Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is a trove of family-friendly activities that promise unforgettable adventures for visitors of all ages. Rich in history, culture, and innovation, this bustling city offers a perfect blend of educational experiences and fun attractions that can engross the little ones while providing enjoyable outings for parents.

With lush parks, busy markets, and exciting entertainment options, Philadelphia is an ideal destination for a family vacation filled with exploration and discovery. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this guide will help you uncover the best experiences that make Philadelphia a fantastic family destination.

Top 10 Things to do with Kids in Philadelphia

Jump to:

1. Sesame Place Philadelphia
2. Please Touch Museum
3. Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse
4. Franklin Square
5. The Franklin Institute
6. LEGOLAND Discovery Center
7. Philadelphia Zoo
8. Eastern State Penitentiary
9. Reading Terminal Market
10. Spruce Street Harbor Park

Sesame Place Philadelphia

Sesame Place Philadelphia is an exceptional destination for families with young children, combining the beloved world of Sesame Street with a colorful, interactive amusement park. Located just outside Philadelphia in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Sesame Place is the only theme park in the U.S. based entirely on the iconic children’s show.

It offers countless opportunities for kids to meet their favorite characters like Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster while enjoying a range of family-friendly rides, water attractions, and interactive shows. Parents and children alike can experience the park’s inclusive environment, which includes sensory-friendly spaces, making it an ideal spot for kids of all abilities.

A visit to Sesame Place guarantees a day of memorable, kid-focused entertainment within an easy drive of Philadelphia. The park’s seasonal events during Halloween and Christmas add unique experiences to each visit, encouraging families to return for new adventures year-round.

With plenty of options for dining, relaxation areas, and engaging play zones, Sesame Place offers an immersive experience perfect for a family outing near Philadelphia. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a full weekend adventure, Sesame Place Philadelphia delivers fun, education, and excitement in a way only Sesame Street can.

Please Touch Museum

The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is a top choice for families with young children, offering a hands-on experience that encourages learning through play. Situated in the historic Memorial Hall in Fairmount Park, this museum is designed specifically with young minds in mind, providing interactive exhibits that spark creativity, curiosity, and imagination.

Kids can explore themed play areas, like “Wonderland,” which brings Lewis Carroll’s classic to life, or “Rocket Room,” where they can discover the basics of space and flight. The museum’s “City Capers” exhibit even lets children role-play as grown-ups in a pint-sized city, complete with a grocery store, hospital, and construction zone.

Exploring the Please Touch Museum is not just fun but educational, helping children build skills in problem-solving, social interaction, and critical thinking—all through activities they naturally enjoy. Regular programming, like puppet shows, storytimes, and art workshops, further enriches the experience, providing variety each time you visit.

The museum’s layout is stroller-friendly, with cozy rest areas and a café that caters to families, making it a comfortable outing for parents too. With its engaging exhibits and family-centered approach, the Please Touch Museum is a must-visit destination in Philadelphia, perfect for making memories while encouraging early childhood development through play.

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse is a fantastic outdoor destination for families with young children in Philadelphia, offering over six acres of free, safe play space in Fairmount Park. Known for its iconic, century-old wooden slide, this playground encourages active play and exploration in a natural setting.

Kids can enjoy climbing structures, swings, and imaginative play areas designed to inspire creativity and movement. The on-site Playhouse, a historic mansion just for children under 5, provides an indoor space with rooms full of age-appropriate toys and activities.

With plenty of shade, picnic spots, and a welcoming atmosphere, Smith Memorial Playground is ideal for an afternoon of affordable, active fun where families can relax while kids roam and explore to their hearts’ content.

Franklin Square

Franklin Square is a lively and family-friendly park in Philadelphia’s historic district, offering a mix of fun attractions in a scenic outdoor setting. Known for its Philly-themed mini golf course, carousel, and playground, Franklin Square is a great spot for families to enjoy a few hours of relaxed, outdoor entertainment.

The square’s picturesque fountain, complete with a dazzling light and music show in the evenings, adds a charming touch. Seasonal events, like fall festivals and holiday lights, keep the park fresh and inviting throughout the year.

The ample picnic areas and a cozy cafe serving local favorites, Franklin Square provides a perfect, laid-back experience for families exploring Philadelphia’s historic heart.

The Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute is one of Philadelphia’s most captivating attractions for families with children, offering a perfect blend of hands-on science and interactive learning. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, this renowned science museum brings education to life through fascinating exhibits and engaging activities, making it ideal for families looking to inspire curiosity and wonder in young minds.

