We all love to bond with our families but it can be tough to make time for each other. Between work, school, and everything else in between, it’s easy to neglect quality time together. If you’re craving some much-needed family time, look no further than the dynamic city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. America’s birthplace is home to some of the nation’s best kid-friendly attractions. While Philadelphia isn’t the most obvious place to book your family vacay, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much there is to do and see. Philadelphia’s rich history makes it the perfect destination for an educational and fun getaway for the whole family. Not convinced you can plan a full-blown trip to Philly? Here’s how to spend 5 days in Philadelphia with kids!
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Known for its unique mosaic art and murals, you can spend the entire day exploring this whimsical attraction. Kids can roam the space and check out the colorful exhibits or you can take a guided tour for a more informative experience. This art museum and gallery will keep you entertained for hours as you tour the gardens, sculptures, and more. If you’re looking to take some family photos, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens makes for the perfect backdrop. Can’t wait until your visit to view this attraction? Check out this virtual tour to get a taste of the vibrant space. You won’t regret spending the day in this beautiful environment.
Please Touch Museum
As covered in our Philadelphia Travel Guide, The Please Touch Museum is the ultimate destination for kids and families. Please Touch Museum’s mission is to “change a child’s life as they discover the power of learning through play.” This interactive museum provides the perfect environment for children to play, create, and collaborate. With 2 floors of engaging activities, you can devote an entire day here and still not get the chance to experience everything. After an action-packed day, the kids will be pleased (and beat) from their interactive experience.
Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo is one of the most beloved zoos in the country. Known for its impressive exhibits and historic architecture, you’ll need at least a day to experience everything. With nearly 1,300 animals, the kids will be in awe of all of the fascinating species. Whether you love cute creatures or ferocious beasts, chances are your favorite animal is located at the Philadelphia Zoo. If you’re seeking adventure, check out the WildWorks Ropes Course – an aerial adventure that has guests crossing bridges, balancing on ropes, and climbing through obstacles. Visit the Philadelphia Zoo and take a walk on the wild side!
Flavors of Philly Food Tour
A trip to Philadelphia wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its legendary cuisine. What better way to get a taste of Philly’s finest than by taking a tour designed by locals. The Flavors of Philly Tour is great for out-of-towners that are looking to try lots of different dishes in a casual setting. The walking tour includes 5 stops (with a meal featuring the infamous Philly Cheesesteak) plus quirky stories about the history of Philadelphia’s food scene. This entertaining attraction will leave you very satisfied. If you’re a foodie and want to expose your kids to Philadelphia’s finer cuisine, check out our guide to Philadelphia’s Best Eats and Drinks. Ranked #1 on TripAdvisor’s most booked restaurants in Philadelphia, Parc has 10,000+ reviews and averages 4.7/5 stars. This stylish restaurant pays tribute to French cuisine and culture in a charming atmosphere. If you want to treat the family to a more glamorous meal, Parc should be at the top of your list.
Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse
This indoor/outdoor playground is the perfect place for your kids to exert their energy. While kids are no stranger to playgrounds, none quite compare to this quirky playhouse. With its huge wooden slide and unique play equipment, this nontraditional playground will provide a new experience for the kiddos. Do yourself a favor and pay a visit to this delightful spot.
Traveling to Philadelphia on a budget? Check out our guide to make the most of your budget. From completely free activities (The Liberty Bell Center) to budget-friendly attractions (The Betsy Ross House), there are plenty of affordable activities in The City of Brotherly Love.
Philadelphia is the ideal choice for your next family vacation. Kids will love all of the exciting activities and parents will appreciate all of the learning opportunities. With so much to do, see, and eat in Philly, there will never be enough time to experience it all. However, in just 5 days, you can get a glimpse of what this lively city has to offer. Whether you extend your stay or keep it short and sweet, you won’t regret your visit!
