If you’ve spent much time in Philadelphia, PA in the past, you know how excited the city gets for the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. The two-day race is so much more than a rowing event. People come from all over the world attend the Head of the Schuylkill.
If you want to be a part of this year’s event, plan to be in Philly on October 26–27, 2019. The popular rowing competition takes place in Fairmount Park located at Kelly Drive and Fountain Green Drive. Events kick off at 8 AM on Saturday and Sunday. Teams and rowers compete into the early evening on both days.
A Family-Friendly Event That Has Taken Place for Nearly Five Decades
The family-friendly event allows experienced racers and novices to compete together in one location. It has been taking place since the 1970s when there were only 180 rowers in total. Lengthening the event to two days ensured that everyone interested in racing got a chance to do so. The 2.5-mile race course starts near the Twin Bridges and runs along Kelly Drive. It ends where the Girard Bridge and Boathouse Row meet.
Now in its 49th year, the regatta is bigger and better than ever. Tens of thousands of visitors are expected to attend this year. To show that you’re not a total newbie, perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind for first-time attendees is that the river is pronounced “skoo cull.”
The Best Place to Watch the Races
The best location to watch the races is at the Playing Angels Statue. It’s close to the finish line and provides a great vantage point. You’ll find this area at the intersection of Kelly Drive and Fountain Green Drive. It’s one of the most popular spots for viewing the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta so keep in mind it may be packed with people. Get your spot early!
Transportation Options
Paid parking is available for a nominal fee throughout the area. Yellow school buses marked “HOSR Regatta Shuttle” will be available to pick you up from offsite parking lots to take you to the racing area. You’ll be able to see the designated shuttle stops along the route because they’ll be clearly marked. There is no cost involved with riding the buses to and from the races.
What to Eat While Attending the Regatta
Philadelphia is well-known for its diverse cuisine. There are many restaurants to choose from near Fairmount Park including Fiorino which serves Italian menu items, Zorba’s Tavern with its authentic Greek dishes, Sabrina’s Café at Poweltown for breakfast or brunch, and Spot Gourmet Burgers, which even offers vegetarian options for plant-based diners.
Most of these establishments do not require reservations, but they will all likely offer longer wait times during the Regatta. You may want to call ahead just to be on the safe side so you don’t miss out on watching racers or sightseeing in the City of Brotherly Love.
Where to Stay While Visiting Philly
There are many hotels near Downtown Philadelphia to stay at. A few of the options for you to choose from include The Bellevue Hotel, Rodeway Inn Center City, Alexander Inn, and Chestnut Hill Hotel. Each is conveniently located in the heart of the city and offer different amenities to meet your needs. In such a historic city, many of its hotels offer a rich history to match.
Get Ready to Race or Cheer on the Rowers
Attending the Head of Schuylkill Regatta is an experience like no other. It doesn’t matter if you’re a rower or a spectator — you’re sure to get swept along in the excitement. Making plans to travel to Philly as soon as possible allows you to book a good room in a choice Downtown location. Lodging fills up fast because of the 7,000 athletes and 25,000 spectators filling the city. Don’t miss out!
