A Day Trip for Families in Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is a wonderful city for families to visit. There are parks, markets, museums, the oldest zoo in the country, and one-of-a-kind food. If you're planning a day trip to Philadelphia, the options can be overwhelming. It's impossible to see everything in just one day, but a family with kids can have a wonderful day trip in Philadelphia no matter the weather by following this plan.

The Franklin Institute
222 North 20^th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-448-1200

The Franklin Institute is a wonderful science museum in the heart of Philadelphia. Kids and adults will enjoy the many exhibits that teach as well as entertain. Parking at the Franklin Institute is simple; the garage is directly below the museum, with the entrance at the corner of 21^st and Winter Sts. This location is simple to find, as it's right off the exit of route 676, also known as the "Vine Street Expressway." If you miss your turn, Philadelphia is laid out in a simple grid, so just circle the block and you'll be fine.

Once you enter, you'll have many options of where to visit first. There is usually at least one traveling exhibit, which is great to see, but there are a few permanent exhibits that are great for families with kids.

The Giant Heart
Anyone who has grown up in the Philadelphia area probably has fond memories of a field trip to the Franklin Institute and running through the heart with their classmates. This giant model of a heart is so large that people walk through it while learning about blood flow through this organ. It's probably the most unique (and memorable) feature of the museum, and one you must visit.

The Train Factory
This is one train ride that you can take no matter what the weather is doing outside, since The Train Factory exhibit houses an actual locomotive indoors. Board the train and ride back and forth while experiencing what it's like to be a passenger in this historic train. The room also holds interactive activities all about the science and engineering behind trains.

The Sports Challenge
If you want to keep your kids occupied and wear them out, then The Sports Challenge is the perfect place to visit while at The Franklin Institute. Kids can block virtual soccer balls at the goal, balance on a surfboard, test their reaction time in race cars, and pitch balls. My kids always enjoy running around and trying out all of the activities. This exhibit is especially great in the very cold or hot months, allowing kids to play without worrying about the weather outside.

There are many other exhibits that are a lot of fun at the Franklin Institute. Don't forget to visit the giant statue of Ben Franklin in the front hall and buy a block of astronaut ice cream to share in the gift shop. If you want to add extras to your admission ticket, there are also a planetarium, IMAX theater, and usually a unique traveling special exhibit. Look over all the museum has to offer before you go, and enjoy spending time with your kids going to all of their favorites.

After a fun day at the museum, you'll all be hungry, and there's nothing better to satisfy everyone's appetite than the local favorite: Philly cheesesteaks. There are many differing opinions amongst locals as to who has the best, but South Philly is where to get them. Two of the most famous cheesesteak rivals, Pat's and Geno's, are located on opposite corners at the intersection of 9^th Street and Passyunk Avenue.

This location is about a fifteen-minute drive through the city, and parking is free on the surrounding streets. Across the street from these two restaurants is a park and playground, which runs from 9^th to 10^th streets. Both restaurants have outdoor seating under awnings, but it's fun to take your cheesesteaks across the street to the park and let the kids play while you savor the local flavor.

If you've never had an authentic Philly cheesesteak, it's worth it to purchase one from each establishment and compare. Our family's favorite is Geno's, but your family will enjoy deciding for yourselves. Decide ahead of time if you like American cheese or Cheese Whiz, fried onions, peppers, or sauce. Add fries on the side, wash it down with a soda, and enjoy your authentic Philadelphia dinner to top off your fun day trip in Philadelphia, PA.