24 Things To Do in Philadelphia With Kids

Located just a few blocks from the Liberty Bell, Franklin Square offers a fun interactive playground for kids to play and explore. Open year round, the playground has something for everyone! While the playground is free, Franklin Square offers mini golf, a carousel and restaurant for an additional fee. Franklin Square also holds special family-friendly events throughout the year.

Visiting the United States Mint in Philadelphia, the nation's first Mint, is always free to the public. Guests can view coins being made in the factory below, see the first coining press, and other historic artifacts. All tours are free, self-guided, and take approximately 45 minutes to complete.

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a unique gathering space that comes alive in the summer months. The park is filled with colorful hammocks, floating gardens, beautiful lights, refreshing beer gardens, and food from popular Philly restaurants. The boardwalk boasts swings, hammocks, bocce courts, ping pong, shuffleboard, arcade games, and hammock lounges for a relaxing time together.

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.”

An old-fashioned soda fountain serving homemade ice cream, sorbets and sugar-free and dairy-free varieties. Named for Ben Franklin, employees at The Franklin Fountain are traditional soda jerks complete with old-fashioned uniforms. A visit will feel like you have stepped back in time. It may cost a little more than a traditional ice cream parlor, but this Philly experience is worth it!

Paddle Penn’s Landing offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Delaware River, and gorgeous city views, from the safety of a protected basin. 

Juan L. said:  Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, down on the riverfront, is a must for every Philly family. It sports Philadelphia's only outdoor skating rink, mini-golf, games, rides and concessions. The boardwalk has a 60 ft. Ferris wheel, a carousel, and many boardwalk games making it feel like a closer and more family-friendly Jersey Shore boardwalk. The crab shack and ice cream store are can't miss for concessions.

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.

If you're going to visit Sesame Place, you might want to carve out a whole weekend to enjoy all of the rides, shows, a water playground and meals with the characters.