The heat is on in the city of brotherly love and never was there a better time to get the kids out to explore what Philadelphia has to offer your family. From fabulous food to a hands-on look at the history of our nation and the scientific knowledge the founding fathers left us, your kids may be begging you for more.
Cool off after a morning at the museums in Sister Cities Park.
Educational
The Franklin Institute is an ode to Ben Franklin and many of his scientific discoveries, and those that he later inspired. Dive into your own space mission in the Space Command Exhibit or simply explore one of Franklin’s favorite phenomena’s in Electricity. A childhood favorite that received a facelift in 2004 is the Giant Heart, the largest walk-through heart in the country. Younger kids will think they are just running through a few tunnels, while older children can interact with the exhibit on a deeper level to learn about what makes this all important organ work.
Once you have had your fill of learning, pop across the street to Sister Cities Park, one of the newest parks in the city. This museum area hot spot is perfect for kids to cool down as they splash in the wading pool, run through the fountains, or race their boats down the winding river. Mom and dad can enjoy a caffeinated beverage at the Milk and Honey Café while they watch their little ones unwind after a morning of educational fun.
Dive into yesteryear at Franklin Fountain
Historical
You can’t go to Philadelphia without exploring Old City, home of Elfreth’s Alley, Betsy Ross’s House and Independence Hall. Watch history come alive as actors and historians in period costumes transport you to the early days of our nation. To really bring home that old time feeling, do not miss a stop at Franklin Fountain. Your kids would never forgive you if you didn’t treat yourselves to this old time ice cream shop, with homemade fudge, fabulous flavors (Jersey Blueberry for the win this summer!) and a chance to rub elbows with a few locals and tourists alike as you watch the city hum around you. Pop over to the candy shop next door for a few treats to bring home.
Cheese tasting in Reading Terminal Market is just the tip of the surface as you savor your way through the market’s tastes and smells.
Delectable
You can never go wrong when eating your way through a city. Reading Terminal Market should be a top stop on your list. Like other popular markets across the country, Reading Terminal Market is actually used by the locals just as much as the tourists. Arrive before 11am and you will have a lot more elbow room to explore before the lunch crowd shows up. Grab whoopie pies (cream filling sandwiched between two devils food cakes), apple dumplings, cannolis, ice cream from Bassets, Amish donuts, and of course, a pork sandwich from DINics, almost as famous as the Philly cheesesteak. Let the kids explore their taste buds with a few cheese and pickle samples. Just remember, only one toothpick per sample. No double dipping!
There is no end to the fun you can have in Philadelphia this summer, but why cram it all into one trip. Take your time, salivate over your options, and make plans to return as soon as possible.
