5 Family Friendly Spots To Check Out in Philadelphia
Any time you’re traveling with a group, it can be difficult to find activities and sights you know everyone will enjoy; and, of course, this only becomes more difficult when you have a group made up of both adults and children. But don’t stress -- we’ve got you covered with five of Philadelphia’s greatest spots that are not just family friendly but also sure to keep the grown ups just as entertained.
Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute, founded in honor of Philly’s favorite son and America’s first scientist, Ben Franklin, is a local treasure dedicated to inspiring a passion for learning about science and technology. Hands-on and interactive exhibits allow visitors, young and old, to explore the technology behind flight and rail travel. Visitors also have the opportunity to explore space in the planetarium, climb through giant models of both the human heart and brain, and investigate the connections between the human body, nutrition, laws of motion, and technology in sports.
Whether you have kids with you or not, don’t pass up the opportunity to explore Pennsylvania’s most visited museum. Blue Cross RiverRink
The Blue Cross RiverRink, at Penn’s Landing along the Delaware River, features Winterfest from late November to early March and Summerfest from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Winterfest centers around an ice skating rink and a Winter Wonderland with fire pits, warming cabins, food trucks, a chalet-inspired lodge with food and adult beverages, and a kids lodge with arcade games.
Summerfest is pretty much the exact opposite. During Summerfest, the ice skating rink is converted to a roller skating rink and the Winter Wonderland is replaced with a Midway Carnival, complete with Ferris wheel and boardwalk-style games.
Franklin Square
One of the five original public squares, designated by William Penn himself, Franklin Square is considered by far Philly’s most family friendly. You’ll discover a playground, a Philly themed miniature golf course, a historical fountain (the perfect backdrop for a family photo!), a burger shack with surprisingly well loved burgers, and the Parx Liberty Carousel honoring our city’s role in carousel history.
Finders Keepers Improv Comedy Shows
Finders Keepers, Philadelphia’s only regularly performing improv show designed for kids and families, brings the fun and laughs to the Philly Improv Theater stage every Saturday at noon. Philly Improv Theater is Philadelphia’s largest improv and sketch comedy training center and offers shows for adults every night of the week. To learn more or get tickets, visit phitcomedy.com.
Franklin Court
Franklin Court is the former residence of Benjamin Franklin. Between 4th and 3rd on Market, you'll discover an archway with a cobblestone path. To your right is a re-creation of Franklin's printing office, and to your left is the original post office (still in operation today). Walk through the archway along the same cobblestones that Ben traveled, and you’ll find a variety of interesting exhibits, including a ghost structure of Franklin’s home along with windows into the foundation.
And there you have it -- five of Philly’s favorite family friendly activities sure to please both the kids and the adults in your group. We hope you have a great time while you’re here. If you get the chance to visit any of our recommended spots, we’d love to hear your feedback; and if you come across any places you think we should add to our list, we would love to hear about them too!