Alyce Wilson

Alyce Wilson is a write-at-home mom who somehow also finds time to write poetry, edit an online literary magazine, do genealogical research, and teach aqua fitness classes. She lives in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

Latest posts by Alyce

17 Teen Birthday Party Ideas in Philly: Cool Party Places for Teens

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 07/18/2025 - 8:45am

Celebrate your teen with an action-packed birthday party at Sky Zone. Photo courtesy of Sky Zone

Kids' parties evoke images of indoor gyms, party games, and cake. But what to do when your kid is no longer little? Teens want to have fun, too, and these birthday party places near Philadelphia will help you celebrate in an age-appropriate way. For more birthday party ideas for teens, tweens, or the tiniest party-goers, check out our guide to 30+ Indoor Kids' Birthday Party Places Near Philly.

Things To Do with Kids Near West Chester, PA

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 09/20/2024 - 9:35am

Experience the world of Longwood Gardens… a place to see dazzling displays that elevate the art of horticulture. Photo by Cait Sumner

For those who live in the Philadelphia area, you don't need to travel far in order to enjoy a fun day with the family. In nearby Chester County, the town of West Chester offers plenty to amuse and entertain all ages, plus plenty of places to chow down when you need a bite to eat.

If you're looking for more fun things to do in the Philly area, don't miss our guide of 100 Things To Do in Philly with Kids.

Best Philly Tours for Kids: Art Hunts, Food Tours, Ghost Tours, and More

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 08/16/2024 - 8:14am

Phildephia's Magic Gardens are covered by magical mosaics and found objects. Photo by Liz Baill @creativishmom

You may think you've seen all that the city of Philadelphia has to offer, but there are so many amazing themed tours to check out! Whether you're just visiting, or you've lived here your whole life Philly has tours for everyone. From art tours, to food tours, ghost tours, and more, don't miss these fabulous new ways to explore!

Looking for more family-friendly tours? Check out these nearby Factory Tours to keep exploring.

Best Places in Philly to Celebrate a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Sun, 07/14/2024 - 10:00am

Bar Mitzvahs and Bat Mitzvahs are some of the most epic parties a kid can have (or go to!). Your new teen deserves the best, so we've gathered lots of great places for you to host this special birthday. From a former train station, to ballrooms, bowling, and more, there's sure to be something to please even the pickiest 13 year old.

Looking for more birthday party ideas? Make sure you check out our Birthday Party Guide for Philly Kids.

Best Amusement Parks and Theme Parks for Kids in Pennsylvania

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 05/10/2024 - 11:24am

Visit Hersheypark to experience family rides, thrilling coasters, and so much more! Photo courtesy of the park

As summer arrives and family schedules slow down a bit, nothing can burn up extra energy like an amusement park. Rides, adventure, entertainment, and tasty treats will help make the most of a lazy summer day. Check out these great amusement parks in Pennsylvania, plus a few in nearby New Jersey and Maryland.

Looking for the best local water parks? We've got you covered with a round up of all the Best Water Parks Near Philly. For more amusement park fun, check out our Theme & Water Park Guide.

Best Laser Tag Zones and Paintball for Philly Kids

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 02/23/2024 - 7:33am

Grand Slam U.S.A. challenges you to a game of laser tag! Photo courtesy of the center

Looking for a way for your active kids to burn off some energy and have some fun? Instead of playing video games at home, get out and get those kids moving with paintball or laser tag! Help them to use up their energy, as well as build strategy and teamwork skills at these laser tag, and paintball locations near Philadelphia. These laser tag zones and paintball arenas are also a great option for birthday parties!

If your kid is more into puzzles than running, exercise their brains with nearby escape rooms. For more great birthday party ideas, check out our Birthday Party Guide.

Extreme Sports and More Thrilling Activities for Kids in Philly: Go Karts, Axe Throwing, and More!

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 08/11/2023 - 9:40am

Put your skills to the test on the obstacle course at Urban Air. Photo courtesy of Urban Air

Extreme sports are a perfect way to keep up with extremely energetic kids. Wear them out by trying some high-octane fun and giving them a completely new experience! As an added bonus, extreme sports like go karts, archery, and even axe-throwing can be fun for the entire family!

Looking for more extreme fun? Check out our list of Ninja Warrior Gyms, Obstacle Courses, and Parkour in Philly for Kids. For additional high-energy fun, visit our Play Gyms and Sports Centers Guide.

Amazing Budget Weekend Getaways for Philly Families

Submitted by Alyce Wilson on Fri, 04/28/2023 - 2:46pm

Ricketts Glen State Park is a family-friendly destination with awesome activities for all ages. Photo of Ricketts Glen by the author

These budget weekend getaways are cheaper than your average getaway, while still delivering all the vacation fun. Because sometimes you really need to get out of town, pack in some family-only time, and explore something new—while leaving that vacation budget intact. You know, for that all-inclusive resort or Walt Disney World extravaganza!

With free and cheap activities, inexpensive places to stay, and gorgeous locations, these getaways are all big on family fun but come with small price tags.

For more family weekend fun, you can stay in town at our favorite Kid-Friendly Philadelphia Hotels for a Family Staycation or pack the car for a fantastic Family Road Trip from Philly. For these suggestions and more, check out our Guide to Philadelphia Day Trips and Weekend Getaways.

Alyce Wilson

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