Business travel doesn’t have to consist only of boardrooms and back-to-back meetings. If you’re headed to Philadelphia for work, you have the perfect opportunity to explore the surrounding area a little or even extend your stay by a day or two.
With its walkable neighborhoods, vibrant food scene, and deeply rooted history, Philadelphia is one of the best cities to turn a work trip into a mini getaway. Whether you have a free afternoon between meetings or just a couple of hours before your train or flight, there’s more than enough to see, savor and enjoy, without deviating too much from the professional side of your schedule.
In this guide, you’ll find simple ways to make the most of your time in the city and some smart tips to help you balance work with some well-deserved downtime.
The hotel is booked, now what?
Chances are you haven’t chosen your hotel – most business travelers book places near the hotel. Convention CenterCentral City or University City, depending on the meeting or event. The good news? Many of these areas are well connected and perfect for a little exploring.
If you’re near Rittenhouse Square, you’re in one of the city’s most walkable and picturesque neighborhoods, perfect for morning coffee or dinner after a long day. Around the Convention Center, Reading Terminal Market is just steps away and great for grabbing a quick local bite between meetings. In University City, you’re close to green spaces, the UPenn campus, and museums—ideal if you have a free afternoon.
Tip: If your hotel has a rooftop, cozy lobby, or even a small cafe, take advantage: 20 quiet minutes with a view or a strong espresso can do wonders between Zoom calls and client lunches.
Work-friendly places: where to catch up outside the office
Sometimes you just need a change of scenery to clear your head or check your inbox. Philadelphia has no shortage of places that combine atmosphere with function.
For something quiet but elegant, La Colombe in Fishtown offers spacious seating and strong Wi-Fi, plus a great latte if you’re on your way to a meeting. Chapterhouse Café in South Philadelphia is another local favorite with quiet corners and a relaxed crowd.
If you’re staying near Rittenhouse, the library-like quiet of the Kimmel Center lobby can be a surprisingly great place to work, especially in the middle of the day. Some hotels also offer coworking-style lounges that are perfect for taking a quick call or catching up before dinner.
Quick things to do between meetings
Even if your schedule is tight, you might find some free time, and Philadelphia has a lot to offer within walking distance of most business centers.
- Do you need a breath of fresh air? Walk through Rittenhouse Square Park or the Schuylkill River Trail, both quiet, easy-to-access places close to downtown.
- If you’re a history fan, stop by Independence Hall or see the Liberty Bell; The visit is free and takes less than 30 minutes if scheduled correctly.
- For a quick dose of architecture and visual charm, stroll down Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in the U.S., or explore the intricate mosaics of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens on South Street.
- For architecture and color, walk down Elfreth’s Alley, a cobblestone street lined with 18th-century row houses, or visit Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, a vibrant mosaic-covered space filled with mirrors, tiles, and unexpected art around every corner.
These little detours don’t take much time, but they can change the pace of your day, turning a busy schedule into something a little more memorable and reminding you that even during a work trip, there’s room to enjoy where you are.
Afternoons done right: where to eat, drink and relax
After a full day of back-to-back meetings, presentations, or calls, the best way to shift gears is with great food and a relaxed atmosphere, and Philadelphia delivers on both. The city’s food and drinks scene is diverse and full of character, whether you’re dining alone, catching up with colleagues or simply looking to recharge.
- Zahav – Featured for modern Israeli cuisine, with rich flavors and thoughtful small plates. The bar is first come, first served and is perfect if you can’t make a reservation.
- Vernick Food & Drink – Elegant and understated, this spot offers seasonal dishes with depth and simplicity. It’s a solid choice for everything from a casual dinner to a more professional business lunch.
- Parc – A classic French brasserie right on Rittenhouse Square, with sidewalk seating, great service, and a warm atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re relaxing in a Paris cafe.
- Attico: This rooftop bar near Broad Street offers craft cocktails, share plates, and panoramic views of the city, ideal for a quiet evening over the energy of downtown.
If you’re not in the mood for a full dinner, there are still plenty of ways to relax. Grab a glass of wine and some small bites at Jet Wine Bar, a cozy spot with an international wine list and a relaxed atmosphere. Or, if you’re near the Convention Center, Reading Terminal Market is a lively option for something quick, casual, and full of local flavor—ideal if you want to keep things simple without sacrificing quality.
Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or grabbing a last bite to eat before heading back to your hotel, the city offers the perfect combination of energy and tranquility to end the evening on a good note.
Move smartly
Philadelphia is compact and fairly easy to get around, especially in the city center. Many business travelers rely on ride-sharing or simply walk between hotels, meeting venues and restaurants. But if your schedule is tight, or you’re traveling around town for events or client meetings, having something more reliable makes a big difference. For example, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown, depending on the time of day. If you’re heading there straight after a meeting, or making one last stop before your flight, it’s helpful to have a reliable way to get around without worrying about time or logistics.
That’s where corporate transportation services can be especially useful. Whether you’re on a busy schedule, jumping from meeting to meeting, or just trying to make the day go smoothly, having a professional trip on standby can take a lot of pressure off your shoulders.
A city that balances work and play with ease
Philadelphia is one of those cities that really lends itself to bleisure: compact, vibrant, and packed with great food, history, and culture. Even with a full work schedule, it’s possible to make a small discovery, a great meal, or a quiet moment between meetings and calls.
So the next time you’re in town for work, don’t rush out immediately after the last meeting. Go out, take the long way to dinner, and let the city show you something unexpected.
