Day Trips from Philadelphia
← All Philadelphia day tripsDay Trips from Philadelphia: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of Philadelphia, PA. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
12 family activities near Philadelphia
Penguin Coast
Baltimore, MD 21211
Just 1 hr 56 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.8 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Ocean Wonders: Sharks!
Brooklyn, NY 11224
Just 1 hr 40 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.7 stars by 913 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Storybook Land
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
Just 56 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.7 stars by 3,692 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Turtle Back Zoo Carousel
West Orange, NJ 07052
Just 1 hr 36 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.7 stars by 574 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Jenkinson's Aquarium
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Just 1 hr 20 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars by 5,279 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
Norwalk, CT 06854
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars by 7,364 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
West Orange, NJ 07052
Just 1 hr 36 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.6 stars by 14,243 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Bugs Bunny National Park
NJ 08514, USA
Just 59 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.5 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Fantasy Island Amusement Park
Beach Haven, NJ 08008
Just 1 hr 37 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.5 stars by 2,108 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Plumpton Park Zoo
1416 Telegraph Rd, Rising Sun
Just 1 hr 7 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.5 stars by 2,406 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Electric City Aquarium & Reptile Den
Scranton, PA 18503
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.5 stars by 2,584 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Just 1 hr 14 min from Philadelphia, rated 4.5 stars by 8,674 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from Philadelphia
What are the best family activities near Philadelphia, PA?
The best family activities near Philadelphia include zoos, children's museums, amusement parks, state parks with easy trails, and interactive science centers. Check the cards above for top-rated spots with real drive times.
What are cheap things to do with kids near Philadelphia?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near Philadelphia are free or under $15 per person. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Check the budget estimates on each card above.
Are there indoor family activities near Philadelphia for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near Philadelphia are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from Philadelphia?
For families with young kids, 1-2 hours is the sweet spot. Longer drives (2-3 hours) work well with older kids and are worth it for standout destinations like major zoos or amusement parks.
Don't know where to go?
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