Summer in Philadelphia really is the gift that keeps on giving. There is hardly a corner of this city that doesn’t have something amazing happening to keep us entertained all season long. Coming up next? The return of the Delaware River Waterfront Summerfest!!! The season begins this weekend, on June 28.

Opening weekend features a celebration with the U.S. Army Band Concert as well as fireworks on June 29.

Arcade Fun at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, photo by Matt Stanley

Summerfest at Penn’s Landing

The theme this summer is “more is more”, and honestly- why not? We never thought Summerfest was missing anything but once we read about all the new additions for this year, it’s hard to imagine celebrating summer without them!

There is a brand new expansion added to their mini-golf course (you can see a bit of it in the header pic), an enormous arcade, even more amusement rides, and an expanded menu of culinary delights! If you have a thrill-seeker in the family the new children’s roller coaster and swing ride join the beloved Ferris wheel, double-decker carousel, and Gravity Storm Moon Bounce. One thing to note- due to construction of the future Park at Penn’s Landing, skating is on hiatus this summer. Skating will return in time for Winterfest.

Enjoy Seasonal Fare in the Air Conditioned Lodge, photo by Matt Stanley

Independence Blue Cross Summerfest will run from June 28 – September 2, hours are Monday through Thursday 5 pm – 10 pm; Friday 5 pm – 11 pm; Saturday 11 am – 11 pm; Sunday 11 am – 1 pm (park concessions close 30 minutes before closing time). Holiday hours: July 3 11 am – 10 pm, July 4 11 am – 4 pm; September 2 11 am – 10 pm.

Admission is free for all locations along the waterfront, amenities, concessions, amusements, etc. are pay as you go. Prices are: Ferris Wheel $6, Carousel $5, Moon Bounce $9, Spinning Drago $4, Chair Swing $4, Roller Coaster $4, Car Ride $4, Mini Golf (18 hole) $8 per person. (Independence Blue Cross cardholders get a free round of mini golf for up to 4 people per cardholder, must show member card.)

Parking and public transit information can be found here.

Photos courtesy of Delaware River Waterfront.