What to Do at PHL

• Vetri Cucina / Local chef concepts (Terminal A/D area when available) — PHL often features concepts by notable local chefs in select lounges or concessions; these are your go-to for regionally inspired plates when they’re running. Check current listings for exact terminal locations.
• Shake Shack / Regional quick-casual outlets (various terminals) — predictable, good for fast sit-downs or take-away when you don’t want to gamble on gate-area options.
• Local coffee roasters & kiosks (throughout PHL) — Philadelphia has a vibrant coffee scene and you’ll find local roasters represented; perfect for short layovers or early departures.
• Sit-down and pub fare near gates in B/C/D — useful if you have time for a proper meal; space and menus change seasonally so check the PHL dining directory.

• Duty-free & international retail (post-security international departures) — fragrances, spirits and travel gifts for international passengers; locate them near Terminal A/D international departure zones.
• Bookstores & travel-essentials (main concourse) — pick up chargers, books, local souvenirs, and travel comforts; these stores are handy if you forgot anything before boarding.
• Local artisan gift kiosks (rotating locations) — PHL often showcases Philly-made goods — useful for last-minute city souvenirs without leaving the airport.

• American Express Centurion Lounge — Terminal A West: elevated local menu offerings, showers and workspaces; access for AmEx Platinum/Centurion members (no day-passes sold). It’s a premium quiet spot if you’re eligible.
• Airline lounges (American/United/Delta/others): located throughout B/C/D/E depending on a carrier; access is limited by class, status, and paid passes - the minimum of facilities is Wi-Fi, seating, and refreshments. (Note: remediation may bring some lounges to a temporary closure -- check status.)
• Public art galleries & quieter seating nooks: free and pleasant alternatives to paid lounges — especially good for reading or stretching between flights.

3-hour layover — stay airside
You’ve got a short window; walk to your concourse’s best quick-serve (coffee and a sandwich), then spend 30–45 minutes wandering the nearest art display or bookstore.If you are looking for a peaceful quiet corner, pamper yourself with third-party lounge (enquire with Airport Assist to verify the availability and line waiting time). Give yourself 30-45 minutes to go back to your gate, clear any last minute security and board.

5-6 hour layover- city loop (only when not in a hurry)
Ride Center City on SEPTA Airport Line (around 25 minutes) to have an easy civic tour: take a coffee in 30 th St. and walk along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (museums are available). Allow at least 90-120 minutes to pre-clear security and time rail at least 90-120 minutes before departure. Airport Assist can also book your rail tickets and time so that you do not miss the train back.

5–6-hour layover — quick city loop (only if comfortable)
Take SEPTA’s Airport Line (~25 minutes) to Center City for a quick civic loop: grab a coffee near 30th Street or stroll the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (museums are nearby). Return with at least 90–120 minutes before departure to re-clear security and account for rail timing. Airport Assist can coordinate your rail tickets and timing so you don’t miss the train back.

8+ hour lay over--city sightseeing tour (half-day)
As additional time passes, take the SEPTA or a taxi to the City of Philadelphia central areas: explore the historical area (Liberty Bell, Independence Hall), have a typical Philly sandwich or visit a museum, and get back to the airport with at least two hours to spare. Prefer to hang around, enjoy a long lounge and art tour by the exhibitions in the terminal.

Duty-Free Shopping
International duty-free shops are concentrated in the post-security international departure zones (Terminal A and certain D/E areas). Expect fragrances, spirits, chocolates and travel essentials — if you want something specific, shop early as stock varies by flight schedules.

Restaurants / Dining Overview
PHL offers a mix of local chef concepts, national chains and coffee shops across terminals; the A/D zones often host the higher-profile local chef pop-ups. Most concourses have at least one sit-down and several grab-and-go options, and vegetarian/vegan choices are commonly available.

Lounges
PHL’s lounge scene includes carrier clubs, an AmEx Centurion Lounge, and third-party options that accept Priority Pass. Amenities typically include Wi-Fi, snacks, comfortable seating and sometimes showers — access varies by airline class, membership and day-pass availability. Confirm status in advance, as lounges occasionally close for remediation or upgrades.

Ground Transportation
Main options: SEPTA Airport Line (fast rail to Center City), taxis/flat-rate city zone fares, ride-share pickup areas, and hotel shuttles. During rush events (sports/conventions) allow extra road time; SEPTA is often the fastest, most predictable choice.

Traveler Essentials
You’ll find ATMs, currency exchange services, SIM/eSIM kiosks, baggage wrapping/porter services and pharmacy/first-aid info through the PHL services pages. For medical or accessibility needs, stop at an information desk — staff will direct you to the right support.

• Rotating art exhibitions: PHL’s exhibitions program brings in local artists and installations — a short, calming diversion that also showcases Philly culture. Check the airport Arts page to see current installations like recent site-specific works.
• Access by SEPTA Airport Line: In need of a fast and efficient way of connecting to the center city (longer layover adventure), the stop is served by the SEPTA itself, which connects directly to the terminals on a smooth rail service without having to worry about parking.