If you’re staying in town for break, there’s plenty to do (at home and online), so make some plans to make the most of your week. Get out there and explore!

‘Big Time’ at the Philadelphia Zoo

3400 W. Girard Ave.

March 29–September 30; advance tickets required

 

The Philadelphia Zoo will host 24 life-size animatronic dinosaurs in a new and exciting experience that’s sure to be a must-do for any little dino-lover in your family. Big Time: Life in an Endangerous Age will take guests through the Age of Dinosaurs through to the present day, showing the powerful changes and challenges that caused them to become extinct—and how other creatures survived. Advance tickets are required due to high demand and reduced capacity. Social distancing and masks will continue to be required for guests ages 2 and older.

‘Crayola IDEAworks: The Creativity Exhibition’ and more at the Franklin Institute

222 N. 20th St.

Open daily from March 29–April 11; Crayola exhibit through July 18

 

The Franklin Institute, which has been operating with reduced hours since reopening, will be open seven days a week for Spring Break (March 29 through April 11)! While you’re there, be sure to get tickets to the new Crayola exhibit– an immersive experience that uses state-of-the-art technology to challenge visitors, expand creativity, and hone problem-solving skills. Even cooler, with more than 150 physical and digital inquiry-based interactive experiences and challenges, guests can track their progress on an RFID wristband and receive a customized summary of their unique creative strengths discovered on their journey! Read more details in our preview.

Spring in Franklin Square

200 N. Sixth St.

 

Franklin Square is open for the season, so take advantage of the nice weather and free time to play Philly-themed mini golf, take a ride on the carousel, play in the playground, and indulge in a Tastykake shake! New for this year, Franklin Square’s Philly Mini Golf gets a spring-themed makeover with oversized tulips and other special decor. From 8 pm to close every night, enjoy a special version of Spring Mini Golf complete with lights and music (tickets required in advance). On April 3, you can celebrate Easter with Franklin Square’s Hop-A-Long Trail, as well (be sure to get tickets now, as they are limited due to social distancing).

Smith Playground Re-Opens for the Season

3500 Reservoir Drive 

 

After a year unlike any other, Smith Memorial Playground is looking ahead to brighter days and will be kicking off the season at their annual Play-a-Palooza. Fairmount Park’s 6.5-acre playground’s grand opening party will take place from noon – 4 pm March 27, and will include lots of exciting (and socially distanced) activities, giveaways, and more. Tickets are required for the opening event, but the playground’s annual Play-a-Palooza also marks the official start of the season, as their free Spring visiting hours begin the day after the event. While the indoor Playhouse is currently under construction, Play-a-Palooza will introduce the brand new “Play Path” outdoor exploration space.

Vacation Science Day Camp at Academy of Natural Sciences

1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

March 29–April 9

 

If you’re looking for somewhere unique to drop off the kids for some of break, look no further. Kids ages 6-10 can spend their break at the Academy with educators, cool exhibits, and wild science! This program features small group, socially distanced activities, from crafts to live animals to shows. New topics will be explored every day, so you can sign the kids up for one date, or sign up for them all. Pre-register online, as capacity is very limited.

Virtual Programming with Philadelphia Museum of Art

March 31–April 2

 

This spring break, upcycle it all, the big and the small! Art meets environmentalism in these virtual playdates where kids will discover artists who create magic by repurposing discarded materials, plus engage in playful discussions, sketching challenges, and other fun activities. Best for ages 6–10. Pay-what-you-wish. Pre-registration required online.

Museum of the American Revolution

101 S. Third St. (and online)

Special Programming: March 26–April 12

 

Discover the efforts of Revolutionary-era Philadelphians who helped prepare the Continental Army’s supplies each spring during the Revolutionary War. Band together at the museum and online to learn more and recreate their efforts with in-gallery talks, take-and-make crafts and activities, and much more. Can’t make it out to the Museum or want to continue learning from home? Explore make-at-home crafts and activities, Artisan Field Trip living history interviews, first-person theatrical performances, and other online interactive features.

Easter Events

Looking for fun ways to celebrate Easter? From hayrides to bunny brunches, check out our roundups for Philly and the Main Line so you don’t miss a thing!

 

 

 

 

Lead photograph courtesy of Philadelphia Zoo.