The Best Running in Philadelphia: An Athlete's Guide to Trails & Healthy Eats
Photo by Charl Folscher on Unsplash
If you are looking for a running route that offers an exciting change of scenery, look no further than Philadelphia. This city is home to some of the best running spots in the country. Whether you are looking for a flat route or one with hills, this guide has got you covered. In this guide, we will provide an overview of some of the best places to run in Philly and spots to refuel. So lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore!
3 of the Best Trails for Running in Philadelphia
Schuylkill River Trail: Schuylkill Banks and Boardwalk
Mileage: 1.6 miles one way
The Schuylkill River Trail is a great place to go for a run, with a paved boardwalk that extends out over the river and stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline. Start on the South Street Bridge and take the ramp to the boardwalk, then head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a 1.6-mile jog or ride. Along the way, you'll pass by the Azalea Garden and Boathouse Row before looping back to the bridge.
The Centennial 5K Route
Mileage: 3.1-mile loop
The Centennial 5K Route in Philadelphia is the perfect trail to go for a jog or a family bike ride. The trail is paved and well-marked, and it winds its way through grassy parkland in Fairmount Park. The route begins behind the Please Touch Museum and passes by the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center before looping around the Centennial District. This is a lovely spot to get some fresh air and exercise while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Philadelphia.
Forbidden Drive in Wissahickon Valley Park
Mileage: 5.5 miles one way
Forbidden Drive is a gravel trail that follows the Wissahickon Creek for 5.5 miles in the Wissahickon Valley Park in Philadelphia. Cars have been banned from traveling on it since the 1920s, making it a peaceful place to take a run. The Valley Green Inn is located centrally within the park and has a large parking lot next to the trail, making it a convenient place to start your run. The inn is also open for lunch and dinner if you work up an appetite after your run.
Photo by A n v e s h on Unsplash
Healthy Spots to Refuel After Running in Philadelphia
After a long run, you'll likely be feeling hungry and thirsty. Fortunately, Philadelphia has no shortage of healthy spots to refuel. Here are a few of our favorites:
HipCityVeg (Spruce Hill & Rittenhouse)
Harvest (University City)
Couch Tomato (Manayunk)
Pumpkin (Graduate Hospital)
Talula's Garden (Washington Square West)
If you're looking for a running route that offers an exciting change of scenery, look no further than Philadelphia. This city is home to some of the best running spots in the country, including the Schuylkill River Trail, Forbidden Drive, and the Centennial Route. So lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement! And when you are finished, be sure to refuel at one of Philly's healthy spots, like HipCityVeg, Harvest, or Pumpkin. Happy running!
Need more inspiration for running in Philadelphia? Check out KLUBB MAG's guide here. Running is always better with friends, be sure to download The Klubb App to find running buddies in your area. "
