Visiting Philadelphia with Kids

Tim Ponisciak said:  The Liberty Bell is a symbol of American independence. Come learn about the two individuals who made the bell, Pass & Stow, figure out why there is a crack in the bell and how it came to have its historic meaning.

Shila said:  The National Constitution Center offers visitors of all ages an in depth museum to explore the history & relevance of the Constitution & embrace their role in the story of "We the People." The museum proudly displays 1 of the 12 surviving copies of the Bill of Rights, among other national artifacts.

The Center features a range of daily programs, live performances & exhibits like "Signers’ Hall." This exhibit is popular and known for where you sign the Constitution alongside 42 life-size, bronze statues of the Founding Fathers.

Tim Ponisciak said:  Check out this great museum dedicated to one of our nation's founding fathers. The Benjamin Franklin Museum educates visitors on some lesser known facts about Franklin and is easily doable in half a day. The museum has a number of interactive exhibits, so kids of all ages will love it! Kids will enjoy looking for small pet squirrel figurines (skuggs) located throughout the exhibits.

Tim Ponisciak said:  The Museum of the American Revolution is one of the city's newer museums. It has several thousand artifacts related to the founding of the United States. There are a few films to watch, a replica of Boston's Liberty Tree and a replica privateer ship.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  The nation's first Mint is right here in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Mint makes circulating coins, coin sets, commemorative coins and medals. Tours allow visitors to view the coin making process from 40 feet above the factory floor. See the first coining press, Key to the First Mint and other items of historic significance.

Tours are self guided. Allow at least 45 minutes. Located near the Liberty Bell and other historic attractions, it is a tour not to be missed in Philadelphia.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  Christ Church Burial Ground is an historic graveyard from the Colonial and Revolutionary Era with 1400 markers across 2 acres. It is the final resting place for historians Benjamin Franklin and 4 other signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Cost: Admission starts at $1/person

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  Founded in 1695, Christ Church, is an authentic historic landmark in Philadelphia symbolizing religious freedom for all. The current building dates back to 1744 and the steeple to 1754.

Be sure to visit Pew 58 to see where George Washington sat and Pew 7 to see where Ben Franklin sat. Other notables to attend this church are William Penn and Betsy Ross. Guides are available during operating hours to share the rich history of the church.

Cost: Admission is free; Donations are welcome

Shila said:  The Betsy Ross House, the birthplace of the American flag, offers kids audio tours and games to solve 13 “history mysteries.” Adult audio tours are also available.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  Learn about the life and literary works of Edgar Allan Poe at the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site. Located in Old City, take a tour of his historic home, listen to his work narrated by famous actors, discover how his work influenced writers including Stephen King, and more. Kids can become a Junior Ranger and earn a badge by downloading and completing an activity book from their website.

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  An old-fashioned soda fountain serving up homemade ice cream, sorbets and sugar-free and dairy-free varieties. Named for Ben Franklin, The Franklin Fountain offers over 20 ice cream flavors including Franklin Mint Chip, Rocky Road and Teaberry Gum. Treats include sundaes, milk shakes, egg creams, floats, ice cream sodas, banana splits and more. Employees are traditional soda jerks complete with old fashioned uniforms.

A visit will feel like you have stepped back in time. It may cost a little more than a traditional ice cream parlor, but this Philly experience is worth it! Payment is cash only.

Shila said:  Paddle your way around the Penn's Landing basin in a kayak, rowboat, swan or dragon on the Delaware River for a perfect outdoor, seasonal activity. When you are finished on the water, step inside the Independent Seaport Museum where you'll see marine attractions & historic ships like the Cruiser Olympia, the oldest steel warship afloat in the world.

Age: 6+

Cost: $8/person for a half hour rental

Open Memorial Day-Labor Day

Tim Ponisciak said:  Elfreth's Alley is widely considered America's oldest residential street. Walk over cobblestone and take a moment to truly step back in time. The houses though are not just for show, people still live on the street. You can visit The Museum House to learn the history of the street. Walk through and guided tours are available.

Open Friday-Sunday

Sue Krawitz Tandoc said:  Pizza Brain is a restaurant and museum dedicated to most kids' favorite food - pizza! Their menu boasts a variety of pizza pies, from red to white and many gourmet in between loaded with toppings of meat and veggies. Their Pizza Museum features interesting collectibles, toys, music and more to honor this favorite food item.