Day Trips from Philadelphia with Kids

Location:

Pocono Mountains, PA

Highlights:

Looking for a kid-friendly adventure with jaw-dropping views? The Poconos deliver four seasons of fun just a short drive from Philly.

Recommended For:

Families with kids of all ages, outdoor lovers, and anyone craving a nature-filled escape without the long haul.

What I Love: ♥

Variety-packed activities in every season, stunning natural scenery, and something new to explore each visit.

• Hike the scenic trails in Lehigh Gorge State Park—perfect for burning off energy and spotting waterfalls.
• Cool off in summer at Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, where slides and splash zones keep everyone smiling.
• Hit the slopes in winter at Jack Frost Big Boulder Ski Area, which offers beginner runs and snow tubing for little adventurers.
• Snap photos year-round at the historic Grey Towers in Glenside, a castle-like mansion with serious fairytale vibes.

Distance from Philadelphia:

Around 2 to 2.5 hours by car, depending on where in the Poconos you're headed.

How to Get There:

Take I-476 N (Northeast Extension of the PA Turnpike) or I-80 W depending on your destination. Most locations are easily accessible and offer ample parking.

Location:

Lahaska, PA

Highlights:

Want something easy, charming, and full of kid-pleasing fun? Lahaska may be tiny, but it packs a big punch—especially with little ones in tow.

Recommended For:

Families with young kids, grandparents joining for the day, and anyone who enjoys mixing shopping with playful pit stops.

What I Love: ♥

The walkable, storybook atmosphere, tons of family-friendly shopping, and the high-energy fun at Giggleberry Fair.

• Wander the scenic lanes of Peddler's Village, a recreated colonial-style village packed with boutique shops and seasonal festivals.
• Pick up treats at the old-fashioned Skip's Candy Corner, a local favorite for classic sweets and colorful confections.
• Let loose at the Giggleberry Fair, home to a grand carousel, arcade, and the multilevel Giggleberry Mountain play structure.

Distance from Philadelphia:

About 1 hour by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-95 N to PA-413 N or use Route 611 to Route 202. There’s free parking throughout Peddler’s Village, especially if you arrive early on weekends.

Location:

Palmerton, PA

Highlights:

If your crew has energy to burn and loves outdoor adventure, Blue Mountain is a top pick. It’s got year-round thrills just 90 minutes from Philly.

Recommended For:

Active families, winter sports lovers, and kids who like a challenge—on snow, wheels, or ropes.

What I Love: ♥

All-season activities, family-size snow tubes, and a high ropes course that gets everyone out of their comfort zone in a fun way.

• Ski or snowboard on nearly 40 trails, with terrain for every level from beginner to expert.
• Tube together on the massive snow tubing hill—complete with options for family-size tubes.
• Mountain bike, disc golf, or climb your way through the aerial adventure park in the warmer months.
• Address: 1660 Blue Mountain Dr, Palmerton, PA 18071 | Phone: 610-826-7700

Distance from Philadelphia:

About 1.5 hours by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-476 N (PA Turnpike Northeast Extension) to Exit 74, then follow signs to Blue Mountain Resort. Parking is free and plentiful.

Location:

Bushkill, PA

Highlights:

If your kids love waterfalls and you're ready for a little nature and adventure, Bushkill Falls is an absolute win. It’s scenic, easy to explore, and packed with fun extras.

Recommended For:

Nature-loving families, beginner hikers, and anyone looking for an epic waterfall day without a massive trek.

What I Love: ♥

Eight stunning waterfalls, a range of hiking trails, and plenty of family-friendly activities beyond the views.

• Walk the short trail to the Main Falls overlook or choose a longer loop to explore more of the eight waterfalls.
• Play a round of mini golf, go paddle boating, or let the kids burn off steam in the picnic area afterward.
• Visit between April and November—just remember there’s an admission fee.

Distance from Philadelphia:

Around 2 hours by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-476 N to I-80 E, then continue on Route 209 N to Bushkill. Follow signage for Bushkill Falls; parking is available on-site.