Highlights include the iconic Giant Heart, a walk-through human heart model, the awe-inspiring planetarium, and live science demonstrations that cover everything from physics to space exploration. For kids interested in engineering, the Train Factory and flight simulators offer a chance to explore mechanics and technology in a fun, approachable way.

With special exhibits that change throughout the year, the Franklin Institute keeps families coming back for fresh experiences. Events such as overnight camp-ins and 3D movie screenings in the IMAX Theater add even more excitement to a visit.

Whether you’re exploring the mysteries of the brain in the “Your Brain” exhibit or taking a thrilling trip through virtual reality, the Franklin Institute provides a full day of stimulating activities for all ages. Its location in the cultural district of Philadelphia also makes it easy to pair a visit with other nearby family attractions, creating a memorable and educational outing.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

The LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Philadelphia is a fantastic indoor attraction for families, especially those with young LEGO enthusiasts. Located in the Plymouth Meeting Mall, this interactive center is filled with hands-on LEGO-building stations, themed play zones, and exciting rides designed for kids to engage in creative play.

Highlights include Miniland Philadelphia, a mini replica of the city built entirely from LEGO bricks, and the 4D Cinema, where short LEGO movies come to life with added effects like wind and rain.

The amazing special building workshops, a soft play area for younger kids, and countless LEGO bricks for constructing anything their imaginations desire, LEGOLAND Discovery Center inspires kids to explore and create.

Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first zoo, is an exciting destination for families, offering over 1,300 animals across beautifully landscaped habitats. Known for its innovative Zoo360 trails, which allow animals like big cats and primates to roam above visitor pathways, the zoo creates a unique, immersive experience where kids can see wildlife up close and in motion.

In addition to its diverse animal exhibits, the zoo features kid-friendly attractions like a train, carousel, and the WildWorks ropes course for adventurous young climbers. Seasonal events, interactive feeding opportunities, and engaging animal presentations make each visit fresh and memorable, encouraging both learning and play in a vibrant setting.

Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary offers families a fascinating, historical experience with a touch of mystery, as one of the oldest and most iconic former prisons in the United States.

Known for its grand architecture and unique radial design, this historic site invites visitors to explore cell blocks that once held notorious criminals like Al Capone. The penitentiary provides an engaging audio tour narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, plus interactive exhibits and art installations that bring to life the history of incarceration and justice.

Seasonal events, such as the famous “Terror Behind the Walls” Halloween attraction, add an extra layer of excitement, making Eastern State Penitentiary an unforgettable stop for those interested in history with a bit of intrigue.

Reading Terminal Market

Reading Terminal Market is a must-visit for families in Philadelphia, offering an incredible range of local and international foods in a lively, bustling setting. Established in 1893, this historic market features over 80 vendors selling everything from classic Philly cheesesteaks to artisanal sweets, fresh produce, and unique regional specialties.

Kids will love wandering through the colorful stalls, sampling treats, and watching the action as food is prepared in real-time. With dining spaces and countless food options to please even the pickiest eaters, Reading Terminal Market is an exciting culinary experience where families can enjoy the flavors of Philadelphia under one roof.

Spruce Street Harbor Park

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a brilliant seasonal destination along Philadelphia’s Delaware River waterfront, offering families a mix of relaxation and recreation. Known for its colorful hammocks, floating gardens, and boardwalk lined with games and food vendors, the park creates a playful and inviting atmosphere for all ages.

In the evening, the park lights up with beautiful LED installations, adding a magical touch to the waterfront views. Whether you’re paddling in a kayak, playing oversized lawn games, or enjoying a snack by the water, Spruce Street Harbor Park provides an ideal setting for unwinding and soaking in the city’s outdoor charm.

Philadelphia is packed with family-friendly attractions that offer endless ways to explore, learn, and play together. From immersive museums and historic sites to unique outdoor parks and interactive experiences, there’s something for every age and interest in this beautiful city.

Make the most of your family getaway by planning ahead — pre-book your accommodation and secure parking in Philadelphia with ParkSleepFly for a stress-free, convenient experience. Enjoy peace of mind as you dive into all that Philadelphia has to offer, knowing your trip is smooth and well-prepared with ParkSleepFly’s trusted services.

If you’re ditching the kids, be sure to check out some sights and locations in Philadelphia that adults will appreciate.

Photo by Chris Henry – Unsplash