Best of 15 Kid-Friendly day trips in Philadelphia
"Explore the city of brotherly love with your little ones! Kid-Friendly day trips in Philadelphia offer a variety of fun and educational activities for the whole family. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, there's something for every young explorer. Come and create unforgettable memories in Philadelphia's top kid-friendly destinations."
- 1. Please Touch Museum
- 2. Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
- 3. Franklin Square
- 4. Museum of the American Revolution
- 5. JFK Plaza (Love Park)
- 6. Spruce Street Harbor Park
- 7. Sister Cities Park
- 8. Independence National Historical Park
- 9. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
- 10. African American Museum in Philadelphia
- 11. Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania
- 12. Once Upon A Nation
- 13. Dilworth Park
- 14. Philadelphia Museum of Art
- 15. Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse
1. Please Touch Museum
Only museum in the country dedicated to children's learning through touch

The Please Touch Museum is an ideal destination for a fun and educational day trip with young children. Located in Philadelphia, this museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits that are perfect for hands-on learning. Children can explore and engage with the exhibits, making for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
One of the highlights of the Please Touch Museum is the carousel, which was a favorite attraction among the children who visited. The museum provides hours of entertainment and learning opportunities, making it an excellent choice for families traveling with young kids. The Please Touch Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Philadelphia with young children who are looking for a fun and educational experience.
2. Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
Artist-built Victorian-style courtyard

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a fantastic destination for a family day trip, particularly for children. The mosaics found throughout the garden are sure to captivate young visitors, and there are various activities available to keep them engaged. One such activity is the PECO Family Jams, which features hands-on workshops that are tailored specifically for kids.
Overall, Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a must-visit attraction for families. The vibrant mosaics and engaging activities create an enjoyable and educational experience for both children and adults alike, making it an excellent destination for a kid-friendly day trip. The PECO Family Jams, in particular, offer a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about the art of mosaics and express their creativity.
3. Franklin Square
Free admission

Franklin Square, one of Philadelphia's original squares, is a popular playtime destination located in Center City. The square is known for its beautiful fountain and the new free Fountain Show, which features dancing water effects, colored lights, and music during spring and fall. Visitors can also enjoy the Parx Liberty Carousel, a one-of-a-kind Philly Mini Golf course, and the famous SquareBurger.
More than just a green space, Franklin Square is an ideal location for families with young children. The square offers various activities, such as a festive playground and splash pad, a landmark-themed Philly Mini Golf, the Parx Liberty Carousel, and the restored marble Rendell Family Fountain. The square provides an enjoyable and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
4. Museum of the American Revolution
First museum dedicated to the American Revolution

A great spot for a family day trip with children is a museum that features interactive exhibits related to history. The hands-on activities capture young visitors' attention, making learning about history enjoyable and fun. The museum offers a wide range of activities suitable for kids, making it an ideal place for a family outing.
This museum is an excellent destination for an educational and entertaining experience for people of all ages. The interactive exhibits keep children engaged and learning, making history an interesting subject for them. Overall, it is a perfect destination for a family day trip that combines education and entertainment, creating a memorable experience for everyone.
5. JFK Plaza (Love Park)
Iconic meeting spot with city skyline view

LOVE Park, also known as JFK Plaza, is a must-visit destination in Philadelphia. This park offers a variety of free events, games, and even food trucks. Visitors can enjoy the green space and take in the sights and sounds of the city. One of the most popular attractions at LOVE Park is the iconic LOVE sculpture, which is a symbol of the city and a popular spot for photos.
Throughout the year, LOVE Park hosts a variety of events and activities for visitors to enjoy. The park is a hub of activity in all seasons, with something always happening. In the warmer months, the park is bustling with people enjoying the sunshine and taking part in outdoor activities. In the colder months, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday decorations and ice skating. No matter what time of year you visit, LOVE Park is sure to have something for everyone.
6. Spruce Street Harbor Park
Riverfront location, urban beach

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a must-visit destination for families with children, offering a variety of activities that are perfect for a fun-filled day. The park features giant games, hammocks, and floating gardens that kids will enjoy exploring. During the summer months, the park also hosts RiverRink Summerfest, which features even more activities for children to enjoy.
Visitors to Philadelphia should not miss the chance to explore Spruce Street Harbor Park and RiverRink Summerfest. Open throughout the warm-weather months, these two waterfront destinations offer plenty of kid-friendly activities. In addition to the attractions at Spruce Street Harbor Park, RiverRink Summerfest features roller skating, mini golf, and boating, making it a great spot for families to spend the day.
7. Sister Cities Park
Scenic water feature

