The Best Things To Do in Philly with Kids

Discover the best family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia with kids, including events, festivals, attractions, and free activities through our curated calendar. Find what’s happening in Philly today and plan your next family adventure!

💞 Check out our sister Community Calendars too: Main Line Parent and Bucks County Parent.

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Philly Family Community Calendar

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

One-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]

Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour

Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour

Independence Visitor Center 599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Experience history come alive as Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (HPI) and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation present The Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour. Join a captivating History Maker as they guide you through America’s most historic square mile, bringing the past to life with authentic stories […]

Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour

Independence Visitor Center 599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Experience history come alive as Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (HPI) and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation present The Official Historic Philadelphia Walking Tour. Join a captivating History Maker as they guide you through America’s most historic square mile, bringing the past to life with authentic stories […]

Sonic Sunsets: Concert & Tour

Christ Church Burial Ground Arch St & N 5th St, Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy an evening at Christ Church Burial Ground with live jazz and storytelling. Each month features a different group of artists, marking the changing of the seasons. Audiences are invited to picnic among the stones (BYOB). An additional guided mini-tour, offered prior to the show, […]

Franklin’s Key at Play & Players Theatre

Franklin’s Key at Play & Players Theatre

Play & Players Theatre 1714 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Pig Iron Theatre Company presents the world premiere of Franklin's Key, a thrilling sci-fi adventure reimagining Benjamin Franklin’s legacy in an alternate universe where science and magic collide. This visually stunning production blends Philadelphia’s rich history with breathtaking stage illusions by Skylar Fox (Harry Potter […]

$35 – $65
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Start the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.

Paper, Prints, and Play! Art Kids Studio

Philadelphia Museum of Art 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Experiment with new materials, tools, and techniques in this drop-in program inspired by prints in the Brand X exhibition. Projects, artists and themes change every few weeks: July 18–August 3 | Dab, Dash, Glide August 8–August 24 | Wordplay   South Vaulted Walkway, Ground Floor […]

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

One-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]

2nd Street Fest

2nd St from Girard Ave to Spring Garden St Philadelphia, PA

One of the Philadelphia's biggest street festivals, with live local music on multiple stages, food trucks, local artisans, family fun, and vendors.

Family Funday with PopUpPlay

Family Funday with PopUpPlay

Spruce Street Harbor Park 401 S Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Activities include boat building, puppet making, and even constructing a working catapult. Each week promises captivating experiences for kids of all ages with a new make-and-take activity. This event is free and open to the public, and all ages are welcome. Activities are available on […]

ACANA African Festival

Cherry Street Pier 121 N Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Move to the lively rhythms of West African drumming, dynamic dance, and high-energy musical performances at this joyful celebration of African culture. Enjoy vibrant market stalls, traditional food, and activities for kids while making lasting memories with your family and friends. Part of the PECO […]

Franklin’s Key at Play & Players Theatre

Franklin’s Key at Play & Players Theatre

Play & Players Theatre 1714 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Pig Iron Theatre Company presents the world premiere of Franklin's Key, a thrilling sci-fi adventure reimagining Benjamin Franklin’s legacy in an alternate universe where science and magic collide. This visually stunning production blends Philadelphia’s rich history with breathtaking stage illusions by Skylar Fox (Harry Potter […]

$35 – $65
Free Summer Rowing Camp at Lloyd Hall

Free Summer Rowing Camp at Lloyd Hall

Lloyd Hall 1 Boathouse Row, Philadelphia, PA, United States

A free summer rowing camp offered through Philadelphia Parks and Recreation for 13-17 year olds running in two week sessions from 8:30am-3:30pm. Campers will learn the skills and discipline around the sport of rowing as well as participate in other activities. Offering free breakfast and […]

Free
Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Start the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.

Baby Wordplay Storyplays With Miss Pam!

Baby Wordplay Live with Miss Pam

The Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United States

There is overwhelming evidence that reading, singing, and gesturing with young children daily brings exceptional, permanent benefits. And the research is clear: this is one area where earlier is better. Join Librarian Miss Pam to read, sing, count, practice Spanish and ASL and have adventures […]

Baby Wordplay Storyplays With Miss Pam!

