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Philadelphia, PA · Guide

Things to do with kids in Philadelphia

Philadelphia offers a dense concentration of history and hands-on activity, making it an ideal destination for families who enjoy a mix of traditional learning and active play. Most attractions are centered around the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the historic Independence Mall area, allowing for easy transitions between grand neoclassical museums and significant national landmarks. This guide skews toward preschool and school-age children, but it includes several stops with universal appeal for teenagers and adults.

You can expect an itinerary that balances high-energy experiences, like sprinting up the famous art museum steps, with immersive scientific exploration at the Franklin Institute. While the city is steeped in the American Revolution, modern Philadelphia also shines through its vibrant public art and unique riverfront attractions. Whether you are navigating a maze of mosaics or touching a shark, these spots represent the best of the city for those traveling with a younger crew.

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  1. 01

    Philadelphia Museum of Art

    4.8 (23,306)2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
    LivelyBest for school-age

    This neoclassical landmark houses over 240,000 objects, including medieval armor and a Japanese teahouse. Families can explore four floors of global art, though the layout requires significant walking and navigation with a map.

    When to go: no wait weekdays

    Parent tip · Check the map carefully as it is easy to miss certain floors or get lost in the galleries.
  2. 02

    Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps

    4.7 (14,664)2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    A famous landmark where visitors can recreate the iconic run from the Rocky films. The climb offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Enter through the West entrance of the museum for the easiest access route.
  3. 03

    Liberty Bell

    4.6 (23,425)526 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This iconic symbol of American independence is housed in a glass-walled pavilion with informative exhibits. Visitors can view the bell up close and learn about its inscription and historical significance.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · The security check is similar to an airport, so prepare for a quick screening process.
  4. 04

    Adventure Aquarium

    4.6 (19,558)1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    Located on the riverfront, this aquarium features a shark rope bridge, walkthrough tunnels, and touch tanks for stingrays and starfish. A dedicated upstairs kids area includes black lights and digital coloring stations.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · Outside food is allowed, which can help manage the cost of a long visit.
  5. 05

    The Franklin Institute

    4.6 (13,861)222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
    LoudBest for school-age

    A science museum featuring interactive exhibits like a giant walk-through heart and a virtual footrace against the Phillie Phanatic. It also houses a planetarium and a large Lego room.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · Arrive an hour before closing for significantly discounted ticket prices.
  6. 06

    Philadelphia Zoo

    4.5 (22,592)3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    America's oldest zoo features innovative overhead animal trails and a meerkat maze. The facility is well-organized with varied collections including big cats, gorillas, and reptiles.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · The zoo is fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
  7. 07

    Barnes Foundation

    4.7 (4,625)2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This museum holds an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works arranged in intimate, non-traditional settings. The site includes a serene garden with evergreens and a pond.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · Use the Barnes focus guide on your phone to capture and later download images of the artwork.
  8. 08

    Rocky Statue

    4.7 (4,587)2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    A bronze statue commemorating the fictional boxer, located at the foot of the art museum steps. It is a popular spot for photos and captures the city's fighting spirit.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · There is a small gift shop at the base of the stairs for souvenirs.
  9. 09

    City Hall Visitor Center

    4.8 (1,798)1400 John F Kennedy Blvd Room 121, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    The visitor center offers guided building and tower tours of the historic City Hall. The tower tour provides a 360-degree panorama of Center City from the William Penn statue.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · The tower tour is short, about 20 minutes, making it a quick way to see city views.
  10. 10

    Museum of the American Revolution

    4.7 (3,692)101 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This museum provides a thorough look at the Revolutionary War through theaters, interactive displays, and historic artifacts. It is located within walking distance of Independence Hall.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Allocate at least four to five hours to fully explore the extensive exhibits.
  11. 11

    JFK Plaza (Love Park)

    4.5 (15,903)1501 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    Commonly known as LOVE Park, this central plaza features the famous LOVE sculpture and an open fountain area. It hosts seasonal events, including Christmas markets and summer music series.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · The red metal lawn chairs are comfortable but sit quite low to the ground.
  12. 12

    Please Touch Museum

    4.6 (7,246)4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA
    LivelyBest for preschool

    A sensory-friendly museum for young children set in the historic Memorial Hall. Exhibits include a kid-sized grocery store, an Alice in Wonderland maze, and a working vintage carousel.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Check with your local library for a pass to save on admission costs.
  13. 13

    The Mütter Museum of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

    4.6 (6,594)19 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This medical history museum displays a massive collection of anatomical specimens and oddities. It is known for its wall of human skulls and unique pathological artifacts.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Photos and videos are strictly prohibited inside the main galleries.
  14. 14

    Penn Museum

    4.7 (2,923)3260 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    An archaeological museum on the University of Pennsylvania campus featuring artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Standouts include the large sphinx and the mummy gallery.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Admission is free for those with an EBT card.
  15. 15

    Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

    4.6 (5,714)1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
    CalmAll ages

    A unique indoor and outdoor art space covered in intricate mosaics made from recycled materials. The site includes a tiered garden and a scavenger hunt for visitors.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · Be careful with younger children as the stairs throughout the garden are quite steep.

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