Fun things to do in Philly this weekend

Fun things to do
Charles Mostoller

Looking for some fun and unique things to do in Philly this weekend? We’ve got you covered. 

MLK Weekend at the African American Museum in Philadelphia

The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) will be hosting a full weekend of programming for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend, from Jan. 13 to 16. Hosted in partnership with Citizens, this year’s events will feature in-person activities that celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King and inspire the next generation of civic stewards, according to a release.

Events throughout the weekend include a “Day of Dance” in partnership with the Philadelphia Ballet, a “Love is the Message: An Artist Talk” with award-winning photographer, Jamel Shabazz, and free admission. A full schedule of programming and more information is available online. 

701 Arch St., aampmuseum.org

Betsy Ross House’s MLK Commemoration

On Jan. 14 and 15, the Betsy Ross House will feature special events to commemorate MLK Day by allowing Philadelphians to meet and hear the story of Bishop Richard Allen. As a release states, Allen overcame enslavement and established the first independent African church denomination in the United States, the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

As a release states, visitors can hear his story from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 and Sunday, Jan. 15.  The House will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for tours. Admission is $8 for adults; $6 for students/children/seniors.

239 Arch St., historicphiladelphia.org 

Wok Works

Already a known favorite in the City of Brotherly Love, Wok Works is now opening its Fishtown location, with a special incentive to head there on Jan. 13. The farm-to-fork stir fry brand is known as a healthier alternative to standard “Takeout Chinese Food,” and when you head there this Friday, you might be one of the “lucky” few who gets a free bowl. All you have to do is guess heads or tails from the hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and choose your menu item—which spans freshly made classic noodle and rice bowls along with other specials—if you win. 

things to do in Philly this weekend
Wok Work’s new location opens this weekend. Emily Vogel Photography

1429 Marlborough Street, wokworks.com

Center City District Restaurant Week 

Sunday, Jan. 15 officially marks the first day of the two-week culinary showcase, which will run until Jan. 28. What this annual culinary celebration offers is the chance for Philadelphians to indulge in prix-fixe three-course dinners for $40, plus $25 lunches (depending on the spot) at over 60 Center City restaurants.

Cocktail pairings, made with Knob Creek Rye Whiskey and Suntory Haku Vodka, will be available to adults 21 and older for an additional cost to pair with the meals being offered at Center City restaurants as well. And as a release states, there will be discounted parking available for $9 or less during Restaurant Week at participating Interpark, BexPark by Brandywine and PPA garages. 

Guests are encouraged to plan their transportation arrangements when making dinner reservations, or plan to access a digital parking voucher at ccdrestaurantweek.com.  A full list of participating spots can be found online.

Multiple locations, centercityphila.org

Winter activities in Dilworth Park

To keep the winter season as fun as it is cold, Dilworth Park will continue to offer 90-minute ice skating sessions. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time at rothmanrink.ticketsocket.com, and admission comes out to be $5 for children 10 and younger, and $8 for adults, while skate rentals are $10 per person (discounts are available for groups of 10 or more).

Additionally, as a release states, now through Feb. 26, adults and children with physical/developmental disabilities can once again reserve a sled to use on the ice at no charge, including free admission, thanks to Magee Rehabilitation Hospital. Additionally, one adult accompanying the sled user will also receive complimentary admission and skate rental. To reserve a sled, email [email protected].

And to help fuel your skating, the Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin will be serving up different treats such as the Cabin burger, cocktails, loaded baked potato soup and more. The Wintergarden on the Greenfield Lawn will also remain open for the winter season.

1 S. 15th Street, centercityphila.org