Looking for where to take your kids in Philly for a special treat? Whether you’re topping off an afternoon at the park or an evening out to eat, we’ve got sweet spots for you. These top Philly treats for kids are worth the trip to indulge your family’s sweet tooth. 

Where Can Parents Take Kids for a Treat in Philly?

While Philly might be known for its famous cheesesteaks or soft pretzels, the City of Brotherly Love also knows a thing or two about how to do dessert. 

How about a Philly Phanatic cupcake, a can’t-miss cannoli, or ice cream the old fashioned way? Find out where to sample these delicious treats — plus the best doughnuts, cookies, homemade chocolate, and water ice around town. 

Donut Miss These Sweet Treats

From cupcakes to cannolis, these spots have the treats sure to satisfy all your family’s cravings for something sweet.

Beiler’s Doughnuts

51 N 12th Street Philadelphia, PA (inside Reading Terminal Market)

With over 30 years of experience, Beiler’s Doughnuts specializes in doughnuts ranging from classics to specialties that are sure to wow your kids. Whether you’re looking for sprinkled, glazed, or topped with candies, it’s sure to be a sweet treat that will put a big smile on your kids’ faces. 

To find Beiler’s Doughnuts, make your way inside the bustling Reading Terminal Market, one of Philly’s most historic food halls. It’s the perfect spot to cap off a visit to one of the nearby museums or the city’s historic attractions. 

Bredenbeck’s Bakery

8126 Germantown Ave. Side A, Philadelphia, PA 19118

If your kids are in the mood for cupcakes, Bredenbeck’s in Philly is the place. Not only are the cupcakes delicious, but spirited designs pay homage to local sports teams like the Phillies and the Eagles. (Go Birds!)

Bredenbeck’s is located in the easily-accessible, quaint and charming downtown area of Chestnut Hill. Stop in after a walk in nearby Wissahickon Valley Park. 

Center City Soft Pretzel Company

816 Washington Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Searching for something savory? In a city famous for soft pretzels, Center City Soft Pretzel Co. reigns supreme. Specializing in gourmet soft pretzels for over 40 years, see for yourself why they were named to Philly Magazine’s “Best of Philly” list in 2024. 

Take a trip to their bakery in East Passyunk to sample what many consider to be the best soft pretzel in Philadelphia.

Famous 4th Street Deli

700 S 4th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Although many turn to this famous delicatessen for their pastrami or corned-beef sandwiches, their in-house desserts are worth a family trip, too. Make a pilgrimmage for one of their famous cookies, a slice of their cannoli, or funfetti cake. Better yet, try them all and learn why this deli is considered a Philly institution.

Located in the heart of the Queen Village, the deli is just a few blocks away from Starr Garden, a popular Center City playground.

Isgro’s Pastries

1009 Christian St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

If your kids never tried a cannoli, there’s no better spot in Philly to get one than Isgro’s. Family-run since 1904, these Italian sweet treats are perfected through their secret recipe only known to three people. 

This South Philadelphia pastry shop is a great spot for you and your kids to get a treat after a day of activities. Pair a visit to Isgro’s with a tour of Philadelphia’s Magic Garden, a one-of-a-kind Philly museum.

Shane Confectionery 

110 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

For all the chocolate lovers, Shane Confectionery is the spot for you. Specializing in ethically-made chocolate candies and other sweet bites, there’s a treat for everyone in this Old City staple. In the spirit of Philadelphia, enjoy a lollipop shaped like the Liberty Bell (especially for the little ones).

Founded in 1863, the candy shop’s interior not only offers sweet aromas, but a visit to an historic era, too. What’s more, the Shane Confectionery neighbors Penn’s Landing, a city social spot, ideal for strolling with the family.

We All Scream for Ice Cream

No matter the time of year or occasion, ice cream is never a bad idea — especially in Philly. Delicious frozen sweet treats are easy to find all around town. Here are some top spots for chilled Philly treats for kids — and adults.

The Franklin Fountain

116 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

A tribute to the past, the Franklin Fountain ice cream parlor transports guests to an earlier time. Step inside the old-fashioned space to discover ice cream and sorbet flavors that are sure to please the whole family. 

Find plenty of indoor and outdoor seating where families relax and enjoy their treats. Situated on lower Market Street, Franklin Fountain is walking distance to Penn’s Landing attractions. This shop is cash only. 

John’s Water Ice

701 Christian St, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Family-run since 1945, John’s Water Ice utilizes an old-school recipe to make mouth-watering, sweet water ice. Their menu of flavors spans cherry, so the whole gang can find a favorite. (They even have ice cream, too). 

John’s Water Ice serves up their cool summer treat April through September. The Christian Street location is their original store, but you can find additional locations in PA and NJ. 

Milk Jawn

1439 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Known for their limited-batch, premium ice cream, Milk Jawn showcases speciality and unique flavors. Additionally, some of their top flavors are made vegan so dairy-free family members can have a scoop (or two), as well. 

Based in South Philly, some would say they are the best ice cream option in the neighborhood. 

Weckerly’s Ice Cream

1600 Spruce Street, Philadelphia PA 19103
9 W. Girard Ave, Philadelphia 19125

Not only does Weckerly’s craft French-style ice cream from scratch, but they make the city’s best ice cream sandwiches. The sandwiches aren’t just plain either. Whether it’s seasonal flavors like PSL (coffee and pumpkin butter) or Apple Cake, kids and adults will be pleased. Drop into Weckerly’s near Rittenhouse or in Fishtown. 

Find Philly’s Best Treats to Spoil Your Kids

Use this list of the top Philly treats for kids to inspire your next family day around town. From old-fashioned ice cream to vintage bakeries, these spots let you treat your kids to something extra  special, sweet, or savory.