Themerrythought Magazine Travel Series
Be it cherished family hikes at the Grand Canyon or unforgettable tours of the White House with your kids, some of our most treasured experiences come from family trips—memories rooted in both our own childhoods and those created with our children. The joy of vacation memories is enduring. Travel enthusiast Jim Graves, alongside his wife and their two daughters, aged 10 and 11, shares his insights on must-visit destinations, engaging activities, and delightful dining options.
Philadelphia kicks off our series focused on family-friendly travel recommendations. We’ve included several local colleges as it’s never too early to contemplate your child’s upcoming ventures.
Your tips would also be a valuable addition for our readers! Feel free to send your suggestions on places to visit, activities to try, and dining experiences to: Tricia@Themerrythought.net. Picture submissions are also encouraged!
Wishing you safe and joyful travels!
Philadelphia
By Jim Graves
Must-See Attractions
Philadelphia boasts iconic attractions such as Independence Hall (https://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/independencehall.htm) and the Liberty Bell (https://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/libertybellcenter.htm). Independence Hall is historically significant for hosting the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, while the Liberty Bell stands as a powerful emblem of American liberty. Be sure to book your Independence Hall tickets online if visiting between March and December. You can catch complimentary films at the Independence Visitor Center where tickets are distributed.
Eastern State Penitentiary (https://www.easternstate.org/) is another fascinating Philadelphia landmark. Active from 1829 to 1971, this former prison housed notorious inmates like Al Capone and Willie Sutton. With a headset and audio tour, you can examine historical cells, extensive corridors, and the exercise yards while listening to stories from past inmates and staff. Exhibits showcase various aspects of prison life, including the entrance to a 97-foot tunnel dug by inmates during a 1945 escape attempt.
A few blocks from the penitentiary lies the Philadelphia Museum of Art (http://www.philamuseum.org/), a landmark renowned for showcasing magnificent art, including an outstanding collection of Impressionist works by artists such as Monet. Make sure to check their online calendar for special exhibitions; during our visit, there was a captivating watercolor display featuring Homer and Sargent. They offer a substantial permanent collection; we particularly enjoyed the medieval armor and the Japanese teahouse. Visit on the first Sunday of the month or Wednesday evenings for a “pay what you wish” entry fee. They also have a café; starting at the top floor can help you dodge the crowds. After your visit, run up the famed “Rocky steps” for picturesque views of the city!
In Philadelphia’s historic district, you’ll find the Betsy Ross House (http://historicphiladelphia.org/betsy-ross-house/what-to-see/), where you can delve into the life of the woman credited with creating the first American flag. Betsy Ross, who faced widowhood twice by her thirtieth birthday, played a role during the Revolutionary War. Audio tours and exhibits on the home’s various floors bring her story to life. At the tour’s conclusion, visitors can meet a reenactor who demonstrates how to create 5-pointed stars for flags using special fabric shears. Children can engage with interactive exhibits on the ground floor. We even picked up a Philadelphia sweatshirt at the gift shop! A concession stand in the courtyard offers inviting lunch options.
Just across the Delaware River in Camden, New Jersey, you’ll discover the Battleship New Jersey (http://www.battleshipnewjersey.org/). This attraction is ideal for those interested in U.S. naval heritage or simply looking for an exciting space for kids to explore. This battleship saw action during World War II and served as Admiral William Halsey’s flagship, receiving multiple commissions until its deactivation in 1991. Guided tours take you through various sections of the ship, from steep stairwells to cramped living quarters, showcasing big guns, the barbershop, and navigation areas, culminating in stunning views of the Delaware River and Philadelphia.
Where to Stay
Our family enjoyed a three-night stay at The Windsor Suites (http://www.thewindsorsuites.com/), an excellent family-friendly hotel located downtown. We were accommodated in a spacious one-bedroom suite featuring two double beds and a queen-sized sofa bed in the living area, alongside a large closet, a fully stocked kitchenette, and a balcony offering lovely city views. Its prime location places you near numerous attractions, including the magnificent Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul and the Philadelphia Art Museum.
