Family Activities in Philadelphia, PA — 2026 Guide
Philadelphia blends American history with world-class family attractions at every turn. From the Please Touch Museum to the Liberty Bell, families explore the birthplace of the nation with hands-on fun and affordable experiences.
Get personalized ideas — text Emmie at (877) 703-6643Indoor Activities
Please Touch Museum
Philadelphia's most popular spot for kids under 7 with imaginative play including Alice in Wonderland tea, a SEPTA bus to drive, and water play.
4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Visit websiteThe Franklin Institute
The famous Giant Heart (a two-story walkthrough model), a 1940s steam locomotive, SportsZone, and interactive science exhibits.
222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Visit websitePhiladelphia Zoo
America's first zoo on 42 acres with nearly 1,300 animals and innovative animal trail systems.
3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Visit websiteAcademy of Natural Sciences
The oldest natural science museum in the Americas with live butterfly exhibits, a dinosaur hall, and dino digs for kids.
1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
LEGO rides, 4D cinema, build stations, and Philadelphia Miniland with recreations of Philly landmarks from 1 million LEGO bricks.
500 W Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Outdoor Activities
Franklin Square
Family fun with a Philly-themed mini golf course, a carousel, and a playground.
200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Sister Cities Park
Water features perfect for summer including fountain jets, a wading pond, and a Children's Discovery Garden.
210 N 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Fairmount Park
Over 2,000 acres with hiking trails, bike paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Sesame Place
A children's theme park with rides, water attractions, shows, and Sesame Street character meet-and-greets.
100 Sesame Rd, Langhorne, PA 19047
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Seasonal waterfront park with hammocks, floating gardens, and family dining along the Delaware River.
Free Things to Do
Liberty Bell & Independence Hall
Free tours of America's most iconic historic landmarks.
143 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Fairmount Park
Over 2,000 acres of free trails, playgrounds, and nature.
Sister Cities Park
Free water play and a Children's Discovery Garden.
The Rocky Steps & Philadelphia Museum of Art
Run the famous steps and enjoy free first Sundays at the art museum.
Rainy Day Plan
Please Touch Museum
Hands-on imaginative play for young children.
The Franklin Institute
Walk through the Giant Heart and explore interactive science.
Academy of Natural Sciences
Dinosaurs, butterflies, and nature exhibits.
Reading Terminal Market
Indoor historic food market with dozens of vendors. Great for a family lunch on a rainy day.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring
- •Cherry blossoms along the Schuylkill River
- •Philadelphia Zoo spring events
- •Phillies baseball season opens
Summer
- •Sesame Place water park
- •Sister Cities Park water play
- •Free concerts and movies in the park
Fall
- •Philadelphia Zoo Boo
- •Eastern State Penitentiary Halloween Nights (older kids)
- •Fall foliage in Fairmount Park
Winter
- •Comcast Holiday Spectacular
- •Blue Cross RiverRink ice skating
- •Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
Nearby Day Trips
Longwood Gardens
30 miles west
One of the world's great gardens with 1,077 acres of gardens, meadows, and a spectacular fountain show.
Valley Forge National Park
25 miles west
Free hiking, biking, and tours of Washington's Revolutionary War winter encampment.
Crayola Experience
55 miles north
Color, play, and create in Easton, PA where Crayola crayons are made.
Local Parent Tips
Philadelphia is very walkable. Most major family attractions are in Center City and easily connected by SEPTA.
The Philadelphia CityPASS saves money if you plan 3+ attractions.
Reading Terminal Market is the best family lunch spot in the city. Try the Amish pretzels and Pennsylvania Dutch food.
Explore More Family Resources
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