Center City is the epicenter of arts and culture entertainment in Philadelphia. Along the Avenue of the Arts, decades-old theaters host an impressive lineup of performances, including shows from resident artists and traveling companies. Vibrant greenspaces, like Rittenhouse Square, offer a reprieve from the bustle of city excitement, and at Dilworth Park, visitors of all ages are welcome to enjoy free events, seasonal amenities and a stunning view of historic City Hall. One-of-a-kind museums, nightlife and luxury hotels are just some of the many other highlights to explore. Below you will find a diverse list of things to do in Center City.
Barnes Foundation
The Barnes is a nonprofit cultural and educational institution that houses an unparalleled art collection and organizes special exhibits and public programming. See below for some event highlights.
2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy., 215.278.7000
Beat The Bomb
Ongoing | Choose from 1-hour Bomb Missions, where teams of 4 to 6 suit up in hazmat gear, dodge lasers and crack codes.
1218 Chestnut St.
Photo credit: Anders Sune Berg, Galleri Nicolai Wallner
The Fabric Workshop and Museum
The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) is an internationally acclaimed contemporary art museum devoted both to the creation and presentation of innovative works of art. Below are some of their offerings.
1214 Arch St., 215.561.8888
Lucky Strike: Night Strike Unlimited Bowling
Sunday - Wednesday | Enjoy our $21.99 unlimited bowling Night Strike special. Sunday starting at 6 p.m. and Monday to Wednesday starting at 8 p.m. Shoe rental is included.
1336 Chestnut St., 215.545.2471
Mural Arts: Center City Tours
Weave through the diverse neighborhoods of Philadelphia, getting great views of the city by foot, by vehicle, by train, or virtually! Take in the iconic imagery that makes us the Mural Capital of the World and learn about Philly’s beautiful visual history from professional tour guides.
Various locations, 215.685.0750
Photo by E. Frizzelle for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®
2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, 215.763.8100
Strangeloves: Painting with a Twist
Available daily | Experience painting while you enjoy your favorite food and beverages.
216 S 11th St., 215.873.0404
Topside Tavern: Comedy Open Mic
Thursdays | 8:30 p.m. | Sign-ups begin at 8:30 and the show starts at 9 p.m.
10 S. 20th St.,445.223.1155
Tuesday Nights Live
Tuesday Nights Live activates participating hotels by offering free live performances to the general public. Performances are every Tuesday from 6-9 p.m. now through January 20, 2026. Come out and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife at the following participating hotels:
Please check each hotel’s website for performance details and updates.
Vinyl: Live Band Karaoke
Thursdays | 8 p.m. | Philly’s Original Live Band Karaoke Band has been selling out locally every weekend for over a decade—and now we’re bringing the party to Vinyl every Thursday.
215 S 15th St., 215.914.8116