If you are looking for things to do in Pennsylvania with kids, look no further! This state is full of family-friendly attractions that will keep everyone entertained. From amusement parks to zoos to historical sites, Pennsylvania has something for everyone. So, whether you’re from Pennsylvania or just visiting, be sure to check out these amazing family-friendly attractions!
1. Hands-on House Children’s Museum, Lancaster
www.handsonhouse.org
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that’s both educational and fun, look no further than the Hands-on House Children’s Museum in Lancaster, PA. With dozens of interactive exhibits, your kids will have a blast while learning about science, art, and more. And best of all, adults are free with a paid child’s admission!
Some of our favorite exhibits include the “Build It!” area, where kids can construct their own houses out of recycled materials, and the “Waterworks” exhibit, where they can learn about the water cycle through hands-on play. There’s also a cute animal farm and an outdoor playground.
Whether you’re visiting Lancaster for a day or a week, be sure to swing by the Hands-on House Children’s Museum. It’s an experience your family will never forget!
2. Woodloch Pines Resort, Hawley
www.woodloch.com
Woodloch Pines Resort is the perfect family-friendly destination. Nestled in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, the resort features everything you need for a relaxing getaway. From its spacious rooms and suites to its world-class dining and recreational facilities, Woodloch Pines has something for everyone. And, with its convenient location just a short drive from New York City, the resort is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
So if you’re looking for a family-friendly resort that offers the perfect mix of relaxation and recreation, look no further than Woodloch Pines Resort.
3. Knoebel’s Amusement Park, Elysburg
www.knoebels.com
Knoebel’s Amusement Park in Pennsylvania is a family-friendly amusement park that offers something for everyone. From thrill rides to family rides to water rides, there is something to suit every taste. The park also has a variety of food options, so you can refuel after a day of fun. Plus, the park is located in a beautiful setting, so you can enjoy the scenery as well as the rides. All in all, Knoebel’s Amusement Park is a great option for a family day out.
4. The Crayola Experience, Easton
www.crayolaexperience.com/easton
The Crayola Experience in Easton, PA is a family-friendly attraction that is sure to please both kids and adults. From the moment you step inside, you are transported into a world of color and creativity. The highlight of the factory is the live show, which features creativity experts who share their tips and tricks for unleashing your inner artist.
But the fun doesn’t stop there – the factory also offers hands-on activities, like making your own crayon or painting a giant mural. And of course, no visit to the Crayola Experience would be complete without some shopping in the expansive gift shop.
Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or just wanting to stock up on supplies, the Crayola Experience has everything you need to make your next project a masterpiece.
5. Sesame Place, Philadelphia
sesameplace.com/philadelphia
Sesame Place in Philadelphia, PA is a family-friendly amusement park that features rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets with everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends. The park is also home to a water park, which is perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
One of the best things about Sesame Place is that it caters to families with small children. The rides are designed to be safe and fun for little ones, and there are plenty of opportunities to take photos with Elmo and his friends.
If you’re looking for a place to create lasting memories with your family, be sure to visit Sesame Place.
6. The Hershey Story, Hershey
hersheystory.org
The Hershey Story is a family-friendly attraction that traces the history of one of America’s most iconic brands. The museum chronicles the life of Milton Hershey, from his early days as a struggling candy maker to his eventual success as the head of the Hershey Company.
Visitors can see replica factories, old ads, and family photos, and learn about how Hershey’s chocolate is made. The Hershey Story is also home to an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to design their own chocolate bars.
Whether you’re a diehard fan of Hershey’s chocolate or just interested in learning about America’s food history, the Hershey Story is definitely worth a visit.
7. Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia
www.pleasetouchmuseum.org
The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is a great family-friendly spot. There’s something for everyone – from the very youngest kids who can explore and learn through play, to the slightly older ones who can enjoy the hands-on exhibits, to the adults who can appreciate the nostalgia of some of the classic toys on display.
The museum is also very well laid out, with a clear path that winds through each of the different areas so that visitors can easily see everything. And it’s all set within historic Memorial Hall, so there’s even more to explore once you’re done with the museum itself.
All in all, it’s a great spot for a day out with family or friends.
8. Carnegie Science Center, Pittsburgh
carnegiesciencecenter.org
The Carnegie Science Center is a family-friendly attraction in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is home to interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a hands-on activity center. The Science Center also offers educational programs for all ages.
Families with young children will enjoy the Early Explorers exhibit, which features kid-friendly activities and games. Older kids and adults will appreciate the Science on a Sphere exhibit, which uses a six-foot globe to show live images of Earth from space. The Center also has an Omnimax theater, which offers immersive film experiences.
Visitors can purchase tickets for individual attractions or buy a family pass that includes access to all of the exhibits and theaters. The Carnegie Science Center is a great place to learn about science and have fun at the same time.
9. The Houdini Tour & Magic Show, Scranton
houdini.org
The Houdini Tour & Magic Show is a great option for families looking for something different to do in Scranton, PA. The show includes a tour of the Magical History Museum, which was very interesting, and a live magic show. You will love the mix of education and entertainment. This is definitely a must-see when you’re in the area!
Families will find that the Houdini Tour & Magic Show is an excellent way to spend an afternoon or evening. The variety of activities ensures that there is something for everyone in the family. From the youngest child to the oldest adult, all will be entertained by this unique experience.
Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind attraction when you’re in Scranton!
10. Elk Country Visitor Center, Benezette
elkcountryvisitorcenter.com
The Elk Country Visitor Center is a great place to learn about and see elk up close. The center has a viewing area where families can watch elk in their natural habitat, and there are also many exhibits with information about elk behavior, diet, and history.
The visitor center also offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year. families can participate in ranger-led hikes, evening campfires, and educational presentations.
The Elk Country Visitor Center is a great way to learn about these amazing animals and experience their majestic beauty firsthand.
11. Presque Isle State Park, Erie
www.dcnr.pa.gov/StateParks/FindAPark/PresqueIsleStatePark
Presque Isle State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s most popular tourist destinations. The “island” is actually a peninsula that juts out into Lake Erie. It is home to seven miles of sandy beaches, as well as a variety of trails, picnic areas, and other recreation facilities. families often visit Presque Isle State Park to enjoy the water activities and natural beauty.
The peninsula is also a stopover point for many migrating birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. In the winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, with cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
No matter what time of year it is, Presque Isle State Park is worth a visit.
12. Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia
philadelphiazoo.org
The Philadelphia Zoo is a popular destination for families in the Philadelphia area. Founded in 1859, it is the oldest zoo in the United States. The zoo is home to more than 1,300 animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, and gorillas.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the zoo also features a children’s petting zoo, a butterfly garden, and a Dinosaur Age exhibit. The Philadelphia Zoo is open year-round and offers a variety of educational programs for families.
13. The State Museum of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg
www.phmc.pa.gov/Museums/History-Hubs/Pages/State-Museum.aspx
The State Museum of Pennsylvania is a wonderful place for families to explore Pennsylvania’s history and culture. The museum chronicles the state’s past from its earliest days to the present, with exhibits on topics like Native Americans, the Revolutionary War, and the state’s role in the Civil War.
Families can also learn about the state’s rich industrial heritage, as well as its natural history. The museum also has a planetarium, which is perfect for stargazers of all ages. In addition, the museum frequently hosts special events, like lectures and performances, that are sure to educate and entertain visitors.
The State Museum of Pennsylvania is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about Pennsylvania’s past.
14. Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, Allentown
www.dorneypark.com
Every summer, families flock to Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom for thrills, chills, and water spills. This amusement and water park features more than 100 rides and attractions, including eight roller coasters, a wave pool, a lazy river, and water slides.
Families can also enjoy live entertainment, dining options, and shopping. Plus, there’s plenty of fun for little ones at the kiddie rides and play areas. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxing day by the pool, Dorney Park has something for everyone.
15. Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg
www.nps.gov/gett
Visitors to the Gettysburg National Military Park will find themselves transported back in time to the site of one of the most important battles of the American Civil War. Here, families can explore the history of the conflict through a variety of interactive exhibits, including a reconstruction of the famous battlefield.
The park also features a number of monuments and statues, which serve as a tribute to the brave soldiers who fought and died here. In addition, the park offers a number of educational programs that help to bring the events of the past to life.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an interesting place to visit, the Gettysburg National Military Park is sure to impress.
16. Crystal Cave, Kutztown
crystalcavepa.com
Crystal Cave features a wide range of crystals and minerals, as well as fossils and other geological formations. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cave, learning about the different types of rocks and minerals on display.
The cave is also home to a variety of bats, which can often be seen roosting in the rafters. In addition to the cave itself, Crystal Cave also features a gift shop and an education center. The education center offers classes on topics such as geology and archaeology, making it the perfect place to learn more about the Earth’s history.
17. Turkey Hill Experience, Columbia
www.turkeyhillexperience.com
Turkey Hill is a must-visit for families. The experience offers hands-on interactive games that the whole family will enjoy. There are also plenty of photo opportunities to take advantage of. And, of course, there’s the chance to see and feed the real turkeys! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re always happy to answer any questions you might have.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or you’re interested in learning more about these fascinating animals, Turkey Hill is the perfect place to visit.
18. Fallingwater, Mill Run
fallingwater.org
Fallingwater is a house designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright for the Kaufmann family in Mill Run, Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1937 and is considered to be one of Wright’s most famous works. The design of the house was inspired by the family’s desire to have a summer home that would be close to nature.
The house is built over a waterfall, and its exterior features a series of cantilevered balconies that seem to defy gravity. The interior is just as striking, with an open floor plan and numerous windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding forest.
Today, Fallingwater is operated as a museum, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world.
19. Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, Halifax
www.laketobias.com
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park is a 145-acre wildlife park and is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, reptiles, and amphibians. Families can explore the park through a variety of activities, including safari tours, animal encounters, and educational programs. The park also features a number of amenities, including a gift shop, restaurant, and picnic area.
Families can spend a day or an afternoon at the park, enjoying the opportunity to learn about and see a variety of animals up close.
20. Independence Mall, Philadelphia
www.phlvisitorcenter.com/IndependenceHall
Independence Mall is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Philadelphia. The mall is a two-block section of Independence National Historical Park between Chestnut, Walnut, and Market Streets.
The mall contains several historical buildings including the Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. The area surrounding the mall is home to many tourist attractions such as the Benjamin Franklin Museum and the Betsy Ross House.
Families often visit Independence Mall to learn about American history and to see some of the most iconic symbols of freedom.
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