Fun Family Things to Do in Philadelphia This Weekend: The Top 7 Family-Friendly Things to Try in Philly

If you’re looking for family things to do in Philadelphia this weekend, here’s our advice—experience the history, explore the outdoors, catch a sporting event, and try every culinary adventure the city has to offer.

The only problem—how are you going to fit it all in?

We’ve put together a list of things that you absolutely can’t miss. So, grab some cheesesteaks, put on those walking shoes and get the family ready—it’s time to explore Philly!

Not only do we know a lot of family things to do in Philadelphia this weekend, we also know a lot about self-storage. So, if you need more room for all your Phillies baseball caps, tricorn hats or mini-Rocky statues, Store Space is here to help.

What Family-Friendly Things Can You Do in Philly?

With so many family things to do in Philadelphia, it would probably be easier to list the things that you can’t do in Philadelphia. But there are definitely some family-friendly highlights to check out across the City of Brotherly Love. From history to outdoor adventures to sports, dining and theater, we’ve got you covered.

1. Experience Philadelphia History
2. Historic District
3. Go Outdoors
4. Visit Museums
5. Root for the Home Team
6. Catch a Show
7. Eat

1. Experience Philadelphia’s History

Thanks to Mr. William Penn, who founded Philadelphia in 1682, the birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness was established.

Not only is Philadelphia home to the Continental Congress, but it also once served as the capital of the United States, it’s the site of the first U.S. Mint, and it’s where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed.

Philadelphia undoubtedly offers important historical significance, it’s been around for over 400 years after all. But tell your kids not to worry, ghosts only pick on bad kiddos.

National Historic Park Pennsylvania

How could you visit one of the most important cities in American history without experiencing any of that history? The National Historic Park Pennsylvania is home to the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall—two incredibly important sites right next to each other.

Liberty Bell Center

At the Liberty Bell Center visitors can see exhibits, watch an educational film and get a first-hand look at the bell that has become a symbol of freedom. Here are some fun facts:

• Because of the crack, no person living today has heard the bell ring
• The inscription reads “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants”
• When the bell was ordered, it weighed 2,080 lbs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see this iconic American symbol

Fun fact: The Liberty Bell was in storage for 7 years, starting in 1778. There is no truth to the rumor it was stored in a Store Space facility. 

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed. The building was built in 1732 and originally was home to all three branches of Pennsylvania’s colonial government. Don’t you want to say you’ve visited the birthplace of America?

Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary opened in 1829, and quickly became one of the most famous, unique and expensive prisons in the world. The founding system was inspired by the Quakers—prisoners were isolated in the hopes of creating regret or penitence for their crimes. Here are more fun facts: the prison had running water and plumbing before the White House, and Al Capone had a short stay at this penitentiary.

The prison holds daytime tours for your family fun, as well as nighttime tours for anyone brave enough to risk running into “Public Enemy No. 1” in the dark. Dun, dun, dun!

2. Historic District

Philadelphia’s Historic District is home to the National Historic Park Pennsylvania, but there’s more to it than that. From floating barges to rollerblading, to hammocking, to food, to arcades—your family will have plenty to do in between your trips to the past.

3. Visit Museums

If you’re looking for family things to do in Philadelphia this weekend, check out the numerous museums! Especially if the weather is bad outside, visiting parks and walking around historical sites may not be the best option. Good thing the city offers some amazing museums and indoor activities for the whole family.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art first opened in 1928, but don’t worry—there have been many renovations, changes and updates to ensure the museum stays current. Not to mention exhibits and collections are often updated as well.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

If the weather outside is frightful, wander into The Academy of Natural Sciences and be frightened by monsters and dinosaurs instead! Kids will have a blast with previous and current exhibits like Permian Monsters, Dinosaur Hall and Mythical Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns and Mermaids.

Barnes Foundation

The Barnes Foundation is a wide collection of European Impressionist, post-Impressionism- and early modern paintings. The Barnes collection is considered one of the world’s best and includes works by Renoir, Cezanne, Matisse, Picasso and Van Gogh as well as African art and Native American jewelry and pottery.

