Penn Relays Weekend

It’s that time of year again—the Penn Relays!
Held every year in late April since 1895 (!), the Penn Relays is the oldest and largest track and field competition in the United States. Crowds of upwards of 100,000 come to compete and spectate in hundreds of track and field events held over three days at Franklin Field at the University of Pennsylvania. It’s an incredible weekend for athletes and fans alike, so make sure you plan a visit to University City and get in on the action!
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Franklin Field

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Athletics
Address

33rd and Spruce Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19104

While you can certainly visit U. City over Penn Relays weekend and experience the energy around campus, you’ll need to buy tickets if you want to watch any of the competition (ranging from elementary to high schools to college athletes and Olympians). The schedule of events changes every year, so make sure you check out the official Penn Relays site to get the latest news and purchase your tickets (varying from a single-day pass to a three-day VIP experience). Once you’ve got your tickets, it’s off to the races—literally! And don’t forget to stop by the festival tents on Shoemaker Green, located right outside of Franklin Field, to keep the celebrations going.

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Apparel
Address

3621 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

With so many visitors on campus, we suggest that you walk, bike, or take SEPTA over to Franklin Field. And if you’re going to be in University City, you should make the most of your time there! If you’re feeling inspired by the athletes, hop over to Philadelphia Runner and find a new pair of sneakers with accompanying shorts to be ready to hit the track – or trails – running.  

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Dine
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Address

3730 Walnut Street
Huntsman Hall
Philadelphia, PA 19104

You can bring food and (non-alcoholic) drinks to the races, so we recommend fueling up before heading into the action. If you’re coming in the morning, head over to Pret A Manger on Penn’s campus and grab something tasty for breakfast. From steel cut oatmeal to breakfast sandwiches and wraps, they’ve got something for every palate. While you’re on campus, take a stroll down Locust Walk—and make sure you stop for a picture at the iconic LOVE sculpture.

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Lunch
Address

3714 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

If you are looking to step away from the action and get a bite to eat, we recommend a stroll down Spruce Street to Five Guys, known worldwide for its hand-formed burgers cooked to perfection on a grill along with fresh-cut fries. And nothing pairs better with a burger than one of their delicious milkshakes. You can eat in or get it to go and find a nice shady spot around the beautiful Penn campus to enjoy your meal before heading back to the competition.  

 

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Penn Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

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Museums
Address

3260 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

There is a lot to see on Penn’s lush campus, but the Penn Museum of Archeology and Anthropology is one of the most impressive sights. While we absolutely recommend a visit to the galleries inside, you can enjoy your breakfast or lunch sitting by the impressive fountain in the beautiful Stoner Courtyard. When you’re finished eating, head right across the street and get back to the races!

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dine
Dine
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Address

3401 Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104

If you are hungry for a bite to eat during the races but need a break from the rowdiness of the stadium, then a stroll down the road to Franklin’s Table might be in order. Penn has curated a group of critically acclaimed chefs and local best-in-class operators featuring a diverse menu of food options that will satisfy meat-eaters and vegans, sushi fans, and sandwich lovers alike. With a variety of food offerings, and plenty of indoor seating, Franklin’s Table is the perfect place to get out of the sun and take a respite.

Franklin Field

Philadelphia Runner

Pret A Manger

Five Guys

Penn Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Franklin's Table