Philadelphia, often celebrated as the City of Brotherly Love, is poised for an exhilarating 2025. With its historic charm, pedestrian-friendly streets, and thriving cultural scene, this East Coast gem is set to captivate visitors with a lineup of new attractions, world-class events, and exciting developments. Named USA Today’s Most Walkable City for the second consecutive year (2023, 2024), Philadelphia continues to charm travellers with vibrant neighbourhoods like Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West, and Center City East.
As the city gears up for the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026 and FIFA Club World Cup 2025, there’s no better time to explore what’s new and next in Philadelphia.
Hotels on the Horizon
The Jaan at Center City
Love Park photo credit Matt Zugale for PHLCVB
Set to open in 2024, The Jaan at Center City by Genesis Capital promises a unique blend of modern amenities and convenience. Located blocks from the Pennsylvania Convention Center, this seven-story hotel will cater to long-term guests and business travellers alike. Boasting 81 luxury units, a 1,800-square-foot restaurant and bar, a two-level rooftop deck, a gym, co-working spaces, and a private conference room, The Jaan is designed to meet the needs of today’s discerning traveller.
The Waylen: A Hyatt Unbound Collection Hotel
Ensemble and Mosaic Development Partners are collaborating to bring The Waylen to life at the Navy Yard, with a planned opening in 2026. Strategically timed for major events like FIFA 2026 and the U.S. semiquincentennial celebrations, this luxury hotel will feature 18,000 square feet of meeting space, an outdoor courtyard, and a ballroom. The Waylen aims to attract weekend travellers, business elites, and performers with its diverse suite offerings and luxury amenities.
Culinary Delights
Philadelphia’s culinary scene continues to flourish with a medley of new restaurants:
- Uncle Gus’ Steaks: Located in Reading Terminal Market, this eatery serves authentic cheesesteaks on homemade bread.
- Cellar Dog: Combining live jazz, billiards, and a menu featuring wings and burgers, this Center City spot offers a vibrant nightlife experience.
- Little Water: Specializing in coastal seafood cuisine, Rittenhouse Square’s newest hotspot serves oysters and swordfish Milanese.
- Almanac: Old City’s Almanac fuses Japanese and American flavours, offering unique dishes like karaage octopus and miso-glazed chicken wings.
Cultural Renaissance: Museums and Attractions
The Franklin Institute’s Revolutionary Exhibitions
- Body Odyssey (Fall 2024): Explore the intricacies of the human body in this immersive, interactive exhibit.
- BODY WORLDS: Vital (February 2025): Featuring real human specimens, this exhibit showcases the resilience and complexity of the human form.
- Universal Destinations Exhibition (2026): Highlighting milestones from Universal Parks, this exhibit will include interactive elements and behind-the-scenes insights.
Calder Gardens
Opening in September 2025, Calder Gardens on Museum Mile will be a tribute to Alexander Calder’s artistic legacy. Featuring natural light-filled galleries and outdoor installations, the space will showcase mobiles, stabiles, sculptures, and paintings, creating a serene environment for contemplation and creativity.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia
In 2026, AAMP will unveil a new artwork by Philadelphia artist Beau McCall, celebrating the city’s iconic Philly Soul music legacy. This project reflects the museum’s ongoing commitment to showcasing Black cultural contributions.
Celebrating Surrealism and Artistic Innovation
Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100
From November 8, 2025, to February 16, 2026, the Philadelphia Museum of Art will host a centennial celebration of Surrealism. This blockbuster exhibit will feature masterpieces by Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and Dorothea Tanning, inviting visitors to explore the dreamlike world of this transformative art movement.
Rousseau’s Secrets
In collaboration with the Musée de l’Orangerie, the Barnes Foundation will present Rousseau’s Secrets in the fall of 2025. This exhibition will reunite paintings sold by Paul Guillaume to Dr. Albert Barnes, offering a rare glimpse into the visionary artistry of Henri Rousseau.
Brind Center for African and African Diasporic Art
Endowed by Trustee Ira Brind, this new centre at the Philadelphia Museum of Art will deepen understanding of African art and the African Diaspora, showcasing global, historical, and contemporary contributions.
Historical Commemorations
First Bank of the United States
After 50 years, the First Bank of the United States will reopen in 2026 as a museum chronicling the birth of America’s economy. Visitors can delve into the history of money and wealth, perfectly timed for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Museum of the American Revolution
- Banners of Liberty: This exhibition will feature Revolutionary War flags, highlighting the ideals of liberty and independence.
- The Declaration’s Journey: An exploration of the global impact of the Declaration of Independence, featuring rare artifacts and documents.
Family-Friendly Highlights
Ice Dinosaurs at the Academy of Natural Sciences
Through May 2025, families can enjoy an immersive Arctic dinosaur exhibit featuring real fossils, skeletons, and interactive displays.
Discovering Democracy at the Please Touch Museum
Set to launch in 2025, this exhibit introduces children to democracy through engaging, hands-on activities, aligning with the U.S. semiquincentennial and the museum’s 50th anniversary.
Exclusive Experiences
Sly Stallone Shop
Fans of the Rocky franchise can now visit the new Sly Stallone Shop at Parkway Outpost. This unique store offers officially licensed merchandise and replicas from iconic films, making it a must-visit for movie buffs.
Philadelphia’s transformative projects and cultural milestones ensure an unforgettable 2025 for visitors and locals alike. From luxury hotels to groundbreaking exhibitions and family-friendly attractions, the City of Brotherly Love invites you to walk its streets, savour its flavours, and celebrate its rich history and vibrant future. Plan your trip now and be part of Philadelphia’s exciting journey into 2025 and beyond.
Written by: Michelle Warner
