Get ready to take in more than eighty thousand dazzling lights as Manayunk businesses decorate for the season. Photo courtesy of Manayunk Development Corporation
Holiday Lights, Dog Show, The Emperor's New Groove, and More Fun Things To Do in Philly this Weekend
Photo ops abound at the gorgeous light displays at LumiNature. Photo by Winnie Chung for the Philadelphia Zoo
Best of November: LumiNature, Thanksgiving Cruise, and More Fun Things to Do in Philly
Frolic through Pumpkin Playground at Longwood Gardens. Photo courtesy of the Gardens
Best Fall Festivals Near Philly: Harvest Fests and Fall Family Festivities around Philly
GUIDE
Philly Fall Day Trips Guide: Orchards, Farms, Festivals, and Family Getaways 2024
Photo courtesy of Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
Best Philly Tours for Kids: Art Hunts, Food Tours, Ghost Tours, and More
Kids under 18 are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo by Liz Baill
100 Free Fun Things To Do in Philly with Kids
Fishtown families flock to Penn Treaty Park for the waterfront views, special events, and open space. Photo by M. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia
Fishtown with Kids: 9 Things To Do in the Fishtown Neighborhood of Philly
School Calendars 2024-2025: Important Dates for Philadelphia School District
Grand Slam U.S.A. challenges you to a game of laser tag! Photo courtesy of the center
Best Laser Tag Zones and Paintball for Philly Kids
Build birthday memories brick by brick at LEGOLAND. Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND
31 Fun Indoor Birthday Party Places for Kids in Philly
Ricketts Glen State Park is a family-friendly destination with awesome activities for all ages. Photo of Ricketts Glen by the author
Amazing Budget Weekend Getaways for Philly Families
Put your skills to the test on the obstacle course at Urban Air. Photo courtesy of Urban Air
Extreme Sports and More Thrilling Activities for Kids in Philly: Go Karts, Axe Throwing, and More!
Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP), located in the heart of Old City.
Visiting Historic Philadelphia: Top Things To Do in the Historic District with Kids
Take in 300 years of history on Elfreth's Alley. Photo courtesy of the museum
3 Days in Philadelphia with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom
In addition to Pay-What-You-Wish First Sundays, kids 18 and under are always free at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Photo courtesy of the museum
Free Museums and Free Museum Days in Philly
Ultimo Coffee serves up treats and pours hearts all day. Photo courtesy of the shop
13 Best Coffee Shops in Philly to Bring Your Kids When You Need Caffeine
Turn your eye of the tiger into the eye of an artist at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art with Kids: Creative Family Time at the Art Museum
GUIDE
Guide to Classes for Kids in Philadelphia
Learn all about fire safety and the history of firefighters in Philly at the Fireman's Hall Museum.Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
14 Free Things To Do Indoors in Philly: Indoor Places To Play On Cold and Rainy Days
Take a bikde ride through Doylestown. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala
9 Walkable Neighborhoods near Philly for Family Outings
Six Flag Great Adventure brings big-time thrills and is one of our favorite amusement parks in New Jersey.
Great Theme Parks and Amusement Parks Near New Jersey
Both babies and dogs love stroller walks for some fresh air. Photo courtesy of Gina Massaro for Mommy Poppins
Great Stroller Walks and Stroller Hikes near Philly
Parents eat while kids climb and slide at Craft Hall.
13 Philly Restaurants Where Kids Can Play While Parents Eat
Pony rides always bring out smiles at Linvilla Orchards. Photo courtesy of the orchard
Animal Farms and Petting Zoos near Philadelphia that are Perfect for Preschoolers
Try a whiz-wit at Tony Luke's, a reliable Philly cheesesteak spot with multiple locations. Photo courtesy of J. Varney for GPTMC
11 Kid-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak Spots
Challenge the rope bridge and zip line at Elmwood Park Zoo. Photo courtesy of the zoo
100 Things To Do in Philly with Kids Before They Grow Up
Blue Cross RiverRink is open for Summerfest in the warmer months and Winterfest in the colder months. Photo courtesy of J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Top Attractions in Philadelphia: Best Things to See and Do with Kids
Kids can zoom down the slide and, of course, launch scarves at Kith + Kin. Photo courtesy of Kith + Kin
38 Best Indoor Play Spaces and Indoor Playgrounds in Philadelphia
No one walks the plank, but everyone has fun with with Scallywag’s Pirate Adventures in Erie. Photo courtesy of Scallywag's Pirate Adventures.
10 PA Weekend Getaways for Families
Take a hike: Family getaways are a great opportunity to reconnect with nature.
GUIDE
Philly Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways

Philly's Green Phase Reopening: What's Open Now for Kids

A number of nearby theme parks, such as Hershey Park, are now welcoming visitors. Photo courtesy the theme park
A number of nearby theme parks, such as Hershey Park, are now welcoming visitors. Photo courtesy the theme park
7/28/20 - By Kristen Sullivan

As Philadelphia reopens slowly in a modified green phase, Philly families have been making the most of what can only be described as the most unusual summer on record.

