Written By: Guest Author Laura LehmanVisiting Philadelphia with the family doesn’t have to be boring for the kids. Once you've visited the historic sites, there are still many activities to enjoy, some for younger kids and some for older kids. Most attractions are also within walking distance of public transportation.
In Philadelphia
Please Touch Museumwww.pleasetouchmuseum.org
Race and 21st Street, Philadelphia
This isn’t your usual museum! Kids are invited to play in the interactive displays. The exhibits include a Maurice Sendak area, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, a supermarket, a barnyard and other themed displays that appeal to children. The attraction is aimed more towards younger children.
Philadelphia Insectarium
8046 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia
The Insectarium showcases live and mounted bugs, a man-made spider web, and other interactive displays. Besides getting to see all sorts of bugs, kids can learn about their role in our ecosystem. This attraction is great for kids of all ages, so long as they are not afraid of bugs!
Independence Seaport Museum
www.phillyseaport.org
211 S Columbus Blvd, Phialdelphia
Learn about Philadelphia’s maritime heritage with interactive exhibits, ship models, artifacts and art. Try experiments with water, wind and boat shapes. The Independence Seaport Museum also includes odd artifacts, an exploration of late 18th century Philadelphia, and many more displays and events.
Franklin Institute
sln.fi.edu/visit.html
222 N 20th Street, Phialdelphia
This is one of my all-time favorite places to visit. Everyone can explore different aspects of science at the Franklin Institute. You can move through a giant model of a human heart, visit the Fels Planetarium, or watch an IMAX movie. You could spend an entire day here!
Nearby Philadelphia
Sesame Placewww.sesameplace.com
100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA
This is the only theme park based on the PBS series. Most of the rides are water wirdes, so make sure you remember your swim suits! You can also see a live version of "Elmo's World," watch the Rock Around the Block Parade, or see one of the other live shows throughout the day.
Crayola Factory
www.crayola.com/factory
30 Center Square, Easton, PA
See how your crayons are made! At this factory not only can you see how crayons are manufactured, but you can also use them. In addition to interactive play areas, The Crayola Factory lets kids create their own masterpieces. While this is a distance from Philadelphia, it is a great daytrip to make.
Adventure Aquarium
www.adventureaquarium.com
1 Aquarium Drive, Camden, NJ
Just across the Delaware River you can explore the creatures of the ocean. Visit penguins, sharks, sea turtles and more. Touch sea creatures in the Meet-A-Creature and Touch-A-Shark tanks. When you're finished, visit the Camden Children's Garden (http://www.camdenchildrensgarden.org/) to see the butterfly house, storybook garden and other exhibits.
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