Festival travel: Philadelphia's Musikfest coming soon, a flight away from Columbus

Festival travel: Philadelphia's Musikfest coming soon, a flight away from ColumbusPhoto: iStock
Hoodline
Published on July 11, 2019

For 10 days in August, top acts from across musical genres will converge on Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, for Musikfest, held annually since 1984. That means there's still time to book your travel for Philadelphia, an easy hop to Bethlehem and the historic Lehigh Valley.

One of the largest non-gated music festivals in the nation, Musikfest, running Aug. 2-11, showcases an eclectic mix of modern music and art while paying homage to the region's German roots. Proceeds benefit nonprofits around the valley.

Expect more than 500 performers, with headliners including Earth, Wind & Fire, Brad Paisley, Weezer and Godsmack. While you're there, take the chance to dig into the region's unique history, outdoor recreation and culinary offerings.

Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Columbus and Philadelphia on travel site Skyscanner.

Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Philadelphia to round out your trip. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)

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Cheapest Philadelphia flights

Currently, the cheapest flights between Columbus and Philadelphia are if you leave on Aug. 5 and return from Pennsylvania on Aug. 7. Spirit Airlines currently has round-trip tickets for $222.

There are also deals to be had later in August. If you fly out of Columbus on Aug. 9 and return from Philadelphia on Aug. 11, Spirit Airlines currently has round-trip tickets for $295.

Top Philadelphia hotels

To plan your accommodations, here are some of Philadelphia’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia (10 Avenue of the Arts)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia. The hotel has a five-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $219.

Set in the heart of Philadelphia, this hotel is close to the Free Library of Philadelphia and City Hal, Reading Terminal Market and the Liberty Bell Center.

The Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia (117 S. 17th St.)

There's also the 4.4-star rated The Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia, which has rooms for $169/night.

"Palomar hotel was lovely! Location was great — and we loved cruising through the city on their bikes. They have a wine happy hour and free coffee in the morning. We found the staff to be friendly and helpful," wrote visitor Colin. 

The Doubletree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City (237 S. Broad St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

A third option is The Doubletree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City. The 4.4-star hotel has rooms for $135/night.

"This hotel is near attractions such as the Pennsylvania Convention Center, City Hall and the Liberty Bell," wrote reviewer Lev.

Featured Philadelphia food and drink

Don't miss Philadelphia's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.

Talula's Garden (210 W. Washington Square)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to Talula's Garden, which has an average of five stars out of nine reviews on Skyscanner. 

Visitor Elvira wrote, "I wish I could give more than five stars to this place for the food, service, menu selections and ambiance … Yes, it’s kind of expensive but well worth it."

Sabrina's Cafe (910 Christian St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is Sabrina's Cafe, with 4.8 stars from 24 reviews.

"The best stuffed French toast made with challah bread, topped with bananas and powdered sugar," wrote reviewer Nazsh.

Pat's King of Steaks (1237 E. Passyunk Ave.)

Also worth considering is Pat's King of Steaks, which was founded by Pat Olivieri in 1930, the self-proclaimed inventor of the cheesesteak. The 24/7 business is still family-owned and operated. 

"If you want to have the ultimate Philly cheesesteak experience, you definitely need to come to Pat's," wrote Kacie."

What to see and do in Philadelphia

Not sure what to do in Philadelphia, besides eat and drink? Here are a couple of recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

Schuykill River Trail 

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The top-rated visitor attraction in Philadelphia, according to Skyscanner, is Schuykill River Trail.

"If you're big on trails then definitely take the time to stop by the Schuykill River Trail," wrote visitor Cierra. "Good for biking, walking and running."

Kimmel Center for The Perfoming Arts (300 S. Broad St.)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

The Kimmel Center for The Performing Arts is another popular destination.

"The [tour guides] are always friendly and informative, but the best part is actually experiencing a live show. The music sounds wonderful in person," wrote visitor Coy.


This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.