How to Find Activities for Children in Philadelphia
Whether you've lived in Philadelphia your entire life or are planning a long weekend visit, there are lots of children's activities for every age. With a rich cultural history, Philadelphia offers some of the nation's top tourist attractions.
Instructions
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Philadelphia is for Kids
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Start with the most comprehensive cultural website for Philadelphia: http://www.phillyfunguide.comCheck out Highlights on home page and then navigate to "Kid Friendly" on left and "Half Price Tickets Every Week" in upper right corner. This website will link to other children's activities.
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Visit websites for the City's four top children's attractions. Websites are listed under Resources.1. Try the Franklin Institute Science Museum. Watch for big crowds on weekends and school holidays. Take your time to review admission packages and only buy tickets for what your kids will want to see. If you'll be visiting a few times in one year, it may be worthwhile to purchase a membership. You will find lots of hands-on stuff for kids and a good food court.2. The Please Touch Museum is best for children under ten. Visit website for discounts on admission. There is street parking and nearby lots. You will not find much in the way of food, so pack lunch and snacks.3. At the Academy of Natural Sciences, watch for school days as this is a popular field trip destination. It has a good food court and parking in lots or on streets.4. Try the Philadelphia Zoo. This is the most popular of the four. Watch for long car exit lines off 76 Expressway on weekends. Get there early if you can. You will find parking lots. Although the strollers are cool, save money and bring your own. There are lots of food options.
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Drive less than five miles from Philadelphia to the Camden Waterfront (http://www.camdenwaterfront.com), home of Adventure Aquarium, Battleship New Jersey, Children's Garden and outdoor concerts and activities for children. It is accessible by car over the Ben Franklin Bridge or by ferry. Try to get the Aquarium at opening times as it gets very crowded on weekends. Find parking in paid lots.
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Visit the official Philadelphia tourism website (http://www.gophila.com). Look for discounts under Highlights on homepage and see if there are any special kids itineraries being offered as many include discounted admission. This website offers hotel, restaurant and parking information too.
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Pick up Friday's Philadelphia Inquirer and check out the Weekend section. In addition to highlights for children, including concerts, special events, festivals, book readings and lots more, the back section includes a Family listing and you can find lots of events there, including freebies.
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Tips & Warnings
Always check the website for a children's activity before visiting for special events and discounts.