Other museums and attractions

• National Constitution Center
• Museum of the American Revolution
• The African American Museum in Philadelphia
• National Museum of American Jewish History
• Rodin Museum

4. Family Fun in Philadelphia: Cheer on Your Team

Whether you’re a huge sports “phamily,” or you just go to games for the snacks (and maybe mom and dad want a beer), you can’t miss the chance to visit your favorite teams at their home fields. Find the 76ers and Flyers at Wells Fargo Center, the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park, and the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.

5. When You’re Hungry in Philadelphia—Eat!

What’s arguably the best thing about Philadelphia? The food! There are five distinct foods that have made Philadelphia “phamous” including cheesesteaks, hoagies, tomato pies, pretzels and water ice. How often is one city home to so many amazing culinary experiences? So go ahead, grab a cheesesteak from Pat’s, then go right across the street and get one from Geno‘s to see which one is better. (Just know a brawl might break out.)

A few restaurants in Philly are BYOB—bring your own bottle. Check out this list of places in the area that are BYOB, you can thank us later!

For more awesome grub in Philly, check out our Philadelphia food blog coming soon!

6. What to Do Outside in Philadelphia

You can always find something to do outside in Philadelphia. While the weather is pleasant, you can walk around parks or play in the sun. In the winter (if you don’t mind the cold), win an ice-skating race at Blue Cross RiverRink or start a snowball fight in Love Park! 

Wissahickon Valley Park

Whether you’re a marathoner or a birdwatcher, you’ll find something to do at Wissahickon Valley Park. There are more than 50 miles of trails for runners, hikers, bikers, horseback riders, even picnickers!. You can also catch a trout or two at Wissahickon Creek. Join the million others that visit Wissahickon Valley Park annually and enjoy some natural beauty in Philly!

Fun fact: At 1,800 acres, Wissahickon Valley Park is the equivalent of more than 784,000 10x10 storage units. 

John F. Kennedy Plaza or LOVE park

Besides being a green and outdoor space at Center City West, John F. Kennedy Plaza is known for the LOVE statue by artist Robert Indiana. After you take a picture next to the public art, waltz around the space, enjoy a picnic or take a jog on any of the walking paths.

Family Things to Do in Philadelphia This Weekend FAQs

Q: What is there to do in Philadelphia on a Saturday?

A: There are a number of fun things to do on a Saturday in Philadelphia. Many Philadelphia museums are open on Saturday, like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, The Franklin Institute and the Rodin Museum. You can also visit LOVE park or Wissahickon Valley Park if the weather is nice.

Q: How can I spend a day in Philadelphia?

A: You can still see a lot if you’re only visiting Philly for one day. Many of the historical sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are only a short distance away from each other, and the area nearby has a variety of food and shopping options. Do some research and plan out your day so you can maximize your time in Philadelphia!

Q: Is Philadelphia worth visiting?

A: Yes! Philadelphia is known for its historical significance, but it’s also a vibrant city with plenty to do, see, and eat. There are bars, chic neighborhoods, outdoor spaces and of course, Philly cheesesteaks.

Q: What is Philadelphia popular for?

A: Philadelphia is most popular for the Liberty Bell, Philly cheesesteaks and Rocky. It’s also known for its historical significance during the American Revolution.

Q: What should I avoid in Philadelphia?

A: Most tourists visiting Philadelphia for the first time should stick to the historic districts, since that’s where most of the “AHH!” factor is. But, remember to travel smart—avoid anyplace you’re not familiar with or doesn’t appear in reputable guidebooks. Here are some travel tips to keep in mind when visiting Philly.

Wrapping Up Family things to Do in Philadelphia This Weekend:

Here are our Top 7 family things to do in Philadelphia this weekend:

1. Experience Philadelphia History
2. Historic District
3. Go Outdoors
4. Visit Museums
5. Root for the Home Team
6. Catch a Show
7. Eat

There are millions of family things to do in Philadelphia this weekend. So, how can you choose? Our tip—pick the things you find the most interesting, and if you don’t get to everything you want to do, you’ll just have to visit again!

If you happen to fall in love with Philadelphia while visiting, Store Space has the perfect storage solutions for your upcoming move. If you’re already a resident, or you have any other storage needs, check out one of our multiple facilities in Pennsylvania. Just use our storage finder to find your nearest storage facility. We care about Philadelphians!