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Pennsylvania is without a doubt one of the best places for families with kids. The state offers a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to children of all ages. Whether you’re looking for amusement parks, museums, or outdoor adventures, Pennsylvania has something for everyone.
Here are the 10 best places to take kids in Pennsylvania. Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour is a great way to learn about history while having fun. The tour takes you through the historic battlefield, providing an opportunity to see the sites and learn about the battle that took place there.
Another popular destination is Hershey, home to Hersheypark, a theme park with thrill coasters and a water park. Kids will love the chocolate-themed attractions and rides.
If you’re looking for an educational experience, the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is a must-visit. The museum features interactive exhibits that allow kids to learn and play at the same time.
Other great options include the Strasburg Rail Road in Lancaster, where you can take a ride on a historic steam train, and the National Aviary in Pittsburgh, which is home to more than 500 birds from around the world.
Philadelphia Zoo
3400 W Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104
If you are looking for an exciting and educational destination to take your kids in Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Zoo is a must-visit. This zoo, which was the first in the United States, is situated on 42 acres of beautiful gardens and is home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered.
Children’s Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo has a dedicated section for children called the Children’s Zoo. This area features interactive exhibits and activities that allow kids to get up close and personal with a variety of animals. Kids can pet and feed goats, sheep, and cows, as well as watch as rabbits and chickens roam around freely. There is also a playground and a carousel for kids to enjoy.
Zoo360
The Philadelphia Zoo offers a unique experience called Zoo360, which is a network of animal exploration trails that allow visitors to see animals from different perspectives. These trails include elevated walkways, see-through mesh tunnels, and exploration stations that provide a closer look at the animals and their habitats. This immersive experience is a great way for kids to learn about animals and their behaviors in a fun and engaging way.
The Philadelphia Zoo is definitely one of the the best places for families with kids of all ages in Pennsylvania. With its extensive collection of animals, interactive exhibits, and unique experiences like Zoo360, the Philadelphia Zoo is sure to be a memorable and educational experience for everyone.
Hershey’s Chocolate World
101 Chocolate World Way, Hershey, PA 17033
If you’re looking for a sweet adventure with your kids, Hershey’s Chocolate World is a must-visit in Pennsylvania. This attraction is a celebration of all things chocolate, and it offers a variety of experiences that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Create Your Own Candy Bar
One of the most popular attractions at Hershey’s Chocolate World is the Create Your Own Candy Bar experience. Here, you and your kids can design and create your own candy bars, choosing from a variety of ingredients and flavors. You’ll get to watch as your candy bar is made right in front of you, and you’ll even get to design your own wrapper.
Chocolate Tour
Another must-see attraction at Hershey’s Chocolate World is the Chocolate Tour. This ride takes you on a journey through the chocolate-making process, from the cocoa bean to the finished product. You’ll get to see how chocolate is made, and you’ll even get a free sample at the end.
In addition to these two main attractions, Hershey’s Chocolate World offers a variety of other experiences, including a 4D chocolate mystery ride, a chocolate tasting experience, and a chance to meet Hershey’s characters. There’s also a large retail store where you can purchase all kinds of Hershey’s chocolate products and souvenirs.
Hershey’s Chocolate World is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational experience. With so many chocolate-related activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will appeal to everyone in your family.
Crayola Experience
30 Centre Sq Cir, Easton, PA 18042
If you’re looking for a fun and interactive art space for kids of all ages, the Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania is a great destination. With 28 hands-on activities, your kids can name and wrap their own Crayola crayon, star in their own coloring page, and so much more.
The Crayola Experience is bursting with colorful exhibits, including the Color Magic station where you can create digital art and the Doodle in the Dark room where you can draw with special neon colors. There’s also a Melt & Mold station where you can create your own crayon shapes and a Be a Star station where you can make your own coloring page with your picture on it.
One of the highlights of the Crayola Experience is the Wrap It Up! station, where you can personalize and wrap your own crayon. You can choose from a variety of label designs and even add your name to the crayon label.
In addition to the hands-on activities, there are also live shows and demonstrations throughout the day. Watch as a Crayola crayon is made right before your eyes or learn how to draw your favorite Crayola characters.
The Crayola Experience is a great place to spark your child’s creativity and imagination. With so many activities to choose from, your kids will have a blast and you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the art of coloring.
Please Touch Museum
4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131
If you’re looking for a fun and interactive museum for kids in Pennsylvania, the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is a must-visit. This museum encourages children to touch and play with the exhibits, making it a great place for hands-on learning.