Dining Options
Upon our late arrival in town, we opted for dinner at TGI Fridays (https://www.tgifridays.com/), conveniently located just a block from The Windsor Suites on Benjamin Franklin Parkway and open until midnight. This lively spot is perfect for a burger and fries, steak, or salad; my grilled salmon was particularly enjoyable. The restaurant also offers a wide range of appetizers and snacks, perfect for sharing, such as pot stickers and mozzarella sticks. Its energetic music and full dining room show it’s a favorite among both locals and tourists.
Sitting opposite Eastern State Penitentiary is Jack’s Firehouse (http://www.jacksfirehouse.com/default.aspx), a fantastic eatery housed in a historic fire station. Open for lunch and dinner, we particularly enjoyed their weekend brunch. The charming décor showcases high ceilings and old wood, and if the weather permits, outdoor seating is a must. Their Southern cuisine is unique, offering dishes like buttermilk biscuits and cornbread. Favorites include cheesesteaks, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, and crab cakes, all complemented by a varied beer selection and a highly praised Bloody Mary. Be sure to save room for dessert; the warm chocolate chip cookies and butter cake were exceptional.
When exploring Reading Terminal Market, a bustling market in the heart of the city, make a pit stop at Maggiano’s Little Italy (http://www.maggianos.com/). Known for Italian pizzas, pastas, and a selection of specialty dishes, their lasagna and flatbreads are highly recommended. Other notable items include a chopped salad and filet mignon medallions with creamy mashed potatoes. With generous servings and a welcoming atmosphere for children, it’s the perfect family dining option.
If you find yourself at Independence Hall, don’t miss the Red Owl Tavern in Center City (http://www.redowltavern.com/), located directly across from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. We enjoyed a delightful brunch here featuring waffles, pastries, French toast with apple cranberry compote, and sumptuous egg dishes. For lunch, the Philly cheesesteak and tavern burger are must-tries. They bake their own pastries and bread, which are available for purchase to take home.
For dessert lovers, a visit to The Franklin Fountain (http://www.franklinfountain.com/) at the end of Market Street is a must. With a reputation for a broad range of homemade ice cream and decadent sundaes, shakes, and floats, you can expect unique flavors and generous portions. The vintage ambiance is charming, complemented by an attentive staff. Be prepared for a line, as this local favorite is quite popular (cash only). We sampled a float, a sundae, and a variety of their unique ice cream flavors, allowing for some tough decision-making before ordering.
Lastly, we visited the City Tavern Restaurant (https://www.citytavern.com/), which transports diners back to colonial times with dishes reminiscent of 18th-century dining. Spearheaded by chef Walter Staib, who hosts cooking shows and has authored cookbooks, the restaurant offers period decor, complete with pewter goblets and live harp music. Guests can indulge in an array of colonial foods such as crab cakes, turkey pot pie, and period pastries. There’s also a dedicated kid’s menu available. For beverage enthusiasts, don’t miss the “ales of the Revolution” sampler showcasing beers from the colonial era. And be sure to save space for their exceptional baked goods.
We wrapped up our culinary exploration at Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant (http://www.ironhillbrewery.com/), which has several locations throughout Philadelphia and nearby states. We visited the Maple Shade, New Jersey branch after touring the Battleship New Jersey. This establishment is ideal for pizza, burgers, and fish & chips, and with their house-brewed beers on tap (definitely try the sampler), it’s a great casual dining option perfect for families.
Philadelphia is a remarkable city teeming with attractions worth visiting soon.
Editor’s Note: Jim Graves is a family travel writer whose work has appeared in various family-oriented publications such as Birmingham Parent, Family Time/Chicago, LA Parent, New York Family, OC Family, Pittsburgh Parent, Sacramento Parent, and Utah Family. Now, his insights find a place in Themerrythought.
Colleges in the Philadelphia Area (partial listing)
University of Pennsylvania
Swarthmore College
Haverford College
Bryn Mawr
Drexel University
Villanova
University of Delaware