Baby Wordplay Live with Miss Pam

The Philadelphia Ethical Society 1906 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA, United States

There is overwhelming evidence that reading, singing, and gesturing with young children daily brings exceptional, permanent benefits. And the research is clear: this is one area where earlier is better. Join Librarian Miss Pam to read, sing, count, practice Spanish and ASL and have adventures […]

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

One-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]

Songs & Stories with Krystal

Rutabaga Toy Library 3426 Conrad St c2, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Weekly gatherings - a wonderful way to explore Rutabaga & meet new friends! Hangouts are open to the public: free for members & just $10 drop-in for non-members. We’ll sing together a read a book during this casual circle time. Free-play afterward. Invite a friend!

Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Start the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.

Design Gym SUMMER HOURS

Design Gym: Summer Hours

Design Gym 179 W Berks Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

At design Gym, "Open Gym" will be open Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:00AM-6:00PM at the design studio and third space in Norris Square/Olde Kensington @silkscreenstudios. OPEN GYM is free, drop-in hours to explore design and exercise your creativity. Some ways to enjoy "Open Gym": - Bring […]

Free
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

One-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]

Shells of Liberty Oyster Bash

Carpenters' Hall 320 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

On National Oyster Day, Carpenters’ Hall and Fishtown Seafood will host the inaugural 'Shells of Liberty Oyster Bash' in Philadelphia’s Historic District! This new two-part event throws it back to the Revolutionary era when oysters were the snack of choice for the Founding Fathers. In […]

Free – $75

National Night Out at WBC

Wissahickon Brewing Company 3705 W. School House Lane, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Wissahickon Brewing Co. (WBC), City of Philadelphia and East Falls Town Watch will host a community National Night Out at WBC, a community get-together. Community residents will observe the annual National Night Out, promoting safety awareness and crime prevention. A serious topic will be […]

Free
Yoga On The Pier

Yoga On The Pier

Pennypack on the Delaware 7801 State Road, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Join Riverfront North and Roots2Rise for an all levels outdoor flow at Pennypack on the Delaware, Tuesdays from 6-7 pm! All ages and abilities are welcome. This class is made possible by the Riverfront North Partnership. Class is free but donations are welcome and will […]

Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

Franklin Square 200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Explore a dazzling world of illuminated lanterns, cultural stage performances, acrobatics, crafts, and fountain shows. This festival is perfect for all ages, and is running daily from 6pm-11pm until August 31st! Head to the website below for ticket pricing.

“The Questioneers” exhibit at the Please Touch Museum

Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Head to Philly's Please Touch Museum this summer to experience The Questioneers exhibit! This exhibit is based off of the best-selling series of books by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts. The Questioneers characters Ada Twist, Scientist; Rosie Revere, Engineer; Iggy Peck, Architect; Sofia […]

Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House Flag Raising

Betsy Ross House 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Start the day in the charming Betsy Ross House courtyard. Join Betsy for a secret ceremony raising the thirteen-star flag and hear why this was especially daring in 1776.

Design Gym SUMMER HOURS

Design Gym: Summer Hours

Design Gym 179 W Berks Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States

At design Gym, "Open Gym" will be open Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10:00AM-6:00PM at the design studio and third space in Norris Square/Olde Kensington @silkscreenstudios. OPEN GYM is free, drop-in hours to explore design and exercise your creativity. Some ways to enjoy "Open Gym": - Bring […]

Free
Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches

Independence Hall 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

One-of-a-kind award-winning Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Benches are located throughout Philadelphia’s Historic District, telling riveting stories of our nation’s history in the places where they actually happened. Specially-trained, uniformed storytellers delight and entertain with free, short 3-to-5-minute stories while sharing the secrets of Philadelphia’s […]

New Baby Meetup

Rutabaga Toy Library 3426 Conrad St c2, Philadelphia, PA, United States

Weekly gatherings - a wonderful way to explore Rutabaga & meet new friends! Hangouts are open to the public: free for members & just $10 drop-in for non-members. In your new role as caregiver, sometimes you simply need to feel heard — to be seen […]