Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

Not-So-Scary Halloween Events for Philly Preschoolers

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 10/06/2023 - 9:15am

Join the Morris Arboretum a costume and candy parade and a walk along the Trick or Treat trail. Photo courtesy of the arboretum

Check out these not-so-scary Halloween events for preschoolers and toddlers who prefer more treats than tricks.

Halloween is the centerpiece of this spooky season, but lots of kids would rather eat their candy without a side of fear. Certain activities can feel a bit unsettling for little ones, with scary themes and decorations that leave preschoolers (and even some school-aged kids) rattled. So if your family is looking to celebrate a Halloween with more treats than tricks, we've got age-appropriate attractions that maintain the spirit of the holiday and keep small children feeling happy and safe.

Be sure to browse our Guide to Halloween Fun for more ideas to make the most of the season, or check out our Top Halloween Events for Philly kids.

Visiting Historic Philadelphia: Top Things To Do in the Historic District with Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 02/17/2023 - 8:30am

Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP), located in the heart of Old City.

There are so many things to do with kids in Old City Philadelphia's historic district. Get ready to time travel back to the earliest years in US history.

Alongside our love of cheesesteaks, hoagies, and sports is a deep sense of civic pride that comes along with being the birthplace of the entire nation. The streets of Philly are steeped in history, with Old City Philadelphia at the heart of it all. Whether you're a visitor or a local, it can be overwhelming to know where to start, so we've got a list of the best spots to visit in Old City and historic Philadelphia with kids. From famous attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to museums dedicated to telling the stories of our past, Philly's historic district has so much to offer families.

Historic Philly is the first stop on our 3 day itinerary for visiting Phil adelphia, where you can find more of the city's highlights. Check out our Guide to Philly Museums for Kids for more top attractions, like the Philadelphia Zoo (the very first zoo in the nation!) and other landmarks like the Philadelphia Museum of Art (hello Rocky run!).

10 Winter Restaurants with Outdoor Seating in Philly: Igloos, Heated Patios, and More

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 01/20/2023 - 7:40am

Harper's Garden in Center City offers "greenhouse" dining. Photo courtesy of Harpers Garden

Outdoor dining in Philly continues in the winter, with lots of unique options for families looking to dine al fresco.

For a couple years now, restaurants in Philadelphia have provided new dining options due to changing habits, with many eateries adapting to make dining outdoors a possibility during even cold winter months. Igloos and greenhouses offer private little forts for just for your party, while heated patios provide fresh air and often allow more space for kids who like to spread out when dining out.

Read on for some of Philly's best outdoor dining experiences for colder months. For more dining destinations that welcome the kiddos, visit our Philadelphia Restaurant Guide for Families, including our favorite warm-weather outdoor restaurants for that other time of year. Bon appétit!

Drive-in Movie Theaters Near Philly for Outdoor Movie Nights With Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 05/13/2022 - 10:25am

The Mahoning Drive-In has delighted area residents since 1949. Photo by Thomas Hawk, via Flickr/Creative Commons

Watching movies under the stars is a traditional summer bucket list activity. Many families have enjoyed the resurgence of retro drive-in theaters and the popularity of pop-up outdoor movies near Philadelphia to watch their favorite films. The trend continues this year, and we've rounded up all the places to catch a drive-in movie near Philly. From spots near the Jersey Shore to others closer to the Pocono mountains, pack the pillows and snacks for these drive-in movie theaters near Philadelphia.

Most drive-in movie venues require online ticket purchases, so be sure to view the schedules in advance. Check out our Summer Activity Guide for Philadelphia for more warm-weather family fun.

17 Kid-Friendly Philadelphia Hotels for a Family Staycation

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 04/10/2022 - 10:14am

Try the indoor s'mores kit and the Rocky-style robes for kids at the Logan Hotel.

Family vacations create memories to last a lifetime. But that doesn't mean leaving the country, state, or even the city for that matter. There are several great Philadelphia hotels with perks for kids and families that are perfect for a Philly staycation. We've found all the best spots where parents can get some much-needed R & R while the kids stay entertained. Enjoy a busy day of sightseeing, or simply unwind and enjoy the family-friendly amenities at these hotels in Philadelphia.

A Philadelphia staycation is a great opportunity to make your way through our list of Top Attractions in Philly for Kids. For quick and easy escapes, don't miss our guide to Philly Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways.

St. Patrick's Day Parades and Celebrations in Philadelphia

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 03/04/2022 - 9:51am

Revelers at the annual Bucks County St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo courtesy of Visit Bucks County via Philly Burbs

After two years off for a pandemic hiatus, St. Patrick's Day 2022 in Philly is back and greener than ever. As home to one of the longest continuously held St. Patrick's Day parades, Philadelphia certainly knows how to celebrate the luck of the Irish. Throughout the Delaware Valley, there are opportunities to learn about Irish history, see Irish step dancing, listen to Celtic music and Irish stories, search for hidden leprechauns, and more! From the well-known Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade to several parades and activities in the suburbs, these St. Paddy's day events are worth more than a pot of gold. Sláinte!

For more holiday celebrations this month, don't miss the Best Things To Do in Philadelphia in March with Kids. Make sure you never miss a thing by signing up for our newsletters.

Cool Things to Do in Philly with Kids this Weekend: Festivals, Welcome America

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Wed, 06/23/2021 - 11:00am

Immerse yourself in a world of color at the Manayunk Arts Festival. Photo by JPG Photography

There are so many things to do in and around Philadelphia. But as June slips away, Philly families should consult our events calendar to fine-tune their favorites and make the most of this summer weekend.

Festivals are in full force. Celebrate summer with Midsommarfest at the American Swedish Historical Museum, or indulge in sweet treats at the New Castle Ice Cream Festival at Rockwood Manor. Wander along the streets to view unique artistic creations at Manayunk Arts Festival or head across the bridge to Hammonton's Red, White & Blueberry Festival.

Best of all, Wawa Welcome America is back this year and offers free days at local museums, outdoor movies, concerts, and PECO: Go 4th & Learn opportunities. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our list, text some friends, and get ready for a great time making memories.

Hop Aboard the Easter Bunny Express: Train Rides for Kids Near Philly

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 03/26/2021 - 11:55am

Celebrate the arrival of Easter and spring aboard the West Chester Railroad. Photo courtesy of the railroad

Spring is in the air in Philly, and Easter is on the way. Many of the area's scenic railroads celebrate the season with excursions that include Easter fun.

We've rounded up several Easter-themed trains that are running special events for kids in the Philadelphia area and beyond. Some of these trains include an Easter egg hunt at the halfway stop, so be sure to bring along a basket. It is helpful to check whether the railroad provides a photographer and charges for a picture with the Easter Bunny or if you can bring your own camera.

Plan out your Easter train ride with this helpful list. Then extend Easter fun by reviewing our Spring Fun Guide, which include events throughout the Philadelphia area..

Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

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