Things To Do With Kids in Chestnut Hill, PA

Step back in time at this charming single-screen movie theater that offers families an authentic, old-fashioned cinema experience without the modern multiplex price tag. With its intimate 450-seat auditorium, affordable tickets, and carefully curated family-friendly film selections, Ambler Theater creates a special moviegoing tradition that kids and parents alike will treasure.

Ambler Main Street offers a charming small-town experience perfect for families looking to enjoy a leisurely day out. This walkable downtown district combines family-friendly dining, unique shops, and regular community events including a farmers market that kids love exploring. The pedestrian-friendly streets and community atmosphere make it easy to stroll with strollers, let older kids window shop, and enjoy seasonal festivities together.

2nd Avenue Park is a welcoming neighborhood playground in Conshohocken that hits the sweet spot for families with young children. The modern play equipment keeps little ones entertained while parents appreciate the well-maintained green space and basketball courts for older siblings,making it easy to meet everyone's needs in one stop.

Sutcliffe Park is a scenic riverside gem where families can enjoy playground fun combined with beautiful Schuylkill River views. With paved walking paths perfect for strollers and bikes, shaded pavilions for picnicking, and plenty of open space for kids to run, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed family outing that combines active play with nature appreciation.

Matson Mill offers families in Conshohocken a wonderful outdoor escape with something for everyone. Kids can burn energy on the playground equipment while parents enjoy the scenic walking trails, and the open sports fields are perfect for impromptu soccer games or kite flying on breezy afternoons.

La Provence brings a taste of France to families in a charming converted train station setting. This welcoming café serves breakfast and lunch with outdoor seating options, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed family meal where kids can enjoy the unique historic atmosphere without formal dining pressure.

Guppy's Good Times in Conshohocken delivers the perfect combo of great food and entertainment for families who want more than just a meal. With an on-site arcade and a diverse menu featuring New American dishes and tacos, parents can enjoy quality food while kids stay engaged and excited throughout the dining experience.

Nudy's Cafe is a local favorite breakfast and lunch spot in Conshohocken that welcomes families with open arms and plates piled high with comfort food. The friendly staff makes dining with kids a breeze, and the menu features classic American favorites that even picky eaters will love.

The Wissahickon Valley Public Library Ambler Branch is a family favorite destination offering much more than just books. With its robust lineup of story times, educational workshops, craft sessions, and seasonal events, this welcoming community library provides free, enriching activities that keep kids engaged while fostering a love of reading and learning.

Mondauk Common Park is a charming neighborhood gem in Ambler that's perfect for low-key family outings with young children. With its well-maintained playground equipment, paved walking paths ideal for strollers and bikes, and plenty of open green space for running around, it offers just the right amount of activity without overwhelming little ones.

Ambler Borough Park is a well-loved community hub that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With a variety of play equipment, sports facilities, and plenty of open lawn space, it's the perfect spot for kids to burn energy while parents relax on a blanket or join in a pickup game.

Fairmount Park is a sprawling urban oasis offering families endless opportunities for outdoor adventure across more than 2,000 acres in Philadelphia. With its extensive trail network, playgrounds, historic sites, and wide-open green spaces perfect for picnics and play, this massive park system provides a natural escape where kids can run, explore, and connect with nature without leaving the city.

Suburban Square in Ardmore offers families a relaxed outdoor shopping experience with plenty of kid-friendly perks beyond retail therapy. The open-air layout gives children room to move around safely while parents browse, and the mix of playgrounds, seasonal events, and family dining options makes it more than just a shopping destination,it's a place where the whole family can spend quality time together.

Korakuen brings authentic Japanese cuisine to Ardmore with a welcoming atmosphere that works perfectly for families. The menu strikes an ideal balance between traditional ramen and noodle dishes for adventurous young eaters and milder options that appeal to picky palates, making it a stress-free dining choice for parents who want to introduce their kids to Japanese flavors without the fuss.

Ardmore Music Hall brings live music to families through specially curated daytime concerts and community events that welcome all ages. This intimate Main Line venue offers a rare opportunity for kids to experience professional live performances in a comfortable, accessible setting where the acoustics are excellent and the atmosphere is relaxed enough for little music lovers still learning concert etiquette.

Harriton House offers families a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century colonial life on this beautifully preserved historic estate. Kids can experience hands-on colonial demonstrations, explore the grounds of this authentic plantation home, and participate in educational programs that bring American history to life in an engaging, interactive way.

Packer Park is a charming neighborhood playground in Ardmore that's perfect for a quick morning playdate or afternoon outing. With modern equipment designed for younger children, safe surfaces, and plenty of shade, it's an ideal spot for toddlers and preschoolers to burn off energy while parents can relax on nearby benches.

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse is a Philadelphia treasure offering six acres of completely free play in Fairmount Park. The crown jewel is the legendary Giant Wooden Slide,a 10-foot-wide, polished wooden slide that's been thrilling generations of children since 1905,plus a magnificent three-story indoor playhouse filled with kid-sized furniture, play kitchens, and imaginative play spaces that will keep little ones enchanted for hours.

The Please Touch Museum is a paradise for young children, offering two full floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed specifically for ages 7 and under. From a restored 1908 carousel to imaginative play areas where kids can explore a supermarket, construction zone, and water play stations, this museum encourages tactile learning through play in a beautifully maintained historic building.

The Ardmore Avenue Community Center serves as a welcoming hub for families in the Main Line area, offering a wide variety of youth sports programs, organized activities, and summer camp options. With an on-site playground and extensive daily hours throughout the week, it's a reliable go-to spot for keeping kids active and engaged year-round.

Bryn Mawr College offers families a picturesque escape with its stunning Gothic architecture, peaceful duck pond, and expansive green lawns perfect for picnics and outdoor play. This beautiful campus provides a free, safe environment for leisurely strolls, duck feeding, and letting kids burn energy while parents enjoy the serene collegiate atmosphere and impressive historic buildings.

Pinwheel Provisions is a welcoming neighborhood coffee shop that truly embraces families with open arms. This cozy Bryn Mawr cafe offers delicious treats that kids love, comfortable seating for families to settle in, and a relaxed atmosphere where parents can actually enjoy their coffee while little ones snack happily. It's the perfect pit stop during a busy day of errands or a comfortable spot to meet up with other families.

Bryn Mawr Running Company is more than just a shoe store,it's a community hub where families can get expert fittings for kids' running shoes and participate in fun runs and active lifestyle events. The knowledgeable staff specializes in finding the perfect fit for growing feet, while the welcoming atmosphere and community programming make fitness fun for the whole family.

This stunning art deco gem offers families a magical movie-going experience far beyond the typical multiplex. With special kids' programming, family-friendly film screenings, and beautifully restored 1920s architecture, it's both an entertainment destination and a chance to introduce children to the wonder of historic cinema in an intimate, community-focused setting.

Ashbridge Park is a beloved Bryn Mawr neighborhood gem that offers everything families need for a perfect outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment, plenty of open space for running and games, and shaded picnic areas, this park provides a wonderful balance of active play and relaxation for the whole family.

South Ardmore Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem that offers everything families need for a perfect outdoor afternoon. With well-maintained playground equipment for various ages, basketball courts for active older kids, and plenty of open green space for running around or having a picnic, this park strikes an ideal balance between structured play and free exploration.

Ludington Library is a beloved Main Line institution where families discover the joy of reading together. This historic library goes beyond books with engaging storytimes, hands-on educational programs, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit feel special. The extensive youth collection and dedicated children's staff create a nurturing environment where kids of all ages can explore, learn, and develop a lifelong love of literacy.

Bryn Mawr Village offers a delightful small-town shopping experience perfect for a leisurely family outing. This walkable downtown strip along Lancaster Avenue features independent toy shops, bookstores, and ice cream parlors that will keep kids entertained while parents enjoy charming local boutiques and cafes.

Johnny's Pizza is a neighborhood favorite that welcomes families with open arms and generous portions of comfort food. With its relaxed atmosphere and classic Italian-American menu, parents can enjoy a stress-free meal while kids dig into kid-sized pizzas and pasta dishes that actually appeal to picky eaters.

As America's first zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo offers families an unforgettable experience with 1,900 animals and the groundbreaking Zoo360 trail system that lets big cats, primates, and other animals travel overhead in see-through mesh tunnels. Kids go wild for the interactive giraffe feeding experiences and watching gorillas, tigers, and red pandas roam above them throughout the zoo.

Garrett Hill is a charming neighborhood park in Bryn Mawr that's perfect for a spontaneous afternoon outing with the kids. This low-key community gem offers just the right mix of play equipment, open space, and shaded spots for families looking for a quick play session without the crowds of larger parks. It's the kind of place where kids can burn off energy while parents relax on a bench or spread out a picnic blanket.

Elevator Playground in Bryn Mawr is a beloved neighborhood gem that consistently earns rave reviews from local families. This well-maintained community playground features modern equipment designed for various skill levels, cushioned safety surfaces for worry-free play, and plenty of shaded spots where parents can relax while keeping an eye on the kids.

Elmwood Park Zoo is a perfectly-sized zoo for families with young children, offering an intimate animal experience without the overwhelming crowds of larger facilities. As the world's first Certified Autism Center zoo, it provides sensory-friendly experiences and accommodations that make visits comfortable for all children, plus the exciting Treetop Adventures zip line course for adventurous kids.

The Cow and The Curd is a beloved local ice cream destination that delivers exactly what families crave: delicious homemade ice cream in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With creative flavors, classic sundaes, and sweet treats that appeal to all ages, this spot has become a go-to for families looking to satisfy their sweet tooth after school, on weekends, or as a special dessert outing.

Fishtown Diner brings classic American comfort food to Philadelphia's vibrant Fishtown neighborhood with a welcoming atmosphere that puts families at ease. The casual diner setting means kids can be kids while parents enjoy solid breakfast and brunch options, from fluffy pancakes to hearty omelets, without worrying about fancy table manners or impatient glares from other diners.

Sister Cities Park is a hidden gem along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway that offers families a perfect blend of interactive play and downtown convenience. The highlight is the Children's Discovery Garden featuring hands-on exploration spaces and a delightful splash fountain that provides welcome relief on hot summer days, all within a beautifully landscaped urban oasis.

The Franklin Institute is a hands-on science wonderland where kids can walk through a giant human heart, explore a real locomotive, and discover the mysteries of space in the planetarium. With interactive STEM exhibits spanning multiple floors, this iconic Philadelphia museum transforms complex scientific concepts into exciting adventures that captivate children and parents alike.

Step into America's oldest natural history museum where towering dinosaur skeletons greet wide-eyed kids and hands-on discovery stations keep little fingers busy. The Academy combines classic museum exhibits with live animal encounters and a magical tropical butterfly garden where hundreds of colorful butterflies land right on visitors, creating unforgettable moments for the whole family.

Honey's Sit-N-Eat is a Philadelphia brunch institution that welcomes families with open arms and oversized portions. Kids' eyes light up at the sight of their famous fluffy pancakes and decadent challah French toast, while parents appreciate the hearty Southern comfort food and reasonable prices in this cozy Northern Liberties neighborhood spot.

Craft Hall is a game-changer for parents who want to enjoy a meal while kids burn off energy. This spacious brewpub in Northern Liberties features an impressive indoor pirate ship playground complete with slides and climbing features, plus classic arcade games that keep children entertained between bites of kid-approved wood-fired pizza.

This charming FREE museum housed in a beautifully restored 1902 firehouse is a hidden gem that captivates young firefighter fans. Kids can get up close to gleaming antique fire engines, explore authentic firefighting gear, and imagine life as a heroic firefighter in early 20th-century Philadelphia,all without spending a dime.

Reading Terminal Market is a bustling indoor food paradise where kids can explore over 100 vendors serving everything from Philly cheesesteaks to Amish baked goods and international cuisines. The vibrant atmosphere, endless food choices, and historic setting make it an exciting sensory adventure for children while parents enjoy authentic local flavors at reasonable prices.

Franklin Square is a beloved Philadelphia gem that combines history with modern family fun in one convenient location. This revitalized historic square offers multiple attractions including Philadelphia-themed mini golf, a classic carousel, an interactive splash fountain, and a well-equipped playground,all in the heart of Old City, making it perfect for a multi-hour family outing.

The Liberty Bell Center offers families a powerful, free introduction to American history with the chance to see the iconic cracked bell up close. Kids are often mesmerized by the famous crack and the bell's massive size, while interactive exhibits help even younger children understand its significance in American independence.

Independence Hall is where American history truly comes alive for families! Kids can stand in the very rooms where the Founding Fathers debated and signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The free Junior Ranger program keeps children engaged throughout the visit, and the knowledgeable park rangers make history accessible and exciting even for younger visitors.

Step back in time at The Franklin Fountain, a charming old-fashioned ice cream parlor in historic Old City Philadelphia that delights kids with its authentic 1900s soda fountain experience. Children's eyes light up watching ice cream creations made the traditional way, while parents appreciate the homemade, small-batch flavors and nostalgic atmosphere that makes every visit feel special.

Suburban Square in Wayne offers a refreshing outdoor shopping experience perfect for families who want to combine errands with quality time together. This welcoming open-air center features beautiful landscaping, plenty of seating areas for breaks, and regular family-friendly events that transform a simple shopping trip into a fun outing. The walkable layout and charming atmosphere make it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon here with kids of all ages.

Tredici Italian Market is a Wayne staple where families can enjoy authentic Italian sandwiches and salads before indulging in their famous homemade ice cream. This casual neighborhood spot combines a quick-service Italian deli with an ice cream counter that draws crowds year-round, making it perfect for a special treat after school or a low-key family dinner.

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a vibrant seasonal waterfront escape where kids can lounge in colorful hammocks, challenge parents to oversized versions of Connect Four and Jenga, and watch boats drift by on the Delaware River. The park's relaxed atmosphere and free Sunday family craft activities make it a perfect low-key outing where children can run freely while parents actually relax.

Independence Seaport Museum brings Philadelphia's maritime history to life with hands-on exhibits and the incredible opportunity to board and explore two National Historic Landmark ships,the USS Olympia and USS Becuna submarine. Kids can steer a replica ship's wheel, learn about underwater archaeology, and experience what life was like aboard a real warship and submarine docked right on the Delaware River waterfront.

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a mesmerizing maze of sparkling mosaics, folk art, and recycled treasures that will captivate kids and adults alike. This immersive art installation features both indoor galleries and outdoor labyrinth-like passages covered floor-to-ceiling in colorful tiles, mirrors, bicycle wheels, and found objects,creating a wonderland that feels like stepping into a kaleidoscope.

Independence Blue Cross RiverRink is Philadelphia's ultimate year-round family destination right on the Delaware River waterfront. In winter, families can glide across the outdoor ice skating rink with stunning city views, while summer transforms the venue into an action-packed playground featuring roller skating, mini golf, and an arcade that keeps kids entertained for hours.

Spread Bagelry is a relaxed neighborhood bagel shop that makes family breakfast or lunch outings easy and delicious. With fresh-baked bagels, build-your-own sandwich options, and a menu that caters to picky eaters, it's a go-to spot for Wayne families looking for a quick, satisfying meal without the fuss of a sit-down restaurant.

Cold Stone Creamery turns ice cream into entertainment as kids watch staff mix their favorite candies, cookies, and toppings into premium ice cream on a frozen granite stone. The interactive experience of choosing from unlimited combinations and seeing their custom creation come to life makes this more than just a dessert stop,it's a fun activity that delights children of all ages.

Radnor Memorial Library in Wayne is a beloved community hub offering far more than just books. With an exceptional children's section, engaging storytimes, and robust educational programming, this highly-rated library provides a welcoming space where kids can explore, learn, and develop a lifelong love of reading through hands-on activities and summer reading challenges.

Adventure Aquarium delivers an unforgettable underwater experience just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, featuring one of the largest collections of sharks in the Northeast, adorable African penguins, and the rare opportunity to see hippos swimming underwater. The interactive touch tanks let kids get hands-on with stingrays and sharks, making this more than just a look-and-learn experience,it's a place where children can actually connect with amazing sea creatures.