Looking for some fun things to do in Philly that won’t break the bank? We’ve got you covered with some free things to do across the city.
¡Bailar en FDR! Salsa Class and Social Dance
Love to salsa? Or have you always wanted to but never learned? Now’s your chance as Fairmount Park Conservancy and DJ Valentin Flores host Bailar en FDR, an exciting and educational experience where you can learn the ways of salsa and bachata dancing from an experienced instructor. A one-hour dance class—available at all levels—begins at 7:30 p.m. and will be followed by a social dance from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.
Bailar en FDR Salsa Class and Social Dance takes place on Aug. 23 and Sept. 27, and you can register for free tickets online.
FDR Park Boathouse, myphillypark.org
Barnes Foundation
On Sept. 1, families are welcome to the Barnes Foundation for their PECO Free First Sunday Family Day events. The no-cost admission applies not only to the many galleries normally found at the Barnes but also to an array of family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts, musical performances, and interactive workshops.
September’s Free First Sunday celebrates the 90th birthday of renowned poet and activist Sonia Sanchez. Philadelphia’s first poet laureate, Sanchez was a leading figure in the Black Arts Movement, writing over a dozen books of poetry, short stories, children’s books, and much more.
2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, barnesfoundation.org
Enjoying America’s most walkable city
Philadelphia was recently named America’s most walkable city for tourists by USA Today for the second consecutive year. There’s so much to do and to see in the City of Brotherly Love, including many notable spots you can enjoy free of charge.
Earlier this summer, Metro Philadelphia released a guide for walking around America’s most walkable city, citing several notable stops that pedestrians can enjoy without cost.
The legendary stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art offer one of the best views of the city. If you’re looking for a more level walk, Rittenhouse Square provides a scenic and peaceful experience. With a bevy of beautiful sculptures and fountains, there’s plenty to enjoy either on foot or from a park bench at this picturesque park.
One also can’t forget Spruce Street Harbor Park, which features plenty of hammocks, floating gardens, and beautiful scenery to make a summer day that much better. Enjoy a walk up and down the Delaware River in relaxed fashion.
metrophiladelphia.com/philadelphia-walkable-city/
Fabric Workshop
The Fabric Workshop and Museum is a contemporary nonprofit arts organization with a free museum that features fabric and other textile-based modern art. Currently featuring John Jarboe’s The Rose Garden, and their new exhibition, Risa Puno’s Group Hug, The Fabric Workshop and Museum offers plenty to see in addition to multiple events throughout the week.
The museam and its events are free to the public, but registration for events is encouraged.
Fireman’s Hall Museum
One of the nation’s premier fire museums, the Fireman’s Hall Museum features nearly 2,500 pieces of fire-related memorabilia and artifacts in its collection detailing Philadelphia’s significant fire history that spans three centuries.
Located in historic Old City Philadelphia, the museum is housed in a renovated 1898 firehouse that now tells the story of firefighting over the centuries while promoting fire safety.
With exhibits from a chance to try on fire coats and boots to a chance to steer the fire boat, and even a “when to call 911” computer quiz, there is no shortage of education and riveting experiences to be had at the Fireman’s Hall Museum.
147 N 2nd St., firemanshallmuseum.org
