Sachin Walls
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the only major airport serving the seventh-largest metropolitan area in the US. It's spread over seven terminals, so there's plenty to do on a layover. The airport has undergone a series of major renovations in recent years, adding several dining and shopping destinations, art installations, and entertainment options. If you're looking for food, you can find everything from cafes and kiosks to restaurants serving various cuisines, including local favourites like cheesesteaks and crab fries. There are also plenty of shops, including designer boutiques, duty-free areas, bookshops, and technology stores. For art lovers, PHL's award-winning Art Program showcases regional artists across all terminals, with rotating exhibits and installations celebrating Philadelphia's culture. If you have a longer layover of at least 7 hours, you can even explore downtown Philadelphia, with sites like the Liberty Bell and the Museum of the American Revolution within walking distance of Center City.
Things to do around Philadelphia Airport
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Food | Chickie & Pete’s, Geno’s Steaks, Noobar, Aldo Lamberti Trattoria, Tony Luke’s, Mezzogiorno, Currito Burrito, Vino Volo, Saladworks, Piattino Oven Fired Pizza, and more |
| Shopping | Kiehl’s, L’Occitane, The Body Shop, Gap, Victoria’s Secret, Brookstone, Furla, MAC Cosmetics, Life is Good, Duty-Free, and more |
| Relaxation | Minute Suites, Marriott Philadelphia Airport, and other nearby hotels |
| Art | Rotating exhibitions, PHL Art Puzzle Challenge, PHL Art Program, and more |
| Entertainment | Live exotic animals, Wagging Tails Brigade therapy dogs, live artist demonstrations, events and activities |
| Nearby attractions | Museum of the American Revolution, Liberty Bell, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Franklin Institute, Bartram’s Garden, John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, Fort Mifflin |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Explore the city
Philadelphia is a bustling, historic city with plenty to offer visitors. If you have a long layover, you can easily get a taste of the city without venturing too far from the airport. The SEPTA Airport Line will take you to Center City, from where many sites are within walking distance.
Start your exploration of Philadelphia by visiting the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence. Then, head to the Museum of the American Revolution to learn more about this pivotal period in US history. If you're interested in the Revolutionary War, you can also visit Fort Mifflin, located near the airport.
For art lovers, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-see. You can even run up the famous ""Rocky Steps" while humming the iconic theme song. The Franklin Institute, with its interactive science exhibits, is another great option, especially if you're travelling with children.
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, explore Bartram's Garden, North America's oldest botanical garden, or the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, both located near the airport.
Philadelphia also offers a variety of dining options to satisfy your cravings. Sample the famous cheesesteaks at local favourites like Geno's Steaks or Tony Luke's. For sushi lovers, Noobar is a great choice, while Mezzogiorno serves up delicious pizza. Don't forget to leave some room for a sweet treat, like the over-the-top chocolate gift baskets available duty-free!
Cleveland Airport: Uber Availability and Accessibility
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Eat and drink
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has over 100 places to eat and drink, including local favourites like Tony Luke's, Chickie's & Pete's, and La Colombe. Here are some options to consider:
Chickie's & Pete's
A Philly institution, Chickie's & Pete's is a sports bar serving up famous crab fries (or "Crabfries"), crab cakes, wings, sandwiches, and surprisingly good Bloody Marys. With TVs playing the big game and beer on tap, it's the perfect spot to relax and unwind before your flight.
Geno's Steaks
One of Philly's best-known purveyors of fried meat and cheese, Geno's is a must-visit for a classic Philly cheesesteak. Located in Terminal B/C Connector, it's convenient and delicious.
Bar Symon
Celebrity chef Michael Symon brings his culinary expertise to PHL with Bar Symon. Indulge in pierogies, pulled pork sandwiches, Fat Doug burgers, and more.
Baba Bar
For those craving Mediterranean flavours, Baba Bar offers meze (hummus, baba ganoush, stuffed grape leaves), wraps, kebabs, and other healthy options.
Aldo Lamberti Trattoria
Craving Italian? Aldo Lamberti Trattoria serves up delicious sandwiches, pizzas, and breakfast items like egg sandwiches.
Le Bus
Le Bus is known for its homemade bread and killer lattes made with espresso from local roasters La Colombe.
Jim's South St. Famous Cheesesteaks
Another iconic Philly cheesesteak spot, Jim's allows you to order online and offers a convenient grab-and-go option.
La Tapenade
La Tapenade brings more Mediterranean flavours to PHL, with panini sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, salads, and other healthy choices.
Other Options
In addition to these spots, PHL offers a wide variety of cafes, kiosks, casual eateries, and fancier restaurants. You can find Philly favourites like Sabrina's Cafe, Bud & Marilyn's, and Auntie Anne's soft pretzels. There are also options for sushi, Mediterranean, Mexican, and seafood.
