Philly Shenanigans: Your Go-To Guide for a Good Time

The Ultimate Guide to Fun Things to Do in Philadelphia

Philly is packed with awesome things to do, and if you're looking for a good time, you’re in luck. Whether you wanna break a sweat, flex your brain, or just chill with a beer in hand, this list has got you covered. Grab your friends (or make new ones) and check out these epic activities around the city!

1. Get in the Game with Intramural Sports

Wanna feel like an athlete without the commitment of a pro-contract? Philadelphia Sports Leagues (PSL) has you covered with kickball, volleyball, dodgeball, and more. It’s a great way to stay active, meet people, and show off your questionable athletic skills. Plus, there are usually post-game happy hours, because hydration is important… right?

• Where: All over Philly

• Website: philadelphiasportsleagues.com

  
  

2. Dominate at Quizzo Night

Are you an insufferable know it all? Put that useless knowledge to good use at Quizzo (Fun Fact: Quizzo is Philly’s version of trivia night, traced all the way back to 1992). Grab your smartest (or luckiest) friends and hit up spots like Johnny Brenda’s, Fergie’s Pub, or Frankford Hall for a night of laughs, brain-busting questions, and maybe even a prize or two if you're feeling sharp.

• When: Pretty much every night somewhere, follow our newsletter to be up to date!

• Where: Various bars all over town

  
  

3. Throw Axes Like a Viking

Because sometimes, you just need to chuck a giant blade at a wooden target. Bury The Hatchet and Kick Axe Throwing let you unleash your inner Viking while sipping a beer. Just try not to hit anything (or anyone) you’re not supposed to.

• Locations: Bury The Hatchet (1501 N Broad St), Kick Axe Throwing (232 Market St)

• Website: burythehatchet.com | kickaxe.com

  
  

4. Crack the Code at an Escape Room

If you love puzzles and dramatic movie-style problem-solving, escape rooms are for you. Grab your squad, get locked in a room, and work together to get out before time runs out. Olde City Escape Games and MindEscape have some wild themes, from detective mysteries to sci-fi adventures.

• Locations: Olde City Escape Games (144 N 8th St), MindEscape (521 S 4th St)

• Website: oldecityescapegames.com | mindescape.com

  
  

5. Play Old-School Arcade Games at a Barcade

Remember the good ol’ days of button-mashing your way to victory? You can relive those memories (but with beer!) at Barcade in Fishtown. Classic arcade games, craft beer, and some solid bar food—it’s like your childhood, but probably better.

• Location: 1114 Frankford Ave

• Website: barcadephiladelphia.com

  
  

6. Hang Out at a Board Game Café

Board games + snacks + good company = a great time. Games are also a great date night to see if your date has learned healthy conflict resolution or if they're an annoying loser. Whether you’re into classic strategy games or chaotic party games, these spots have you covered:

• Queen & Rook Game Cafe (123 South St) – Over 2,000 games and a full bar. Yeah, you read that right.

• Thirsty Dice (1642 Fairmount Ave) – 800+ games AND boozy milkshakes? Sold.

• The Basement Board Game Café – A hidden gem with 500+ games and chill vibes.

• Website: queenandrookcafe.com | thirstydice.com

7. Laugh Your Face Off at a Comedy Show

Philly’s comedy scene is seriously underrated. Whether you’re into stand-up, improv, or just watching someone bomb on stage (it happens), check out Helium Comedy Club for big-name acts or Good Good Comedy Theatre for hilarious local talent.

• Locations: Helium Comedy Club (2031 Sansom St), Good Good Comedy Theatre (215 N 11th St)

• Website: heliumcomedy.com | goodgoodcomedy.com

  
  

8. Check Out Philly’s Unique Nightlife

Skip the boring bars and try something different:

• The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co. – A speakeasy-style cocktail bar that makes you feel fancy.

• Graffiti Bar – A hidden outdoor bar with urban street vibes.

• SPiN Philadelphia – A bar + ping-pong club = the perfect place for a tipsy game of table tennis.

  
  

9. Dance the Night Away

Even if you’ve got two left feet, you’ll have a blast at Philly’s salsa and dance spots. Estilo Dance Studio offers easygoing salsa and bachata classes, and Brasil’s Nightclub hosts regular Latin dance nights where you can show off your moves (or at least try).

• Location: Estilo Dance Studio (203 S Juniper St), Brasil’s Nightclub (112 Chestnut St)

• Website: estilodancestudio.com

  
  

10. Get Crafty with DIY Classes

Need a new hobby? Try a hands-on workshop!

• The Clay Studio – Pottery classes for beginners who aren’t afraid of a little mess.

• Wax & Wine – Make your own candles while sipping wine. Fancy, right?

• NextFab – A makerspace with woodworking, 3D printing, and all the cool DIY stuff you could want.

• Website: theclaystudio.org | waxandwine.com | nextfab.com

Final Thoughts

Anything from date nights to group hangs to putting yourself out there, Philly's got it all! This city is packed with fun things to do, from competitive bar games to artsy workshops to high-energy dance nights. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there, touch grass and have some fun!