Looking for exciting things to do on summer days and nights in the city? Head down to the Delaware River waterfront and dive into Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest and Spruce Street Harbor Park. Both attractions open for the season on May 22 with a great line-up of family fun.

Summerfest at Penn’s Landing

Summerfest’s theme this year is “nautical summer” and festival goers should prepare to fully immerse themselves in the maritime vibe. Favorite attractions from previous years return including roller skating, outdoor boardwalk games and rides, mini golf, food, and drinks. Visitors will find cool new additions, too, like marine-inspired lounge spaces, and shaded cabanas with TVs and fans.

FIFA fans can get their kicks at Summerfest, while the Family Fun Zone will host live screenings of matches from June 11–July 19. Additionally, a special soccer table game deal will be offered opening weekend. Visitors can challenge their friends to a soccer showdown with interactive seated soccer tables for rent. Take advantage of the $5 for 30 minutes steal, and show off your skills.

The recently expanded mini-golf course, an enormous arcade, even more amusement rides, and an expanded menu of culinary delights means there truly is something for everyone. Roller skating returns, and tickets can be purchased in advance online. Skating is $5, rentals are $12.

Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest runs May 22–September 4, every Thursday–Sunday. Check the hours of operation on their website for specific dates. Admission is free for all locations along the waterfront, amenities, concessions, amusements, etc. are pay-as-you-go.

On-site parking will be limited due to construction related to the I-95 CAP project. Guests are encouraged to explore alternative ways to reach the waterfront, including walking or biking along the Delaware River Trail, using rideshare services, or taking public transit. For parking suggestions, directions, FAQs, and other helpful information, please visit the Know Before You Go guide.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Keep the fun going by checking out the live music, al fresco dining, and gorgeous river view offered by Spruce Street Harbor Park. This area is known for unique entertainment and a place to hang with your family and friends.

Relax in a hammock, take in the lights, and enjoy local craft beers and delicious food. Or take advantage of free wellness programming with a Saturday morning Tai Chi class. Hosted on the double-decker barge at Spruce Street Harbor Park, the class followed by guided meditation sessions to help participants focus on slow, intentional movement and mindfulness.

Spruce Street Harbor Park is also offering a few new amenities to their summer celebrations. Experience the Delaware River like never before with a water bike from Chiliboats Adventures and the all-new Swan Boats at Penn’s Landing Marina. Make sure to make a reservation for both events beforehand

Gather your crew and unwind at Happy Hour in Spruce Street Harbor Park’s Lazy Hammock every Sunday–Wednesday from 4–7 pm. Enjoy discounted beer, wine, and select cocktails alongside waterfront views, golden sunsets, and laid-back summer vibes on the Delaware River Waterfront.

Spruce Street Harbor Park will be open from May 22–September 7, 2026. Admission to the park is free, but be sure to check the event calendar for hours and schedule changes.

Philly Summer Fun on the Delaware River

This summer, start a family tradition and hang out on Philly’s Delaware River waterfront. From roller skating and mini golf to swan boats and happy hours with a river view, there’s no shortage of fun. Best of all, admission to the waterfront is free. Independence RiverRink Summerfest and Spruce Street Harbor Park are open Memorial Day weekend through early September, 2026.

Photos courtesy of Delaware River Waterfront.