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What to Wear in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania This Fall

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Got a fall trip planned to Philadelphia, PA? Philadelphia can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 67°F (that's 19°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Philadelphia, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. For footwear, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You'll be doing a lot of walking to take in all the sights, so you want to make sure your shoes won't give you blisters.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Philadelphia in fall—whether you're visiting the Liberty Bell, walking through Independence National Historical Park, taking a photo of City Hall, or visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What to wear for a fall trip to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

What should women wear in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in fall?

Philadelphia in fall is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: walking boots, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, light jacket, and stylish hat. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Philadelphia has to offer.

Walking boots

Walking boots are a must-have item for Philadelphia, especially if your trip involves hiking or spending time outdoors. They provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks, roots, and other hazards. When choosing walking boots, it's important to pick a pair that fits well and provides enough support for your ankles. It's also a good idea to get them ahead of time and break them in before you go on your trip, so you can avoid blisters when you're there.

These would be perfect:

Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Philadelphia, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Philadelphia. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Any of these should work:

Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Philadelphia, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

I found these which would all work great:

Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Philadelphia trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Philadelphia, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

What should men wear in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: light jacket, walking boots, long-sleeved shirts, stylish hat, and lightweight pants. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Philadelphia in comfort and style.

Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Philadelphia, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

Walking boots

Walking boots are a must-have item for Philadelphia, especially if your trip involves hiking or spending time outdoors. They provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks, roots, and other hazards. When choosing walking boots, it's important to pick a pair that fits well and provides enough support for your ankles. It's also a good idea to get them ahead of time and break them in before you go on your trip, so you can avoid blisters when you're there.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Philadelphia, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

I found these which would all work great:

Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Philadelphia trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Philadelphia, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to Philadelphia that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

FAQs

Is fall a good time to go to Philadelphia, PA?

Fall is a great time to go to Philadelphia. The weather is mild and pleasant, and there are still plenty of things to do and see. There are also fewer tourists, prices are not quite as high as in the summer peak season, and you can often find better deals on accommodation and airfares.

How do people typically dress in Philadelphia, PA in fall?

People in Philadelphia dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many fall outfits you will see in Philadelphia typically include t-shirts, jeans or shorts, and sneakers.

What should you NOT wear in Philadelphia, PA in fall?

There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Philadelphia. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Philadelphia has to offer!