Explore the Rich Culture of Chinatown

Friendship Gate

This 40-foot architectural marvel offers a symbolic welcome to Chinatown and a great backdrop for family photos to document your trip. Kids will love the array of bright colors and shapes, which pay tribute to Chinese culture.

Asian Arts Initiative

This arts and cultural center features a number of exhibits and interactive galleries where families can learn about Chinese heritage. The venue hosts after-school programming for youth with opportunities to participate in art projects and field trips.

Philadelphia Chinese Opera Society (PCOS)

Take in a show at the Philadelphia Chinese Opera Society (PCOS), an organization dedicated to preserving Chinese cultural heritage through educational activities and performances, led by Artistic Director Shuyuan Li.

Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

Situated on the edge of Chinatown, Franklin Square Park turns into a beautiful display of Chinese lanterns every summer. From June until August, the entire park is covered with huge and handcrafted lanterns featuring dragons, pandas, insects, and more, created by lantern artists from China.

Lunar New Year Parade

Every year, the streets of Chinatown come alive for parades during Lunar New Year. Each year, the Lunar New Year is celebrated for 15 days and begins during the first new moon of the lunar calendar, sometime between January 21 and February 20.

Top Chinatown Restaurants for Families and Kids

Dim Sum Garden

Dim Sum can be a family-friendly experience and a chance to sample a variety of small dishes. Dim Sum Garden offers a classic dim sum experience, where kids can enjoy dumplings, spring rolls, and more in a lively atmosphere.

David's Mai Lai Wah

From savory dim sum delights to crispy spring rolls, David's offers a diverse menu sure to please adventurous eaters both young and old, providing a delicious taste of Chinatown's culinary delights for visitors of all ages.

Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House

Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House in Chinatown is a fantastic spot for families with kids to enjoy authentic Chinese noodles made fresh on-site. The open kitchen allows children to watch as skilled chefs hand-pull noodles, adding an element of excitement to the dining experience.

The Best Places in Chinatown to Satisfy a Sweet Tooth

Mochinut

If you're craving a unique and delightful treat while exploring Chinatown, make sure to stop by Mochinut. This beloved bakery combines the chewy texture of mochi with the irresistible flavors of donuts to create a one-of-a-kind indulgence.

K C’s Pastries

Located in the heart of Philadelphia's Chinatown, K C's Pastries offers a delightful selection of treats perfect for kids, including fluffy custard buns and sweet pineapple cakes. With its welcoming atmosphere and colorful displays, it's the ideal spot for families to indulge in delicious pastries while exploring the vibrant neighborhood.

Surreal Creamery

This unique ice cream shop has endless combinations of flavors and toppings, including everyone's favorite cereals! They have milkshakes, bubble tea, and even bubble tea ice cream combinations - something for everyone.

The Best Places to Get Bubble Tea in Chinatown Philadelphia

Vivi Bubble Tea

Kids will love Vivi Bubble Tea’s menu options like fruity slushies and creamy milk teas. The playful atmosphere and customizable drink options make it a fun experience for children to enjoy while exploring Chinatown's vibrant culture.

Tea Do

With its vibrant atmosphere and customizable options, Tea Do provides a delightful experience where children can sip on delicious drinks and enjoy tasty treats while immersing themselves in the bustling ambiance of Chinatown.

Tiger Sugar

For a unique bubble tea experience, Tiger Sugar is the original brown sugar bubble tea with fresh cream and a tiger stripe design. Don’t miss their “Instagram-worthy” drinks!

Chinatown Gift Shops and DIY

Asia Crafts

If the kids are begging for a treat, Asia Crafts is a great option. The gift store sells a wide array of toys, including official Hello Kitty merchandise, as well as snacks that will keep your kids fueled up for a long day of walking and exploring.

Happy DIY

Happy DIY is a hands-on crafts shop where guests can decorate items of their choosing with charms and paints. With a diverse range of products, and helpful staff, it's the perfect place for kids and adults to explore their artistic talents and create lasting memories in a fun environment.

Photos by the author