The cold, blustery days of winter present an ideal time for a family getaway. Whether you enjoy skiing, amusement parks, or seeing historic sites, there are plenty of options for day trips near Philadelphia. Within a few hours' drive, Philadelphians can explore the mountains of Pennsylvania, visit the Catskills, or cross the bridge to New Jersey's many attractions, hitting any number of memorable experiences along the way. For a quick adventure, consider one of these exciting winter day trips from Philly.

Additional ideas for seasonal fun can be found in our Winter Fun Guide for Philadelphia Families, and our Skiing, Snowboarding, & Snow Sports Guide.

Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is one of the Top Attractions in Chicago and one of the 100 Best Things To Do in Chicago with Kids Before They Grow Up. But, it's so vast that the Shedd is more than most little kids can handle in a single day. At the Shedd Aquarium, we think it's best to do the most educational stuff first and play at the end—you'll have time for everything if you arrive close to the 9 a.m. opening time and move at a moderate pace throughout the day. We suggest bringing a snack for a mid-morning break and planning some slow-down time to see the bigger tanks, especially if you have smaller children.

From ice skating to bowling to museums, there are plenty of ways to celebrate a winter birthday.

Finding the perfect getaway that’s both fun and educational for kids or all ages can be a challenge. My favorite solution: America’s national parks! From awe-inspiring landscapes to hands-on activities, national parks in the US offer countless, varied opportunities for family adventure. Hiking, wildlife, camping, skiing, startling sunshine, vast canyons, unforgettable fountains—our national parks have it all!

Here, we’ve rounded up the 10 best national parks to visit in the US for kids. From the shores of Cape Cod to the pink cliffs of Bryce Canyon to the glaciers in Denali, read on for our picks for the best national parks in the US to visit as a family!

For more reviews and inside tips from parents and families who have traveled to our national parks, check out our United States National Parks Family Travel Guide.

Find dinos and more with a trip to the Peabody Museum in New Haven!

Atlanta's newest VR experience takes families on a trip through time, to a world of prehistoric creatures and dinosaurs, at Life Chronicles. Eclipso Atlanta has created an immersive expedition for kids and adults to dive into the history of life, all with the power of technologically-advanced virtual reality headsets. Kids will love interacting with dinosaurs and early mammals, and see with their own eyes how life on Earth began. Take a look at our trip through the past!

Explore the rich history and family fun waiting  in Concord!