In the Centennial District of Philadelphia, the Please Touch Museum offers an array of permanent and traveling exhibitions spanning two floors, including Wonderland, where kids can have a tea party with the Mad Hatter, and Food & Family, where little ones can explore an immersive shopping market, kitchen, and more. They can even float their boat along a pint-sized Schuylkill River, and ride a carousel built in 1908. Some play areas are designated for children under 3 years old, making sure the tiniest visitors have something just for them. The attraction is also included as a stop on hop-on, hop-off bus tours.
Just off of Interstate 76, the museum is accessible by both car and public transit. By car, follow North 34th Street to Lansdowne Drive or Belmont Avenue to Avenue of the Republic. SEPTA bus route 38 stops at the museum, and routes 40, 43, and 64 are within walking distance. Ride-share services and taxis can also drop off visitors at the museum.
As you might expect, the Please Touch Museum tends to experience the biggest crowds on rainy days. Mornings are also busy because most school groups visit during this time. It’s recommended that travelers visit the museum in the afternoons and on Mondays when groups are not scheduled. For overall sightseeing, spring and summer are considered the best times to visit Philadelphia.
In addition to its many historical sites, Philadelphia offers a range of family-friendly attractions. At the Philadelphia Zoo, kids can take part in scavenger hunts and rope courses in between seeing the animals. The Franklin Institute is a good option for slightly older children. Here, they can learn about the science behind surfing and rock climbing, explore the Giant Heart, and check out interactive displays about physics, astronomy, and more.
