Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

10 Winter Restaurants with Outdoor Seating in Philly: Igloos, Heated Patios, and More

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 01/20/2023 - 7:40am

Harper's Garden in Center City offers "greenhouse" dining. Photo courtesy of Harpers Garden

Outdoor dining in Philly continues in the winter, with lots of unique options for families looking to dine al fresco.

For a couple years now, restaurants in Philadelphia have provided new dining options due to changing habits, with many eateries adapting to make dining outdoors a possibility during even cold winter months. Igloos and greenhouses offer private little forts for just for your party, while heated patios provide fresh air and often allow more space for kids who like to spread out when dining out.

Read on for some of Philly's best outdoor dining experiences for colder months. For more dining destinations that welcome the kiddos, visit our Philadelphia Restaurant Guide for Families, including our favorite warm-weather outdoor restaurants for that other time of year. Bon appétit!

Drive-in Movie Theaters Near Philly for Outdoor Movie Nights With Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 05/13/2022 - 10:25am

The Mahoning Drive-In has delighted area residents since 1949. Photo by Thomas Hawk, via Flickr/Creative Commons

Watching movies under the stars is a traditional summer bucket list activity. Many families have enjoyed the resurgence of retro drive-in theaters and the popularity of pop-up outdoor movies near Philadelphia to watch their favorite films. The trend continues this year, and we've rounded up all the places to catch a drive-in movie near Philly. From spots near the Jersey Shore to others closer to the Pocono mountains, pack the pillows and snacks for these drive-in movie theaters near Philadelphia.

Most drive-in movie venues require online ticket purchases, so be sure to view the schedules in advance. Check out our Summer Activity Guide for Philadelphia for more warm-weather family fun.

17 Kid-Friendly Philadelphia Hotels for a Family Staycation

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 04/10/2022 - 10:14am

Try the indoor s'mores kit and the Rocky-style robes for kids at the Logan Hotel.

Family vacations create memories to last a lifetime. But that doesn't mean leaving the country, state, or even the city for that matter. There are several great Philadelphia hotels with perks for kids and families that are perfect for a Philly staycation. We've found all the best spots where parents can get some much-needed R & R while the kids stay entertained. Enjoy a busy day of sightseeing, or simply unwind and enjoy the family-friendly amenities at these hotels in Philadelphia.

A Philadelphia staycation is a great opportunity to make your way through our list of Top Attractions in Philly for Kids. For quick and easy escapes, don't miss our guide to Philly Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways.

St. Patrick's Day Parades and Celebrations in Philadelphia

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 03/04/2022 - 9:51am

Revelers at the annual Bucks County St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo courtesy of Visit Bucks County via Philly Burbs

After two years off for a pandemic hiatus, St. Patrick's Day 2022 in Philly is back and greener than ever. As home to one of the longest continuously held St. Patrick's Day parades, Philadelphia certainly knows how to celebrate the luck of the Irish. Throughout the Delaware Valley, there are opportunities to learn about Irish history, see Irish step dancing, listen to Celtic music and Irish stories, search for hidden leprechauns, and more! From the well-known Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade to several parades and activities in the suburbs, these St. Paddy's day events are worth more than a pot of gold. Sláinte!

For more holiday celebrations this month, don't miss the Best Things To Do in Philadelphia in March with Kids. Make sure you never miss a thing by signing up for our newsletters.

The Nutcracker Ballet and More Holiday Shows for Philly Families

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 11/14/2021 - 9:46am

The Philadelphia Ballet performs George Balanchine's holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia.

Catching a performance of The Nutcracker ballet is a seasonal tradition for many Philly families, who have plenty of options to watch the Sugar Plum Fairy and company dance across the stage. This time of year brings lots of familiar and festive shows to the theater, and taking the kids to see these stories brought to life is one of the best holiday and Christmas events to enjoy.

Aside from The Nutcracker, family favorites like A Christmas Carol and Frozen Jr. return to delight audiences. Families will find different variations of classic shows that appeal to both younger generations and shorter attention spans. Peruse our comprehensive list of performances and choose one that will add some theatrical magic to your holiday season.

Cool Things to Do in Philly with Kids this Weekend: Festivals, Welcome America

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Wed, 06/23/2021 - 11:00am

Immerse yourself in a world of color at the Manayunk Arts Festival. Photo by JPG Photography

There are so many things to do in and around Philadelphia. But as June slips away, Philly families should consult our events calendar to fine-tune their favorites and make the most of this summer weekend.

Festivals are in full force. Celebrate summer with Midsommarfest at the American Swedish Historical Museum, or indulge in sweet treats at the New Castle Ice Cream Festival at Rockwood Manor. Wander along the streets to view unique artistic creations at Manayunk Arts Festival or head across the bridge to Hammonton's Red, White & Blueberry Festival.

Best of all, Wawa Welcome America is back this year and offers free days at local museums, outdoor movies, concerts, and PECO: Go 4th & Learn opportunities. So, what are you waiting for? Browse our list, text some friends, and get ready for a great time making memories.

Hop Aboard the Easter Bunny Express: Train Rides for Kids Near Philly

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 03/26/2021 - 11:55am

Celebrate the arrival of Easter and spring aboard the West Chester Railroad. Photo courtesy of the railroad

Spring is in the air in Philly, and Easter is on the way. Many of the area's scenic railroads celebrate the season with excursions that include Easter fun.

We've rounded up several Easter-themed trains that are running special events for kids in the Philadelphia area and beyond. Some of these trains include an Easter egg hunt at the halfway stop, so be sure to bring along a basket. It is helpful to check whether the railroad provides a photographer and charges for a picture with the Easter Bunny or if you can bring your own camera.

Plan out your Easter train ride with this helpful list. Then extend Easter fun by reviewing our Spring Fun Guide, which include events throughout the Philadelphia area..

Activities in Philly to Get You Out of the House this Weekend: Trains, Kites, Egg Hunts, Spring Festivals

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Wed, 03/24/2021 - 11:40am

Smith Memorial Playground opens its season this weekend. Photo courtesy of Smith Memorial Playground

More daylight, milder temperatures, and an events calendar loaded with fun are the makings of a wonderful weekend for Philly families.

Begin by getting a jumpstart on Easter celebrations with a local hunt in Plymouth Meeting or Quakertown, a train ride to see the Easter Bunny at Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad, or a bunny brunch at the Country Barn. Soak up the outdoors by searching the skies for feathered friends at Winterthur, fishing in the pond at Linvilla Orchards, or trying out the playground at Smith Memorial Playground's season opening called Play-A-Palooza. After working up an appetite, grab a burger at Galaxy Burger and Beyond or delicious eats at Sisterly Love Food Fair at Cherry Street Pier.