From interactive museums to sprawling parks, the City of Brotherly Love offers countless opportunities for young explorers to learn, play, and discover. Whether your family is looking to dive into arts and culture or embark on outdoor escapades, the Cobblestone Pediatric Dentistry team has curated the ultimate list of must-try activities that will keep your little ones entertained while creating lasting memories. So grab your explorer’s hat and let’s uncover the top ten fun-filled activities that make Philly a kid-friendly wonderland!
1. Visit the Please Touch Museum
The Please Touch Museum is a magical realm designed just for kids. Located in Fairmount Park, it’s filled with interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity.
Children can explore various themed areas, from a miniature city to an enchanting forest. They can build castles, play pretend in the grocery store, or even pilot their own plane. The hands-on approach makes learning feel like pure fun.
Special programs often include storytelling sessions and art workshops. Parents will appreciate how these activities promote critical thinking while keeping little ones entertained.
Don’t forget to check out the museum’s beautiful carousel! It offers a delightful ride through history and adds a whimsical touch to your visit.
Whether it’s rainy or sunny outside, this museum guarantees an unforgettable day packed with exploration and laughter for every child who walks through its doors.
2. Explore the Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is a magical place for children and adults alike. It’s the oldest zoo in America, brimming with excitement and wonder.
As you stroll through its lush pathways, you’ll encounter over 1,300 animals from around the globe. The interactive exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning. Kids can get up close with creatures like kangaroos or marvel at majestic lions lounging in their enclosures.
One of the main attractions is the Zoo360 experience, where some animals roam overhead on suspended trails. It adds an adventurous twist to your visit that will leave kids wide-eyed with amazement.
Don’t miss out on special events throughout the year, including animal encounters and educational programs tailored for young explorers. Every corner of this zoo offers a chance to connect with wildlife while having fun together as a family.
3. Experience Adventure Aquarium
Adventure Aquarium is a treasure trove of underwater wonders. Nestled along the Camden waterfront, it’s an easy trip from Philadelphia.
Kids can marvel at over 8,500 aquatic creatures. From playful penguins to majestic sharks, every corner offers something new and exciting. The touch tank invites little hands to explore sea stars and horseshoe crabs up close.
Don’t miss the Shark Bridge—it’s not just any walkway; it’s a thrilling experience that lets visitors walk right above the shark tanks! Kids will feel like they’re in their own ocean adventure as they gaze down at these fascinating predators swimming below.
The interactive exhibits provide opportunities for learning through play. Storytelling sessions and feeding demonstrations keep young minds engaged while fostering curiosity about marine life.
Adventure Aquarium truly makes education fun, blending exploration with unforgettable memories for families visiting this vibrant city.
4. Take a ride on the Franklin Square Carousel
The Franklin Square Carousel is a charming gem nestled in the heart of Philadelphia. This beautifully restored carousel features 52 hand-painted wooden horses, each with its own unique character.
As children hop aboard their favorite steed, they’re transported into a world filled with whimsy and delight. The gentle music that plays adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for family bonding.
Parents can relax on nearby benches while watching their little ones giggle and cheer as the carousel spins gracefully around.
After riding, families can explore Franklin Square’s other attractions—a mini-golf course and a playground await discovery just steps away. It’s more than just a ride; it’s an experience wrapped in colorful nostalgia. Don’t miss this delightful adventure during your visit to Philadelphia!
5. Step back in time at the Eastern State Penitentiary
The Eastern State Penitentiary offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, this historic site now serves as an interactive museum.
As you walk through its crumbling halls and shadowy cells, your imagination takes flight. Kids can learn about prison life in the 1800s while exploring eerie yet fascinating architecture. The stories told here are both chilling and intriguing.
Special programs often engage young minds with hands-on activities that spark curiosity. Guided tours reveal tales of escape attempts and famous inmates, making history come alive.
During Halloween season, the penitentiary transforms into a haunted attraction—an adventure for brave little souls. It’s ideal for families looking to blend education with excitement in an unusual setting.
