For Kids & Families In Philadelphia
Note: Greater Philadelphia is open for business and welcoming visitors. Safety guidelines regarding COVID-19 continue to evolve. While proof of vaccination and mask-wearing are no longer required in Philadelphia, individual businesses in Philadelphia and the Countryside may require them, and the City of Philadelphia strongly recommends mask-wearing in indoor public spaces. Advance tickets or reservations remain recommended or necessary at many spots. Your best bet: Check online or call ahead.
Philadelphia is perfect for kids and families.
Whether its a morning at the Independence Seaport Museum or an afternoon at nearby Sesame Place in Bucks County, kids of all ages delight in everything the city has to offer.
Museums like the Please Touch Museum and The Franklin Institute merge education with play, while outdoor spaces like Franklin Square and Fairmount Park encourage kids to appreciate the great outdoors. And thats not to mention historic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall that people of every age should experience.
No matter what you choose, theres no shortage of activities to occupy the whole clan for a day, a weekend, a week or longer.
Soak Up Skyline Views
Phillys skyline is awesome. We already mentioned the great view from the Ben Franklin Bridge. Philly resident and TravelingMom contributor Sarah Ricks also recommends the views from the Spring Garden and South Street Bridges.
Visit the Spring Garden Bridge before or after your trip to the Philadelphia Art Museum. Youll see the Schuylkill River below and West Philly off to the side. Theres a parking lot on Columbus Boulevard at the entrance to the pedestrian walkway on the Spring Garden Bridge. The skyline view from this vantage point reminds Ricks of the Emerald City. Youll need to check it out to see if you agree.
Fairmount Park
Another fab, free skyline view can be found in Fairmount Park. Head to the Belmont Plateau, located west of the Schuylkill River. From the huge green lawn at Belmont Plateau, the citys skyline is off in the distance. This is a good spot for a picnic, kites, frisbee or a stop after visiting the childrens Please Touch Museum, or the Belmont Mansion Underground Railroad Museum, or the Japanese House and Garden, all located nearby, says Ricks.
Youll get views of the Ben Franklin Bridge, the Delaware River AND the Camden waterfront at Penns Landing. Theres always something going on at this entertainment complex. Check for seasonal pop ups like farmers markets in summer and the RiverRink Winterfest when the weather turns brisk.
Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse
The Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse has been providing children with an invaluable place to learn through for more than a century. Located in East Fairmount Park, the Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse is surrounded by acres of rolling hills, open fields, and wooded forests, which are scattered with over 50 pieces of unique and age-appropriate play equipment. The Playhouse rests in the center of the Playground and spans more than 16,000 square feet of space, housing education-focused play areas such as a railroad terminal, a kitchen, an artists studio and more. The Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse also offers a range of on-site programs, such as Story Time, Crafts in the Playhouse, and Ready, Set and Play!
3500 Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 19121-1095, Phone: 215-765-4325
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Best Of August: Top Things To Do On Long Island With Kids
Summer is not over yet! August on Long Island is a great time to enjoy outdoor movies and concerts, summer festivals, and the best beach days.
Make the most of the last month of summer with our big list of things to do on Long Island in August. From an Encanto Sing-Along and cardboard races to the Paumanauke Pow Wow and a Bubble Palooza Color Fun Run, August is filled with amazing options.
We’ve also got plenty more things to do in our Summer Fun Guide, which is jam-packed with our picks for drive-in and pop-up movies, must-do summer outings, and outdoor eats. Be sure to check our Activity Calendar frequently, as we’re adding new events every day. Read on for our curated list of can’t-miss activities this August for families.
Were adding more events to our Family Activity Calendar daily, so dont forget to check it frequently.
Get our picks for every weekend in your inbox.
As always, if an event piques your interest, click through to our listing for all the details, including addresses and times.
Christmas And Hanukkah With Elmo And Friends
Any Elmo fans out there? For four decades, Sesame Place has brought everyones favorite childrens show to life in a very special way. Christmas is no different! For the holidays this year, theyre offering a new drive-through experience from November 10 to December 23. Located 30 minutes north of Philadelphia, it features millions of twinkling lights, holiday decor and music, Sesame Street friends, Santa, and even a nine-foot menorah to celebrate the season! Kids who love this classic childrens program wont want to miss this. Additionally, their classic A Very Furry Christmas Celebration will be held from November 21 to January 3, where guests can enjoy two Christmas shows. Or, take a ride on the Sesame Place Furry Express through the decked-out theme park! Remember that holiday events sell out quickly in Philadelphia, so early booking is recommended.
