Philadelphia welcomes families with open arms, offering a perfect blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. The city provides an ideal mix of historical significance and child-friendly attractions that make it an excellent destination for families. With walkable neighborhoods, interactive museums, and plenty of outdoor spaces, Philadelphia allows children to learn while having fun. The city's compact downtown area means many attractions are within walking distance or a short ride from each other, making it easy to navigate with young explorers in tow.
From the iconic Liberty Bell to the engaging exhibits at The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia offers countless opportunities for children to learn and play while building cherished family memories.
Dive Into Discovery at the Adventure Aquarium
Just across the Delaware River, Adventure Aquarium offers an underwater adventure that captivates children of all ages. Kids can marvel at hippos, penguins, and sea turtles while exploring the two-million-gallon facility. The touch tanks provide hands-on experiences where children can feel stingrays and small sharks. For the brave, the Shark Bridge allows you to walk just inches above circling sharks. The KidZone area caters specifically to younger visitors with child-sized exhibits and appropriate marine life encounters.
Step Back in Time at the Museum of the American Revolution
History comes alive at the American Revolution Museum, where engaging exhibits transport families to the founding days of our nation. Children can explore hands-on exhibits designed to make history tangible and exciting. They can try on Revolutionary War uniforms, climb aboard a privateer ship replica, and see Washington's actual headquarters tent. The museum uses immersive environments, digital interactives, and object theaters to tell stories from multiple perspectives, helping kids understand how ordinary people experienced extraordinary events during America's founding.
Spark Curiosity at The Franklin Institute
When it comes to kid-friendly educational museums in Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute is a premier destination. This science museum engages young minds with exhibits that encourage exploration and discovery. Kids can walk through a giant heart, experience what it's like to be in a hurricane, or pilot a flight simulator. The institute's hands-on approach makes complex scientific concepts accessible and fun for children.
See the Sights on the Big Bus Philadelphia Tour
Give little legs a rest while still experiencing the city's highlights on the Philadelphia Trolley tour. This hop-on, hop-off service allows families to customize their sightseeing experience while learning about Philadelphia's rich history. The open-top double-decker buses provide excellent views of landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the "Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Audio commentary keeps kids engaged with fun facts about each location. The flexibility to hop off at any stop makes it easy to explore attractions at your own pace before catching the next bus.
Relax and Play at Franklin Square
After a morning of museum visits, Franklin Square offers the perfect place for kids to burn off energy. This historic park features a playground, carousel, and mini-golf course with Philadelphia-themed holes representing landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Ben Franklin Bridge. The square's fountain provides a refreshing spot for cooling down on warm days. Food stands serve family favorites like burgers and milkshakes, making it a convenient lunch stop between attractions.
Cool Off at Sister Cities Park
For outdoor fun in Philadelphia, Sister Cities Park presents a delightful city oasis where children can splash and play. The Children's Discovery Garden features a miniature Philadelphia landscape complete with a pond, stream, and rocky areas that represent the Wissahickon Valley. During the summer months, the interactive fountain becomes a favorite destination for cooling off. Other outdoor options include Fairmount Park, with miles of trails and open spaces, and Penn's Landing along the Delaware River, which hosts seasonal activities like roller skating and festivals.
Wander the Historic Streets of Old City
Old City offers a walkable neighborhood where history and entertainment converge. Kids will enjoy spotting the historic landmarks while parents appreciate the charming cobblestone streets. Visit the Liberty Bell Center, where children can see the famous cracked bell up close, or explore Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Between historic sites, stop at Betsy Ross's House to learn about the woman who sewed the first American flag. The area also features child-friendly art installations and street performers that keep young visitors entertained.
Grab a Bite at Reading Terminal Market
When hunger strikes, Reading Terminal Market provides a food adventure for the whole family. This historic market houses dozens of vendors serving everything from Pennsylvania Dutch specialties to international cuisine. Kids will love watching pretzels being twisted by hand or ice cream being made with liquid nitrogen. The market's exciting atmosphere and array of sweet treats make it an exciting dining experience rather than just a meal. Look for kid-friendly options like Famous 4th Street Cookie Company or Beiler's Doughnuts, where you can watch the treats being made fresh.
Plan Your Family Adventure With CityPASS® Tickets
Make the most of your Philadelphia family vacation with Philadelphia CityPASS® tickets. These tickets offer substantial savings on admission to Philadelphia's top attractions, including the Adventure Aquarium, the Philadelphia Zoo, and The Franklin Institute. With nine days to use your tickets, you can plan a relaxed itinerary that works for children of all ages.
Whether you're exploring the birthplace of American democracy or enjoying the wonder of marine life at the aquarium, CityPASS® tickets help turn your Philadelphia family adventure into a stress-free experience filled with discovery and joy. Purchase your Philadelphia CityPASS® tickets today and create wonderful family memories in the City of Brotherly Love.
Philadelphia Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Philadelphia, we recommend finding lodging near Philadelphia's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you: