20 ideas for free family fun in Philadelphia this winter

Whether you want to embrace the polar vortex or hide from it, Philly has plenty of free ways to keep kids active (and parents sane) this winter.

1. Spend a few hours exploring Smith Playhouse. Lots of room to play, ride around, and enjoy.

2. Run the hoses at the Fireman’s Hall Museum. A great spot for your firefighter-to-be.

3. Watch the coins roll at the U.S. Mint. That place is made of money.

4. Build something new at Lowe’s Build and Grow Workshop. The next project on tap is a love note holder!

5. Spend the afternoon frolicking in Franklin Square. A winter wonderland right in the heart of the city.

6. Head out of town and take your 4th or 5th grader skiing or snowboarding, Free with a paying adult as part of Pennsylvania’s Learn to Ski Program. 

7. Learn and grow at Wissahickon Environmental Education Center. The Treehouse offers great kids programming.

8. Visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Get thee some history!

9. Check out Barnes & Noble Rittenhouse Children’s Activities. Wednesday storytime is at 4 p.m.

10. Visit the beautiful Central Library. Check out a book, sign up for cards, and enjoy the warmth of reading.

11. Take your toddlers for a free ride on SEPTA! Up to two children age 4 and under ride free with paying adult (ages 5-11 pay 50% of adult fare).

12. Help your school or daycare center pick up free books from Books for Friends. It’s a great way to get more books into the hands of kids.

13. Visit one of the Free Library branches. Speakers, activities, and shows, oh my! Locations throughout the city. 

14. Pay-what-you wish for admission on the first Sunday of every month and every Wednesday night at the Art Museum. Enjoy their wonderful family programming.

15. Double the art and head over to the Barnes Foundation for free First Sundays. 

16. Go to IKEA! Let the kids run off some steam in the supervised kids play area while you browse the floors. 

17. Take in the sounds at one of the free events at the Kimmel Center. 

18. Get historical at the National Museum of American Jewish History. Free admission for kids 12 and under. 

19. Take your motorheads to the Simeone Automotive Museum and check out their amazing collection of racing cars. Free for children 8 and under. 

20. Create during First Saturday Art at the Project Learn School. Painting, drawing, ceramics, and more! 

This list is by no means exhaustive. So if you have a great idea to share for free winter family fun in the City of Brotherly Love, please leave a comment below!