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National Museum Of American Jewish History
A specific and very important part of our nations story can be learned about at the National Museum of American Jewish History.
Coming here is one of the best things to do in Philly for understanding how Jewish individuals have made their stamp on our country.
You can learn so much about their indelible impact.
The National Museum of American Jewish History has had some very impactful exhibitions.
Among these are Leonard Bernstein: The Power of Music and 1917: How One Year Changed the World.
This is one of the top activities if youre wanting to learn more about the contributions of one particular group.
If you have Jewish roots, this can be a very powerful experience.
Going to the National Museum of American Jewish History is what to do for a mentally and emotionally stimulating experience in Philly.
Its open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
There is free admission to the museum.
Address: 101 S Independence Mall E, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States
Traveling to other areas of Pennsylvania? Youll love our list of things to do in Lancaster, PA!
Why We Recommend This Free Activity
Whether you are a fan of Edgar Allan Poe or not, The Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site is a must-visit.
Here, you can explore his former home and see where his work came to life.
It also features many interactive exhibits to keep you well-entertained throughout your tour, like listening to dramatic recordings of readings of his work, deciphering codes, watching films, and much more.
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The Best Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids
Traveling to the City of Brotherly Love with the family? You’re in luck there are plenty of things to do in Philadelphia with kids. Family fun here comes in a variety of forms, from museums and monuments to zoos and art exhibits. Experience American history at Independence Hall, enjoy rides and waterworks at Sesame Place, or eat local fare at the Reading Terminal Market. No matter what you and the kids enjoy, youre bound to find some Philadelphia family attractions that will make your vacation a memorable one. Need to know where to go? Read our guide on the Top 10 things to do in Philadelphia with family:
Quaint Fun In Bucks County
Holiday fun doesnt always need to take place in the center of the city. In fact, some families may prefer a less crowded alternative to winter in Philadelphia. For a dose of nostalgia, head to charming Bucks County and spend the day shopping surrounded by a million lights at Peddlers Village. While there, families can also enjoy a gingerbread house competition display or participate in their Family Mystery Walking Tours: Elf on the Stealth on select dates from November 20 to January 10. Join Mrs. Claus at the North Pole to take a tour of the property and help her find her elf! Nearby New Hope, named number six on Country Livings 2019 list of the 55 Best Christmas Towns, is filled with charming B& Bs, shops, and restaurants, and family fun for all ages. Take a ride on the New Hope Railroad to overlook the Delaware River!
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Things To Do With Kids In Philly This Week
Here are the best things to do with the kids this week.
This calendar is updated every Monday with the best events for the week. You can always find it at inquirer.com/kidscalendar
When spring comes really comes, like theres no chance itll snow in the next few weeks everything seems possible. You want your kid to play a new sport? Learn about American history? Watch a nature doc with a lesson on equity? Get their hands dirty, let loose on an amazing playground, and watch a circus act? Climb a silo? If there were only more hours in the day and days in the week or weekend you could do it all.
» READ MORE: Submit an event to our calendar
Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids Near Me
Philadelphia – where history literally comes to life!
Philadelphia is the birthplace of America, and an incredible place for to go with kids to see first hand what they have learnt in the classroom. But not just see it – they can live and breathe it!
They can experience the American Revolution as it happened at the Lights of Liberty. Think history has to be expensive? Not at all! The most iconic of all landmarks all sit within the Independence National Historical Park Sneak a look at the chair on the roof – thats where George Washington sat for three months straight! True story!
Get up to some flag waving fun at The Betsy Ross House, then see the faces on those little history tots light up at Franklin Square – with a vintage carousel, miniature golf and storytelling!
Who said history was boring! Philadelphia is a vibrant, educational, and best of all affordable city, that welcomes kids just like the constitution welcomed the pen.
Liberty, justice, and kids fun for all!
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Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel
With 150 non-smoking guest rooms and suites, the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel offers families luxury and style. Its within walking distance of some of Philadelphias most historic sites. In addition, its just 10 minutes from Philadelphia International airport, meaning youre able to land and relax in no time at all.
Or See Another Side Of Your Favorite Museum
The Franklin InstituteKicking off on February 18th, the science museum is unveiling its long-awaited Harry Potter exhibition. Spanning 20,000-square feet, fans can get an up-close look at movie props and costumes, and explore areas intricately designed to conjure the Great Hall, the Forbidden Forest, and more. Its pure magic for Gryffindors and Slytherins alike. 222 North 20th Street, Logan Circle.
