Philadelphia Historical Sites & Tours for Families

The Benjamin Franklin Museum educates visitors on some lesser known facts about Franklin and is easily doable in half a day. The museum has a number of interactive exhibits, and kids enjoy looking for small pet squirrel figurines (skuggs) located throughout.

Christ Church Burial Ground is an historic graveyard from the Colonial and Revolutionary Era with 1400 markers across 2 acres. It is the final resting place for Benjamin Franklin and 4 other signers of the Declaration of Independence.

The Museum of the American Revolution is one of the city's newer museums. It has several thousand artifacts related to the founding of the United States. There are a few films to watch, a replica of Boston's Liberty Tree and a replica privateer ship.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  The United States Mint in Philadelphia is the Nation's First Mint and produces circulating coins, medals, commemorative coins and coin sets. It features exhibits on coin making on the self guided tour and visitors can view coins being made in the production facility. There is a short film on the history of coin making. The Mint also features the historic Tiffany Glass Mosaics.

Photography is not permitted inside the US Mint.

Admission is Free.

Founded in 1695, Christ Church is a landmark in Philadelphia symbolizing religious freedom for all. The current building dates back to 1744 and the steeple to 1754. Be sure to visit Pew 58 to see where George Washington sat and Pew 7 to see where Ben Franklin sat. Other notables to attend this church are William Penn and Betsy Ross. Guides are available during operating hours to share the rich history of the church.

The birthplace of the American flag invites guests to chat with Betsy Ross as she stitches in her upholstery shop, explore the house and check out items that belonged to Betsy and her family. A special audio tour for kids teaches them about a child's life in the 18th century as they solve "history mysteries.”

Learn about the life and literary works of Edgar Allan Poe at the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site. Located in Old City, take a tour of his historic home, listen to his work narrated by famous actors, discover how his work influenced writers including Stephen King, and more. Kids activities include trying on 19th-century clothing, solving puzzles and finding hidden clues throughout the home.

Tim Ponisciak said:  Elfreth's Alley is widely considered America's oldest residential street. Walk over cobblestone and take a moment to truly step back in time. The houses though are not just for show, people still live on the street. You can visit The Museum House to learn the history of the street. Walk through and guided tours are available.

Tim Ponisciak said:  Go across the river for a day and check out this amazing battleship museum. The museum preserves the history of this great naval ship, You will get to explore the ship, seeing the sleeping areas, mess halls, kitchens and combat areas. There is also a 4D flight simulator on board! There are also some overnight opportunities available for those interested in sleeping on the ship.

Tim Ponisciak said:  Philadelphia is better known for its Revolutionary War history, but there is a lot more history to explore in the city. The Grand Army of the Republic Museum tells the history of the Civil War, particularly focusing on the Union Army. It is the only Civil War Museum in Philadelphia.

Open Tuesdays (12-4 pm) and the first Sunday of each month (12-5 pm).