If you have young kids who love to explore, the Please Touch Museum is a must-visit. This interactive museum is full of fun exhibits where kids are encouraged to play, touch, and discover. From a miniature grocery store to a carousel and even a rocket ship, every corner is designed to inspire curiosity and creativity.

Address:

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131

One of the city’s most popular family attractions, The Franklin Institute offers interactive science exhibits and activities for all ages. Explore the Giant Heart, travel through space in the Fels Planetarium, or dive into cutting-edge tech and virtual reality experiences. It’s the perfect spot for families who want to mix fun and learning.

Address:

222 N 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

America’s first zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo is home to over 1,300 animals and offers unique experiences like the Zoo360 animal trail system, where you can watch tigers, lemurs, and monkeys roam overhead. Families can enjoy beautiful walking paths, themed animal exhibits, and fun activities like the zoo balloon ride.

Address:

3400 W Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Located right next to City Hall, Dilworth Park is a great urban oasis for families. Kids can splash in the fountain during warm weather, skate on the seasonal ice rink in the winter, or play on the green lawn while parents enjoy a coffee from the café. Don’t miss the pop-up events that frequently happen here throughout the year!

Address:

1 S 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102

A little outside the city perimeter, but LEGO lovers, rejoice! The LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Plymouth Meeting offers a wonderland of colorful bricks, interactive rides, a 4D cinema, and themed play areas where kids can build to their heart’s content. There’s even a replica of Philadelphia’s skyline made entirely out of LEGOs!

Address:

500 W Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

For a day of rides, shows, and your kids’ favorite Sesame Street characters, head to Sesame Place in Langhorne. This theme park is packed with family-friendly roller coasters, water attractions, parades, and opportunities to meet beloved characters like Elmo and Big Bird. Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers!

Address:

100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047

Just across the river in Camden, NJ, the Adventure Aquarium is a fun family outing where you can see sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and more. Don’t miss the Shark Bridge, a thrilling rope suspension bridge that lets you walk over a tank full of sharks. Touch tanks and interactive exhibits make this an engaging experience for all ages.

Address:

Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103

One of Philly’s original five squares, Franklin Square is an ideal family destination featuring a mini golf course themed around Philly landmarks, a classic carousel, and a playground. Throughout the year, the square hosts seasonal events like festivals and light shows, making it a go-to for family-friendly fun.

Address:

200 N 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Combine great food, craft drinks, and a playground all in one place at Craft Hall. This family-friendly spot has an indoor play area for kids and an outdoor beer garden for parents, with house-made barbecue, brick oven pizzas, and more on the menu. It’s an easy, laid-back place to enjoy a meal while the kids burn off some energy.

Address:

901 N Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19123

Take a short and scenic drive to Peddler’s Village and check out Giggleberry Fair, an indoor play space with a multi-level obstacle course, arcade games, and a beautiful hand-carved carousel. It’s great for kids of all ages, and there’s plenty to explore around the charming Peddler’s Village afterward.

Address:

5750 Upper York Road, New Hope, PA 18938

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse is a giant 6.5-acre outdoor playground in Fairmount Park with swings, slides, and a giant wooden playhouse perfect for kids up to age 12. It’s one of the best places for free play, picnicking, and outdoor fun with the whole family.

Address:

3500 Reservoir Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19121

Set sail on a family adventure at the Independence Seaport Museum, where kids can explore the history of Philadelphia’s waterways. The museum features interactive exhibits and historic ships, including the USS Olympia and the Submarine Becuna, which families can tour.

Address:

211 S Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Take the kids on a journey through American history at the Museum of the American Revolution. With interactive displays, lifelike figures, and hands-on exhibits, families can explore the nation’s founding, complete with a replica of George Washington’s war tent.

Address:

101 S 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

For a unique experience, find the Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Benches located around the city’s historic district. At each bench, a storyteller shares fascinating and fun tales from Philadelphia’s past, keeping kids captivated while learning about history.

Address:

Various locations throughout Old City and Independence National Historical Park