Independence HallSure, theyve seen where the Declaration was signed, but are the kids official Junior Rangers? Download the free Independence Junior Ranger app, pick up the activity book at the visitors center, and complete activities to earn a badge and certificate. Theres even an induction ceremony. 520 Chestnut Street, Old City.
Please Touch MuseumFrom now until May 8th, experience Rube Goldberg: The World of Hilarious Invention exhibition at the all-star kids museum. Inspired by the engineer and inventors drawings, kids will go bananas for the kooky contraptions, which they can, of course, try for themselves. 4231 Avenue of the Republic, West Philly.
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And More Scenes From The Movie
But if youre a Rocky fan, theres plenty to see in Philadelphia beyond the Art Museum steps. Once you run up the steps , stop by the Rocky statue at the bottom of the stairs. Created for Rocky III , its a favorite place for visitors to snap a picture next to the champ.
Want more? Head to the Italian Market, an outdoor market on Ninth Street featured in many of the films in the franchise. The Italian Stallone jogged by the shops of the Italian Market as part of his training and famously practiced his punch on a side of beef at a butcher shop here.
And still more? If you visit Laurel Hill Cemetery, you can find between the sad statues and eerie memorials the burial place of Adrian Balboa, Rockys beloved wife. Of course, Adrian is a fictional character. But the grave was featured in Rocky Balboa, and the gravestone used in the movie is still on display in the historic cemetery.
Academy Of Natural Sciences Of Drexel University
An incredible science museum thats been around for more than 200 years, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is absolutely brilliant and beautiful.
If you want to plan your trip with an emphasis on learning, you have to come here.
Its a lot of fun for science lovers and those with other types of interest.
At this museum, you can see all kinds of cool exhibits and have fun as you give your mind a polish.
Some of our favorite aspects of the Academy of Natural Sciences are exhibits devoted to dinosaurs, butterflies, and mollusks.
You cant go wrong with a museum that has a full-scale T-Rex skeleton in its corridors.
If your kids love dinosaurs, chances are theyre going to love this museum.
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is where to go in Philly for learning about the natural world.
Its open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission is $22 for adult guests, $18 for children, $19 for seniors, students, and military members, and free for children younger than two.
Its worth knowing that lower ticket prices are available if you order online.
Address: 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
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Fun Things To Do With Kids In Philadelphia
Jim CheneyDisclosure:
While no visit to Philly is complete without visiting Independence Hall or the Philadelphia Museum of Art , these are a few of my favorite attractions that are specifically geared towards kids or have a lot of kid-friendly activities. Adding in a few of these during your trip will ensure that every member of the family loves their trip to the city.
Here are a few of my familys favorite things to do with kids in Philadelphia.
First Bank Of The United States
Gary Whitton / Shutterstock
When Alexander Hamilton started this bank, the first national one in the country, people were infuriated.
It made other Founding Fathers mad, such as Thomas Jefferson, and Hamiltons liquor tax influenced the infamous Whiskey Rebellion.
However, the First Bank of the United States is definitely one of the most important places to visit for learning about our countrys history.
Your visit will be a bit limited, however.
At this time, the First Bank of the United States is not open in any capacity.
It was shuttered centuries ago, but its not open for tours either.
However, just strolling by it on a sightseeing excursion can be one of the most enjoyable activities.
If youre looking for things to do in downtown Philadelphia, be sure to see the First Bank of the United States.
Its a very important part of Philadelphia and its legacy.
We hope its someday opened for tours.
Address: 120 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States
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Holiday Fun On The Farm
Holiday fun is even better on a farm! Just north of the city in Yardley, visit Shady Brook Farms drive-through Christmas light show from November 21 through January 10. There, kids will be amazed by over three million lights and whimsical displays across acres of farmland. And thats not all! The farm is also offering an open-air tractor ride through the light show, plus a walkable area called Candy Cane Lane featuring musical, dancing lights. Families can also purchase a Christmas tree and treats in the farm shop. Linvalla Orchards, another popular spot west of Philadelphia, even offers families the opportunity to cut their own trees to take home. A trip here also guarantees a visit with Santa and his elves in their Winter Wonderland, live music, the Philly Waffle Cabin. Plus, a large selection of holiday decorations and gifts! Celebrations span select dates from November 28 through December 23.
