Local Scoop
14 of the Best Kid Friendly Events in Philly
Summer is in full swing and so are your kid’s energy levels. Sure you can take them to the typical kid friendly attractions outside of Philly but there are a ton of cool local events, programs and more that cater to kids right here. Not only are these tike oriented events closer than say your big named attractions, in most cases they are also cheaper. So create new and lasting memories with the little ones this summer and check out 14 of the best kid friendly events in Philly.
Kids Summer Woodworking Class (ages 9-14)
Various Dates | Philadelphia Woodworks
Camps will be run by our team of expert youth educators who understand safe woodworking techniques just as much as how to work with and support kids. Your children will make great projects that they can enjoy using at home for years to come.
Now-Aug. 30th | The Academy of Natural Sciences
Animal Grossology is the slimiest, stinkiest, and downright yuckiest exhibit you will find in Philadelphia in 2015! Based on Sylvia Branzei’s best-selling children’s book series Grossology, this hands-on 3-D exhibit oozes with disgusting science and provides a slightly off-kilter view of the animal kingdom. Learn why cows chew cud and why snail and slug slime might provide scientists with more insight into treating cystic fibrosis. From poop to pellets and scales to hairballs, check out all the things you aren’t allowed to discuss at the dinner table!
Sensory Friendly Sunday (all ages)
July 12 | Franklin Institute
It is our goal to make Sensory-Friendly Sunday a comfortable environment for kids and adults with a variety of sensory differences. On Sensory-Friendly Sunday our exhibits will be modified to provide an opportunity to experience all The Franklin Institute has to offer for people on the autism spectrum and with a range of differing abilities.
July 15-Aug. 19th (Every Wednesday) | The Penn Museum
Every Wednesday enjoy various artists from around the world playing cultural music ranging from Caribbean to Middle Eastern and everything in-between. Following the presentation, children and their chaperones or families may explore the galleries. Children 4 to 6 and their older siblings and friends are invited to participate in themed storybook readings within the galleries beginning at 1:00 pm. Free with admission.
Moonlight Movie Storytime: Rapunzel (elementary school ages)
July 15th | Color Book Gallery
Prior to the MAUSA Friday night Lovett Library movie night showing of Tangled, kids can hear the story of Rapunzel and make floating lanterns (part of the Mt. Airy Reads literacy initiative).
Movie Night on the Schylkill Banks Presents: Lego the Movie (all ages)
July 16th | Greys Ferry Cresecent Esplanade
Bring your friends, blanket and picnic basket for a great time watching viewer’s choice movies by the river. All movies start at dusk (approximately 8:30 pm on July 16). The screen will be set up on the paved esplanade area along the river by Schuylkill Avenue and Wharton Street. Come early to participate in a free pre-movie raffle for gift cards from Philadelphia Runner.
The Philadelphia Zoo Presents: Rock N’ Roar
July 21st-Aug. 18th (Every other Tuesday) | The Philadelphia Zoo
Pack your blanket and put on your dancing shoes—it’s time to rock and roar! Philadelphia Zoo’s Rock ‘n’ Roar concert series kicks off on June 9 and continues every other Tuesday through August 18th.
Arden Theatre Summer Camp (ages 1-12)
Various Dates | Arden Theatre
Taught by professional artists with a passion for teaching, Arden Drama School provides theatre education and training for students Pre-K through 12th grade. Curriculum is offered for all age groups, with growing confidence and skills emphasized in each grade level and greater performance opportunities provided for middle and high school students.
July 24th | Smith Memorial Playground
Smith is thrilled to present its 2nd annual kids music festival Kidchella in conjunction with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation! Kids 10 and younger and their caregivers are invited to join us Friday, July 24th, 6-8PM, for a fantastic line-up of music curated by Jeff Bogle of Out With The Kids that kids AND adults will enjoy, including performances by The Alphabet Rockers, Play Date, and Shine and the Moonbeams.
ComedySortz For Kids (ages 3-7)
Various Dates | ComedySportz
ComedySportz for kids is a unique theatrical and comedy experience for children ages 3-7. It’s a fun-sized version of ComedySportz, our long-running comedy match only shorter, sillier and kiddy-er. Three ComedySportz players and a Referee play improv games competing for your children’s laughter.
Seaport Summer Camp: Navy Boot Camp for Kids (ages 6-12)
Aug. 10-14th | Independence Seaport Museum
See how you fare competing, (and working in teams) in museum-wide obstacle course and rescue missions! Campers will explore the history of the US Navy through our Old City walking tours and ships tours while seeing if they have what it takes to serve on the high seas.
Shooting Stars and S’mores (ages 9+)
Aug. 14th | Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education
More than 60 meteors shoot through the sky every hour during the Perseid Meteor shower – so join us to watch these falling stars. A new moon on August 14 means conditions will be perfect to see this natural phenomenon. We’ll use telescopes to take a close look at planets and stars. Afterward, relax fireside for s’mores and stories.
Kids Summer Cooking Camp: Global Flavors (ages 8-12)
Aug. 15th-19th | Sur La Table
For five fun-filled days, our experienced chef instructors will walk young cooks through a world of hands-on culinary exploration. Designed specifically for kids, this class shows them just how much fun—and how easy—cooking delicious dishes can be.
Movies in Clark Park Presents: The Incredibles (all ages)
Aug. 21st | Clark Park
This summer, University City District will present its new Movies in Clark Park series, a five-week offering of free outdoor screenings beginning in August. University City’s Clark Park, located at 4398 Chester Avenue, will transform into an outdoor theater to screen showings of family favorites and classic films, including Pixar’s The Incredibles, the comedy classic Best in Show, and recent Oscar-nominee Selma.
