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The Delaware River waterfront is a perfect backdrop for fireworks in Philadelphia, with plenty of spots to catch skyward shows in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
And what really makes a great fireworks show pop is a prime viewing spot.
To help you get the best view, we’ve put together a list of a few of our favorite places to watch the fireworks on the Delaware River waterfront in Greater Philadelphia.
Here are the next fireworks shows lighting up over the Delaware River in Philadelphia:
Pershing’s Own Concert and Waterfront Fireworks at Penn’s Landing
Saturday, July 1, 2023 | 8-9:45 p.m.
Originally formed back in 1922 by General John J. Pershing, the United States Army band Pershing’s Own comes to Philadelphia for a patriotic, star-spangled concert — capped off by an exciting fireworks show over the water.
Read on for great spots to catch a fireworks display over the Delaware River in Philadelphia.
The Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing (near the intersection of Columbus Boulevard and Chestnut streets) is one of the best options for fireworks viewing. Grab a seat on the staircase or post up at the water’s edge. Other good spots at Penn’s Landing are anywhere along its southern stretch, from Dock Street to South Street.
Where: Penn's Landing, 101 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink features skating (roller skating in the summer, ice skating in the winter), food and drink, a lodge, arcade games and more. The outdoor wonderland also offers incredible views of the fireworks on the Delaware River. Note: Tickets are required for skating sessions.
Where: Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, 101 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Get a perfect view of the fireworks over the Delaware River outside of the Independence Seaport Museum. The historical museum — which maintains one of the largest maritime collections in North America — sometimes stays open late ahead of the fireworks shows.
Where: Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Billed as the city’s largest restaurant, Liberty Point has enough space to seat 1,400 people across three indoor and outdoor levels. Multiple elevated decks offer visitors perfect views of the fireworks while vibing, dining and sipping. Be sure to check with the venue about reservations and/or cover charges on fireworks nights.
Where: Liberty Point, 211 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
This lush park — which includes bleacher seating — is an amazing spot to watch the fireworks, though it does fill up fast during holiday displays, so you’ll want to get there early.
Where: Race Street Pier, Race Street and N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Located just next door to Race Street Pier, Cherry Street Pier is a multifaceted public space with artist studios, a marketplace, an event space, and an alfresco bar and cafe. With its stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the river, the pier is one of the best spots to enjoy fireworks.
Where: Cherry Street Pier, 121 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Enjoy the fireworks show — and a menu inspired by local ingredients — at Keating’s Rope & Anchor, Bar + Kitchen at the Hilton Philadelphia at Penn’s Landing. Select guest rooms also offer fireworks views if you’re staying over for the occasion.
Where: Hilton Philadelphia at Penn's Landing, 201 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Diners aboard the Moshulu — the world’s oldest and largest square-rigged ship still afloat — get a front-row seat for the fireworks. The ship’s restaurant serves American contemporary cuisine. Check with the team at the restaurant beforehand to confirm that it’s open and offering views of the fireworks.
Where: Moshulu, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
While many fantastic shows can be found indoors at the permanent riverfront home of FringeArts, the converted historic space across the street from Race Street Pier is also a great spot to watch the fireworks on the Delaware River waterfront. Grab a drink or a pre-show meal inside the newly renovated Fringe Bar before heading out into the Haas Biergarten to watch the sparks fly. It’s always a good idea to double-check whether the spot is open before making fireworks plans with your pals.
Where: Fringe Bar, 140 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Everybody wins when it comes to viewing the Delaware River waterfront fireworks from Rivers Casino Philadelphia. Grab a spot on the outdoor patio or waterfront path and enjoy the show.
Where: Rivers Casino Philadelphia, 1001 N. Delaware Avenue
The Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Penn’s Landing offers overnight guests spectacular views of the Delaware River waterfront from select rooms.
Where: Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Penns Landing, 100 N. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
The Battleship New Jersey is a great option for catching fireworks displays on the Camden side of the river (with the added bonus of some spectacular views of the Philly skyline). The ship often hosts ticketed parties on fireworks nights, so be sure to check the official website for all the deets.
Where: Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton Street, Camden, NJ
Operating from Penn’s Landing, the City Cruises ship (formerly named the Spirit of Philadelphia) provides incredible views of the city from the Delaware River, along with enjoyable dining, dancing and entertainment. In addition to regular lunch, dinner and moonlight cruises, the attraction offers cruises for special events like holidays and fireworks shows that take place along the waterfront.
Where: City Cruises Philadelphia, 401 S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Located on Front Street, the boutique Penn’s View Hotel offers front-row views of the fireworks over the Delaware River. Take date night up a notch by grabbing dinner and a glass of wine at the on-site Panorama Wine Bar before the show begins.
Where: Penn's View Hotel, 14 N. Front Street
Penn Treaty Park’s seven acres of open green space and picnic areas in Fishtown provide a great vantage point from which to watch the fireworks. BYO blanket and snacks.
Where: Penn Treaty Park, 1301 N. Beach Street
Across the river in Camden, fireworks fans can get an equally spectacular view of the fireworks from Wiggins Park, located near Adventure Aquarium and the Battleship New Jersey. Bonus: It’s free and open to the public.
Where: Ulysses Wiggins Waterfront Park, 2 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
Get an unforgettable view of the fireworks as they cascade in front of the Philadelphia skyline from outside Adventure Aquarium. The aquarium sometimes stays open late for the occasion, so be sure to double-check the official website if you plan on making some new aquatic acquaintances before the show.
Where: Adventure Aquarium, 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.
From beer gardens and no-frills favorites to floating restaurants and fine dining...