Things to do in Philadelphia

Hit the fairways at one of USA's best golf courses

Greater Philadelphia's first public golf complex, Cobb's Creek Golf Club (tel: +1 215 877 8707; www.cobbscreek.golfphilly.org), opened in 1916 and is home to two 18-hole courses -The Olde Course and The Karakung Course. The Olde Course is the crown jewel amongst Philadelphia's courses, having been nationally ranked as the sixth best municipal course in the USA.

Take a trot through Fairmont Park

Saddle up and explore Fairmont Park, one of the country’s largest urban green spaces, on horseback. Chamounix Equestrian Centre (tel: +1 215 877 4419; www.worktoride.net) offers a stable of 36 horses and an opportunity to go riding amongst 1,400 acres (566 hectares) of prime Philly countryside. There are even qualified instructors offering lessons for first timers.

Cycle down Forbidden Drive

Live dangerously and take two wheels down Forbidden Drive. Okay, so it’s just a name but the bike trail, which starts and ends in Manayunk, runs in a loop and has plenty of refreshment stops en route. Fairmont Park is great for cycling; Wheel Fun Rentals (tel: +1 805 650 7770; www.wheelfunrentals.com) will help with hire.

Skate on an Olympic-sized ice rink

Some say it’s always sunny in Philadelphia. Don’t be fooled: it’s not. If you arrive in the winter months, head to RiverR ink Winterfest, Penn Landing. Overlooking the Delaware River, Winterfest is a must with a lodge bar, food stalls, Olympic-sized ice-skating ring and fire pits to warm yourself by.

Tackle the topography with a spot of rock climbing

Outdoor enthusiasts are well catered for at Ralph Stover State Park. Not only does its careering river offer wild water rafting but there are also a number of rock faces up which to clamber. High Rocks is sheer and popular spot, but should only be attempted by experienced climbers.

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