Discover Philadelphia: A Family-Friendly Adventure

The City of Brotherly Love is a place that is near and dear to our family for a variety of reasons. A few years ago we took a family road trip to Philadelphia and had an absolute blast. It is an easy car ride or train trip from Washington, DC. The city is so walkable and easy to navigate and has so much to offer families visiting. From iconic landmarks to hands-on museums, Philadelphia offers a diverse array of activities that will captivate both young and old. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, Philly has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to exploring Philadelphia with the whole family. We’ve put together a very packed 3 day itinerary below but keep in mind you can easily spend all day at the museums if you have time to stay longer, do!

Day 1:

The BEST way to see a city and have the flexibility to get on and off at various places is the Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour! Visit Philadelphia’s top attractions—like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall—on a full loop. You can select from a 1, 2, or 3-day pass. Board at any of the stops and get to know the city at your own pace, with live commentary.

Walk around The Italian Market where dozens of vendors line the street, selling vegetables, fish, meats, spices and produce from their stalls, while gourmet shops and restaurants occupy storefronts in between. Enjoying lunch & dessert at the Italian Market is such a fun way to experience historic South 9th Street. We recommend you head to Angelo’s Pizzeria for cheesesteaks and Isgro for Italian pastries and cookies. Eat your lunch at the nearby playground at S 10th St & Fitzwater St around the corner from Angelo’s Pizzeria.

Continue your Philly adventure with a visit to Independence National Historical Park, home to two of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Liberty Bell, with its famous crack and powerful symbolism, is a must-see. Right next door is Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Free tours are available, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into America’s history. Kids will be thrilled to walk the same halls where the Founding Fathers once stood.

Day 2:

For a more interactive experience, head to The Franklin Institute, one of America’s most celebrated museums—a renowned leader in science and technology. You can spend all day here- it is simply the best! This science museum is a hit with families, featuring exhibits that let children explore the wonders of science through play. From the gigantic Giant Heart, where kids can walk through and learn about human anatomy, to the Space Command exhibit, which offers a space exploration experience, there’s something to engage every young mind.

Have a late lunch at the famous Reading Terminal Market. You can spend a great deal of time walking around, looking at what each vendor has to offer. Think Union Market but on a much, much larger scale. This bustling market offers a wide array of food vendors, where you can sample everything from local specialties to international dishes. It’s a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs and enjoy a meal together. If nothing was appealing to you for a meal, a walking food tour removes the guesswork. Eat your way through the city, from Reading Terminal Market to Sansom Street, and experience the best of the Philly food scene. Philadelphia is a terrific foodie city, but, for visitors, it can be tricky to know where to find the best places to eat so go with a tour!

Another amazing way to see the city and is sure to entertain your Bambinos is through the Philly by Night Double Decker Bus Tour! After dinner (or before), climb on board and relax on the double decker bus and learn from the 90 minute tour and drive by 27 attractions. You can also do the double decker tour during the day as well.

Day 3:

Grab a coffee from the first La Colombe location found in Rittenhouse Square and walk to Love Park and take a photo in the iconic park.

Tour Eastern State Penitentiary, which was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America’s most notorious lawbreakers, including “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone.

Philadelphia’s Old City Historic Walking Tour is an informative way to end your weekend as you may visit some places you haven’t seen yet. Walk in the footsteps of America’s Founding Fathers on this walking tour of Philadelphia’s old city. Visit important landmarks such as Christ Church, the Ben Franklin Post Office, Carpenters’ Hall, and Independence Hall as your guide narrates local history.

Play at the Please Touch Museum, with two full floors of fun, engaging exhibits, children are empowered to pursue their curiosity and explore the wonder of the world around them and within their own imaginations. Designed specifically for children under seven, the Please Touch Museum is a wonderland of interactive exhibits. From a miniature city where kids can pretend to be firefighters or shopkeepers, to a dedicated area for toddlers, this museum is all about learning through play. It’s an ideal destination for younger kids to explore, imagine, and create.

Eat & Drink-
If you aren’t stuffed from a food tour, below are some of our favorite places to eat when we are in Philly.
Osteria
Abe Fisher and any of their other restaurants
Cleavers for cheesesteaks- I know, I know, hot topic here
There are many great breweries in Philadelphia
You gotta try water ice!

More Recommended Museums & Attractions-
Benjamin Franklin Museum
Museum of American Revolution
Philadelphia Zoo– The Philadelphia Zoo, the oldest in the United States, is a delightful day out for animal lovers. Home to more than 1,300 animals, including exotic species and local wildlife, the zoo offers a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs. The Treetop Trail, an aerial adventure, provides a unique perspective of the zoo and a chance for kids to see animals from above.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Rodin Museum
Mütter Museum
Rittenhouse Square
Rocky Statue & Steps– No trip to Philadelphia is complete without a visit to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. While the museum itself is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces, the real excitement for kids might be running up the famous Rocky Steps, which lead up to the museum. This iconic spot, immortalized in the “Rocky” films, offers a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to channel your inner champion.
Elfreth’s Alley
Check out a sports game if you are there at the right time
Google parks near you to experience a local spot

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