Visiting Philadelphia during the winter months (December through March) is not recommended. With temperatures typically ranging from below freezing to the mid-40s and often accompanied by snow or ice rains, this city of brotherly love isn’t very friendly then.
Not to mention that many attractions are closed or only partially open during this time of year due to weather conditions, so visitors really miss out on some of Philadelphia’s best sights.
Moreover, with cold winds blowing across the otherwise beautiful iconic spots in this city like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, it’s a rather grim experience no tourist should ever have to face.
Winter is easily the worst time for anyone looking for an enjoyable visit in Philly.
Why is winter the worst to visit Philadelphia?
Winter in Philadelphia can be one of the least pleasant times to visit the city. With temperatures often dipping below freezing, it can be a cold, wet and uncomfortable experience.
Snow is common, and the wind chill from the surrounding storms that come in from the Atlantic Ocean can make it feel even colder.
The snow combined with ice and slush can also make roads treacherous, making driving around town dangerous for those who aren’t used to winter weather. Morely, some attractions are closed during the winter months due to inclement weather.
And while some hotels may offer a discounted rate during this time of year, they may also lack amenities or have reduced staff due to less demand. Overall, Philadelphia winters can be an unpleasant and sometimes hazardous experience for visiting tourists, making it unfavorable for those looking for a comfortable trip.
Is Philadelphia very cold?
The city of Philadelphia is known for its hot summers and cold winters. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can range from the low 50s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit.
During the winter months, temperatures often dip into the 20s in December and January and can bring a chill to even the most bundled-up Philadelphians.
However, Philadelphia is far from the coldest city in the country locations like Buffalo, New York or Minneapolis, Minnesota tend to experience more wicked weather fronts than Philly.
So while snow may fall in Philly during a particularly harsh season, it’s nothing that locals aren’t used to by now.
How to Avoid the Worst winter months in Philadelphia?
Winter in Philadelphia can be a difficult season if you don’t take the right steps to protect yourself. Fortunately, with proper preparation and knowledge of the city’s climate, you can avoid the worst winter months in Philadelphia.
First and foremost, stay informed of the weather forecasts. Weather reports can help you plan ahead for extreme weather conditions by providing information on expected temperatures, chances of snowfall, wind speeds and other factors that may affect your daily routine. The National Weather Service is a good source for reliable forecasts. Moreover, understanding what to expect from seasonal temperature changes can help you prepare accordingly when it comes to outdoor activities and dressing appropriately for colder temperatures.
Second, it is important to be prepared for cold weather conditions with essential items such as warm clothing such as coats, hats, gloves and scarves; proper boots or shoes; blankets and extra layers of clothing; protective face masks; flashlights; batteries; non-perishable food items; drinking water; an emergency kit with supplies like basic tools and first aid materials; an up-to-date fire extinguisher; additional insulation for windows or doors to keep heat inside your home or office building.
Thirdly, it is important to limit exposure to cold temperatures when possible by staying indoors during extreme weather conditions. If going out is necessary, bundle up with plenty of layers before venturing outdoors as well as wearing waterproof boots or shoes to protect from icy surfaces. Be sure to also wear sunglasses or special glasses that are designed for glare reduction when out on bright sunny days. Additionally, if taking public transportation during peak winter months consult the respective transit authority’s website or app-enabled service to find out if there are delays due to hazardous road conditions before starting your journey.
Lastly, plan and make sure all necessary maintenance tasks are handled before winter arrives since they become increasingly difficult once cold weather sets in such as cleaning gutters frequently before snowfall so melting slush don’t accumulate near your home’s foundation line which may lead to issues related with flooding when spring arrives. Likewise, ensure that all heating systems are checked by professionals well before winter starts so systems are running efficiently throughout the season saving energy costs while providing optimal comfort levels indoors even during especially frigid days.
By following these helpful tips you will be able to successfully avoid the worst winter months in Philadelphia while keeping yourself safe from extreme weather conditions typical of this time of year in the City of Brotherly Love!
Worst tourist traps in Philadelphia:
If you’re planning a vacation to Philadelphia, you’ll want to make sure that you don’t fall into the common tourist traps. Some places in the city have become overhyped and overpriced, which can ruin your travel experience. Here are some of the most notorious tourist traps in Philadelphia and what you should avoid:
The Liberty Bell Center – The Liberty Bell Center is a must-see when visiting Philadelphia, but it’s also a hot spot for tourists. The lines to get in are often very long and the wait can be quite boring. Once inside there isn’t much to do other than look at the bell itself. If you want to see the bell up close without having to wait for hours in line, try heading there early in the morning or late at night when it’s less crowded.
Reading Terminal Market – This is another popular destination for tourists looking for unique Philly experiences. While there are plenty of great shops and food stalls inside, some vendors tend to charge more than their competitors just because they know tourists are willing to pay more for their items. To avoid getting ripped off, take your time and compare prices before making any purchases here.
South Street – South Street is full of bars, restaurants, and boutiques that attract a lot of attention from visitors looking for a good time. Unfortunately, many of these establishments are overpriced and overcrowded with tourists who don’t really know what they’re getting themselves into before they arrive. If you’re looking for an authentic experience on South Street, try opting for one of the smaller side streets where there are fewer people and more local flavor!
Independence Hall – One of Philadelphia’s most iconic landmarks is Independence Hall, but it can also be one of its worst tourist traps if visited during peak season (May-October). During these months the lines to get into Independence Hall can stretch around several blocks due to its popularity with visitors from all around the world trying to experience America’s history first hand. To avoid long waits consider visiting either during off-peak season or early in the morning when crowds tend to thin out quickly!
Penn’s Landing – Penn’s Landing has been a popular spot amongst locals and tourists alike since its opening in 1965 as part of William Penn’s vision for his city by the sea! Unfortunately many visitors flock here expecting great attractions like amusement rides and carnival games only to find out those things no longer exist here anymore! Avoid disappointment by researching online or asking locals about what activities still remain at Penns Landing before heading down there so that you won’t be let down on your visit!
Conclusion
Without a doubt, winter is the worst time of year to visit Philadelphia. During this season, freezing temperatures and icy winds create a frigid environment, making sightseeing and outdoor activities nearly impossible.
The winter days are often quite gloomy and getting around can be quite tricky due to snow or ice on the roads. If you do plan to visit the City of Brotherly Love during this time of year, make sure to dress warmly and stock up on hot cocoa.
In the end, no matter what season you plan your trip for, Philadelphia has something special in store for all visitors.