Venturing to a campground, cooling off in area splash pads, and going retro at a drive-in movie are among the top favorites. But since the counties in the Delaware Valley have been in the green phase since early July, many more local Philly attractions are reopening their doors to visitors with new social distancing rules in place.

We rounded up all the top things to do in Philly for kids right now, including all the reopened museums, zoos, amusement parks, and arboretums. Some expect to reopen soon, so we've included those dates below. Outings in the COVID-19 age look different as venues are limiting capacity, requiring face masks, and encouraging social distancing. Accordingly, be prepared to secure tickets in advance, wear masks, and pack a reusable water bottle—and the hand sanitizer...maybe a portable potty, too!

Continue reading to discover what's reopening in Philadelphia and throughout the Delaware Valley.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

The Atlas moth is hard to miss at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Photo by Jeff Fusco/Visit Philadelphia
The Atlas moth is hard to miss at the Academy of Natural Sciences. Photo by Jeff Fusco/Visit Philadelphia

Philly Museums and Cultural Attractions

Independence Seaport Museum Reopens

Now open
Independence Seaport Museum reopens its doors to visitors on March 20. The museum is operating on a weekend-only schedule, from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and 12 noon to 5 pm on Sunday, with 25% capacity limits in place to ensure social distancing. READ MORE

The Franklin Institute Reopens

Now open
The Franklin Institute is open and ready for visitors with a new explosive science exhibit. The museum promises a "modified experience" with face coverings, temperature checks, and advance ticket sales. READ MORE

Penn Museum Reopens

Reopens July 28
Penn Museum opens to the general public beginning Tuesday, July 28. Members of the Museum can return for a members-only week from July 21–26. Timed tickets are required and must be purchased in advance. Time slots are 2 hours in duration. Face coverings are required for guests over 2 years old. READ MORE

The Academy of Natural Sciences Reopens

Reopens July 31
Visit dinosaurs, butterflies and more when the Academy reopens to the public in late July. Tickets will be for timed entry, and admission will be limited to 25% capacity. READ MORE

Brandywine River Museum Reopens

Now open
Guests can visit the Brandywine River Museum beginning June 20. Timed tickets are necessary to limit capacity so advance reservations are recommended. Ralston Crawford: Air & Space & War is the new special exhibit on display. READ MORE

Delaware Museum of Natural History Reopens

Now open
Guests can visit The Delaware Museum of Natural History Wednesday- Sunday by reserving tickets in advance. Tickets are for one hour time slots so that the Museum can be cleaned between sessions. Walk-ins are only allows if space is available. READ MORE

Fort Mifflin Reopens

Now open
Families can explore over forth acres of history and nature at Fort Mifflin. Activities include walking the beach along the Delaware, hiking a nature trail through the High Battery, and completing a no-contact scavenger hunt. Weekend programs are also held. Parking is free. READ MORE

American Swedish Historical Museum Reopens

Now open
Normal operating hours are in effect at the American Swedish Historical Museum where families can learn about the history, culture, and experience of Swedes in America. Each gallery is limited to 10 guests and some have restrictions regarding hands-on learning components. READ MORE

The Barnes Foundation Reopens

Now open
View the spectacular collections at The Barnes Foundation beginning July 25. New procedures such as timed ticketing, contactless transactions, and one-way walking patterns have been implemented to keep visitors safe.  READ MORE

Museum of the American Revolution Reopens

Reopens September 3
Experience a piece of history as the Museum of the American Revolution tentatively plans to reopens to the public on January 8. Safety protocols include advanced online tickets and reduced capacity. READ MORE
Catch the lions at the reopened Philadelphia Zoo. Photo courtesy the zoo
Catch the lions at the reopened Philadelphia Zoo. Photo courtesy the zoo

Zoos and Aquariums Near Philly

Philadephia Zoo Reopens

Now open
Furry friends await as Philadelphia Zoo opens for the season. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and the zoo will limit capacity of visitors.  READ MORE

Elmwood Park Zoo Reopens

Now open
Elmwood Park Zoo is open again! Tickets are available online on June 24, and social distancing guidelines will be in place. READ MORE

Adventure Aquarium Reopens

Now open
Embark on an aquatic adventure at the aquarium which is open for the season. Visit 15,000 aquatic animals, including sloths, sharks and penguins. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and capacity is limited. READ MORE

Brandywine Zoo Reopens

Now open
Brandywine Zoo is excited to welcome visitors to see the animals daily from 10 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. State guidelines limit the capacity at the zoo so it is important to reserve a timed session. Guests over 13 years of age must wear a mask or face covering.  READ MORE

