Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

Igloos, Greenhouses, and Yurts: Fun Outdoor Dining for Families in Philly

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 02/12/2021 - 2:40pm

For nearly a year, restaurants in Philadelphia have been challenged with the task of maintaining their businesses while serving food in a safe manner. Many restaurants are adapting to make dining out a possibility during these cold winter months. Igloo and yurt dining is becoming a popular alternative for families who want to dine away from home but are reluctant to eat indoors. An advantage to igloo and yurt dining is that your party is enclosed, which helps limit exposure to other guests.

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia has rounded up some restaurants that are offering these unique dining experiences. Due to high demand, most locations require patrons to call the restaurant directly to make reservations.

In the meantime, why not make an afternoon of it by pairing a visit to one of these unique eateries with one of these great things to do with kids in Philly in the winter. Our Philly Winter Fun Guide includes more ideas for keeping kids safe, warm, and entertained in the chilly months.

30 Fun Things to Do Over February Break with Philly Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 02/05/2021 - 12:25pm

Philadelphia's abbreviated winter break is almost here, and even in a shortened recess, families might be looking for entertaining, safe, and exciting ways to spend time together. Of course, there has already been quite a bit of togetherness since many families are virtual for work and school. So it might take a bit of planning and effort to make non-school days extra special.

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia has rounded up some great ideas for families to make memories over the extended weekend while staying safe. Our list includes outdoor adventures, indoor activities, as well as virtual ones. Indoor venues may require purchasing timed tickets in advance, so be sure to visit websites as you plan your day. Activities such as skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating likely require advance purchase of tickets. No matter what you decide to do over your winter respite, have fun and cherish these family moments.

Philly Playgrounds That Received Upgrades in 2020-21

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 01/17/2021 - 10:00am

Philly families have always relied on outdoor spaces for fun. Neighborhood parks and playgrounds provide a sense of community and a place to exercise. Over the past several months, going outside actually gives kids and grown-ups a sense of normalcy. Being outdoors in local parks and playgrounds helps to support mental, physical, and emotional well-being during these difficult times.

Below is a list of area parks and playgrounds that recently received a makeover through Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and a City program called Rebuild. This initiative invests funds raised from the Philadelphia Beverage Tax to improve vital spaces such as playgrounds, libraries, and recreation centers for the community. Imagine how excited children will be when they arrive to find new playground equipment at their favorite spot. Or head to a new location and explore. Read on to discover what to expect at your next playground play date.

Virus Restrictions Eased: Here's What You Can Do in Philly Indoors Right Now

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 01/08/2021 - 11:51am

Mitigation efforts to fight COVID-19 were put into place throughout Pennsylvania in mid-December, closing indoor locations including museums. Most of those restrictions now have been lifted and our favorite spots are beginning to reopen.

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia has rounded up some locations that are open or plan to open soon. Because restrictions and policies change quickly, be sure to check directly with each venue before visiting. Guests still must wear masks and maintain social distancing at all locations. Many offer timed tickets that must be purchased in advance. So find your masks, grab some hand sanitizer, and explore our list.

These Great Smithsonian Museums in Washington, DC Have Reopened to the Public

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 10/16/2020 - 11:15am

Update: Effective Monday, November 23, DC's Smithsonian Museums are closing again due to rising numbers of COVID-19 cases. No timetable has been announced for their reopening. We will share that information as soon as we have it.

Washington, DC's most iconic museums and cultural centers are slowly, and carefully, reopening to the public. The crown jewel of these DC museums, the Smithsonian Museums, are offering timed admission (still free!) with safety measures in place.

What's open? What's on, exhibition-wise? What's worth seeing? We have all the answers you need. Read on.

Halloween, Fall Foliage, & Themed Train Rides for Philly Families

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 10/09/2020 - 11:00am

As cooler weather reaches the Delaware Valley, Philly families are reminded of autumnal traditions. This year, consider adding a new experience to your fall must-do list by climbing aboard one of the many family-friendly train rides in the region.

From fall foliage viewing to pumpkin patch stops, there are several unique train experiences sure to delight Philly children of all ages.

Best PA State Parks with Kid-friendly Hikes and Attractions

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 08/28/2020 - 11:00am

Pennsylvania is filled with amazing state parks to explore. In fact, there are over 300,000 acres of land managed by Pennsylvania's Department of Conservation and Nature Resources that offer everything from horseback riding and fishing to biking and overnight camping. By far, the most popular activity is hiking. Some hikes consist of short loops that are less than a mile while other trails are extensive and challenging.

If your family is looking for a PA state park to hike, check out our top 10 list below. Whether you want to see beautiful scenery, search for wildlife, or get some exercise, the list does not disappoint. Included in the descriptions are additional activities available at each park.

Looking for even more outdoor activities? Browse through our Parks & Playgrounds Guide, nearby camping, and tubing and water rafting options for additional fun things to do with Philly kids.

Shop Local to Support Small Businesses in Philly

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Tue, 05/12/2020 - 4:30pm

Due to coronavirus, local businesses in Philadelphia and throughout the Delaware Valley have been impacted by the ongoing stay-at-home orders. With restrictions still in place, small businesses are adapting to the "new normal" while serving the community and keeping customer safety at the forefront. But Philly families can help support local businesses in lots of ways.

Buying books and toys at local shops to keep young minds engaged and entertained, order delicious take-away meals to satisfy ravenous appetites and take a break from cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner everyday, and purchase gift cards for future use. Remember: When patronizing local shops, you directly make a difference to a family. (And when possible, consider contacting restaurants directly instead of using a third party service to help keep the profit at the small business).

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia has rounded up a list of 27 local businesses offering pick up and delivery options. Refer to this list when need a jolt of coffee, a sweet (or salty) treat, or gift for your little one. Shop local! Together, we'll make it through!

And while you're showing your support for the businesses you love, we hope you'll count Mommy Poppins and our small business partners among them. You can support Mommy Poppins by sharing articles you find useful with friends or on your social media channels, checking out our directory of virtual classes, camps and birthday parties and telling businesses you found them through Mommy Poppins. Also, as part of our effort to keep our local parent writers and this website afloat and support some of our favorite family businesses, we've created Poppins@Home, a platform for small businesses to share free and low-cost online classes and birthday parties with kids all over the country. Please consider trying a few of these fun, affordable, and creative classes—and spreading the word among your friends—as yet another way to support, uplift, and get through these challenging times together!

For ideas on how to stay active and safe during these times, browse through our Stay-at-Home Guide with over 100 resources of things to do.

Kristen Sullivan

Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

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