The Naval Yard in Philadelphia is a must-see for maritime enthusiasts and lovers of green energy and innovative technology, all while relaxing on a mixed-use island. Visitors are surround by enormous Navy ships docked at eye-level on the river. There is a Marriott so travelers can spend the night in order to roam around all 1,200 acres. There is retail shopping, and even free outdoor yoga in the summer. Parking and public transportation to the Naval YardSituated at the southern end of Broad Street, The Navy Yard is one of the region's most accessible destinations. Visitors can reach The Navy Yard by subway, shuttle, car, bike, bus, or even on foot. The best options are the two free shuttle buses provided by the Naval Yard to take visitors from Center City Philadelphia and the AT&T Broad Street subway station directly there.Best and worst time to go to the Naval YardThe Naval yard does very much rely on two seasons. From May through September the yard is hopping every night of the week with special events from beer festivals to free outdoor yoga to bocce ball.January and February would be the worst months to go since that is the thick of the freezing Philadelphia winter and the wind off the river will be biting and bitter. One can always expect snow in those months as well.Admission to the Naval YardIt is free to go to the Naval Yard between 6am-8pm on weekdays. Travelers staying at the Marriott on the island do not have the same restrictions as to when the yard opens and closes. Weekends are open for special events such as the annual Broad Street run.Must see/do at the Naval YardVisitors must see the enormous Navy ships docked on the rolling river at street level. One cannot help but be overwhelmed at the sheer size and proximity of those ships.Shopping and eating is a great way to experience the yard. Taste Philly pork sandwiches or hang out at a café on the water. Buy some locally made items by Philadelphians while soaking in the soothing waterfront. It is a brand new way of blending urban and nature with still a vibrant big city feel.The Navy Yard has over 20 acres of parks and a mile of waterfront trail. These open spaces provide opportunities for visitors to stretch their legs, expand their minds, and enjoy the outdoors.Other places to visit near the Naval YardIf you are a sports fan, you are in heaven. All of the Philadelphia sports arenas are less than a mile away and can easily be accessed via the free shuttle that goes there.Travelers can continue on the subway's Orange-Broad Street Line heading north and in a few short stops get off at South Street. No matter if one heads east or west on South Street, visitors are in for a fun, funky, artsy treat.And if it is a big day for history, take that same subway line up to City Hall and check out the brand new Dilworth Plaza. There is a skating rink too.Insider tip for visitors to Naval YardWhether you go to a food truck or pizza joint, you need to have a cheesesteak. Remember the way to order your cheesteak is to say "wit whiz". Don't worry, the person serving you will be extremely impressed.Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist for 20 years.