Philadelphia With Kids

Philadelphia offers a wide variety of attractions to tempt kids, from Revolutionary history to IMAX theaters. But when vacationing with the family, there’s a fine line between “Wow, cool!” and “I’m bored,” whether they are old enough to verbalize that sentiment or just lay on the floor and cry. Visiting sites that are age appropriate can make all the difference.

Here are a few Philadelphia attractions that are especially good at grabbing the attention of certain age groups. But keep in mind that some sites could also work for slightly older or younger kids, which might come in handy if you have multiple ages in your household.

Tots

Please Touch Museum

Little ones need plenty of hands-on and interactive distractions to keep them busy. That’s exactly what they get at Please Touch Museum. Kids can slip into a seat at the Mad Hatter’s tea party and other scenes from “Alice in Wonderland,” shop at the grocery store, repair a car at the garage, play music in the rain forest and so much more. It’s designed for kids aged 7 and younger. Mornings tend to be more crowded, so go in the afternoon if you can.

4231 Avenue of the Republic (formerly N. Concourse Dr.). Tel. 215-581-3181. Admission: $15 for anyone over 1. www.pleasetouchmuseum.org

The Academy of Natural Sciences

For more hands-on fun, stop by the Academy of Natural Sciences, where you’ll find Outside In, the children’s nature museum, on the third floor. Here kids can meet live animals, listen to a story on Lucy’s Back Porch, watch a working bee hive and more. It’s designed for ages 3 to 8, but older and younger are welcome. And don’t bypass the other floors of the museum, where you’ll find an indoor butterfly garden and Dinosaur Hall.

 

• What kid wouldn’t love Dinosaur Hall at the Academy of Natural Sciences?

Katie O. Clark/ANSP

1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Tel. 215-299-1000. Admission: $12 ages 13 and up, $10 ages 3 to 12. www.ansp.org

School-Age Kids

Older kids are learning about the events surrounding our nation’s birth in school, so take them to Philadelphia’s Revolutionary epicenter. The events are fresh in their minds as well as exciting for them to see firsthand.

Many Revolutionary-related sites are clustered in Independence National Historical Park, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center and the National Constitution Center. Others sites are only a short walk away, such as Christ Church and Betsy Ross’ home.

Start at the Independence Visitor Center to pick up maps, learn about walking and riding tours and even ask the staff for dining suggestions. It’s also the place to pick up your timed tickets for a tour of Independence Hall. Some park sites are free to visit while others charge admission, so be sure to check before you go.

 

• The Liberty Bell is a must-see for every family’s history buff.

Karen Gaspers

Franklin Square

A short walk from Independence National Historical Park is one of the city’s five original parks, making it a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of Independence Mall. There’s the Liberty Carousel, spacious play area, 1830s fountain, Philly-themed miniature golf course, sand-sculpture area, snack bar and plenty of green space for goofing around. The play area is divided into areas for ages 2 to 5 and 5 to 12. My 8-year-old loves climbing and spinning on the equipment.

6th and Race Streets. Tel. 215-629-4026. Carousel rides are $2 for children ages 3 to 12 and free for kids 2 and younger. A round of golf runs $6 for ages 3 to 12, $8 for ages 13 and up.

Next: Sites for Teens and Other Attractions