Location:

Ronks, PA

Highlights:

Want a full day of screen-free family fun? Cherry Crest Adventure Farm delivers nonstop action with a wholesome, down-on-the-farm vibe kids adore.

Recommended For:

Families with younger kids, fall festivity lovers, and anyone who enjoys hands-on farm activities in a beautiful country setting.

What I Love: ♥

The giant corn maze, charming petting zoo, seasonal festivities, and interactive experiences you just won’t find in the city.

• Navigate the five-acre corn maze—challenging, but totally family-friendly.
• Meet barnyard animals, hop on a wagon ride, and try old-school games all across the farm.
• Pick pumpkins straight from the patch during fall, or catch special events like pig races and butter churning in summer.
• Address: 150 Cherry Hill Rd, Ronks, PA 17572 | Phone: 717-687-6843

Distance from Philadelphia:

About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-76 W to US-30 W toward Lancaster. Follow signs for Ronks and Cherry Crest Farm. Parking is available on-site.

Affordable Day Trips from Philadelphia with Kids:

Location:

Kutztown, PA

Highlights:

If your kids are into hidden worlds and cool science facts, Crystal Cave is a must. It’s an underground adventure that’s educational, exciting, and totally different from the usual day trip.

Recommended For:

Curious kids, science buffs, families looking for something off the beaten path, and visitors of all ages who love a good story in stone.

What I Love: ♥

Dazzling crystal formations, fascinating history, and the guided tour that makes geology come alive for kids and adults alike.

• Explore the cave on a guided tour that starts with a short film and continues through beautifully lit chambers.
• See stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations created over millions of years.
• Walk safely on concrete pathways with railings—just wear comfy shoes, as it's cool and damp inside.
• Address: 963 Crystal Cave Rd, Kutztown, PA 19530 | Phone: 610-683-6765

Distance from Philadelphia:

About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-76 W to Route 222 N toward Kutztown. Follow signs for Crystal Cave Road. Parking is free and available onsite.

Location:

Easton, PA

Highlights:

Need a bright, colorful day your kids will talk about for weeks? Easton’s got crayons, canals, and creative fun packed into one easy trip.

Recommended For:

Preschoolers through tweens, artsy kids, and families who love interactive museums and outdoor play.

What I Love: ♥

The Crayola Experience's hands-on activities, scenic spots to unwind, and enough variety in town to fill the day your way.

• Visit the Crayola Experience, a 65,000-square-foot attraction where kids can create, color, and melt their way through 25+ interactive exhibits.
• Stroll or bike the Karl Stirner Arts Trail, which blends outdoor sculptures with peaceful riverfront views.
• Stop by the National Canal Museum or enjoy a picnic in one of Easton’s waterfront parks like Scott or Riverside Park.

Distance from Philadelphia:

About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-476 N to I-78 E toward Easton. Once in town, follow signs to downtown parking or the Crayola Experience garage.

Location:

Gettysburg, PA

Highlights:

Whether your kids are into history or just love exploring new places, Gettysburg has a surprising mix of learning and fun. It's a meaningful, scenic spot that’s more kid-friendly than you might expect.

Recommended For:

History buffs, families with curious tweens and teens, and visitors looking for educational day trips with a fun twist.

What I Love: ♥

Rich Civil War history, unique offbeat attractions, and lots of open space to explore and unwind.

• Tour Gettysburg National Military Park by bus, foot, or even horseback to bring the Civil War stories to life.
• Visit the Soldiers’ National Cemetery—where Abraham Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address—and reflect on the site’s significance.
• Explore quirky, kid-friendly stops like the Apple Museum or the petting zoo with performing animals for a lighter touch.
• Relax in nearby state parks with trails and picnic spots for a breath of fresh air after the museums and monuments.

Distance from Philadelphia:

About 2.5 to 3 hours by car.

How to Get There:

Take I-76 W to US-15 S toward Gettysburg. Follow signs into the historic district or to the National Military Park Visitor Center. Free and paid parking are both available.