Philadelphia's Franklin Institute is a sure hit with kids. (Photograph courtesy of the Franklin Institute)

Best Family-Friendly Museums in Philly

ByHeather Greenwood Davis
December 05, 2014
2 min read

National Geographic Traveler columnist Heather Greenwood Davis is the magazine’s family travel advocate, guru, and soothsayer.

Here’s her latest advice:

Reader Question: We’re planning a trip to Philadelphia. How can I make the museum experience better for our kids? 

My Answer: Keep it short and sweet. Pick no more than one museum per day, and aim to highlight one of your child’s key interests (Independence Seaport Museum for the boat lover, Penn Museum for Egyptian lore).

Inside, stick with one or two exhibits, and explore them at your child’s pace. Kid-friendly options abound at Philadelphia museums (gallery tours geared to kids at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, sleepovers at Penn Museum, and Franklin Institute’s “Your Brain” exhibit).

Choose attractions that will allow kids to be active participants rather than static observers. Consider options like CityPASS or the Philadelphia Pass, which offer discounts and quick entry to attractions.

Heather Greenwood Davis pens the “Traveling With Kids” column for National Geographic Traveler. Follow Heather on Twitter @GreenwoodDavis. 

> More From Heather:

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