Summary of Family-Friendly Attractions in Philadelphia
You’ve toured Independence Hall, snapped photos of the Liberty Bell, ran up the Art Museum steps, and the pint-sized sightseers in your party are still asking, “Now what?” Whether you’re a Philly lifer or just in the City of Brotherly Love for the weekend, these 10 Philly-area attractions keep little minds (and hands!) busy with a mix of educational and interactive exhibits, unstructured play—even a carousel or two.
1. The Academy of the Natural Sciences
Address: 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1101, USA
Phone: +1 215-299-1000
This natural history museum, established in 1812, fascinates youngsters with a wealth of artifacts, specimens, live animals, and genuine dinosaur skeletons. It features a tropical garden inhabited by 150 live butterflies, creating an immersive encounter with nature. The “Outside In” exhibit caters to children aged three to eight, fostering their curiosity about the natural world.
2. Adventure Aquarium
Address: 1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
Phone: +1 844-474-3474
Located in Camden, New Jersey, Adventure Aquarium’s KidZone allows children to interact with aquatic life through seven unique touch exhibits. A 40-foot tunnel offers visitors an underwater view of sharks and various sea creatures, making it a thrilling experience for water enthusiasts of all ages.
3. Franklin Institute
Address: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
Phone: +1 215-448-1200
Since its establishment in 1934, The Franklin Institute has fostered a passion for technology and science among visitors of all ages. This hands-on facility features four levels of traveling and permanent exhibits, with the “KidScience” interactive exhibit designed for children aged five through eight. This engaging experience introduces them to the four fundamental elements in a fun and engaging manner.
4. Franklin Square
Address: 200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
Phone: +1 215-629-4026
Situated on one of Philadelphia’s five original public squares, Franklin Square provides fun for the whole family. Enjoy an 18-hole mini-golf course, a ride on the carousel, and various playground equipment. Don’t forget to indulge in a TastyKake-themed milkshake at SquareBurger to cap off your visit.
5. Philadelphia Zoo
Address: 3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
Phone: +1 215-243-1100
Home to over 1,300 animals, the Philadelphia Zoo, established in 1874, has become a leading attraction in the city. Visitors can enjoy engaging encounters with gorillas, zebras, orangutans, polar bears, tigers, and many other animals. The KidZooU wildlife academy provides children with unique opportunities to learn about and interact with sheep, birds, goats, and miniature horses.
6. Please Touch Museum
Address: 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131-3719, USA
Phone: +1 215-581-3181
The Please Touch Museum provides an engaging experience for children aged seven and under, emphasizing interactive play across two floors. With eight exhibits themed around public transportation, architecture, space exploration, and more, the museum encourages creative thinking and learning. The “Wonderland” exhibit, which offers Alice in Wonderland-inspired mazes, is particularly favored by young children.
7. Sesame Place
Address: 100 Sesame Rd, Langhorne, PA 19047, USA
Phone: +1 215-702-3566
Your child’s beloved Sesame Street characters come alive at Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA, located just a half-hour drive from Center City Philadelphia. This seasonal theme park offers a delightful combination of amusement park rides, water attractions, musicals, and parades, ensuring that children and families create lasting memories.
8. The Smith Playhouse and Playground
Address: 3500 Reservoir Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19121, USA
Phone: +1 215-765-4325
Located in East Fairmount Park, the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse is a century-old space designed for children aged 10 and under. Promoting unstructured play, the indoor playhouse features 16,000 square feet of toys, while the outdoor playground spans six-and-a-half acres. Don’t miss riding down the famous Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide, a favorite among visitors.
9. Linvilla Orchards
Address: 137 W Knowlton Rd, Media, PA 19063, USA
Phone: +1 610-876-7116
For a taste of farm life, take the family to Linvilla Orchards, a sprawling 300-acre family farm located 30 minutes south of downtown Philadelphia. The farm invites visitors to engage in pick-your-own produce activities, further enhanced by hayrides, seasonal attractions, and pony rides. Linvilla Orchards operates year-round, and kids will love saying hello to the “pet” deer, turkeys, and other barnyard animals.
10. Parkway Central Library
Address: 1901 Vine St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
Phone: +1 833-825-5357
Home to more than 7 million items across three levels, Philadelphia’s flagship free library has encouraged young bibliophiles since its opening in 1927. As the largest of Philadelphia’s 54 free libraries, Parkway Central offers an expansive children’s department open seven days a week, making it a perfect place for exploring the world of literature. Refuel at the H.O.M.E. Page Cafe with a delightful sandwich, pastry, or coffee.
