Philadelphia in May

Spring hits Philadelphia perfectly. April and May bring mild temperatures in the 60s-70s and blooming cherry blossoms around the city. The crowds haven't arrived yet, and hotel prices stay reasonable. Summer gets hot and humid — July averages 85°F with sticky air that makes walking around Old City feel like a slog. But the outdoor festivals and concerts make up for the sweat. The Made in America festival takes over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway each September. Fall delivers the best weather. September and October offer crisp days perfect for walking the city, plus the changing leaves in Fairmount Park create actual scenery. Winter? It's cold and gray, but hotel prices drop 30-40%. The Christmas markets and holiday decorations downtown create some charm, and you'll have the museums mostly to yourself. Just pack layers — January temperatures hover around 40°F during the day, dropping to the 20s at night.