The two-story museum has a ton to offer, including a century-old carousel, a rocket room, and a city skyline exhibit. Kids can also explore a grocery store, a play kitchen, and a construction site, among other exhibits.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Please Touch Museum is the Alice in Wonderland exhibit, where kids can crawl through a rabbit hole, play croquet with the Queen of Hearts, and have tea with the Mad Hatter.
The museum also offers special events and programs throughout the year, including storytimes, art workshops, and science experiments. Be sure to check the museum’s website for current events and exhibits before you go.
The Please Touch Museum is pne of the best fun and educational places for families with young kids in Pennsylvania. With its emphasis on hands-on learning and play, it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Kennywood Park
4800 Kennywood Blvd, West Mifflin, PA 15122
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids in Pennsylvania, Kennywood Park is a must-visit destination. Located in West Mifflin, Kennywood Park is one of the oldest and most beloved amusement parks in the country. Here are some of the highlights of the park that you won’t want to miss.
Kiddieland
Kiddieland is a special section of Kennywood designed specifically for younger children. Here, you’ll find a variety of rides and attractions that are perfect for kids who aren’t quite ready for the big coasters yet. Some of the most popular rides in Kiddieland include:
- Lil’ Phantom: A mini roller coaster that’s just the right size for little ones.
- Jack Rabbit: A classic wooden coaster that’s been entertaining families for generations.
- Auto Race: A ride that lets kids drive their own cars around a mini racetrack.
Thomas Town
If your kids are fans of Thomas the Tank Engine, they’ll love Thomas Town at Kennywood. This section of the park is dedicated to all things Thomas, with rides, attractions, and activities that are sure to delight young fans. Some of the highlights of Thomas Town include:
- Journey with Thomas: A train ride that takes you on a tour of Thomas Town.
- Cranky’s Drop Tower: A mini drop tower that’s just the right size for young thrill-seekers.
- Knapford Station: A play area where kids can climb, slide, and explore.
Kennywood Park is a great choice for families with kids of all ages. With a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment options, there’s something for everyone at this classic Pennsylvania amusement park.
Sesame Place
100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, PA 19047
Sesame Place is a theme park located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, that features rides, shows, and attractions inspired by the beloved children’s television show, Sesame Street. If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, Sesame Place is a great choice.
Rides and Attractions
Sesame Place offers a variety of rides and attractions for kids of all ages. Some of the most popular rides include the following.
- Elmo’s Cloud Chaser
- Oscar’s Wacky Taxi
- Cookie’s Monster Land
- Abby’s Magic Queue
In addition to rides, Sesame Place also has a water park with slides, pools, and splash areas. The water park is a great way to cool off on a hot day and have some fun in the sun.
Shows and Entertainment
Sesame Place features a variety of shows and entertainment throughout the day. Some of the most popular shows include the following.
- The Neighborhood Street Party Parade
- Elmo the Musical
- The Sesame Street Birthday Show
In addition to shows, Sesame Place also has character meet and greets throughout the park. Your kids can meet their favorite Sesame Street characters and take pictures with them.
Tips for Visiting
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit to Sesame Place.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Bring sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money.
- Check the schedule for shows and plan your day accordingly.
Sesame Place is a great choice for a fun and educational day out with your kids. With a variety of rides, shows, and attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Franklin Institute
222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
The Franklin Institute is a must-visit for families with children of all ages. As one of the leading science centers in the country, the Franklin Institute offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that will keep your kids entertained and engaged for hours.
Here are some of the highlights of the Franklin Institute.
The Giant Heart: This iconic exhibit is a favorite among visitors of all ages. Step inside a 5,000-pound heart and learn about the circulatory system.
Your Brain: Explore the inner workings of the brain in this interactive exhibit. Learn about memory, perception, and more.
Sir Isaac’s Loft: This exhibit is perfect for young children. Kids can explore a mini village and learn about simple machines.
SportsZone: This exhibit is great for active kids. Test your skills in a variety of sports activities, including basketball, football, and more.
The Franklin Institute also offers a range of special exhibits throughout the year. Check the museum’s website for current and upcoming exhibits.
If you have a child with special needs, the Franklin Institute offers various assistive devices and tools to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience.
The Franklin Institute is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun and educational day out.
Dutch Wonderland
2249 Lincoln Hwy E, Lancaster, PA 17602
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day with your kids, Dutch Wonderland is a great option. This amusement park, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is specifically designed for younger kids, making it a great choice for families with toddlers and preschoolers.
