Dilworth Plaza and the splash pad is a perfect summer destination for families. Photo by M. Fischetti

Top Summer Activities for Philly Kids 

The Best Ways to Relax and Cool Down in Philly

1. Let the kids run wild through the interactive fountains at Dilworth Plaza’s splash pad, the perfect spot to cool down in the shadows of City Hall.

2. Spend the day roller skating and playing arcade games at Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest along the Delaware River.

3. Relax in a hammock or play lawn games at the breezy and colorful Spruce Street Harbor Park.

4. Enjoy free kayaking and pedal boating on select days at FDR Park Boathouse.

5. Walk, scoot, or bike along the scenic Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk for waterfront views and city vibes.

6. Splash around at the beloved Sister Cities Park in Logan Circle, a city staple on hot days.

7. Beat the heat at Charles Seager Park, a great spot for toddlers and big kids alike.

8. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or bike at Lloyd Hall along Boathouse Row for a fun and active day.

9. Head to Samuel F. Houston Playground in Andorra to enjoy the summer splash pad, is always a hit with little ones.

The Best Water Ice and Sweet Treats

10. Cool off with classic flavors like lemon, cherry, and chocolate at John’s Water Ice.

11. Try something new like cotton candy twist or sour patch mango at Famous Italian Ice in Kensington.

12. Get a taste of tradition at Pop’s Water Ice, serving South Philly since 1932.

13. Explore adventurous, small-batch flavors at the always-quirky Jeni's Ice Cream.

14. Step back in time with hand-dipped cones and vintage vibes at The Franklin Fountain.

15. Treat the kids (and yourself) to fresh and unique flavors at Weckerly’s Ice Cream in Fishtown and West Philly.

16. Sip on an over-the-top milkshake after a good meal at Craftsman Row Saloon in Jewelers’ Row.

17. Visit Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse, where homemade desserts like banana pudding and ice cream sandwiches are a perfect treat.

18. Try a scoop of vanilla from Bassetts Ice Cream, the oldest ice cream company in America, located at Reading Terminal Market.

19. End brunch on a sweet note with French toast and ice cream at Sabrina’s Café.

Things to Do Down the Shore

20. Spend the day riding roller coasters and munching funnel cake at the legendary Wildwood Boardwalk.

21. Visit the free and highly walkable Cape May County Zoo, just a short drive from most beaches.

22. Enjoy rides, arcades, and pizza along the family-friendly Ocean City Boardwalk.

23. Go bird watching or take a peaceful nature walk at the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary.

24. Swim and relax at Avalon Beach, known for its clean sand and family-friendly atmosphere.

25. Stroll the Sea Isle City Promenade for a mix of shops, eateries, and people-watching.

26. Pack a picnic and spend the day at Cape May County Park, adjacent to the zoo.

27. Collect seashells and enjoy the calm shoreline at Reeds Beach, a quiet bayfront retreat In Cape May Court House.

28. Head to Wildwood Crest Beach for wide beaches, gentle waves, and fewer crowds.

29. Bring the volleyball or surfboard for a more active day at North Wildwood Beach.

Take a trip to the Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square Park and marvel at the lantern displays. Photo by C. Smyth/Visit Philadelphia

Festivals & Events

30. Celebrate and enjoy strawberries at Shady Brook Farm's Strawberry Festival.

31. Join in the colorful celebration at Philly PrideFest, featuring a parade, live performances, and a festive fair.

32. Check out the family-friendly programming hosted by the Fairmount Park Conservancy all summer long.

33. Watch a movie under the stars at Parkside’s Community Movie Nights in West Philly.

34. Head to Cira Green’s Sunset Social for rooftop movies and food trucks with a view.

35. Visit the Odunde Festival, one of the largest African American street festivals in the U.S., right in Graduate Hospital.

36. Don’t miss the amazing Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square Park and marvel at the lantern displays.

37. Hit the Parkway for the party of the summer and enjoy a day-long 4^th of July extravaganza at the Wawa Welcome America Party on the Parkway and Fireworks Spectacular.

Take a turn on the carousel at Franklin Square. Photo by R. Kennedy/Visit Philadelphia

Outdoor and Educational Adventures

38. Take a hike and check out waterfalls at Wissahickon Valley Park, right in Northwest Philly.

39. Ride the carousel or paddleboat at Franklin Square, one of the city’s original five squares.

40. Go on a scavenger hunt through history at Independence National Historical Park.

41. Spend the afternoon in the shaded gardens of Bartram’s Garden, complete with river access and family events.

42. Climb, slide, and explore at Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse, home to a 40-foot wooden slide.

43. Explore interactive exhibits at the Please Touch Museum, a dream space for kids under 10.

44. Check out bugs, fossils, and the famous walk-through heart at The Franklin Institute.

45. Wander through the butterfly exhibit and learn about bugs at the Academy of Natural Sciences.

46. Ride a historic trolley, pet the goats, and roam the grounds of Morris Arboretum.