Philadelphia is a city that offers families unforgettable experiences. Steeped in history with iconic landmarks and parks, Philly also offers interactive science and art museums, as well as incredible dining and shopping. There’s something for all your family to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, Philadelphia is a place for families who are looking for fun and education while eating well in the process!
In this article, we’ll highlight the 10 best family-friendly activities that Philadelphia has to offer, so grab your kids and let’s start the tour!
Step into the Past at Liberty Bell Center
Liberty Bell Center is one of the most iconic landmarks in Philadelphia and is a great attraction for visitors of all ages. The bell, in Independence National Historical Park, is one of America’s original symbols of independence and freedom.
Take a free tour and explore the center’s exhibits, which offer an in-depth look at the bell’s history and significance, along with how it was made, its role in American history, and how it became synonymous with freedom and democracy.
Enjoy Food and Shopping at Reading Terminal Market
The Reading Terminal Market is a food lover’s paradise and a truly unique shopping experience. The vendors consist of over 80 small, family-owned businesses selling fresh produce, artisanal cheese, arts and crafts, and even flowers, so nobody will leave disappointed.
Sample local Philly cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and hoagies, or try international cuisine from Thailand, Mexico, and Italy. Kids will love the market’s lively atmosphere, and everyone will enjoy tasting new foods. Also, walking food tours are now available to tempt and educate, so make sure you arrive hungry, as you’ll be sampling all kinds of delicious treats.
Relax in Franklin Square
Franklin Square is an 8-acre park in the heart of Philadelphia and a great stop for families with young children. Established in 1683, Franklin Square is home to several family-friendly attractions, including a carousel, mini-golf, and a playground.
The Parx Liberty Carousel is one of the country’s oldest and is a replica of a Philadelphia trolley, featuring 30 hand-carved animals. The kids can enjoy mini-golf on the Philadelphia-themed course or explore the playground. There’s also a 180-year-old fountain that puts on a show every 30 minutes between noon and 9 pm. The park’s scenic surroundings make it a magnificent spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon with the kids.
Tap into Your Wild Side at the Zoo
The award-winning Philadelphia Zoo is home to over 1,900 rare and endangered animals from around the world. The nation’s first zoo, which opened in 1874, features exhibits including Big Cat Falls, McNeil Avian Center, and PECO Primate Reserve.
Visitors can watch animal feedings and attend interactive shows. The establishment of Zoo360, a system of trails and pathways, created more space for the animals as well as more opportunities for us to watch them. A variety of educational programs and events are always on the calendar, making the zoo a great place to spend the day. Check the website’s schedule, as activities and shows change daily.
Feel History at the National Constitution Center
The National Constitution Center is a museum designed to explore the history and significance of the United States Constitution.
The museum features interactive displays, exhibits, and artifacts that teach about the Constitution and its place in American history. You can see a rare original copy of the Constitution and participate in debates. The kids can even take the Presidential Oath of Office. Whether you’re a history buff, or have someone just beginning to learn about history, the National Constitution Center is a fascinating step back in time.
Have an Underwater Play Day at the Adventure Aquarium
The Adventure Aquarium, located just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, is home to over 15,000 aquatic animals.
Kids can see sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles in a variety of interactive exhibits and shows that provide an educational look at the marine world. The Penguin Feeding Show is always fun, but maybe you’d rather touch a shark. Or perhaps a 4D movie is as close as you want to get! Whatever your ideal level of interaction is, the aquarium has something to offer you.
Find Your Inner Artist at the Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art should be on the list for any family interested in art and culture. It features over 240,000 works of art spanning 4000 years, including American and European paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, and photography.
You can explore the museum’s galleries, join in with art-making activities, and enjoy special exhibitions. Finally, for film buffs, the museum’s famous “Rocky Steps,” famously surmounted by Sylvester Stallone in the movie Rocky, are a popular spot for photos as well as providing a great view of the city.
Get Involved at the Please Touch Museum
The Please Touch Museum is a hands-on museum specially targeted at children under the age of 8. It features interactive exhibits that allow exploration and learning through play. There’s an Alice in Wonderland, a pirate ship, and kids can create their own art. Daily story times, performances, and workshops are also offered. If you have young children, this is the perfect place for them to be as curious and active as they want to be.
Young Scientists Will Love The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is a science museum and planetarium with hands-on learning experiences for kids and adults alike, including exhibits such as a walk-through heart, a giant human brain, and a virtual reality experience. Young Einsteins will enjoy science demonstrations or seeing shows at the planetarium. From sports to technology to test your piloting skills, The Franklin Institute demonstrates that science is all around us and can be really fun!
Kick Back at Spruce Street Harbor Park
Spruce Street Harbor Park, a seasonal waterfront park, offers family-friendly activities of all kinds.
Open May through September, the park’s attractions include a boardwalk, hammocks, and even games like giant Jenga and Connect Four. There’s also a variety of food and drink available, with a beer garden for the adults. Events like artist’s markets and DJ nights are on the calendar every week.
When you’re ready to take it easy, the park’s floating gardens and colorful lights make it a pretty and relaxing way to unwind and watch the world go by.
The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in Philadelphia in Summary
Philadelphia, PA, offers families numerous opportunities for fun and education. From historical landmarks to museums and parks, the city will entertain the whole family. The Liberty Bell Center, Reading Terminal Market, and Franklin Square are great for young children, while the Philadelphia Zoo, National Constitution Center, and Adventure Aquarium offer educational opportunities for all. The Please Touch Museum and Franklin Institute provide hands-on learning experiences for kids, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art offers a chance to explore art and culture. For families looking to relax and enjoy the waterfront, there’s Spruce Street Harbor Park.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Philadelphia offers families an unforgettable experience. The City of Brotherly Love is calling. Answer the call!
