Summer 2025 on the Delaware River Waterfront is now here, and it’s brighter, bigger, and more fun than ever. Produced by the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) with grateful sponsorship from Independence Blue Cross, this summer’s season calls everyone to come and experience Philly’s most historic riverside parks. Roller skating, outdoor workouts, and a city-wide treasure hunt come alongside local favorite foods and live music to make something for every interest and age. This summer is all about adventure, relaxation, and creating memories along the water.
Experience Summer 2025 on the Delaware River Waterfront
Prepare to make the most of your summer as the Delaware River Waterfront becomes a dynamic destination full of energy, excitement, and outdoor recreation. The summer 2025 season guarantees an unforgettable itinerary of activities courtesy of Independence Blue Cross, a proud sponsor of promoting health and wellness throughout the region.
Over the summer, visitors can expect the return of favorite wellness activities such as outdoor fitness classes and roller skating amidst the breathtaking views of the Waterfront.
Families and thrill-seekers will delight in interactive activities, such as an exciting Treasure Hunt that appeals to all ages. The riverfront parks—Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Cherry Street Pier—will feature a delectable assortment of local food and drink vendors, something for everyone’s palate. Whether a day with friends, a family outing, or a solitary walk along the river, the Delaware River Waterfront is here to make a memorable outdoor experience.
What Officials Are Saying?
“Summer comes alive along the Delaware River Waterfront,” said Joseph A. Forkin, President & CEO of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, as the season officially begins on May 23. Whether it’s vibrant boardwalk walks at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest or peaceful moments at Spruce Street Harbor Park, there’s something for everyone to do.
Race Street Pier welcomes energizing outdoor fitness classes again, while Cherry Street Pier provides a mix of local fare and innovative art installations. Forkin pointed to the critical contribution of collaborators such as Independence Blue Cross in opening up the Waterfront and making it more vibrant. With roller skating back at Summerfest and a larger wellness schedule, visitors can experience healthy, celebratory activities all summer.
Steve Fera, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and President of Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross, added, “We’re excited to join DRWC in bringing the magic of roller skating back to the Philadelphia waterfront. From amusements and mini-golf to carnival games and summer snacks, Summerfest offers the shared joy and community connection we’re proud to support.”
City-Wide Treasure Hunt are Coming This Summer
This summer, the Delaware River Waterfront is heating things with a summer filled with energy, flavor, and moments that will be remembered for a lifetime. Supported by Independence Blue Cross, the “Make Summer Yours” experience expands again, with more opportunities to move, connect, and celebrate. From roller skating and outdoor exercise to surprise dance parties and live local music, the Waterfront is where Philly’s summer vibe lives.
Foodies will also get a taste of the action, with a new crop of food and beverage partners introducing bold Philly flavors to the boardwalk and beyond. For the adventurous, June brings back the Philly Treasure Hunt—a city-wide challenge designed by local favorite Eric the Puzzler. It’s free, it’s fun, and everybody can play. Teams will search for hidden clues throughout public areas, unlock checkpoints, take cool prizes, and receive an invitation to an end-of-summer bash like no other. Skate, snack, solve clues, or just take in the vibe – Summer 2025 on the Waterfront is yours to create.
Local Food and Sweet Treats Steal the Limelight This Summer
Food is not just fuel—it’s an integral part of the Delaware River Waterfront experience. This summer, DRWC has taken efforts to create a vibrant and memorable collection of culinary experiences that blend Philadelphia’s favorite classics with bold new flavors. Across Cherry Street Pier, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, visitors can indulge in a rotating selection of small businesses, food artisans, and rising chefs—each with something fresh and flavorful to offer. Whether you’re visiting for the vibe, the views, or the eats, you’ll find plenty to savor.
Cherry Street Pier: Where Creativity Meets Culinary Passion
At Cherry Street Pier, the focus on empowering local entrepreneurs persists. This outdoor space is a home for creativity—be it from artists, makers, or chefs. The 2025 season brings back food favorites, highlighting high-quality ingredients and bold local taste.
Irv’s Ice Cream is back with its playful, small-batch ice cream that’s more than your average scoop. Renowned for its bold flavor pairings and silky textures, Irv’s is ideal for chilling out after walking the pier’s art sculptures or lounging along the water. Look for new seasonal flavors and inventive toppings that’ll have you returning repeatedly.
