Top Wellness Activities in Philadelphia
Date
May 3, 2024
Imagine feeling more relaxed after a business trip.
During a trip to Philadelphia, there are plenty of ways to practice healthy habits for your physical and mental well-being. Add these wellness activities to your Philadelphia itinerary to thrive during your meeting or convention in Philadelphia.
Run up (and beyond) the Rocky Steps
Get your heart rate up and feel like a world champion by running up the iconic “Rocky Steps” from the famous film series. The 72 steps frame the entrance to the Philadelphia Museum of Art — an additional excursion for art lovers.
For those looking to continue their Rocky run, there are two running paths beyond the Philadelphia Museum of Art. To the east is Kelly Drive, a paved path that travels through Boathouse Row, passes Laurel Hill Cemetery, and concludes in the East Falls neighborhood. On the west side is the Schuylkill River Trail, a scenic path winding through agricultural and industrial landscapes.
Rejuvenate at a Hotel Spa
Philadelphia’s iconic hotel spas are havens for those looking to unwind and sink into relaxation. The city is home to two prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Spas. The Spa at Four Seasons Philadelphia at Comcast Center surrounds guests with serenity. Over 700 pounds of healing crystals are encased in the Spa’s walls, surrounding guests as they are pampered at the highest point of the city. The Rittenhouse Spa & Club at The Rittenhouse Hotel is a tranquil oasis, complete with a barbershop, grooming station, and nail salon.
The AWAY Spa offers bespoke treatments and wellness sessions at the W Philadelphia. Or experience luxury while relaxing in the renowned Turkish Baths at the Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon at the Lowes Philadelphia. Rated #1 for wellness centers & spas in Philadelphia, The Underground Spa & Wellness at the Logan Hotel is designed to replenish the mind, body, and spirit collectively.
The eco-friendly Element Philadelphia offers its Ritual for health and wellness-focused travelers. Element guests can enjoy complimentary hand-held massage balls, a digital detox lockbox, yoga amenities, and guided meditations with noise-canceling headphones. The hotel also has a Bikes to Borrow program, where guests can rent a bike for free and explore Philadelphia and its trails.
The 57th floor infinity pool at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center.
Outdoor Yoga Classes
Meditate while taking in the awe of iconic Philadelphia sites. Unwind underneath Robert Indiana’s LOVE statue at LOVE Park, which hosts seasonal free yoga classes and events. Yoga is also a staple across the street at Dilworth Park, where visitors can take fee classes in the shadow of historic City Hall. In West Philadelphia, environmentally-friendly Cira Green regularly hosts morning yoga for residents and visitors alike. And Yoga on the Banks offers complimentary morning yoga classes on the Schuylkill River Trail — a recreational path along the Schuylkill River.
Explore Philadelphia’s Green Spaces
Philadelphia founder William Penn envisioned the city as a “green town” — a vision still maintained today. Penn established five green city squares, where visitors unwind and play. Dilworth Park —originally Centre Square — is home to City Hall and seasonal activities such as a roller rink and maker markets. At Franklin Square, visitors can play one-of-a-kind Philly Mini Golf and ride the carousel. Logan, Rittenhouse, and Washington Squares are all steeped in history and stun with their green lawns and fountains.
With over 2,000 acres of parks and green spaces, Fairmount Park makes for a perfect wellness getaway inside the city limits. The park offers many places to explore, such as the six historic mansions known as the Park Charms. Or embrace the beauty of an authentic Japanese house and garden at the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center. The house was built in 1953 and moved to Fairmount Park in 1957. Visitors can stroll the garden, tour the structure, and unwind at the koi pond.
Photo courtesy of the Fairmount Park Conservancy.
The Navy Yard, Philadelphia’s hidden gem of a park, lies south of the sports complex. Certified as a Level-1 arboretum, the Navy Yard prioritizes efforts to preserve and enhance its green spaces. With over 20 acres of parks and a mile-long waterfront trail, these open areas offer visitors ample opportunities to rejuvenate.
Looking for a great meal to pair with your wellness activities? Visit our where to eat page to find cafes and restaurants that will satisfy any craving.
