Family Fun in Philadelphia

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, you’re 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:

1. Sesame Place

100 Sesame Rd. Langhorne, PA 19047 (866) 464-3566 Sesame Place is the spot for family fun in Philadelphia when you’re traveling with the little ones. Meet favorites from the Sesame Street cast at Cookie Monster’s Land and Elmo’s World and experience some rides that you and the kids will enjoy. When the weather warms up, be sure to visit the water rides, from Bert & Ernie’s Slip & Slide to Big Bird’s Rambling River.

2. Philadelphia Zoo

3400 W. Girard Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19104 (215) 243-1100 As America’s oldest zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo has delighted visitors of all ages since 1874. Housing a variety of exotic animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, and birds of prey, the park consistently ranks among the best things to in Philadelphia with kids.

3. Please Touch Museum

4231 Avenue of the Republic Philadelphia, PA 19131 (215) 581-3181 Since it opened its doors in 1976, the Please Touch Museum has delighted younger children with innovative exhibits. As the name implies, the museum promotes learning through a number of interactive attractions. Your kids are sure to be amazed by the in-house carousel, The Walking Piano (just like the one in Big), and the Space Station, which displaying over three decades of Star Wars toys and collectibles.

4. The Franklin Institute

222 N. 20th St. Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 448-1200 One of the most celebrated science museums in the nation, The Franklin Institute showcases a collection of family-friendly exhibitions that will spark the inner scientist in your child. Don’t miss out on the limited engagement exhibits Genghis Khan and The Art of the Brick at this standout Philadelphia family attraction.

5. Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

From fossils of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures to wildlife dioramas, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is an adventure through natural history. Be sure to visit The Big Dig and have your kids experience paleontological work inside the museum hall.

6. Reading Terminal Market

51 N. 12 St. Philadelphia, PA 19107 (215) 922-3930 Get your grub on at the Reading Terminal Market, an expansive bazaar of local culinary talents and eclectic produce and culinary goods. Sample dishes from around the world, then take your kids for fudge, cookies, or ice cream at one the many vendors.

7. Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion

8046 Frankford Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19136 (215) 335-9500 Bug fans in the family? The nation’s first insect museum houses bugs from all over the world. Check out the insect feeding sessions every day at 11 AM to get a close experience with our many-legged friends, and see what makes visiting this attraction one of the most popular things to do in Philadelphia with family.

8. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

1020 South St. Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215) 733-0390 This maze of mosaics and galleries is perfect for your creative child. Spanning three city lots, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens showcase artistic talent through its indoor galleries and outdoor showings. For a real hands-on experience, the Gardens provide a number of workshops and educational opportunities that the whole family can enjoy.