tons of great suggestions!
Uwishunu | A staple in planning a solid weekend! 
Things To Do section of Philly Mag| Offers up great suggestions for all styles of hanging. You can even sign up and have it delivered to your inbox weekly.