Our Family Focus Media team is pleased to present the most exceptional local businesses and services that make family gatherings and children’s parties truly special. From delectable bakeries to exciting party venues, talented entertainers to creative party planners, these award-winning providers have been recommended by local parents in the Philly Family Community for their outstanding contributions to creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, a bar/bat mitzvah, or simply looking for a fun family outing, this guide will help you discover the best our community has to offer.

Read the endorsements from local parents in our Philly Family Community about who they love and then pop over to our Philadelphia Family Best for Families Guide to find more trusted resources! Best for Families Celebration & LOVE Luncheon photos by AMC Photography.

 

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“Amanda is a phenomenal pastry chef, baker, extraordinaire. She makes the most delicious cakes and cookies for us on every occasion. One of the things that sets her apart from all others that we have patronized in the past is that she uses clean ingredients, no artificial dyes, flavorings, etc. She is able to make whatever you need, with substitutions as necessary. She is very accommodating to people like us who have specific dietary needs that most people shrug their shoulders at. She is up for the challenge, and accommodates our wishes no matter the occasion. Now, we are just looking for any reason to order her baked goods. She is so kind and has even made deliveries of the most delicious freshly-baked pies during Thanksgiving, and a big box of Christmas cookies during the holiday, last minute. She goes out of her way. And everyone who has had the opportunity to try her goods is usually blown away when we tell them that they are 100% plant-based – dairy-free, egg-free, and even soy- and/or gluten-free, made with the best possible ingredients. How “healthy” can we get these cupcakes, in order to not feel bad having two? And shortbread cookies made without dairy butter? She can do it. She’s the BEST.”

– Nicole T.

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“Maggie at Brooklyn Bowl absolutely smashed the party we had at BB for my son’s birthday. Her attention to detail was just what we needed, not to mention the food, the facility, the fun!! Anyone looking for a new and exciting space to host a family party should absolutely head to Brooklyn Bowl. You won’t be disappointed. 10/10!”

– Kat M.

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“I hosted my son’s birthday party at CookieLab and everyone loved it. The staff was friendly and the cookies and milkshakes were definitely the hit of the party. It’s definitely an affordable option in Philly!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“The best summer camp – the kids learn a variety of circus skills. They are in the air but also learning balance and juggling skills. They put together an entire show in one week that includes a massive pyramid at the end!”

– Melissa M.

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“We had a stress free, zero-waste birthday party with Rutabaga and it was excellent. The kids had a great time, made a cool craft, played with toys, and best of all I didn’t have to clean up. Krystal is fantastic and somehow magical with kids.”

– Candice P.

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“Friendly kid’s menu, arcade, jungle gym, and dog-friendly. Craft Hall is perfect for booking a party or just letting your kids have fun while the parents can enjoy food, drinks, and sports on tv.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Very nice coffee shop. Everything is brand new so it’s sparkling clean. Doesn’t feel pretentious. Has an LGBTQ and family friendly vibe. We ordered a cold brew, drip coffee, and labneh tartine. We loved the tartine. Coffee was also delicious. I liked the cool cup they put my drip coffee in. The game wall is a nice addition, we had fun drawing pictures of each other. I love that they built a ramp to a separate entrance so that the whole place is wheelchair and stroller friendly.”

– Juliana

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“Max and his business have always focused on the client and their wants. He loves seeing their faces when the finished products arrive at the destination. He takes simple ideas and turns them into works of art greater than you can imagine. It’s a magical experience watching his artwork come to life and bring joy to all.”

– Jennifer W.

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“Sandcastle is the best for children’s entertainment! My son learned so much and had so much fun at their music classes outside this summer. So much so, we hired them for his first birthday party and they were AMAZING.”

– Karina A.

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“For parents in West Philadelphia searching for indoor play spaces, Playology is a welcome haven. Run by the warm and friendly local parent, Francesca, the space is always clean, organized, and boasts a variety of toys to keep kids entertained. It’s also a great place to connect with other parents in the community, catch a music class, or join a story time. As a parent myself, I’m incredibly grateful to have Playology as an option for my daughter!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“My kids (and I!) LOVE Beehive. It’s a fun, safe, inviting, enriching, and comfortable place to take my kids for some easy play, and to also get a bit of a break. I often take my computer so I can do a little bit of work while my kids play.

They also offer wonderful and accessible classes – postpartum moms support group, music classes, happy hours, and even drop-in coaching for moms! It’s fantastic!”

– Coral E.

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“Melissa’s Everland establishment has created community in Queen Village for moms (especially new moms) and our little ones. We love visiting Everland and bringing my little 11-month-old to play and meet neighbors and new little friends. It’s the perfect location and warm space to find community.”

– Ally W.

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“Kith + Kin is a welcoming, clean, super fun space for my daughter and me to go to. We have a fun time every time we go. On rainy/cold/hot days it is necessary!!!
We love them!”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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“Amazing, cozy space that feels so welcoming and nurturing! A great place to play and build community. Affordable membership and party rental too.”

– Philly Family Community Parent

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As we celebrate these outstanding Philadelphia Family LOVE Award Winners and Family Favorite Honorees, t’s clear that Philadelphia is brimming with incredible resources to make every occasion special. These local businesses and talented professionals go above and beyond to create magical experiences for families, from the perfect birthday cake to enchanting entertainment options. Whether you’re organizing an intimate family gathering or a grand celebration, these award-winning providers offer the creativity, quality, and attention to detail that will turn your vision into reality. We encourage you to explore these valuable resources and connect with the passionate individuals who are dedicated to bringing joy and excitement to our community’s celebrations. Here’s to creating lasting memories with the help of these exceptional local favorites! Be sure to explore the Main Line Parent Best for Families Guide and Bucks County Parent Best for Families Guide to find even more resources that can support your family’s journey.

Know a fantastic local resource that should be on this list? Share your experience with a Philadelphia Family Member on their Profile Page (we count new endorsements as nominations year-round)! If you’d like to Recommend a Resource that our community should know about, our team will reach out to any referrals with an invitation to join and will mail you a copy of our Community Magazine as a thank you gift. If you would like YOUR organization to be more connected with local parents, caregivers, and family-focused business leaders in our community, we invite you to join our Philadelphia Family Membership Program.