A visit here is more than just sightseeing; it’s stepping into another world filled with rich narratives waiting to be discovered together.
6. Enjoy a day at Sesame Place theme park
Sesame Place is a magical destination for families. Located just outside Philadelphia, it brings the beloved characters of Sesame Street to life. Kids can meet Elmo, Big Bird, and many others throughout the park.
The attractions cater to all ages. From exciting water rides to gentle play areas designed for little ones, there’s something for everyone. The fun doesn’t stop with rides; interactive shows keep kids engaged and entertained.
Families can also enjoy themed dining experiences that offer tasty treats inspired by their favorite characters. It’s a great way to take a break between activities while soaking up the atmosphere.
Special events like parades add extra excitement throughout the day. Watching colorful floats go by while singing along creates lasting memories for kids and parents alike. Every corner of Sesame Place is filled with laughter and joy, making it an unforgettable experience.
7. Get creative at the Philadelphia Magic Gardens
The Philadelphia Magic Gardens is a vibrant mosaic wonderland that sparks creativity in kids and adults alike. This artistic labyrinth, created by visionary Isaiah Zagar, showcases stunning tile murals, glass sculptures, and whimsical installations.
As children wander through the enchanting pathways, they can marvel at the colorful art pieces formed from recycled materials. The textures and designs invite imagination to run wild.
Workshops are often available for those eager to get hands-on with their own artistic endeavors. Kids can learn about mosaic-making techniques while experimenting with their ideas under the guidance of experienced artists.
This unique space not only serves as an inspiration but also promotes self-expression through art. It’s a perfect spot for families looking to explore creativity together amidst a backdrop of color and charm.
8. Watch a live performance at the Walnut Street Theatre for Kids series
The Walnut Street Theatre is a gem in Philadelphia’s vibrant arts scene. This historic venue offers a fantastic Kids series that makes theater accessible and fun for younger audiences.
Imagine introducing your child to live performances in an intimate setting. The energy of the actors combined with the excitement from the audience creates a magical atmosphere. Shows are crafted specifically for kids, ensuring they’re engaged throughout.
From beloved fairy tales to original stories, each performance sparks imagination and creativity. Children not only watch but often interact, making it more than just passive entertainment.
Attending a show here can be an unforgettable experience. It encourages appreciation for the arts while providing wonderful family memories. Grab some popcorn and enjoy an afternoon or evening filled with laughter and excitement at this iconic theater!
9. Learn about science at The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is a treasure trove for young scientists and curious minds. This interactive science museum offers hands-on exhibits that spark imagination. Kids can explore everything from space to the human body.
One of the highlights is the Giant Heart, an enormous walk-through exhibit that gives children a unique perspective on how their own hearts function. It’s both educational and fun!
Don’t miss the planetarium shows either; they transport kids into distant galaxies with stunning visuals and captivating stories.
With rotating exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover. Little ones will love experimenting in the Science Cloud or watching live demonstrations in various labs throughout the facility.
Whether your child dreams of being an astronaut or simply loves asking “why,” The Franklin Institute makes learning about science an exciting adventure!
10. Have some outdoor fun at Fairmount Park and Smith Memorial Playground
Fairmount Park and Smith Memorial Playground offer a perfect blend of nature, fun, and adventure. Spanning over 2,000 acres, Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Families can hike scenic trails, bike along winding paths, or simply enjoy a picnic surrounded by beautiful greenery.
At Smith Memorial Playground, kids can let loose and explore an expansive play area designed just for them. With unique equipment like giant slides and climbing structures, laughter fills the air as children engage in imaginative play. The playground also features engaging programs that promote creativity and learning.
Whether you prefer to relax under a tree with a book or chase after your little ones at the playground, both locations provide ample opportunities for families to bond outdoors. Fresh air combined with plenty of space makes it easy to unwind while enjoying quality time together.
Philadelphia truly has something special for every family member looking for fun activities. From hands-on museums to thrilling adventures in nature—there’s no shortage of excitement waiting around each corner!
