8 Top Activities for Kids in Philadelphia

Rich in American heritage and culture, Philadelphia attracts families and children from across the nation.

Every day, the City of Brotherly Love welcomes numerous history enthusiasts, art aficionados, and sports fans, alongside school groups from nearby areas. But Philadelphia's appeal goes beyond that: it boasts the country's oldest zoo, an interactive science center, numerous parks, and an endless supply of soft pretzels and water ice (or as locals refer to it, 'wooder ice'), making it a universally appealing destination. If you're unsure where to begin, check out our list of must-see attractions for families in Philly.

1. Discover History at Independence Hall

While traditional history lessons can be challenging for some kids, visiting Independence Hall brings history to life. Nestled in the Old City neighborhood (known as Philadelphia’s Historic District), this impressive brick structure houses the Assembly room, where founding figures like Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams debated and signed the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. Admission is free (with a $1 handling fee), but be sure to reserve timed tickets online in advance.

Consider taking a guided tour to maximize your visit (tours start every 15 minutes). Kids aged five and older can grab a Junior Ranger activity booklet at the Independence Visitor Center to engage in activities and earn a badge.

2. Observe roaming tigers and feed a goat at the Philadelphia Zoo

As the oldest zoo in the United States, the Philadelphia Zoo was chartered in 1859, but opened its doors in 1874 due to the Civil War. Beyond its rich history, it stands out as one of the most progressive zoos. The Zoo360 program enables animals like tigers, lemurs, and gorillas to explore various parts of the 42-acre grounds through transparent mesh trails, providing visitors with even more chances to see their favorite creatures up close.

Spend a day enjoying the lions, giraffes, and penguins, and don't miss attractions like KidZooU, an indoor and outdoor educational center and children’s zoo where little ones can feed goats, brush sheep, and interact with chickens and ducks. Open from Wednesdays to Mondays (closed on Tuesdays), it's essential to purchase tickets in advance.

Planning tip: If you're planning to visit several ticketed attractions in Philly, consider looking into City Pass for a great way to save money.

3. Have fun at Smith Memorial Playground

Visiting with kids aged 12 and under? Make your way to Smith Memorial Playground. Nestled within the expansive Fairmount Park, this beloved outdoor playground has been enchanting children for a century with its swings, play structures, a giant wooden slide, and a 16,000-sq-ft playhouse. The free playground welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm (with the playhouse open until 5pm), and is closed on Mondays. Check the website before your visit, as it features some ticketed annual events, such as the Kidchella Music Festival, Winter Wonderland, and Healthy Halloween. While the playground is perfect for younger kids, older children are welcome too (but pets are not allowed unless they are service animals).

4. Get hands-on and discover at the Please Touch Museum

Designed for kids seven and younger, the Please Touch Museum is a 157,000-sq-ft playground of discovery, nestled within Fairmount Park. Key attractions include a fairy-tale garden, river adventures (where kids can sail a boat down a miniature Schuylkill River), a rocket room for launching vessels into space, and a vintage carousel housed in a stunning 9,000-sq-ft glass pavilion.

On New Year’s Eve, the museum is the top destination for little ones, featuring a countdown to noon for a festive (and bedtime-friendly) celebration.

If you don’t spend the entire day at the museum, take a short three-minute stroll through Fairmount Park to the Shofuso House and Garden. This traditional Japanese tea house, built in the 1950s in Japan, was transported to New York City for display at the Museum of Modern Art before finding its home in Philadelphia. Today, it’s a serene spot for a relaxing afternoon, where kids enjoy the gardens and koi pond (fish food can be purchased at the entrance).

Planning tip: The museum hosts sensory-friendly hours monthly and provides Quiet Kits that can be borrowed at the Admission desk. Additionally, it offers a Sensory Guide to help you prepare for your visit.

5. Dive into science at the Franklin Institute

This science museum, named after Ben Franklin, is almost 200 years old and continues to amaze visitors with a variety of interactive permanent exhibits and experiences. Highlights include the SportZone (where you can compete against virtual pro athletes or the Philly Phanatic), the Giant Heart (a rite of passage for every local school child as they walk through its oversized ventricles), and Sir Isaac’s Loft (an ideal spot to explore Newton’s Laws through pulleys, pendulums, and more). Don’t miss the chance to catch a show at the Fels Planetarium, where you and your little ones can discover the wonders of the cosmos while taking a break.

Planning tip: For a family-friendly meal, stroll a few blocks north to Pizzeria Vetri, known for its brick oven-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and delicious soft serve gelato.

6. Find inspiration at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Free for children and teens up to 18 years old, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a fantastic place to introduce your kids to remarkable artworks and spark their creativity. Whether you're a returning visitor or exploring for the first time, this world-renowned museum, which underwent a $233 million renovation in 2021 designed by acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, features a breathtaking floating staircase and a radiant tiled walkway inside.

With over 200 galleries showcasing an extensive collection, it’s wise to plan your visit in advance. Be sure to see fascinating pieces such as 16th-century horse armor, masterpieces by French Impressionist artists, and monumental sculptures like the Giant Three-Way Electric Plug by Claes Oldenburg in the outdoor sculpture garden.

Don’t forget to check the online calendar for a schedule of hands-on projects included in the ongoing Art Kids Studio programming, such as making sparkle knots inspired by artist Lynda Benglis.

Older kids may enjoy the iconic “Rocky” steps, the 72 steps that fictional boxer Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone, famously ascended before raising his arms in victory while overlooking the expansive Benjamin Franklin Parkway in the film’s training montage. Recreate the moment and snap a photo with the statue at the foot of the steps.

7. Discover a world of sewing at the Betsy Ross House

Visit the Betsy Ross House, where the legendary seamstress crafted the first American flag. Kids will be fascinated by the kitchen, filled with items from the 18th century, and by Betsy herself (a skilled historical reenactor) as she recounts how she convinced George Washington to use a five-point star on Old Glory. You might also encounter other notable historical women like Mary Crathorne, Margaret Woodby, and Margaret (Peggy) Chew.

Planning tip: While many nearby attractions are free, be ready to pay for self-guided tours here ($10 for adults, $8 for kids aged 6–12 and seniors). Children aged 5 and under can enter for free.

8. Savor delightful treats at Franklin Fountain

This cherished Old City favorite is open daily from 11am to midnight, making it a perfect stop after visiting historic attractions like the Liberty Bell and the Betsy Ross House. Choose from an array of homemade flavors such as strawberry and butter pecan, or indulge in a specialty sundae like the Stock Market Crunch, featuring rocky road ice cream, peanut butter sauce, and pretzels. There are also numerous vegan options, including vegan chocolate and real fruit mango ice.

If you’re short on time and the line is long (which it often is), pop next door to the brand's sister location for a scoop on a handmade maple waffle cone, or try one of its signature Keystone bars—ice cream hand-dipped in bean-to-bar chocolate crafted at its other business, Shane’s Confectionery.