This week in Philadelphia, residents and visitors are invited to explore exciting new projects, culinary delights, and artistic experiences that capture the essence of summer in the city.
Among the most talked-about spots is Frankie’s Summer Club, a charming popup wine garden nestled behind the historic Hamilton Hall, part of the University of the Arts. Located on South Broad Street, this hidden gem offers a serene courtyard filled with drinks, shareable picnic-style snacks, and soft serve ice cream.
The event is the brainchild of Scout, the design firm known for their transformative work on the Bok Building in South Philadelphia. After acquiring Hamilton Hall at auction following the school’s closure last June, Scout aims to replicate its success by creating vibrant community spaces for artists and creatives.
The name of the popup, Frankie’s Summer Club, honors Frank Furness, the architect responsible for the brick buildings surrounding the courtyard. These buildings, once dormitories, are set to be transformed into affordable housing for artists, contributing to the revitalization of the Avenue of the Arts.
For those looking for a unique night out, Traffic Jamz offers a fresh experience that merges nightlife with transportation.
Kameisha Griffin, the entrepreneur behind this venture, has launched a BYOB cruise that features a vehicle with floor-to-ceiling windows. This design allows guests to enjoy the fresh air and vibrant sights of Center City while dancing to music or simply reveling in the ambiance.
The cruises are conveniently available for 90 minutes, with pick up and drop off at 3rd and Walnut. To add to the excitement, first-time guests can use the promo code “FYI PHILLY” for a 15% discount on their initial journey with Traffic Jamz.
Coffee lovers can rejoice with the arrival of Out West, an innovative cafe and marketplace that blends quality breakfast options with a commitment to social responsibility.
Founded by Muhammad Abdul-Hadi, also known for Down North Pizza, Out West serves premium breakfast sandwiches alongside a delightful small lunch menu. Abdul-Hadi’s approach includes a commitment to fair chance hiring, making this cafe not just a place for coffee but also a community-focused establishment.
Located at 5127 Walnut Street, Out West is a welcome addition to the neighborhood where the founder grew up, providing locals with gourmet coffee drinks and a space dedicated to social impact.
On the sweet side, The Bakery has captured the hearts of South Philadelphia. Opened at 3rd and Wolf streets by Rocco Weiss, this coffee shop and bakery blends tradition with innovation.
Among the offerings, specialty coffee drinks stand out, but the real stars are the bakery’s donuts, which come from a cherished century-old recipe Rocco inherited after convincing the previous owner to share it.
Known for his background in pizza, Rocco began making pizzas during the pandemic and quickly drew a loyal following. Every Friday, he produces 40 Sicilian-style pizzas, topped with his grandmother’s acclaimed gravy instead of traditional tomato sauce, drawing on his family’s culinary heritage.
The Bakery also hosts a monthly dinner series called After Hours by Rocco, offering a unique four-course blind tasting menu.
Though The Bakery lacks a digital presence through a website or phone line, interested patrons can follow them on Instagram for updates on pizza availability and dinner events.
For those interested in connecting with nature, Longwood Gardens reimagined experience is a must-visit.
Set in Kennett Square, PA, Longwood Gardens has redesigned 17 acres of its property to enhance the visitor experience, emphasizing both design and discovery. The stunning Cascade Garden features the work of renowned Brazilian artist and landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, showcasing a unique rainforest environment in the heart of the gardens.
In addition to its beautiful landscapes, Longwood Gardens offers educational opportunities for children of all ages, including 30-minute nature strolls and a variety of classes and workshops focused on exploring and learning about nature.
In Carbon County, Beltzville State Park caters to outdoor enthusiasts with its picturesque beachfront properties, hiking trails, and waterfalls. The park’s K-9 lifeguard, named Kelby, serves to enhance safety while visitors enjoy swimming and sunbathing.
With activities for the whole family, Beltzville State Park is a fantastic spot for enjoying summer in Pennsylvania’s great outdoors.
Meanwhile, Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, presents an exciting new exhibition highlighting the work of an esteemed artist-in-residence.
This artist has dedicated 27 years to the Grounds and has returned with a captivating exhibition titled “I’ll Make Me A World,” featuring his “Animism” series comprised of remarkable figures ranging from six to nine feet in height.
The exhibition serves as a culmination of his artistic journey and pays tribute to his extensive work on the property, attracting art lovers and locals alike.
As summer unfolds, Philadelphia and its surroundings offer a plethora of new experiences for residents and visitors to explore and enjoy.
From culinary hotspots to immersive outdoor experiences and cultural initiatives, there is no shortage of ways to savor the season in this vibrant city.
image source from：6abc