The park boasts over 35 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a water play area, and a variety of family-friendly rides. One of the most popular rides is the Turnpike, an antique car ride that tends to get long lines quickly, so be sure to head there first thing in the morning.
In addition to rides, Dutch Wonderland also offers a variety of shows and entertainment options throughout the day. From Talent Show Turmoil to The Big Surprise, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check the park’s schedule to plan your day accordingly.
If you’re planning to visit Dutch Wonderland, there are a few things to keep in mind. The park offers a variety of ticket and pass options, including a limited-time Labor Day Flash Sale that can save you $60 when you buy two or more tickets. And if you’re looking for a break from the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday when the park tends to be less busy.
Dutch Wonderland in Pennsylvania is one of the perfect places for families with younger kids looking for a fun-filled day of rides, shows, and entertainment.
Idlewild & SoakZone
2574 Lincoln Hwy, Ligonier, PA 15658
If you’re looking for a fun-filled family day out, Idlewild & SoakZone is a must-visit destination. Located along Route 30, this amusement park and water park has been entertaining families since 1878. With two parks in one, there’s something for everyone here.
Idlewild & SoakZone has consistently been rated as the “Best Children’s Park” by Amusement Today magazine and as the “Best Park for Families” by the National Amusement Park Historical Association. The park has many different sections, including Story Book Forest, SoakZone water park, Jumpin’ Jungle, and Racoon Lagoon (toddler/preschool area), to name a few.
One of the park’s highlights is Story Book Forest, where children can explore their favorite nursery rhymes and fairy tales brought to life. They can meet Humpty Dumpty, Goldilocks, and the Three Bears, and even visit Cinderella’s Castle. This section is perfect for young children and their families.
For those seeking thrills, Idlewild & SoakZone has plenty of exciting rides to choose from. The Rollo Coaster is a wooden coaster that has been thrilling visitors for over 80 years. The Wild Mouse is another popular ride that offers twists, turns, and drops. For water lovers, the SoakZone water park has a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
Idlewild & SoakZone also offers live entertainment, including shows featuring popular characters such as Daniel Tiger and Princess Lily. There are also plenty of dining options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals.
Idlewild & SoakZone is a fantastic destination for families with young children. With its mix of classic rides, water attractions, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Pittsburgh Children’s Museum
10 Children’s Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is without a doubt one of the best places for families with kids of all ages in Pennsylvania. Located on the city’s North Shore, the museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that encourage creativity, exploration, and learning.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Children’s Museum is the “Waterplay” area. Here, kids can splash and play in a shallow pool, experiment with water flow and pressure, and even create their own water-powered machines. Other popular exhibits include the “Garage” area, where kids can build and test their own contraptions, and the “Nursery” area, which is designed specifically for younger children.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Children’s Museum also hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These include art workshops, science demonstrations, and cultural celebrations, as well as special exhibits and performances.
If you’re planning a visit to the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, be sure to check the museum’s website for information on hours, admission prices, and upcoming events. And don’t forget to bring a change of clothes for your little ones – they’re sure to get wet and messy in the Waterplay area!
Frequently Asked Questions about the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Pennsylvania
What are some fun activities for kids in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is home to a variety of fun activities for kids. Some popular options include visiting amusement parks like Hersheypark or Dorney Park, exploring museums like the Please Touch Museum or the Franklin Institute, and spending time in nature at places like Presque Isle State Park or the Pocono Mountains.
What are some kid-friendly attractions in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is a great destination for families with kids. Some popular attractions include the Philadelphia Zoo, the Please Touch Museum, and the Franklin Institute. You can also visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall to learn about American history.
What are some fun places to take a 5-year-old in Pennsylvania?
There are plenty of fun places to take a 5-year-old kids in Pennsylvania. Some options include Sesame Place, Dutch Wonderland, and the Crayola Experience. You can also visit local parks and playgrounds for outdoor fun.
What are some family-friendly activities near me in Pennsylvania?
There are many family-friendly activities to enjoy in Pennsylvania, no matter where you are in the state. Some options include hiking in state parks, visiting local museums, and attending festivals and fairs. Check your local tourism board for more specific recommendations.
What are some popular attractions for families in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is home to many popular attractions for families. Some of the most well-known include Hersheypark, the Philadelphia Zoo, and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. Other options include Kennywood, Knoebels Amusement Resort, and the National Aviary.
What are some must-visit places for families in Pennsylvania?
There are many must-visit places for families with kids in Pennsylvania. Some popular options include Hersheypark, Gettysburg National Military Park, and the Crayola Experience. You can also visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia or explore the Amish country in Lancaster County.