The Wissahickon-inspired Children's Discovery Garden is a must-visit for young visitors, offering winding pathways, scalable rocks, and a meandering stream for kids to explore. Nearby, the boat pond is a great spot for children to wade in the shallow waters and rent toy boats. The park also features a large green space for playtime or picnicking, making it an ideal location for families to spend the day.
This urban oasis includes a children's discovery garden with a small stream, a 'boat pond' for water play, and a large spray fountain, making it a perfect stop on hot days. Toy boats are available for rent, with small boats at $5 and large ones at $7. The park's natural features provide a unique opportunity for children to engage with nature in the heart of the city.
8. Independence National Historical Park
Historic Freedom Trail

Independence National Historical Park is a family-friendly park that offers many attractions, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The Junior Ranger program is a popular activity for children, teaching them about the park's history and significance. Our family, including our two children aged 7 and 8, visited the park and enjoyed the Junior Ranger Program, the US Mint Tour, and the Franklin Court Underground Museum.
The Junior Ranger program is an interactive and educational experience that allows children to learn about the park's history and significance. At the US Mint, we took a tour and learned about the coin-making process. The Franklin Court Underground Museum provided a fascinating insight into Benjamin Franklin's life and legacy. Overall, we had a great time exploring the park and learning about American history.
9. The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
only US natural history museum with a live butterfly habitat

A fun-filled and educational day trip for kids awaits at this destination. The staff are known to be friendly and approachable, creating a warm atmosphere for visitors. The exhibits are designed to be engaging and age-appropriate for children, making it an ideal destination for families.
The interactive exhibits were a major highlight of the trip, keeping the kids entertained for several hours. One of the most popular attractions was the butterfly garden, where kids could get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures. Overall, this destination offers a fantastic experience for kids, providing them with both enjoyment and learning opportunities.
10. African American Museum in Philadelphia
Underground railroad tour

The African American Museum in Philadelphia is an excellent destination for a family day trip. It features interactive exhibits that are both enjoyable and educational for children. The hands-on activities held at the museum allows youngsters to learn about African American history in an engaging and entertaining manner.
The museum is frequently visited by Philadelphia public school students, creating a vibrant and educational atmosphere for kids. The well-organized and accessible exhibits make it an ideal choice for a family outing, offering a fantastic opportunity for children to learn and have fun at the same time.
11. Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania
Outdoor classrooms, art installations

Morris Arboretum is a garden that offers something for everyone, including children who can explore areas such as the Out on a Limb Tree Canopy Walk, Garden Railway, Log Cabin, and Fair Fairy Woods. The garden is located in Philadelphia and is known for its stunning scenery and vegetation.
In addition to its beauty, Morris Arboretum also provides opportunities for learning about plants. Visitors can gain knowledge by reading the signage or participating in guided walks and classes led by experts. The garden is not only a place for enjoyment, but also a valuable resource for those who want to learn more about the natural world.
12. Once Upon A Nation

13. Dilworth Park
Accessible facilities, family-friendly

Dilworth Park is a popular destination for people of all ages, offering a variety of activities throughout the year. During the warmer months, children can enjoy festivals, live musical and arts performances, and an interactive fountain. The fountain, which is a favorite among kids, turns into an ice skating rink in the winter, providing a fun activity for both kids and adults.
The park itself is beautifully designed with an interactive fountain, lush lawn, and tree grove seating areas. A café is located on the premises, making it a convenient spot for visitors to grab a bite to eat or drink. The fountain, which is a central feature of the park, is a popular spot for children to play in during the summer, and is transformed into an ice skating rink in the winter, attracting visitors of all ages.
14. Philadelphia Museum of Art
Home to the famous Rocky statue and steps

Art Kids programs at the museum offer engaging and hands-on art projects and tours for children. These programs provide a wonderful opportunity for families to explore art together, creating a memorable and educational experience. The museum offers a variety of family-friendly activities such as art-making workshops, which allow children to create their own masterpieces, and playful tours designed specifically for young visitors. These activities are perfect for a day trip with children, providing a fun and interactive way to learn about art.
The museum is committed to fostering a love for art in children of all ages. The Art Kids programs are tailored to cater to the interests and abilities of different age groups, ensuring that every child is able to participate and enjoy the activities. The knowledgeable and experienced museum staff lead the tours and workshops, providing insightful and age-appropriate information about the art and the artists. The museum's family-friendly atmosphere creates a welcoming and inspiring space for children to discover and appreciate the beauty and diversity of art.
15. Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse
One of the oldest and largest public playgrounds in the US

Perched high in East Fairmount Park, Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse is a 6.5-acre oasis that has been providing indoor and outdoor fun for city children since 1899. The playground sees over 200,000 kids every year, making it a popular destination for families. The playhouse is an iconic landmark that has been bringing joy and wonder to children for generations. It is an ideal location for kids to engage in exciting explorations, learning, and creating lasting memories.
Hidden in the heart of Philadelphia, Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse is a must-visit destination for children of all ages. The playhouse, with its unique play spaces, offers a perfect setting for kids to play, learn, and have fun. This landmark has been a source of joy and wonder for generations, making it an ideal location for a kid-friendly day trip. A visit to this playground will undoubtedly leave children with unforgettable memories.