27 Philadelphia Museums for Kids to Explore

Hear the story of the famous Liberty Bell from park rangers and check out a variety of self-guided exhibits. Admission is always free, and no tickets are required for entry.

The National Constitution Center offers visitors of all ages an in-depth museum to explore the history & relevance of the Constitution & embrace their role in the story of "We the People." The museum proudly displays 1 of the 12 surviving copies of the Bill of Rights, among other national artifacts. The Center features a range of daily programs, live performances & exhibits like "Signers’ Hall," where you sign the Constitution alongside 42 life-size, bronze statues of the Founding Fathers.

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.

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.

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.

Shila said:  The Independence Seaport Museum is an anchor attraction on Penn's Landing, attracting visitors to experience both Philadelphia's heritage & current waterfront. The Museum educates families through interactive programs, exhibits, events & year-round visiting ships like the Cruiser Olympia, the oldest steel warship afloat in the world.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  The Fireman's Hall Museum, which always offers free admission, is our family favorite for everything firemen related. There are many firetrucks from the old days, photos, memorabilia of fire fighting equipment and more. The kids love the interactive sections where they can try on real fire fighter gear and boots, learn when it is appropriate to call 911 through interactive phones and computer generated quizzes, explore fire safety, see a fireman's pole and more. The gift shop also sells firefighting-themed kids books, puzzles, toys and more.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  Geared toward families with children under 12, the Da Vinci Science Museum is chock full of science exhibits from a hurricane simulator to marine tank to robot dinosaur. This science wonderland is hands-on, interactive and educational and your kids will not even realize they are learning.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  The National Museum of Industrial History showcases industrial achievements and highlights the work of innovators from the past through present as well as the leaders of the future. Over 200 artifacts are on display, including many from the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. There is also a permanent iron, steel and textile collection. Kids will experience many interactive and hands-on learning stations.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  This interactive, educational and hands-on museum boasts many exhibits such as town square with general store, post office and ice cream stand, hospital, factory and raceway, big dig, recycled adventure, hot air balloon experience and wind to water exhibit. The Museum reflects the history and culture of Bucks County in this unique and fun environment.

Tim Ponisciak said:  Northlandz is one of America's largest exhibits of model railroads. Kids will love exploring the many different realistic depictions of America as you literally walk through the layout. There are some huge bridges and mountains to check out! They have over 8 miles of track that run 100 trains across landscape that depicts the great outdoors with bridges, canyons, towns, villages, buildings and much more. The venue also hosts a doll museum featuring over 200 dolls.