Out of all the seasons, some would say the most picturesque is autumn — and the Philadelphia area boasts plenty of gorgeous fall foliage. 

To assist your family on a leaf peeping adventure, we’ve collected a list of top places to find fall foliage in Philly. Whether you’re looking for a family day trip, or a place to stop after the pumpkin patch, here’s where to catch the color. 

Fall Foliage in and Around Philly

As the leaves change and begin to fall around the city of brotherly love, take time to explore the region’s most scenic spots. Appreciating the fall foliage, whether in the city or outside of it, is the perfect way to spend an autumn day. 

Leaf Peeping In the City

Although you might think you have to leave Philly to find the best fall foliage in the area, think again! Plenty of places around the city showcase the best sights that autumn has to offer for the whole family. 

Fairmount Park

Popular entry points: 4231 N. Concourse Drive, or Reservoir Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19131

In the neighborhood of Philly’s Fairmount section, Fairmount Park is a nature-filled escape in the city. A great spot to hike or picnic, this time year it offers top views of fall foliage while overlooking the Schuylkill River. Admission is free.

Rittenhouse Square Park

1800 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19103

In the heart of Philly, plenty of fall foliage can be found in Rittenhouse Square. Whether morning or afternoon, grab a coffee or sweet treat and enjoy the sights of the season. There are plenty of places to sit including a park bench or nearby eateries with outdoor seating. Admission is free, but if driving, expect an hourly cost for parking.

Schuylkill River Trail 

Popular entry points: Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk, Philadelphia, PA 19103, or Boathouse Row, Philadelphia, PA 19130

The Schuylkill River Trail, or SRT, offers miles of paved paths along the river line from center city all the way to Manayunk. In addition to a crisp breeze off the river, enjoy the scenic trees and foliage boasting fall’s colors as you travel along the way. Admission is free.

Fantastic Fall Foliage Beyond Center City

A short drive outside the city can offer you some of Philly’s best fall foliage. Spend an entire morning or afternoon at one of these spots.  

Wissahickon Valley Park

Valley Green Road, Philadelphia, PA 19128

A quick trip up Kelly Drive will take you to the expansive park that offers some of the best fall foliage sights Philly can offer. With paved, rock, and sand trails, everyone can enjoy the foliage here amongst the trees and creek. 

“Fall is a glorious time to visit Wissahickon Valley Park, when this forested gorge displays striking shades of red, orange, gold, and brown,” says Sarah Marley, interim executive director, Friends of the Wissahickon. “Come for the show, enjoy a picnic on a crisp, sunny day, and keep your eyes open for migrating birds.” 

Admission is free. For an overview of park highlights and attractions, check out GoPhillyGo’s Wissahickon Valley Park Tour Map.

Manayunk

If you’re looking to enjoy the fall foliage while taking a walk around town, Manayunk might be the perfect spot to do so. Pro tip: enjoy the walking path just off the town’s main street for picturesque views of the water, scenery, and setting. Admission is free however, expect to pay for parking.

Pennypack Park

8500 Pine Road, Philadelphia, PA 19111 (main access point)

Looking for a fall foliage spot besides the Wissahickon? Try Pennypack Park. This family-friendly space offers the dive into nature with plenty of trails to explore. Admission is free, although activities such as paddle boats or guided tours incur a fee.

Scenic Spots Worth the Drive from Philly

Looking for a fall foliage outing for the family? Look no further. All three destinations below sit an hour or less outside the city and offer fantastic fall sights and activities for all. 

Tyler State Park

101 Swamp Road, Newtown, PA 18940 (main entrance)

About 50 minutes outside of Philly is Tyler State Park with 1711 acres of park to hike, bike and explore. This vast state park boasts some of the best fall foliage views in Greater Philadelphia. Admission is free.

Washington Crossing State Park

355 Washington Crossing Pennington Road, Titusville, NJ 08560

Just a few minutes across the PA state line, Washington Crossing State Park offers views of fall foliage with a touch of history. Admission to the park is free.

“Fall at Washington Crossing State Park is a wonderful time for families to explore together,” says Michelle Flanagan, director of operations at Washington Crossing State Park. “The vibrant autumn foliage and scenic trails are complemented by breathtaking views from Bowman’s Hill Tower, where families can take in the full panorama of the colorful landscape. There’s something truly magical about experiencing the park’s beauty and history as the leaves change color.”

Peddler’s Village

100 Peddlers Village, Lahaska, PA 18931

An hour outside Philly sits Peddler’s Village, an outdoor-excursion destination, especially in the fall. Amongst the fall foliage, enjoy family-friendly dining options and shops, as well as seasonal events like a scarecrow and apple festival. Admission is free.

Exploring Fall Foliage Around Philly

This guide offers families the top spots to discover fall foliage around Philly. Whether capturing family photos or simply soaking up the fleeting beauty, get out and enjoy this picturesque season around the city.

Lead photo of Wissahickon Valley Park courtesy of @skylinevisuals_ and Discover Philadelphia.