Between cab rides, food, drinks and cover charges, it seems as though every trip into downtown Philadelphia ends up costing a fortune.
But there are still many ways to do it for less than $20.
One easy way to cut the cost of a trip downtown is to either walk or take the SEPTA Market-Frankford line. Here are some less obvious options for students who wish to take advantage of Philadelphia without breaking the bank.
-Art After 5 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Every Friday evening, the museum features an international performing artist or group in the Great Stair Hall from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. and from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. The museum makes cafe tables available for appetizers, dinner or dessert. A bar is also provided. Students can wander through the galleries or take guided tours at no extra charge. Admission to the museum is $12, $8 with student ID. The museum is located at Benjamin Franklin Parkway and 26th Street.
- Ice skating at Blue Cross River Rink at Penn's Landing. Students can go ice skating at this rink at Columbus Boulevard and Market Street, which is open every day and late on Friday and Saturday nights. The cost is $6 for admission and $3 for skate rentals.
- Laff House, The Original Comedy Club. This club at Second and South streets has events every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, often with featured guest comedians. The cover charge varies from night to night but is usually between $5 and $15. "It's a good time. It's a nice, relaxed atmosphere," said Angelique Sanchez, a server at the Laff House. "It's a nice crowd, and the comics are excellent." In addition to providing a full-service bar, the club serves appetizers and finger foods during its shows.
- Ortlieb's Jazzhaus jazz club: Live jazz is featured at the bar and restaurant six nights a week. Guest artists are featured each night, often backed by the house band. The food is a mix of Cajun and American fare. There may be no cover charge on a given night, though it can run up to $10. "If [students] like jazz, it's a neat old bar," waitress Marianne Murtagh said.
- Philadelphia Orchestra: Spoil your ears with some classical music without having to spoil your wallet. Student rush tickets are $8 and are available an hour and a half before a performance. Concerts take place at the Kimmel Center at 300 S. Broad St.
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