The Philadelphia Orchestra is legendary. It’s been around for more than 100 years (founded in 1900!), was the first orchestra to appear in a radio commercial, the first orchestra to appear on television, and the first major orchestra to give a live performance on the internet, way back before YouTube streaming and Instagram Live was even a thought.
Our city’s orchestra is iconic, and with its concerts taking place right in the middle of the city at the Kimmel Center, it’s never been easier to see a show, and make a night of it…especially when an annual membership for Philly college students is just $25. That means unlimited access to more than 80 concerts all season, the ability to reserve student tickets in advance to secure your seats, and the option to purchase additional student tickets for just $8 (your friends will thank you, trust us).
Looking for some recommendations on things to see, places to eat, and the best spots to take a selfie with City Hall? Check out our Center City itinerary, ending with an evening at the Philadelphia Orchestra, below:
- Getting there: Center City is, as its name implies, super centrally located. Take the Broad Street Line to City Hall, or the Market-Frankford line to 15th and Market. Coming from outside the city? Take SEPTA’s regional rail to Suburban Station. (read more about getting around the city on our How-To Guide to Public Transportation in Philly)
- Selfie time: the best spot to take a selfie with City Hall in the background is right in the middle of South Broad Street on the median, but watch out for cars! Snap a shot for your Insta Story with #CampusPhilly and post it – we just might feature it on our Instagram!
- All the food: The Philadelphia Orchestra has concerts during the day on the weekends, and evening shows during the week. Here’s our picks for Center City lunch and dinner to enjoy before the show:
- Lunch: Reading Terminal Market is just a 5-minute walk from City Hall, and if you’re exploring with a group, this is the spot – there’s something for everyone, even the most picky eaters. Our pick? Try the Apple Dumpling (get it warmed!) from Dutch Eating Place but remember, they’re closed on Sundays!
- Dinner: if it’s a weekday, head to Nomad Roman for their Pizza Happy Hour – 10” pizzas are just $6-8 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday! If it’s a weekend, walk around Sansom Street for a bite that won’t break the bank. There’s Goldie for falafel, Mission Taqueria for all your taco needs, and Federal Donuts for the best Korean fried chicken and donuts!
- Showtime: walk just a few blocks to the Kimmel Center and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable night with the Philadelphia Orchestra. Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin leads the Orchestra, and he’s sticking around until 2026! A good thing, because once you hear the Philadelphia Orchestra once, you’ll want to keep going back for more. Grab an eZseatU annual membership for $25 today – just another perk of being a college student in Philadelphia!
Don’t forget to share your experience with the Campus Philly team! Tag us in your photos as you explore Center City Philly with @CampusPhilly and follow the Philadelphia Orchestra (@PhilOrch) for everything you need to know about upcoming concerts. Have fun!
