One of America's earliest and most important cities, Philadelphia has long been a haven for those looking to start a family or just settle down. In addition to its excellent geographic location positioning it less than two hours away from the nation's financial power center in New York City, three hours away from the political power center that is D.C., and centered within the Northeast's trading corridor.
Museums designed just for kids
Philadelphia has plenty of places to visit, whether you're looking to make snapshot memories, or introduce your kids to different cultures or fields of study.
Of course, when you first arrive in the city, plenty of your non-local friends will pressure you to see the and Independence Hall but your kids won't appreciate the significance of those sights, or the Rocky Steps, so try taking them to the highly interactive Franklin Institute or the engaging performances at the Arden Theatre to inspire a love of science and art.
The most notable museum that comes to mind is the Please Touch Museum in Memorial Hall. Its interactive elements and tactile focus are designed specifically to induce your child's curiosity. There are objects in odd containers, unusual museum items and more, making Please Touch a great options for children under the age of 10 who can't resist touching everything.
Though the city rest comfortably next to the Delaware River, families looking to spend some time at the beach might be a little out of reach with the shores of New Jersey just over an hour and a half away. If you're looking for some local aquatic sites, the Independence Seaport Museum and Adventure Aquarium both offer plenty of exhibits on nautical matters from sea to sea captains. With staff members who are enthusiastic about creating smiles,
Philadelphian children are also fortunate enough to have access to the country's only Sesame Street theme park. With a water park, interactive exhibits, rides, and fireworks, it's a surefire draw for children and their nostalgic parents.
Dinosaur fans will need to behold the Academy of Natural Sciences' T-Rex, as well as the live and lively animals found at the Philadelphia Zoo, the oldest zoo in the country.
Restaurants for a Philadelphia family
After spending so much time walking up and down stairs, your family could probably use a bite to eat. It's easy to enter a search engine or open an app and scrolls through all the "top rated" restaurants, and for some people, that's good enough. But if you're looking for a place that's fit for your whole family, there's a few additional factors to take into consideration: Do they have highchairs and a place to store your stroller? Will they have your child's favorite meal? Will you be able to bring your child's personal utensils? Do they have tablecloths that'll be pulled at?
To answer some of these, you'll need to call ahead, or you can use this list as a guide:
Hands down, the best restaurant for young kids might be the 18th century colonial America-inspired City Tavern. In addition to having been awarded "best kid's menu in America," they have a kid-palate friendly menu, and their servers dress in colonial costumes. Having ample amounts of experience handling kids in restaurants, the staff at City Tavern's are going to be your best bet for having a manageable, stress-free dining experience, especially during your first few weeks in the city.
Though it has a menu that favors a more adult-oriented palate, Honey's Sit N Eat is a relaxed, kid-friendly place that's stroller-accessible, has sizable portions, and early hours. Their newer location on 21st and South Street is particularly loved by the community because there are books, bright colors, crayons, and all the expected amenities for children.
Once your kids have gotten a bit older and are up for pizza, you'll have plenty of options, including Pizzeria Stella. It has an open space that is used for seating families. The menus are equally deep and if you're ordering pizza, you won't have to worry about utensils or getting too messy.
Festivities
Will you be around Philadelphia in May of 2018?
That's when the city's Children's Festival is being held. With all the lucrative elements of other festivals, like food and performances, this festival offers an added bonus with its kid-friendly vendors, and activities like face-painting and balloon animals.
But don't worry if you miss it. This is a city that loves its festivities, so be assured that there are plenty of events and festivals ranging in themes from historic to culinary throughout the year.
Philadelphia's offerings
Excited to see what else your new home can offer you and your family? Despite what some sitcoms would have you believe, it's a great place to raise a family or establish the foundations for your future children.
Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent
Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003
Direct: 610-642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com