If you have a longer layover and want to explore beyond the airport, the SEPTA Airline Line can take you to Center City, where you'll find spots like the Liberty Bell and the Museum of the American Revolution.
Airport Security: A Global Comparison of Screening Measures
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Shop
Philadelphia International Airport offers a wide range of shopping options for travellers, with over 170 shops, restaurants, and services. The airport is a great place to kill time before a flight or to pick up some last-minute items.
For tech lovers, InMotion, the largest electronics store in the airport, offers a range of tech accessories from trusted brands like Apple, Beats by Dr. Dre, Bose, GoPro, and Samsung. Best Buy Express also provides a variety of affordable electronic items without the pushy salespeople. If you're looking for headphones, pillows, earphones, or phone accessories, there are several options available, including Brookstone, which carries a small selection of travel accessories.
For reading enthusiasts or those facing long flights without in-flight entertainment, Heritage Books offers a vast collection of international bestsellers, classics, and overlooked gems. You can also find a range of American-themed items, clothing, and accessories at stores like Gap and Sunglass Hut.
If you're looking for unique gifts, the airport features local Philly favourites and duty-free shops with a variety of options. You can also find travel essentials and miscellaneous items at stores like CNBC News Philadelphia, Hudson News, and The UPS Store.
Escape Airport Scanners: Creative Strategies for Successful Travel
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Relax
If you're looking to relax near Philadelphia Airport, there are plenty of options to choose from. Within the airport, you can visit Be Relax Spa in Terminal C for a quick 10-minute massage or a full-body treatment. Minute Suites in Terminal B also offers private suites where you can catch up on some sleep. If you prefer a proper hotel, you can rent a room by the hour at Minute Suites, located between Terminals A and B, or stay at the Marriott Philadelphia Airport, which is accessible via a sky bridge from Terminal B.
For a serene escape into nature, the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge is just a short drive from the airport. This 1,000-acre marshland is perfect for bird watching, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. FDR Park, also known as "The Lakes," is another great option for a relaxing stroll, picnic, or fishing. The park offers beautiful views, walking trails, and open spaces to unwind.
If you're an art lover, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, located a bit further from the airport, offers a vast collection of art from around the world, including the famous "Rocky Steps." The airport itself also showcases art through its Exhibitions Program, featuring rotating exhibits that celebrate Philadelphia's culture and history.
Philadelphia is also known for its diverse food scene, and you can find several dining options near the airport. Tony Luke's, a short drive away, is famous for its mouthwatering cheesesteaks and roast pork sandwiches. If you're craving seafood, try The Original Clam Tavern in Clifton Heights. For a taste of Italy, the Italian Market, located 20 minutes from the airport, offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
Airports: Ports of Entry or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Art and culture
Philadelphia International Airport is committed to supporting arts and culture through its Exhibitions Program, which was established in July 1998. The program showcases rotating exhibitions throughout the airport, featuring various art forms, including fine arts, crafts, design, and photography by local and global artists. The Exhibitions Program has become an integral part of the airport's identity, with more than 20 galleries and visual arts activations across all seven terminals.
Located just a short drive from the airport, art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for its "Rocky Steps." The museum boasts a diverse collection of art from around the world, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Bartram's Garden, America's oldest botanical garden, is a 45-acre oasis with beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and walking trails. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the garden's botanical significance and the Bartram family's contributions.
Car enthusiasts won't want to miss the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, located a few miles from the airport. This unique museum showcases a range of automotive history and design.
Additionally, the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance plays a crucial role in supporting the region's arts and culture sector through public policy, marketing, and membership programs, making the area one of the foremost creative regions globally.
The Anatomy of an Airport: Key Components Explained
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Philadelphia Airport has plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you entertained during a long layover. You can also take advantage of the airport's lounges, which offer amenities like unlimited food and drinks for a single fee. If you have at least seven hours between flights, you can even leave the airport and explore Philadelphia.
The airport has a wide variety of dining options, including local favourites like Chickie & Pete’s for crab fries, Geno’s Steaks for cheesesteaks, and Tony Luke’s for more cheesesteaks. You can also find sushi at Noobar, pizza at Mezzogiorno or Aldo Lamberti Trattoria, gourmet burgers at Mo’ Burger, and coffee at La Colombe.
Philadelphia Airport features an award-winning Art Program with rotating exhibitions and installations that showcase the work of local artists. You can also participate in the PHL Art Puzzle Challenge, which takes you on a tour of different exhibits throughout the airport. If you're travelling with kids, keep an eye out for live exotic animals from the Philadelphia Zoo and Wagging Tails Brigade therapy dogs.
