Philadelphia, PA - The Philadelphia Region is full of family-friendly places to visit, such as the Best Kid-Friendly Museums to Visit in Philadelphia. But where to go when you want some good old fashion family fun that the kids will definitely enjoy. From picking apples and hayrides at Linvilla Orchards to a good old interactive playroom at Giggleberry Fair in Peddler's Village, we have you covered with our Staff-Picks of Family Fun Activities in and around Philadelphia.
A Family Guide to Philadelphia's Best Kid-Friendly Gardens, Tours & Playgrounds
The Philadelphia region is a fantastic playground for families, offering a wonderful mix of outdoor gardens, unique tours, and one-of-a-kind play spaces that are perfect for a day of adventure. From world-renowned botanical gardens with dedicated children's areas to historic farms and legendary theme parks, there are endless opportunities for creative and imaginative play. This expert guide will lead you to some of the absolute best and most beloved kid-friendly destinations in and around Philadelphia.
World-Class Gardens & Arboretums
1. Longwood Gardens (Kennett Square, PA) A true national treasure, Longwood Gardens is a breathtaking experience for all ages. While the grand fountains and sprawling conservatory are stunning, the kids will make a beeline for the Indoor Children's Garden, a whimsical space with interactive water features, secret rooms, and a bamboo maze. Outside, the Children's Corner offers a Flower Fountain perfect for splashing on hot days. Seasonal events, like the popular Pumpkin Playground in the fall, make every visit unique.
- Address: U.S. Route 1, Kennett Square, PA
2. Morris Arboretum & Gardens (Philadelphia, PA) This stunning 92-acre Victorian arboretum, part of the University of Pennsylvania, is a magical place for families. The highlight for kids is the "Out on a Limb" exhibit, a massive, award-winning tree canopy walk that takes you 50 feet up into the treetops. With its suspension bridge, giant bird's nest, and other interactive elements, it's an unforgettable adventure. The Garden Railway, featuring model trains chugging through a miniature landscape, is another can't-miss attraction.
- Address: 100 E Northwestern Ave, Philadelphia, PA
3. Tyler Arboretum (Media, PA) With 650 acres of woodlands and 17 miles of hiking trails, Tyler Arboretum is a paradise for adventurous families. The arboretum is home to a fantastic collection of "Totally Terrific Treehouses," whimsical, climbable structures that kids absolutely love. The beautiful butterfly gardens and the Meadow Maze labyrinth offer even more opportunities for outdoor exploration and discovery.
- Address: 515 Painter Road, Media, PA
Farms, Playgrounds & Amusement
4. Linvilla Orchards (Media, PA) A Delaware County institution, Linvilla Orchards is a 300-acre family farm dedicated to agriculture and entertainment. It's a year-round destination where families can pick their own seasonal fruit, visit the barnyard animals, go fishing in Orchard Lake, or hop on a hayride. The large Playland Playground, with its wooden trucks and tractors, is a major draw, and no visit is complete without a stop at the farm market for one of their famous, freshly baked pies.
- Address: 137 W. Knowlton Road, Media, PA
5. Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse (Philadelphia, PA) A true Philadelphia treasure, Smith Memorial Playground has been a free and safe place for children to play since 1899. This massive 6.5-acre playground in East Fairmount Park is home to the iconic Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide, a 40-foot-long slide that has been thrilling generations of kids. The historic, 16,000-square-foot Playhouse is designed for children five and under and offers three floors of interactive, imaginative play.
- Address: 3500 Reservoir Drive, Philadelphia, PA
6. Sesame Place (Langhorne, PA) For fans of Elmo, Big Bird, and the rest of the gang, Sesame Place is a must-visit. As the only theme park in the nation based entirely on the beloved TV show, it's a world of fun for young children. The park features a fantastic mix of gentle rides, a water park with slides and a lazy river, interactive shows, and a daily parade with everyone's favorite furry friends. It's also the first theme park in the world to be designated as a Certified Autism Center.
- Address: 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA
7. Giggleberry Fair at Peddler's Village (Lahaska, PA) Located in the charming Peddler's Village, Giggleberry Fair is a fantastic indoor family fun center. The main attraction is Giggleberry Mountain, the area's largest and most colorful indoor obstacle course. Kids can also ride the beautifully restored 1922 Philadelphia Toboggan Company Grand Carousel, play in the arcade, and explore "Giggles Discovers," an interactive environment for younger children.
- Address: Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, PA
Unique Tours & Experiences
8. Herr's Snack Factory Tour (Nottingham, PA) Take a fun and flavorful day trip to see how your favorite snacks are made. The Herr's Snack Factory Tour is a fantastic experience where children can watch the entire process of potato chips, pretzels, and popcorn being made, from the raw ingredients to the final packaged product. The tour is educational, fun, and often ends with a warm, fresh-from-the-conveyor-belt sample. Reservations are required.
- Address: 271 Old Baltimore Pike, Nottingham, PA
Know Before You Go: The Philadelphia region is full of incredible family-friendly destinations. However, please be aware that hours, admission policies, and the availability of specific attractions can change seasonally. It is highly recommended to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
