Philadelphia's Historic Districts Attractions, Eats and Adventure

Historic District Attractions:

• African American Museum in Philadelphia -  Now in its 40th year, this groundbreaking museum takes afresh and bold look at the stories of African-Americans and their role in the founding of the nation through the core exhibit Audacious Freedom. Children’s Corner, an interactive installment for ages three through eight, lets kids explore the daily lives of youth in Philadelphia from 1776-1876. Other exhibits examine contemporary issues through art and historic artifacts. Weekend family workshops and special events take place throughout the year. 701 Arch Street, (215) 574-0380, aampmuseum.org
• Betsy Ross House - America’s most famous flag maker greets guests in her interactive 18th-century upholstery shop. Visitors learn about Betsy’s life and legend from the lady herself and Phillis, an African-American colonial who explains and shows what life was like for a freed black woman in the 18th century. An audio tour caters to four-to-eight-year-olds, offering lessons in Colonial life and the opportunity to solve “history mysteries.” 239 Arch Street, (215) 629-4026, betsyrosshouse.org
• Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia - Everyone handles money, but how does it arrive in people’s wallets? The Federal Reserve’s hands-on Money in Motion exhibit at explains it all. Plus, games invite visitors to “Match Wits with Ben,” and an impressive collection of old and rare currency is on display. 6th & Arch Streets, (866) 574-3727, (215) 574-6000, philadelphiafed.org
• Fireman’s Hall Museum -  Future emergency responders get a head start atthisrestored 1902 firehouse, home to some of the nation’s earliest firefighting equipment, including hand, steam and motor fire engines, as well as a 9/11 exhibit and an interactive kiosk that teaches kids about 9-1-1 services. Visitors can try on fire coats and boots, man a bucket brigade and learn about fire prevention. 147 N. 2nd Street, (215) 923-1438, firemanshallmuseum.org
• Franklin Square -  One of William Penn’s original five squares is a modern and fun family park, with a Philly-themed miniature golf course, restored marble fountain, two playgrounds and an old-fashioned carousel featuring some famous Philly horses. When hunger strikes, SquareBurger delivers with burgers, fries and Cake Shakes. 6th & Race Streets, historicphiladelphia.org
• Independence National Historical Park - TheLiberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, the Benjamin Franklin Museum and the Bishop White House are just some of the attractions that make up America’s most historic square mile. In the summer months, the park offers ranger-led walking tours,which have in recent years included Dr. Franklin’s Philadelphia, History Beneath Our Feet and Underground Railroad. (215) 965-2305,nps.gov/inde
• Museum of the American Revolution - Offering free admission to children under age five and discounts to older kids, the Historic District’s newest attraction, delving into the citizens’ conflict that created the United States of America, invites all ages to join the Sons of Liberty, board the deck of a privateer ship and play soldier throughout. 123 Chestnut Street, (215) 254-6731, amrevmuseum.org
• The National Constitution Center - At America’s first and only museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution,highlights include interactive exhibits; the powerful, multimedia Freedom Rising performance; Signers’ Hall, filled with life-sized statues of the signers of the U.S. Constitution; and nationally touring exhibitions. Special family-friendly programs take place throughout the year on civic holidays, including Presidents’ Day, Veterans’ Day, Tax Day, Earth Day and more. 525 Arch Street, (215) 409-6600, constitutioncenter.org
• National Museum of American Jewish History - Independence Mall’s modern, four-floor tribute to Jewish-American history and traditions showcases the lives of history makers (Albert Einstein, Golda Meir, Jonas Salk) and industry giants (Estée Lauder, Barbra Streisand, Steven Spielberg) through exhibitions young visitors understand. The second Sunday of each month means kid-friendly story time, crafting and holiday celebrations, always free with admission. 101 S. Independence Mall East, (215) 923-3811, nmajh.org
• Philadelphia\'s Once Upon A Nation’s Storytelling Benches -  Spread throughout the Historic District—including just outside the new Museum of the American Revolution—13 benches beckon with free, five-minute tales of Philadelphia’s history and even some forgotten secrets, told by professional storytellers. Story benches are marked with Once Upon a Nation signs. Children who collect star stamps at all 13 benches earn a free carousel ride at Franklin Square. (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org

Historic District Restaurants & Snack Stops:

• Campo’s – Thiscasual eatery in Old City is known for making some of the best Philly sandwiches, including hoagies, cheesesteaks and homemade meatball and roast pork. Plus, it’s just a few blocks away from the city’s most famous historic attractions. There are additional Campo’s locations inside Citizens Bank Park, the Wells Fargo Center and the Liacouras Center. 214 Market Street, (215) 923-1000, camposdeli.com
• Capofitto - Run by the young family that gave Philly award-winning gelato (Capogiro), this pizzeria serves its now-famous hazelnut, pistachio or fresh berry scoops, along with wood-fired Neapolitan pies and authentic Italian brunch. 223 Chestnut Street, (215) 897-9999, capofittoforno.com
• City Tavern – History becomes edible at thiscolonial tavern first established in 1773, featuring a clever children’s menu with turkey potpie and chicken with buttered noodles, high chairs and booster seats, as well as costumed servers. 138 S. 2nd Street, (215) 413-1443, citytavern.com
• Franklin Fountain - The Historic District’s old-fashioned ice cream saloon turns out authentic handmade ice cream, splits, shakes, sundaes, fountain sodas and seasonally minded baked goods using fresh, local ingredients sourced from area farms. 116 Market Street, (215) 627-1899, franklinfountain.com
• Shane Confectionery - America’s oldest candy store was built in 1863 and restored to its 1911 splendor with carved cabinetry, glass cases and clerks in long dresses or bowties who serve award-winning chocolates and confections made with early 20th-century machinery. Customers can watch as their sweet treats are bagged and on antique scales or choose chocolates by the piece. 110 Market Street, (215) 922-1048, shanecandies.com

Historic District Hotels:

• Hotel Monaco Philadelphia – Every Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. there’s a Kids’ Table in the living room lobby of this stylish Historic District hotel. Youngsters enjoy kid-friendly snacks, beverages and bathrobes, an assortment of board games and take-home goodies. 433 Chestnut Street, (215) 925-2111, monaco-philadelphia.com
• Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District – For easy proximity to historic sites, families choose this convenient hotel. Kids can continue the fun by splashing in a rooftop pool overlooking the city. 400 Arch Street, (215) 923-8660, wyndham.com

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