Philadelphia Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Philadelphia
This itinerary focuses on maximizing free public spaces and events while incorporating highly-rated children's attractions. Families should consider purchasing tickets in advance for timed entry to attractions like The Franklin Institute and Please Touch Museum, and for ice skating, to secure their spots and potentially save money. Public transportation is recommended for navigating Center City and Fairmount Park areas.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Ice Skating Fun
Experience the city's popular Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park, offering 90-minute skating sessions in the shadow of City Hall.
The rink is open through February 22, 2026.
Suitable for all ages (3-12+). Penguin skate-aids are available for children 10 and under at $10/hour. Restrooms and a warming cabin (Rothman Orthopaedics Cabin) with food and drinks are on-site. The entire family can enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Easily accessible via SEPTA (bus, subway, regional rail to Suburban Station, City Hall Station). Limited parking is available in nearby garages, which can be expensive. Strollers can be left rinkside or in the cabin.
Dinner at Market
Explore the historic Reading Terminal Market, a vibrant hub filled with diverse food vendors, fresh produce, baked goods, and international delicacies.
It's a great spot for families to find something for everyone.
Perfect for all ages, offering a wide array of meal options from Pennsylvania Dutch fare to cheesesteaks and Asian cuisine. Restrooms available. Lively atmosphere, can be crowded. Pennsylvania Dutch vendors are closed on Sundays, but open on Friday.
Located in Center City, accessible via SEPTA (bus, trolley, regional rail to Jefferson Station). Parking garages are available nearby, but can be costly and congested.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Please Touch Museum Play
Step into a world of interactive learning and fun at the Please Touch Museum.
This Children's Museum features two floors of exhibits designed for playful problem-solving and creative exploration, including the 'Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way!' exhibit running from February 7 to May 10, 2026.
Ideal for children ages 1-10, though all ages are welcome. Features a carousel (additional fee), cafe, and family restrooms. Stroller-friendly. Plan for a 2-3 hour visit.
Located in Fairmount Park. Parking is available in a gated lot for $18. Public transportation via SEPTA bus routes is an option.
Museum Cafe Lunch
Enjoy a convenient lunch at the Please Touch Museum's cafe, offering kid-friendly options and a comfortable spot to refuel before more adventures.
Alternatively, there are picnic areas in Fairmount Park for packed lunches if weather permits.
Various options suitable for children and adults. Facilities include high chairs and restrooms. This provides a quick and easy dining solution within the museum premises.
No additional transportation needed as it's within the museum.
Playground & Playhouse
Visit the Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse, a century-old landmark offering free indoor and outdoor play experiences.
It features a huge outdoor playground with over 50 unique structures, including the famous Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide, and an indoor Playhouse with hands-on activities.
Free admission! Designed for children aged 12 and younger. Offers a 'Playbrary Imaginative Playspace' and seasonal 'Play-stallations' indoors. Restrooms and picnic tables available. Open until 5 PM in February.
Located in East Fairmount Park. Free parking is available. Accessible by SEPTA bus #32 or #3.
Lunar New Year Celebration
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Franklin Square with a free event featuring Philly Suns Lion Dancers, crafts for children with Asian Arts Initiative, red envelope surprise giveaways, and a free dumpling workshop.
This free event is perfect for families, offering cultural performances and hands-on activities. Enjoy vibrant lion dances and a festive atmosphere. Suitable for all ages.
Located in Historic Philadelphia. Easily accessible by SEPTA Market-Frankford Line to 5th Street/Independence Hall Station. Several parking garages are available in the surrounding area.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Science Museum Fun
Immerse yourselves in science and innovation at The Franklin Institute.
The highly anticipated 'Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition' makes its world premiere on February 14, 2026, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Universal's creations.
Engaging for all ages, especially 3-12+. Offers interactive exhibits and a planetarium. Strollers are welcome, but large carriers are not recommended in special exhibition galleries. Plan for 3-4 hours.
Located in Center City. Limited on-site parking is available for $25. Easily accessible by SEPTA bus routes and walkable from Suburban Station.
Museum Cafe Lunch
Grab a quick and easy lunch at The Franklin Institute's on-site cafe, offering a range of options suitable for families.
This allows for a seamless transition to the afternoon's activities.
Convenient dining within the museum. Options typically include sandwiches, salads, and kid-friendly meals. Restrooms available.
No additional transportation needed.
Library Story Time
Conclude your weekend with a relaxed visit to the Free Library of Philadelphia's Parkway Central Library.
Explore the Children's Department, which offers a large collection of children's books and materials, and typically hosts free-play programs and story times.
A calm and engaging environment for children of all ages. Offers opportunities for reading, quiet play, and potential informal programs. Facilities include restrooms.
Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Street parking may be available, and public garages are nearby. Accessible via several SEPTA bus routes.
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