Philly Tacos heats things with their street-style eats to grab. Imagine tacos bursting with flavor, filling burritos, and easygoing grub that hits the spot without a fuss. On deck this season is their highly touted birria cheesesteak, a tasty hybrid of Philly’s signature sandwich and the slow-braised, flavorful richness of birria—a culinary thrill ride for the adventurous foodie.
Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest: Carnival Bites & Philly Favourites
Summerfest is where vintage amusement park entertainment intersects with delicious boardwalk fare. It’s about designing your summer escapade—whether sun-soaked skating, carnival rides, or sampling every snack booth in the area. The pay-as-you-go dining experience allows you to try a little bit of everything.
Skelly’s Amusements is your destination for fairground nostalgia. Funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar, hand-scooped ice cream in crunchy cones, tangy lemonade, and the impossible-to-resist cotton candy create a memory of childhood summers.
Chickie’s & Pete’s is again a crowd-pleaser. It shares a real taste of Philly with its legendary Crabfries (don’t neglect the cheese dip), cheesesteaks, crunchy pretzel nuggets, boneless wings dripping with juiciness, and even dessert offerings like Sweet & Crabby Kettle Corn. Whether you crave a full meal or a game-day-esque snack, they’ve got you covered.
Philly Tacos returns with its crowd-favorite Tacos Al Pastor, filling burritos, and, naturally, its signature birria. It’s fast, flavor-filled food just right for munching on the fly between rides, games, or lake lounging.
The Lodge Bar completes the Summerfest atmosphere with a carefully crafted list of summer drinks and locally crafted beers. It’s the perfect place to relax with a cold beverage while enjoying riverfront views and listening to live music.
Spruce Street Harbor Park: A Culinary Playground by the Water
A place beyond a green oasis, Spruce Street Harbor Park is an independent summer food destination in itself. Floating barges, vibrant hammocks, and radiant lights provide the backdrop for a relaxed evening of food, beverages, and a waterfront atmosphere.
Frozen Delights is your destination for cool treats and healthy indulgences. Savor hand-dipped ice cream, old-fashioned sundaes, and fresh açaí bowls with granola, fruit, and honey. It’s the best old-school boardwalk treat and a new-age superfood snack.
About the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC)
The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) is a nonprofit organization that was formed in January 2009 to benefit the citizens of Philadelphia by revitalizing and reimagining the city’s central Waterfront. With a vision of improving public access and generating lively places, DRWC creates, programs, and maintains seasonal parks, permanent green areas, trails, and public infrastructure along the riverfront. Steered by the Central Delaware Master Plan, DRWC’s initiatives are redeveloping the Waterfront as a destination for culture, recreation, and community throughout the year. With interactive programming, considerate planning, and architectural features, the Waterfront is emerging as a lively unifier for everyone who lives in or passes through Philadelphia.
About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is the trusted name for health coverage in southeastern Pennsylvania. It has proudly served the area for more than 85 years. Committed to assisting individuals, families, and communities to prosper, Independence provides a variety of affordable, high-quality health plans and services. The company is a pioneer in innovation—collaborating with doctors, hospitals, and care providers to provide integrated care that prioritizes people. In addition to health coverage, Independence actively promotes wellness programs and community activities that encourage healthier lifestyles.
Conclusion
Summer 2025 on the Delaware River Waterfront delivers more than a good time—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection. With the hard work of DRWC and the generosity of Independence Blue Cross, the Waterfront remains a place where Philadelphians and visitors can gather to kick back, discover, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re skating under the sun, sampling local eats, or joining the Treasure Hunt, every visit is an opportunity to experience the energy and spirit of the city. The riverfront is yours this season, so come out and make summer unforgettable.
FAQs
1.When does Summer 2025 on the Delaware River Waterfront begin?
The season officially kicks off on May 23, 2025, with events running throughout the summer.
2. Is general admission to waterfront parks free?
Yes, general admission to parks such as Spruce Street Harbor Park and Cherry Street Pier is free; activities and food are pay-as-you-go.
3.Where can I find the Philly Treasure Hunt information?
The DRWC website and social media will provide information about the Treasure Hunt, including how to participate.
4. Are food and beverage options family-friendly?
Definitely—all lakeside venues have many child-friendly meals, snacks, and soft drinks.
5. Is roller skating open throughout the whole summer?
Yes, roller skating at Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest will be open every day until the end of the season.
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