Take an afternoon or evening cruise on the Delaware, it’s a fun way to spend a few hours with the children and see both the Philadelphia and Camden side of the river from a new perspective. Cruises include lunch or dinner and entertainment. The kids will have fun pointing out landmarks like the Adventure Aquarium, Ben Franklin Bridge and the sports stadiums.
Contact number: (215) 923-1419
Location: Columbus Boulevard and Lombard Circle, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Learn more here.
This wonderful playground in Fairmount Park features a classic old wooden slide (the kind where you go riding down on a burlap sack) called Swing City, an amazing landscape of rope sculptures, swings, and other crazy stuff that children love; and the Playhouse, a 19th-century three-story mansion filled with toys, games and a miniature cityscape designed for the 5 and younger set.
Contact number: (215) 765-4325
Location: East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, PA 16801
Learn more here.
There’s nothing macabre about this eight acre cemetery in the East Falls section of the city, the first cemetery to be named a National Historic Landmark. Full of towering trees, amazing sculptures, and beautiful landscaping, Laurel Hill is a gorgeous place for walks, picnics, sketching, photography, watching birds, and riding bikes. Take a self guided tour — a map is just $5, or join one of the group tours that identify famous residents, including 12 passengers from the Titanic, friends and family of Ben Franklin, captains of industry, poets, writers, and dancers. Family programs include apple bobbing, scavenger hunts, and themed tours.
Contact number: (215) 228-8200
Location: 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132
Learn more here.
Open around Thanksgiving, the RiverRink is a super cool way to have winter outdoor fun. After skating, warm up with hot chocolate and snacks. Depending on the day, there’s a schedule of fun activities for the children. Sled skating sessions for the physically and developmentally challenged take place Sunday mornings, with advance reservations necessary.
Contact number: (215) 925-7465
Location: Delaware Avenue and Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Learn more here.
