Find your Zen in Philadelphia at an array of traditionally designed Japanese gardens. The place was built using old Japanese building techniques in 1953 in the hopes of creating a future cultural, historic site where traditional values of the culture could be shared. Step out of your comfort zone and learn about tea ceremonies, fold some origami creations, witness taiko drumming, or learn the meditative arts of plant arrangements.

2. Rittenhouse Square

One of the five original squares plotted by state founder, William Penn, Rittenhouse Square is surrounded by everything you could ask for. There’s something for everyone: luxury corporate housing apartments, high-rise residences, popular restaurants, retail stores, and a central tree-filled park. Rittenhouse Square Spring festival and other planned attractions bring in crowds for the art, food, and entertainment.

3. Franklin Square

Ride the Parx Liberty Carousel, play a round of mini-golf, or try the renowned SquareBurger here in this historical park. Franklin Square happens to be another one of the original five squares planned by William Penn in creating Pennsylvania . Trees, fountains, memorials, and playgrounds adorn this park, making it a terrific place to host parties, and events such as corporate outings and even weddings.

4. Delaware Canal State Park

This 60-mile stretch of towpath parallels the Delaware River. Enjoy sights of the ponds, river shoreline, and river islands. Picnic tables are available for nice lunch breaks. With the right permits, registration, and gear, recreation such as fishing, boating, archery, and hunting can become a part of your break from all the business. Hiking and biking remain excellent options for those days you just need to be outside.

5. John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum

America’s first urban refuge was established in Philadelphia in 1972 to preserve, restore, and further develop natural areas, like the Tinicum Marsh. A public made more aware of environmental education through natural habitat distant observation may be the future of saving green spaces worldwide.

6. XPonential Music Fest

Hear tunes from up and coming artists on 88.5FM, a Pennsylvanian award winning radio station, at this 3-day music festival. 3 stages featuring over 30 performers brings in around 30 thousand fans eager to spend time jamming away in the summer; a perfect break outside from the business world.

7. Chaddsford Winery

Making wine since 1982, this Philadelphia winery business cranks out over 30 thousand cases of wine annually for all palates. Reds, whites, and sweets are yours to taste. Sometimes there are wine and cheese-parings for sampling too! Tour and unwind with a glass of fermented grapes to step away from the world.

8. Philadelphia Duck Tour

Tours are great ways to get out and explore. Ride through Philadelphia’s museum district and through the most historic square mile in America with Ride the Ducks. These machines can go straight from land into the water. Have fun on this interactive sight seeing experience.

9. Philly Bike Tour Company

What better way to get both some exercise and sightseeing done than to take a bike tour of the city? Every tour comes with a bike, helmet, and water. Book a public tour for 2-4 hours or a private tour for another way to experience Pennsylvania.

So next time you’re looking for something new to do, or just wanting to go beyond the business of the city limits and corporate bustle, keep your mind open to new experiences . Step outside, sometimes that is all it takes.