by Nik Fisher

Created on: November 28, 2008   Last Updated: December 05, 2008

Finding the perfect time to travel to Philadelphia can be very tricky. The weather is not as consistently hot as Florida, and not as consistently cold as Boston, but the weather on any given day can rival either of those. The Mid Atlantic region can have huge differences from summer to winter because of its latitude and position in relation to the ocean. There are some very nice days in late summer and winter however.

If you like the warmer weather try to shoot for June or early July. The weather usually is at its worst as July ends and August sets in. At these times the humidity and heat mix to make for some muggy days. Typically the air quality gets much worse in August and the heat can be harmful to older people. April and May can have very mild temperatures but it can rain everyday for extended periods of times, sometimes up to two weeks. June usually sees weather in the mid 80s, less precipitation, slightly breezy winds, and lower humidity.

Days in June are very nice for spending outside. The Phillies play Sunday games during the day and if they are in town the game can be a great outting. Baseball is really best in the day time. The Italian Market is an outdoor food market with some of the tastiest treats in town. Walks through Love Park are best enjoyed during these days. Philadelphia also has a very good music scene and is home to some outdoor festivals on the piers located on the Delaware River and other parks. The Tweeter Center is an indoor/outdoor venue across the river in New Jersey that hosts some of the biggest shows in the area.

Early autumn is also a very nice time to visit, though it reminds me that winter is coming soon so I'm not as big of a fan. Between mid September and mid October the weather tends to break from the oppressive heat of summer. Typically it can be a little chilly on some days, so bring a jacket. Normally the weather is in the 60s and can be windy at times. If you catch a nice day it can be low 80s or mid 70s and a light windbreaker will do just fine.

Since September marks the end of summer there are many block parties and outdoor events to celebrate. The local suburbs around Philadelphia often host many of these, including the small town of West Chester, PA. West Chester is about a 20 minute train ride from Philadelphia (I wouldn't recommend driving there) and has events every week in September, including Swinging Summer Thursday, the Art Gallery Walk, the Chili Cookoff, and Brew Fest. Philadelphia is quite beautiful in this time of year as the leaves gently begin to change colors. The Philadelphia Zoo is a great trip idea, the cool air keeps the smell of the animals down and the crowds away. The Flyers, Eagles, and Sixers all begin their regular season schedule in this time. It can be fun to buy tickets for a game and enjoy the day tailgating in the parking lot with a group of friends.

Just remember that the weather in Philly can always be diffucult to predict so make sure you pack adequetly. Sunscreen, jackets, shorts, jeans, sunglasses, and even thermal underwear should be taken (which items you take depends on when you go of course).

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