What are the best kids' activities near me in Philadelphia?

The best kids' activities near you in Philadelphia, including the Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia Zoo, Franklin Square, Adventure Aquarium, and Smith Memorial Playground. Enjoy hands-on exhibits, outdoor fun, and unforgettable family adventures throughout the city.
 
The Franklin Institute is one of Philadelphia’s most exciting science museums for kids. With interactive exhibits like the Giant Heart, a walk-through model of the human heart, and live science demonstrations, it turns learning into fun. The museum also features a planetarium, a virtual reality zone, and hands-on activities that engage children of all ages in STEM topics through play and discovery.
 
A visit to the Philadelphia Zoo is always a hit with children. As America’s first zoo, it houses over 1,300 animals and provides innovative experiences like the Zoo360 trails, where animals roam above and around you in enclosed walkways. There are also fun play zones, a petting zoo, and educational programs that help kids connect with wildlife in meaningful ways.
 
Designed especially for young children, the Please Touch Museum in Fairmount Park encourages imaginative and physical play. Kids can explore a child-sized city, pretend to run a grocery store, or climb aboard a real SEPTA bus. The museum also includes a beautiful, restored carousel and regularly rotating exhibits that encourage creativity and sensory learning in a safe, hands-on environment.
 
Located just outside the city in Langhorne, Sesame Place is a Sesame Street-themed amusement park perfect for toddlers and young kids. The park offers water rides, roller coasters, daily parades, and live shows starring Elmo, Big Bird, and other familiar characters. With both wet and dry attractions, it’s a full-day adventure that’s sure to entertain the whole family.
 
Across the river in Camden, New Jersey, the Camden Children’s Garden offers a smaller, quieter experience with plenty of educational fun. Kids can explore themed gardens like the Dinosaur Garden, Storybook Garden, and Butterfly House. Seasonal events, craft stations, and a small train ride make this a charming destination for families looking to enjoy nature and learning together.
 
Peddler’s Village in Lahaska is more than a quaint shopping village—it’s also home to Giggleberry Fair, a fun-filled indoor play space. Kids can enjoy Giggleberry Mountain, a multilevel climbing maze, and take a spin on the antique carousel. The village itself often hosts seasonal festivals and events, making it a great all-in-one destination for food, shopping, and family-friendly fun.
 
Smith Memorial Playground, located in Fairmount Park, is a local favorite for outdoor fun. It features a massive wooden slide, open green spaces, and a historic playhouse that’s free to the public. Ideal for younger children, it offers classic play in a relaxed, spacious setting. Whether it’s climbing, running, or simply exploring, it’s a great way to burn energy while enjoying the outdoors.
 
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