The Academy of Natural Sciences: Night in the Museum—Philadelphia, PA

Can your kids say they have slept underneath a T-Rex or beneath a polar bear or lion? At The Academy of Natural Sciences overnight, they'll get that chance! The night is filled with activities including behind the scenes tours, dinosaur bone digs, and an evening scavenger hunt. Guests can have a late night snack with their fellow campers and end the night with a live animal show. In the morning, campers have a light breakfast and can continue exploring the museum during the day. This event is perfect for groups like Scouts, but familes are welcome, too. Museum admission is included.

Age group: Ages 6–12; one adult required per three children
Time of year: February

Penn Museum: Up Late with the Sphinx—Philadelphia, PA

Budding archaeologists can get an up-close look at the Penn Museum's collections. Take a flashlight tour, make a special craft, and round out the night with a game of Mancala. This is a great outing option for Scouts and other groups -- kids even earn a special badge!

Age group: Ages 6–12; ; one adult required per five children
Time of year: Dates are offered throughout the year

Elmwood Park Zoo: Zoo Snooze—Norristown, PA

For parents who would like to give their child an overnight experience without the overwhelming size of some of Philadelphia's attractions, give Elmwood Park Zoo a try with one of their Zoo Snoozes. A perfect size for the younger ones to explore, Elmwood's outdoor overnight adventures feature a campfire and giraffe feeding, with dinner and breakfast included. All camping equipment must be provided by guests. Zoo admission is included.

Age group: Ages 6-12
Time of year: August and September

Adventure Aquarium Shark in the Dark—Camden, NJ

Sleeping underneath the giant shark tank while those predators circle you all night may not sound like the ideal sleepover, but kids love it. This one-of-a-kind adventure includes a self-guided scheduled tour of Adventure Aquarium exhibits and touch tanks, behind-the-scenes visit to the top of the Ocean Realm exhibits, a special badge, and greeting the hippos first thing in the morning. It's important to note that guests must leave in the morning before the aquarium opens, and admission for the following day is not included.

Age group: Age 6-12
Time of year: November

Diggerland: Family Campout—West Berlin, NJ

Dig into a perfect family adventure with dinner, s'mores, zip line, and exclusive access to most attractions at this truck and tractor paradise. Families must bring their own camping equipment, and there's no extra charge to bring an RV or camper. Next-day general admission is included.

Age group: Kids of all ages are welcome, but there are limited ride options for kids shorter than 36"
Time of year: Spring and Fall

Tips for Parents:

• Sleeping accommodations inside venues are in exhibits, which means hard floors. Bring a camping pad or inflatable mattress to soften the strain on your back. If inflatables are allowed they cannot be larger than a twin size. Some overnights may not allow inflatable mattresses, so check with your venue and plan accordingly. 
• If you need complete darkness and quiet to fall asleep, bring earplugs and a sleep mask. Most of the lights will be out for the night but not in all areas. Not to mention you will be sleeping around many children who may not fall asleep right away. 
• Be aware of where you set up your sleeping bag. If the exhibit gurgles during the day, it will do that all night long. 
• There are no changing rooms available at most venues. Wearing comfortable layers that you can sleep in and shed at bedtime is essential. If you are camping outside, wear one more layer than you think you will need just in case. 
• Food is not permitted during most overnights in museums. Make sure you know the expectations about snacks and what will be provided to get your children through the night.
• Be mindful of which lights will be on late at night. There are some sections of exhibits where lights are on all night long. If you aren't sure, ask a program guide before claiming your area. 
• Refillable water bottles are a must. Make sure you check the requirements before packing for the evening so you don't have to carry extra gear. 
• In all cases, a flashlight is essential for navigating at night for those late night bathroom trips.
• Always wear comfortable shoes because you will do a lot of walking and trying to keep up with the kids is hard work! 

Photo courtesy of The Franklin Institute.

This article was updated in 2024 by writer Hillary Moses Mohaupt.