The bustling city of Philadelphia has been a hub of activity since the 18th century. From the Declaration of Independence to the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia is steeped in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for families looking for fun things to do.

Philadelphia is the most populous city in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous city in the United States. With a population of 1.58 million people, it is the economic and cultural center of its state. It is known for its rich history, as it was the epicenter of the American Revolution and the birthplace of the U.S. Constitution. It is also home to many national landmarks, such as Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Franklin Square, as well as numerous other attractions.

Philadelphia is also a great place for families to spend quality time together. From outdoor activities to educational experiences, there is something for everyone in this city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for something to do with the kids, here are some of the best family things to do in Philadelphia.

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is a must-see for any family visiting Philadelphia. This historic building was the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. It was also home to the Continental Congress during the American Revolution.

A visit to Independence Hall includes a guided tour that will take you through the halls and chambers of this historic building. During your tour, you’ll learn about the events that took place here and gain insight into the birth of our nation.

For a more immersive experience, you can also take part in a re-enactment experience at Independence Hall where you’ll be able to step into the shoes of a Founding Father and experience what it was like to be part of this momentous occasion.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most beloved museums in the country, and it offers families plenty of opportunities for fun and education. With its expansive collections of fine art from around the world, including European masters such as Rembrandt and Van Gogh, this museum is sure to captivate even the youngest members of your family.

In addition to its permanent collections, the Philadelphia Museum of Art also offers a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions provide visitors with an even broader range of art to explore, from modern installations to classic works.

The museum also offers family-friendly activities such as scavenger hunts and hands-on art workshops that are designed to engage children in the artistic process. There are also special programs designed just for kids, such as Art Splash and Little Masters, that provide a fun and educational way to explore art at the museum.

Franklin Square

Located just steps from Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art is Franklin Square, one of Philadelphia’s most beloved parks. This six-acre park is home to a carousel, an 18-hole mini golf course, an outdoor café, and a fountain that erupts every 30 minutes. It is also home to several sculptures that honor Benjamin Franklin, who was born in Philadelphia.

Franklin Square is also home to several events throughout the year, such as movie nights, concerts, and holiday celebrations. The park also hosts a variety of activities throughout the summer months, including yoga classes and outdoor art classes.

The Please Touch Museum

The Please Touch Museum is an interactive museum designed especially for families with young children. The museum features seven interactive exhibits that will captivate kids and adults alike. From its interactive exhibits to its hands-on activities, this museum is sure to keep your family entertained for hours.

The Please Touch Museum also offers special programs throughout the year, including music and theater performances and science demonstrations. There are also ongoing workshops and classes on everything from coding to pottery-making that will help keep your little ones entertained and engaged.

Adventure Aquarium

The Adventure Aquarium is a great place for families looking for fun things to do in Philadelphia. This popular attraction features more than 8,500 aquatic species, including sharks, penguins, seals, and sea turtles. From its interactive exhibits to its hands-on activities, this aquarium has something for everyone in your family.

At Adventure Aquarium, you can explore an underwater sea tunnel, touch a stingray in an interactive tank, or even adopt a sea turtle! The aquarium also offers a variety of educational experiences such as behind-the-scenes tours and interactive science classes designed to help your family learn about marine life in an exciting way.

The Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary is one of Philadelphia’s most unique attractions. This former prison dates back to 1829 and has been visited by more than 4 million people over its long history. Today, visitors can explore this historic prison and learn about its unique history through interactive exhibits and audio tours.

The Eastern State Penitentiary also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, such as ghost tours and family-friendly programs. This attraction is sure to captivate your family with its fascinating history and interactive experiences.

Book an Example Tour on Viator

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience while exploring Philadelphia with your family, you might want to consider booking a tour with Viator. Viator offers a variety of tours that will take you around Philadelphia and introduce you to its most popular attractions. From bus tours to walking tours and even air tours, Viator has something for everyone in your family.

For example, if your family loves history, you may want to consider taking a tour of Independence Hall and other historic sites around Philadelphia with Viator. This three-hour tour will give you an in-depth look at some of Philadelphia’s most important landmarks as well as stories from some of its most influential citizens. You’ll learn about how these sites shaped our nation’s history and gain a better understanding of Philadelphia’s role in our nation’s founding fathers. You can book an example tour on Viator to explore this historic city with your family today!

Book an Example Tour on GetYourGuide

Another great way to explore Philadelphia with your family is by booking a tour with GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers dozens of different tours around Philadelphia, from bus tours to walking tours that will give you an insider’s look at some of Philadelphia’s most popular attractions.

For example, if your family loves animals, you may want to consider taking a tour of Adventure Aquarium with GetYourGuide. This two-hour tour will take you around Adventure Aquarium’s five galleries and introduce you to over 8500 aquatic species from around the world. You’ll get up close with sharks, penguins, sea turtles, and more as you explore this one-of-a-kind aquarium with your family. You can book an example tour on GetYourGuide to explore this unique aquarium today!

Conclusion

Philadelphia has something for everyone in your family! From historic sites such as Independence Hall and Franklin Square to hands-on experiences at The Please Touch Museum and Adventure Aquarium, there are plenty of fun and educational activities that everyone in your family will enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for something new to do with your kids, these are some of the best family things to do in Philadelphia!