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While you can certainly visit U. City over Penn Relays weekend and experience the energy around campus, you’ll need to buy tickets if you want to watch any of the competition (ranging from elementary to high schools to college athletes and Olympians). The schedule of events changes every year, so make sure you check out the official Penn Relays site to get the latest news and purchase your tickets (varying from a single-day pass to a three-day VIP experience). Once you’ve got your tickets, it’s off to the races—literally! And don’t forget to stop by the festival tents on Shoemaker Green, located right outside of Franklin Field, to keep the celebrations going.

With so many visitors on campus, we suggest that you walk, bike, or take SEPTA over to Franklin Field. And if you’re going to be in University City, you should make the most of your time there! If you’re feeling inspired by the athletes, hop over to Philadelphia Runner and find a new pair of sneakers with accompanying shorts to be ready to hit the track – or trails – running.  

You can bring food and (non-alcoholic) drinks to the races, so we recommend fueling up before heading into the action. If you’re coming in the morning, head over to Pret A Manger on Penn’s campus and grab something tasty for breakfast. From steel cut oatmeal to breakfast sandwiches and wraps, they’ve got something for every palate. While you’re on campus, take a stroll down Locust Walk—and make sure you stop for a picture at the iconic LOVE sculpture.

If you are looking to step away from the action and get a bite to eat, we recommend a stroll down Spruce Street to Five Guys, known worldwide for its hand-formed burgers cooked to perfection on a grill along with fresh-cut fries. And nothing pairs better with a burger than one of their delicious milkshakes. You can eat in or get it to go and find a nice shady spot around the beautiful Penn campus to enjoy your meal before heading back to the competition.  

There is a lot to see on Penn’s lush campus, but the Penn Museum of Archeology and Anthropology is one of the most impressive sights. While we absolutely recommend a visit to the galleries inside, you can enjoy your breakfast or lunch sitting by the impressive fountain in the beautiful Stoner Courtyard. When you’re finished eating, head right across the street and get back to the races!

If you are hungry for a bite to eat during the races but need a break from the rowdiness of the stadium, then a stroll down the road to Franklin’s Table might be in order. Penn has curated a group of critically acclaimed chefs and local best-in-class operators featuring a diverse menu of food options that will satisfy meat-eaters and vegans, sushi fans, and sandwich lovers alike. With a variety of food offerings, and plenty of indoor seating, Franklin’s Table is the perfect place to get out of the sun and take a respite.