Cohanzick Zoo Reopens

Now open
This Southern New Jersey zoo is back open and ready for visitors. Safety protocols are in place including one-way traffic and masks for guests 2+. READ MORE
Hurricane Harbor in NJ reopened in late July! Photo courtesy of Six Flags Great Adventure
Hurricane Harbor in NJ reopened in late July! Photo courtesy of Six Flags Great Adventure

Amusement Parks

Sesame Place Reopens

Now open
Open Sesame! Sesame Place reopens for the season with limited capacity and safety guidelines in place. Masks are required for guests over 2. All tickets can be purchased online. READ MORE

Hershey Park Reopens

Now open
Both Hershey Park and the new Chocolatetown are now open. Guests can ride the all-new roller coaster, Candymonium, the park's biggest coaster ever. READ MORE

The Funplex and Splashplex Reopen

Now open
Games, rides and water are all part of the fun when The Funplex and Splashplex reopen to the public. Reservations must be made online, and safety measures are in place. READ MORE

Six Flags Great Adventure Reopens

Now open
Get ready for a summer of thrills when Six Flags Great Adventure reopens for the season. New safety measures and an online reservation system will be in place. READ MORE

Storybook Land Reopens

Now open
This magical park, geared towards the younger set, opens for the season on July 3. The park will operate at 50% capacity. READ MORE

Dutch Wonderland Opening Weekend

Now open
Dutch Wonderland opens for the season! Enjoys rides, attractions, and all kinds of family fun. READ MORE

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Season Opening

Now open
Get set to get wet when Hurricane Harbor opens for the season. Check out the Big Wave Racer, Caribbean Cove, Hurricane Mountain, and more.  READ MORE

Diggerland USA

Now open
Diggerland USA is the only construction-themed adventure park in North America where kids can drive, ride, and operate actual machinery. The park, which covers about 21 acres in West Berlin, New Jersey, also includes a brand-new water park. READ MORE

OC Waterpark

Open now
Enjoy multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a children's water play area––Lil Buc's Bay––at this beachfront Ocean City, New Jersey water park. READ MORE

Crayola Experience Easton Reopens

Reopens August 1
Kids can once again get creative at The Crayola Experience which opens to visitors on January 6. Guests must purchase timed tickets online to restrict capacity. Face coverings are required and only clear bags for personal belongings are permitted. READ MORE
Enjoy an outdoor outing with a trip to Longwood Gardens. Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia
Enjoy an outdoor outing with a trip to Longwood Gardens. Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Gardens, Arboretums, and Outside Attractions Open

Longwood Gardens Reopen

Now open
Longwood Garden invites visitors to experience the beauty and splendor of the amazing gardens this summer. When visiting, guests are asked to be aware of the one-way paths, wear a mask, and allow space between one another. Timed tickets are required. READ MORE

Franklin Square Reopens

Now open
Franklin Square is back open and jam-packed with activities. Play mini-golf, ride the carousel and check out the new fountain show, which starts later in July. READ MORE

Tyler Arboretum Reopens

Now open
Get outdoors with a visit to the unique gardens of Tyler Arboretum. Guests should be aware that parking is on a first-come, first-serve basis and once it reaches capacity will be closed.  Currently the treehouses are closed; however, the trails are now open. READ MORE

Morris Arboretum Reopens

Now open
Advanced tickets are required for all who visit Morris Arboretum. It is important to note that water fountains are not currently available. Guests are encouraged to bring their own water bottles and snacks. Additionally, The Garden Railway, the Fernery and the Log Cabin are temporarily closed. READ MORE
Candytopia, a sugar-sweet indoor playground, has reopened in Philly. Photo courtesy Ally Noel
Candytopia, a sugar-sweet indoor playground, has reopened in Philly. Photo courtesy Ally Noel

More Philly Reopenings and Nearby Day Trips

Candytopia Reopens in Philadelphia

Now open
Spend a sweet day at Philadelphia's candy wonderland. All tickets must be purchased online, and guest capacity will be limited. Masks are required for guests 4+. READ MORE

Strasburg Railroad Reopens

Now open
All aboard! Visitors to the Strasburg Rail Road can now find a seat on the train to take a 45-minute journey. Pre-purchased or advanced reservations are needed. Guests can expect contactless check-in, temperature checks, and face mask requirements. READ MORE

Best Jersey Shore Beaches for Families: Sandy Hook to Cape May

Now open with reservations required at some beaches
Here are the top Jersey Shore beaches to check out this summer. READ MORE

Six Flags Great Adventure Safari Drive-Thru Opening

Now open
Six Flags Great Adventure's drive-thru safari is back open for the season. This is a contact-free experience where guests see the attraction's 1,200 exotic animals, which live on 350 acres, from their own cars. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Penn Museum (University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology)
Brandywine River Museum
Delaware Museum of Natural History
American Swedish Historical Museum
Museum of the American Revolution
Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania
Strasburg Rail Road