Fun Family Things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania This Weekend

The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute

Philadelphia is one of the most popular places for tourism in the United States, and for good reason. There are a lot of sights, places to visit, restaurants, and things to do there, especially with your family.

If you’re planning a family trip to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, there are several places that you should immediately place on your itineraries, such as Penn’s Landing, the Mutter Museum, the Independence National Historical Park, and the Eastern State Penitentiary. 

For those who don’t know, Philadelphia was once this nation’s capital. That’s right, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was the capital of the United States of America until 1800. There is a lot of rich history in the city of Pennsylvania and more places to see than we can possibly list. 

For History Buffs

Because of its status as the original capital of the US, Philadelphia is rich in US history, including it being the place where the Declaration of Independence was written and the home of the Liberty Bell. The fun doesn’t stop there, however.

The National Constitution Center

The National Constitution Center
The National Constitution Center

The National Constitution Center is the heart of our republic and here you will find the Declaration of Independence on display. You can also purchase tickets to the Freedom Rising show, which takes place in a theater that has a 360° screen. 

Museum of the American Revolution

Museum of the American Revolution 
Museum of the American Revolution. Editorial credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

Children who are under five get in free at the Museum of the American Revolution. This historic museum covers everything about the Revolutionary War, including all of the important events that led up to and ultimately triggered it. 

It includes an interactive exhibit called the Revolution Place, which caters to kids of all ages, along with an explorable privateer ship. 

Independence National Historical Park

Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

You will find both the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall here and there are nearly 30 attractions packed into a square mile. For kids, there is a Junior Ranger Program, and adults can appreciate the Liberty Bell. 

The visitor center has a ton of merchandise to pick up along with pamphlets, information packets, and event schedules. 

Fun and Excitement

Not everything should be about looking over the past, especially when there is so much to do in the present. Fortunately, Philadelphia has a little bit of everything for everyone and, in some cases, a lot more than you can cover in a single week. 

The Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo

It’s hard to pass up an opportunity to go to a zoo, especially one that is as renowned as the Philadelphia Zoo. There are 1,300 animals at the Philadelphia Zoo and they have an animal travel and exploration train system that is supposed to be the first ever for a zoo. 

Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium
Adventure Aquarium

There’s nothing more impressive than being in an underwater, glass tunnel, especially when the surrounding water is packed with fish. There are 15,000 aquatic animals available for viewing, including a hammerhead shark and a 760,000-gallon tank. 

The Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute

One of the biggest problems today, when it comes to learning science in school, is that so many kids lose interest early on. That’s why something like the Franklin Institute is the perfect catalyst to kickstart your kid’s fascination with science. 

The Franklin Institute is one of the most popular science museums in the world and a fascinating journey for both adults and children in the world of science.

Sightseeing

A city that has places to go is one thing, but a city that has stunning visuals is quite another. Philadelphia and the surrounding country have many beautiful sights and sounds for your whole family to visit and enjoy.

Linvilla Orchards

Linvilla Orchards
Linvilla Orchards

The Linvilla Orchards is a 300-acre farm that sits on the perimeter of Philadelphia and is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city proper. It offers a Garden Center where kids can pick their own fruit. 

A visit to Linvilla Orchards includes a hayride as well, not to mention petting and feeding the farm animals. 

Morris Arboretum

Morris Arboretum
Morris Arboretum

Nature and humanity collide at the Morris Arboretum where you and your family can explore 92 acres of natural preserve. You can explore multiple exhibitions, including the “Out on a Limb” exhibition which takes you on a journey up into the trees to explore things from a heightened perspective. 

Fairmount Park

Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park

Surprisingly enough, Philadelphia is home to a lot of open space that doesn’t have a building or a single piece of asphalt or concrete anywhere. Fairmount Park is one of those places and it’s perfect for simply watching and listening to the river as it flows and gurgles over rocks while you enjoy a family picnic. 

It’s a great spot for a respite after the day’s activities. 

Places to Eat

Philadelphia is home to some great places to eat and you won’t lack choices when it comes to cravings or tastes at the moment. 

Kalaya Thai Kitchen

If you’re in love with Thai food (who isn’t?), you will absolutely love Kalaya Thai Kitchen. This restaurant frequently makes top 10 lists and Hall of Fame awards from publications all over the country. It’s a mix of modern Thai and American and the combination is absolutely divine. 

Kensington Quarters

Kensington Quarters may sound generic, however, it’s anything but. It’s primarily a seafood restaurant that is a breath of fresh air in Philadelphia. Their menu is incredibly unique and you will discover that it’s some of the best seafood you’ve ever had.

Laser Wolf

You have to check out Laser Wolf if for no other reason than the fact that it’s called, “Laser Wolf.” Who names a restaurant “Laser Wolf”? Apparently, a very successful restaurant. Even stranger, it’s Israeli food and incredibly delicious Israeli food. It’s admittedly an odd painting of name with culture but, for whatever reason, it works!

All Things Considered

If you’re planning a vacation, with the whole family, to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, be sure to bring your walking shoes and plan to come back again and again. That’s the only way you’re ever going to experience even half of what this city has to offer. On the bright side, we picked some of the best and brightest spots for you to visit first. 

See Also

Things to do in US Cities

Things to do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with Kids

Hi and welcome to my travel blog! Based in London, I work in investment banking in a quantitative field and although I am not part of the travel industry, I have a ton of passion for travel. My blog is a reference guide for my fellow travelers with the same passion as me. Hopefully the blog is easy to navigate and my aim is to bring the most relevant and interesting information before you begin your journey!