City Cast Philly logo

Where To Cry in Public in Philadelphia

Posted on September 26, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Brittany Valentine

Brittany Valentine

serene picture of water and bridge in Philly's Wissahickon Valley Park

Wissahickon Valley Park is great for hiking, biking, and yes, even crying. (Jumping Rocks/Getty Images)

Get in reader, we’re going on a tearful journey throughout the city. Sometimes the urge to sob comes on while you’re out and about, so if you need to find a nook to let the tears flow in private, this segment is for you. Here are a few spots where you can cry in relative peace and solitude.

Oh, and guess what? These suggestions came straight from y’all 💌

Your Spots for a Good Semi-Private Cry

photo of a person in a grassy field, sitting down and holding face in hands to cry

Crying releases hormones and chemicals that work to help you feel better. (Francisco Gonzalez/Unsplash)

“I’ve gone to the Philadelphia Art Museum, sat by the water and let the tears flow on a rainy day.” - Taria B.

“Sit at a bar facing your open laptop and intermittently sip your beverage. No questions asked.” - Carla B.

“I’d suggest crying in any of those private garden/brick walks in Society Hill. I’d argue anywhere in that historic section near where the Declaration was signed, along the rivers, in any of the city parks on a bench or picnic blanket are great spots.” - Beth R.

“Late night walks on the SRT [Schuylkill River Trail] are ok, but it is better with a mask because it’s never that private!” - Gabe P.

“Fairmount Water Works is the best: literal waterfalls lead to eyeball waterfalls. I’ve had a good cry there before.” - Heidi L.

Where Else Can You Go To Cry?

Many thanks to these Hey Philly readers, as well as Andres P., for submitting their go-to cry spots and some pro-tips ❤️

Where do you go when you need to cry?

Share article

Hey Philly

Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

The latest in Philly

Sponsored

Moving to Philadelphia? What to Check Before You Pick a Neighborhood, Book a Truck, and Sign a Lease

With this guide, you can move to Philadelphia, move from another place to Philadelphia, or just see if living in Philadelphia fits your d...

Wellknown Moving Company Logo
Philly's BestAugust 31

What To See at 2026 Philly Fringe

The festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an expanded lineup of performances.

Two colorfully-dressed women in 70s-style clothing dancing on stage under multiple disco balls.
Philly, ExplainedAugust 28

Play Our Philly Crossword Puzzle

This mini-crossword is filled with clues on Philly history and headlines.

City Cast Philly Crossword
Keep It LocalAugust 27

A Pit Stop at PAPERTrail Bike Cafe

When Paul Daniels opened PAPERtrail Bike Cafe six years ago, he envisioned a place where cyclists could stop for an espresso, fix a flat...

PAPERTrail Bike Cafe owner Paul Daniels and his dog Roost outside the store inside Wissahickon Valley Park.
Food & DrinkAugust 27

Your Guide to New Restaurants, Bars & Cafés in Philly

Philly’s local culinary scene is constantly growing and changing. Here’s a recap of some of the restaurants, bars, cafés, and other delic...

An orange plate sits on a wooden table. A cooked fish topped with sauce, herbs, and lemon slices rests on the plate.
Keep It LocalAugust 27

Where to Shop For Your Next Philly Bike Ride

Whether you’re training for the Philadelphia Cycling Classic or just looking for a better way to get around town, Philly has no shortage...

Cyclists competing in the Philadelphia Cycling Classic climb up a hill in Philadelphia while spectators watch.
Philly, ExplainedAugust 21

Prove Your Weekly Philly Knowledge

How well do you know Philly's latest headlines and historical facts? Try your hand at this quiz to find out!

Picture of xfinity mobile Arena building
Keep It LocalAugust 20

Get Matched With a Good Used Book at Little Yenta Books

Ariel and her husband Simon Censor opened used bookshop Little Yenta Books on East Passyunk Avenue in February in the back of a children’...

The brick storefront of Little Yenta Books with a green and white striped awning on East Passyunk Avenue.