Philadelphia is not only a history-packed city, but it is also a city with plenty of attractions for families that bring residents and tourists back again and again throughout the year. From top-notch zoos and aquariums to interactive museums and seasonal celebrations, there’s no shortage of fun here for kids — and kids at heart. No matter when you visit, be it in the summer or the dead of winter, this guide will take you through the best family attractions Philadelphia by season.
Springtime in Philadelphia is a magical experience. The city’s parks and green spaces explode with bloom, making them ideal for outdoor family attractions.
Next, in spring, one of America’s oldest and most beloved zoos, the Philadelphia Zoo, springs to life. Home to 1,300 animals, lush gardens, and a one-of-a-kind animal travel trail system (Zoo360), it’s endless fun for kids of all ages. Baby animal exhibits and outdoor events are favorites in the spring.
Fairmount Park is one of the nation’s biggest urban park systems and is ideal for picnics, hikes, and playgrounds. The Japanese House and Garden is a must-see, particularly when the cherry blossoms are out — a beautiful sight for children and adults alike.
It’s open year-round, but spring is an excellent time to combine an indoor visit with outdoor play at nearby Smith Memorial Playground. One of the best indoor activities in the city is the museum itself, particularly its interactive exhibits geared toward children younger than seven.
Nestled in Fairmount Park, this classic 17th-century Japanese house is surrounded by the changing seasons. Spring is cherry blossom season, and this is one of the more scenic family attractions Philadelphia.
Sure, summer in Philly may be hot, but it also comes with plenty of festive happenings and activities for men and women alike, including some water fun.
Adventure Aquarium, in Camden, NJ, just across the river, has sharks, hippos, and the East Coast’s biggest collection of sharks. As one of the highest-rated aquariums in the region, it’s a summer favorite — cool, informative, and fun.
The historic square includes a carousel, mini-golf, playgrounds, and fountains that operate seasonally. In summer, the Square features free events and pop-up markets. It is a perfect family attraction in Philadelphia.
A summer ritual in Philadelphia, this riverside destination features hammocks, food vendors, paddle boats, and light displays after dark. Kids aren’t the only ones having fun — parents appreciate the festive vibe and food choices, too.
Located a quick drive from the city of Langhorne, PA, Sesame Place brings your child’s favorite characters to life. A combination of water park and theme park, this attraction is one to remember for families near Philadelphia during warmer months, with seasonal parades, rides, and shows.
As leaves grow golden and air crisps, fall is an ideal season for warm, colorful, and festive family attractions Philadelphia.
Leaf-peeping doesn’t get better than this. The Garden Railway, an elaborate display of miniature trains running through landscaped gardens, is a fall favorite. Their Halloween-related events also put a seasonal spin on the fun for kids.
The haunted house part of the experience is too intense for younger kids, but the historical tours during the day are educational and age-appropriate. This combination of history and seasonal enjoyment is in Philadelphia’s most historic neighborhood.
Linvilla Orchards, just outside city limits, provides one of those fall must-do lists — hayrides, corn mazes, and picking pumpkins. These seasonal suggestions are ideal for weekend family outings and are popular with children of all ages.
As the weather cools, this science museum is one of the better indoor activity choices. Its hands-on exhibits, including a giant heart and a space center, find ways to make science engaging for children. Seasonal programs, including spring break and summer activities, keep things interactive year-round.
When temperatures fall, Philadelphia dazzles with indoor activities and magical winter displays, making it easy to get around even in the coldest months.
This winter wonderland on the Delaware River includes an Olympic-size ice rink, fire pits, food cabins, and a lodge. Tubs of hot chocolate and queues for Santa: Winterfest is one of Philadelphia's most beloved family attractions, and it's organized to provide fun for kids and adults alike.
A Philadelphia tradition, this 15-minute 3D holiday light show projects on the Comcast Center’s enormous LED wall and is shown once an hour. It’s a swift, festive, free indoor activity well-suited for holiday shopping excursions.
With everything from giant dinosaur skeletons to live animal exhibits to a hands-on dig pit, this museum is one of the oldest in the country and one of the favorite family-friendly Philadelphia attractions for winter. It’s both educational and fun under one warm roof for kids.
Longwood Gardens’ Christmas light displays are technically outside the city but are spectacular. Sprawling acres filled with stunningly adorned trees, fountains, and a giant indoor conservatory, it’s one of the best family winter trip ideas.
Philadelphia knows parents will look for go-to spots, rain or shine. Fortunately, the city is dense with indoor activities that are ideal for 365 days.
This museum deserves a repeat mention because it is evergreen. The themed exhibits from supermarket fun to real-life transportation, keep kids busy and playing in a safe environment.
Part of the Plymouth Meeting Mall, LEGOLAND features a mini-Philly made out of LEGO bricks, rides, workshops, and a 4D cinema. It’s a building dreamland for little builders and an indoor activity they don’t get much of elsewhere.
The museum is not traditionally thought of as a kid venue, though it does have nice family guides, activity packs, and family-friendly events. Regarding family attractions Philadelphia, it’s a hit.
With everything from namesake zoos to magical aquariums to abundant culture and history, Philadelphia is a family-friendly destination for a mini vacation. Throw in four distinct seasons full of seasonal ideas, and you’ve got a city with something new to offer on each visit.
Here’s why families keep returning:
Easy to get around: Many places of interest are within walking distance or a quick SEPTA train ride, Philadelphia’s public transport system.
Free or cheap: Lots of museums and parks are free or low-cost to enter.
A year-round city: From spring picnics to winter ice rinks, Philly doesn’t go out of season.
Real fun for kids: Attractions have been carefully crafted to ensure that kids are entertained and engaged (not just along for the ride).
So before you plan your next visit, here are some planning tips to maximize all the family attractions Philadelphia has to offer:
Purchase tickets ahead of time: Popular zoos and aquariums can reportedly sell out, particularly during holidays and weekends.
Consult the Events Calendar: Many attractions have seasonal programming, workshops, and special exhibits.
Dress in layers: Weather can be unpredictable, particularly in spring and fall.
Philadelphia is about more than the Liberty Bell and cheesesteaks. It’s an inviting, energetic city filled with year-round, family-friendly attractions for all ages. If you’re visiting penguins at the aquarium, riding ponies at the zoo, or going to interactive museums, there is plenty of fun going on that’s not just for kids and some good family memories to carry home.
No matter when you go, Philly lists plenty of ideas that promise a memorable and entertaining visit. Whether summer splash parks or cozy indoor fun in the winter, the Philadelphia region always delivers activities for parents and kids who want to bond on adventures together. So grab your bags, fuel your curiosity, and uncover the best Philadelphia attractions offer—in season.
This content was created by AI