Philadelphia Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Philadelphia
This Philadelphia family weekend itinerary for January 2-4, 2026, focuses on a smart mix of budget-friendly activities and worthwhile paid experiences, perfect for families with children aged 3-12. While specific one-off events for 2026 are not yet published, this plan highlights perennial family favorites and likely free community offerings, ensuring engaging and educational fun. Remember to check official websites closer to the date for any specific 2026 event announcements or changes in operating hours/pricing. This plan balances active engagement with relaxed discovery, catering to both energetic toddlers and curious elementary schoolers.
Friday Evening - Kids Discovery & Play
Friday, January 2Please Touch Museum
Dive into an evening of imaginative play at the Please Touch Museum, an interactive children's museum designed for hands-on exploration.
Kids can explore exhibits like the Alice in Wonderland maze, the City Park carousel, and various themed zones that encourage creativity and learning through play. This late afternoon slot means fewer crowds and a relaxed start to the weekend.
Perfect for ages 1-8, but older siblings (up to 12) will also find engaging activities. The museum has family restrooms and is fully stroller-accessible. Plan for about 2 hours of active play. Cafe on-site for snacks and drinks.
Paid parking is available on-site in a garage. Public transportation via SEPTA bus routes or the Market-Frankford Line to 60th Street followed by a short bus ride. Stroller-friendly ramps and elevators throughout the museum.
Reading Terminal Market
After an afternoon of play, head to the historic Reading Terminal Market for a diverse and delicious family dinner.
Kids will love the lively atmosphere and wide array of food stalls, from soft pretzels and ice cream to cheesesteaks and Asian cuisine. It's a great spot to grab something for everyone's taste.
A fantastic choice for families as everyone can pick what they like. Restrooms are available. Seating can be competitive during peak hours, but a late dinner might be less crowded. Many vendors offer kid-friendly portions.
Parking garages are available nearby (e.g., Jefferson Station Garage). Easily accessible via SEPTA regional rail (Jefferson Station), Market-Frankford Line, Broad Street Line, and various bus routes. Market is stroller-friendly with wide aisles.
Saturday - City & Animal Adventures
Saturday, January 3Franklin Institute Fun
Start your Saturday with an engaging and educational visit to The Franklin Institute.
This renowned science museum features interactive exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. Walk through a giant heart, experience the SportsZone, explore space, and discover electricity. It's an excellent indoor option for any weather.
Ideal for children 5-12, but younger kids will also enjoy many of the hands-on displays. Allow 3-4 hours for a thorough visit. Family restrooms and changing facilities are available. Stroller-accessible throughout.
Paid parking garage on-site. Easily accessible via SEPTA bus routes (e.g., 32, 33, 38, 48) and a short walk from Suburban Station (regional rail) or City Hall Station (Broad Street Line).
Picnic Rittenhouse Square
Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch with a picnic at Rittenhouse Square, a beautiful urban park perfect for people-watching and letting kids run around.
Grab sandwiches, salads, or snacks from a nearby deli or market (like Trader Joe's or Di Bruno Bros.) and enjoy the fresh air.
Kids can play in the open space, and there's a small playground area nearby. Public restrooms are available, and the park is stroller-friendly. A relaxed way to recharge before the afternoon activity.
Limited street parking; recommend walking if staying nearby or using public transit (Broad Street Line to Walnut/Locust or various bus routes). Easily walkable from The Franklin Institute (approx. 15-20 mins).
Philadelphia Zoo Visit
Spend the afternoon exploring the Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, home to over 1,300 animals.
Kids will love seeing the big cats, primates, bears, and the unique Zoo360 animal exploration trails that allow animals to move above pathways. It's a wonderful outdoor experience, even in cooler weather.
Great for all ages, especially 3-12. Allow at least 2-3 hours to see key exhibits. Restrooms and changing facilities are readily available. Stroller rentals are offered, and the zoo is highly stroller-accessible. Multiple food stands available for snacks.
Paid parking lots and garage available on-site. Public transportation via SEPTA bus routes (e.g., Route 15, 38, 40, 43). Zoo is a short drive from Rittenhouse Square.
Kids Eat Free Dinner
Enjoy an early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that potentially offers 'kids eat free' deals (check local listings closer to the date).
Many restaurants in neighborhoods like University City or Fairmount offer specials on certain days or early evenings. Alternatively, consider a casual pizza place for an easy and affordable family meal.
Search online for 'kids eat free Philadelphia' for current deals. Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser for kids! Aim for an early dinner to ensure kids get to bed on time after a busy day.
Depends on chosen restaurant. Many Center City options are walkable or accessible by public transit. Parking garages are available.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Story Time Fun
Head to a local branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia for a free and engaging story time or children's program.
These often include reading aloud, songs, and sometimes a simple craft, perfect for younger children and a relaxed Sunday morning activity. Check the Free Library's website for specific branch schedules closer to the date.
Programs are typically designed for toddlers and preschoolers, but older kids might enjoy helping or browsing the children's section. Restrooms available. Stroller-friendly. Duration usually 30-45 minutes.
Central Library is accessible via SEPTA bus routes and near Suburban Station. Check individual branch locations for specific parking/transit.
Skate at Penn's Landing
Enjoy a quintessential winter activity with ice skating at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest at Penn's Landing.
This seasonal attraction offers outdoor ice skating, a festive atmosphere, fire pits, and seasonal treats. It's a joyful way to spend a winter afternoon by the waterfront.
Suitable for all ages; skate rentals are available for various sizes. Helmets are usually available for rent or use. Plan for about 1.5-2 hours of skating and enjoying the festive environment. Restrooms and food vendors on-site.
Paid parking lots are available at Penn's Landing. Accessible via SEPTA bus routes and the Phlash Downtown Loop (seasonal, check if operating in Jan 2026). The site is stroller accessible for spectators.
South Street Stroll
Wind down your weekend with a relaxed stroll along South Street.
This eclectic street offers unique shops, vibrant murals, and interesting people-watching. Grab a quick, affordable treat like ice cream or a pastry at one of the many bakeries before heading home, reflecting on a fun-filled family weekend.
Kids will enjoy the quirky storefronts and colorful street art. Many kid-friendly dessert spots. Good for a relaxed, self-paced activity before getting ready for the week ahead. Easy access to public restrooms in various establishments.
Street parking can be challenging; paid garages are available. Accessible via SEPTA bus routes (e.g., 40, 57). Easily walkable from Penn's Landing (approx. 10-15 mins).
This weekend itinerary for Philadelphia can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.