Here are five top locations for a great day on Philadelphia's famous river to the east (George Washington crossed it, you know):

1. Blue Cross RiverRink Summer Fest - Where else in Philly can you find roller skating, mini golf, rides, games, and Chickie's and Pete's all in one spot? Right off Columbus Boulevard, of course! Don't miss this great outdoor venue, open through September 3. Visiting on a Saturday? Get there by 11:30 a.m., and your kids can enjoy story time too, with light snacks and refreshments provided free of charge. 

2. Spruce Street Harbor Park - Just a stone's throw away from Blue Cross RiverRink is a park to rival all others. Arrive early to snag one of the many hammocks strewn throughout the park and lounge in the shade. And if you happen to visit on a Sunday now through September 30, your kids can take part in Popup Play, which features fun crafts and activities beginning at 11:30 a.m. Afterwards, grab a game of bocce ball or ping pong, available for a nominal fee, or enjoy several oversized versions of household games, including a giant Connect 4 and Jenga set. An arcade is also onsite. Need to cool off? Treat your kids to ice cream at Franklin Fountain and then head to the beer garden for a cold adult beverage. There are also plenty of spots to grab lunch -- choose from tacos, cheesesteaks, pizza, burgers, and more. Stay until dusk and see how things brighten up when all the icicle lights strung high throughout the park dazzle with color. 

3. Paddle Penn's Landing - Located just off of Spruce Street Park is this local favorite. Choose from a swan or dragon paddle boat and enjoy the Delaware without jumping in. If you prefer, kayaks and rowboats are also available. Paddle boat rentals are available in half-hour increments and cost $8 per rider. After you're done, cool off by visiting the air-conditioned Independence Seaport Museum, located just off the dock.

4. Pier 68 Fishing -  Bring your rods and bait and get your family together for an afternoon of fishing. Take in great views of the Delaware while you cast, wait, reel in, and repeat, and hopefully catch something besides a snagged line. This program runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. the second Sunday of the month through September 9.

5. Delaware River Tubing - No summer is complete without a splash of cool water on your skin. So get your bathing suits and water shoes on, and enjoy 5 miles of laid back fun as you cruise down the Delaware. Park your tube at a private island about halfway through your trip to pick up your lunch, which is included in your ticket price. Then wade through the water to a food stand situated on the river, where you can choose from two hotdogs or a burger, plus a drink, and chips or a frozen treat. Ticket specials are available depending on group size, day, and time. 

Once you've completed your summer adventures, let us know how things went. Like us on Facebook or share this article with a friend.

Photos courtesy of author