Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest

Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest brings boardwalk energy to Penn’s Landing at 101 S Christopher Columbus Blvd. You get a waterfront park built for easy, open-air time, with a public roller rink, a double-decker carousel, and a Ferris wheel that frames the Delaware River and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. It works well as an active stop before or after Old City sights and the Seaport Museum.

Plan your visit around the main draw: a 60-by-120-foot outdoor rink for skating sessions, plus an 18-hole mini-golf course run by Philly Mini Golf. When you want a break, head to the Lodge and snack stands for local staples, including Chickie’s & Pete’s Crabfries and classic amusement-stand sweets. For the strongest views, arrive in the late afternoon and stay through sunset as the skyline and bridge lighting come into focus.

Entry to the grounds is free, but skating, mini-golf, and rides are ticketed, and you can buy on-site or ahead. Rentals are available for skates and blades, and you will want socks to skip any add-on purchase. On holiday weekends, arriving before 2:00 PM helps you avoid the longest lines, and SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street Station is often faster than hunting for waterfront parking.

The site is wheelchair accessible, family-friendly, and set up with plenty of seating; pets stay off the skating surface, but the riverwalk nearby is popular for dog walks. Weather can pause outdoor activities during heavy rain or lightning, while the Lodge provides covered seating. Small lockers are available near the skate office, and while outside food is typically discouraged near vendor seating, nearby green space makes picnics easy. For overnight convenience, look at Old City or Society Hill, both within a quick walk of the waterfront.