2 da family trip/stop in Philly

[PeeAye Native]

Originally Posted by newmarlig

No, not Tuesday either.

www.readingterminalmarket.org

(that being said, and yes it's a great place, I don't know if I'd recommend it for a 2 and 5 year old.)

The kids I see there seem to like the experience. I'm talking weekends, Saturdays at lunchtime. Maybe it's cause they get to choose their food from among all the colorful sights, sounds and smells in there. In hindsight, maybe it's not so good for two year olds. But, hey you can always walk a few feet and you're out the door back into the city.

[PhillyViaBoston]

I definitely agree with the suggestion to go to the Please Touch Museum. My kids (3 & 5) can't get enough of that place! Please Touch Museum: Homepage
It might be helpful to know the PTM is part of the Association of Childrens' Museums (ACM) reciprocal program, which means that if you have a membership to any ACM location nationwide you can get into the others, including Please Touch. Here's the list of ACM reciprocal museums: Association of Children's Museums

My kids also enjoy the dinosaurs at the Academy of Natural Sciences. They have a neat exhibit where they can dig for fossils too. Academy of Natural Sciences | Natural History Museum in Philadelphia

I always ran into nice people at Three Bears Park on Delancey St. between 3rd & 4th Sts. It's a small playground, but might be helpful to burn off some steam.

Gelato at Capogrio is a wonderful treat. There are a few in the city. Capogiro Gelato Artisans : Makers of Fine Artisanal Gelato and Sorbetto

The Philadelphia zoo and Adventure Aquarium in Camden (across the river in NJ) are also great.
Philadelphia Zoo - Home
Adventure Aquarium > Home

Also on the NJ side of the river (near the Camden Aquarium) is the Battleship New Jersey, which you can tour. Battleship New Jersey

Of course, try to visit the historic sites... Beginning with the Independence Visitors Center (6th & Market Sts.). It's a beautiful building full of friendly people who can give you guidance on the nearby attractions. WELCOME TO THE IVCC :: INDEPENDENCE VISITOR CENTER | PHILADELPHIA
The National Constitution Center is particularly cool, though admittedly not all that entertaining for little kids! National Constitution Center: Home
The US Mint is free and kind of neat for a quick visit. The United States Mint About Us

Have fun!

[JayYoungblood2]

Any hotel suggestions?

was looking at hotel palomar, le meridien, doubletree. any suggestions for a great view?

Also any good LOCAL food places?

[PhillyViaBoston]

Originally Posted by JayYoungblood2

Any hotel suggestions?

was looking at hotel palomar, le meridien, doubletree. any suggestions for a great view?

Also any good LOCAL food places?

The Sheraton Society Hill is in a good spot if you want to be near the historic stuff. There's also a LOWES hotel on Market St (across from a Marriott) with high floors so I assume there's a reasonable view. Don't stay at the Hyatt at Penn's Landing... Although it's on the river you'd be looking at the lousiest part of New Jersey, plus it's not a good spot to see much of the city.

Check out the menu at Jones. The restaurant is a funky cross between the Brady Bunch set and a ski lodge. It serves food that the kids will like and fun drinks for the adults. Jones

There are several Marathon Grills throughout the city. They're kind of upscale diners and my kids like those too. Home*—*Marathon :: Serving the Neighborhood

Ralph's in South Philly is the place everyone raves about as the best local Italian food. Frankly I don't think it's all that special, but...? Ralph’s Italian Restaurant