Philadelphia’s vibrant hospitality and cultural scene continues to thrive with a mix of iconic landmarks, beloved local favorites, and exciting new destinations. From historic hotels and celebrated restaurants to innovative entertainment venues, these spots offer a taste of what’s drawing locals and visitors alike. Here’s a curated look at some of the city’s most noteworthy places and experiences right now.
The Bellevue Philadelphia
The historic “Grande Dame” of downtown Philadelphia has undergone a sweeping renovation, thoughtfully blending its storied past with contemporary elegance. The refurbishment includes a fully restored grand lobby featuring intricate moldings and marble floors, a revitalized Conservatory that serves as a lush urban oasis, and the opulent Presidential Suite outfitted with luxurious finishes. Venetian glass chandeliers, custom mosaic tiles, and statement clocks throughout the property add refined touches that honor the hotel’s heritage while elevating its modern appeal.
Since opening, Caletta has established itself as a stylish cocktail lounge in Philadelphia’s Fishtown, overlooking the serene courtyard of Hotel Anna & Bel. The venue pairs an Italian-inspired menu of elevated bar snacks from Chef-Partner Tyler Akin with a seasonally driven cocktail program led by Beverage Director Benjamin Kirk, blending Mediterranean influences with global flavors. This summer, Caletta is spotlighting Philly’s top mixologists through its Drinks We Love series—a monthly pop-up where Kirk invites celebrated bartenders from across the city to co-curate one-night-only cocktail menus. Upcoming collaborations include Brandon Thrash of Middle Child Clubhouse on August 17 and Danny Childs of Slow Drinks on September 7.
Embracing the spirit of European summer, The Rittenhouse has launched Savor Summer À La Rittenhouse, a seasonal campaign that invites guests to indulge in the charm and elegance of a continental getaway without leaving Philadelphia. Highlights include the La Vie en Spritz menu at the Mary Cassatt Tea Room, where tea-infused spritz cocktails crafted with Juliette Peach Liqueur offer a fresh twist on afternoon tea. On Fridays and Saturdays, the St. Dalfour Summer Cart adds a French flair with complimentary jam-infused iced teas, mini sandwiches, and seasonal sips, enhancing the hotel’s refined yet inviting atmosphere.
La Vie en Spritz at the Mary Cassatt Tea Room
In Old City, Forsythia serves critically acclaimed “Philly-French” cuisine that reimagines classic French dishes with a modern, seasonal approach. The restaurant offers a bustling happy hour, weekend brunch, and a monthly “French AF” dinner series celebrating distinct ingredients and regions of France. On August 7, Forsythia honors Julia Child’s legacy with a special cookbook dinner inspired by her most beloved recipes.
Set inside Philadelphia’s stylish W Hotel, Dolce Italian offers seasonal cocktails alongside handcrafted Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pastas, and contemporary Italian entrees. This summer, guests can unwind with “Wine Down Wednesdays,” featuring 20% off all bottles, or enjoy the lively aperitivo hours Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m.
Since opening earlier this year in Head House Square, Loretta’s has become a go-to café and bakery known for its bold take on Viennoiserie-style pastries alongside seasonal breakfast and lunch offerings. Crafted by a female-led team behind neighboring Bloomsday and Green Engine Coffee, the venue pairs a lauded pastry program with an acclaimed specialty coffee lineup.
All Aboard Candy has launched its first brick-and-mortar scoop shop in Rittenhouse Square. This boutique candy emporium offers a nostalgic yet carefully curated experience, featuring cult-favorite candies from around the world. Alongside the mix-and-match sweets, the shop showcases rotating signature candy boards and exclusive in-store “snackle” boxes.
Celebrity Chef Jose Garces brings a taste of New England summers to Philadelphia with JG’s Maine Lobster Taco at Buena Onda. Inspired by his love of Maine and the classic lobster roll, this unique dish is available Fridays through Sundays through August 31st.
Bringing Formula 1 energy to Center City, F1 Arcade opened in June with a concept that blends sport, simulation, and nightlife. The venue features full-motion racing simulators, interactive reaction games, and oversized screens that make race-day viewing a full-on experience—complete with cocktails by Drink Masters star LP O’Brien.
The Bread Room - Opening August 2025
The Bread Room is the latest concept from James Beard Award–winning restaurateur Ellen Yin and her team at High Street Hospitality Group. Led by Head Chef Christina McKeough and Head Baker Kyle Wood, the bakery will offer a daily selection of more than 20 handmade viennoiseries and breads. In the evenings, the space transforms into a community-driven workshop hosting hands-on classes in sourdough, lamination, and pizza-making.
Ballers Philadelphia - Opening August 2025
Backed by a high-profile group of pro athletes and creatives, Ballers Philadelphia is designed to be part athletic playground, part event destination—with pickleball, padel, golf simulators, and a turf field all under one roof. It’s a space that moves easily between casual drop-ins and large-scale gatherings, with capacity for events ranging from corporate dinners to DJ-fueled receptions. Expect programming like watch parties, art pop-ups, and tournaments, plus a full-service restaurant and bar that adds to the experience.
Calder Gardens - Opening September 2025
Calder Gardens will offer a serene and immersive experience dedicated to the work of American sculptor Alexander Calder. Designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Herzog & de Meuron in collaboration with the Calder Foundation, the space combines architecture, landscape, and art in a way that invites quiet reflection. Visitors can expect indoor and outdoor galleries that highlight Calder’s kinetic sculptures, mobiles, and lesser-known works in an environment intentionally set apart from traditional museum settings.
