Kristen Sullivan

Latest posts by Kristen

Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains Near Philadelphia for 2022

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 10/23/2022 - 7:23am

Journey through Chester Creek Valley aboard Santa's Express. Photo courtesy of the West Chester Railroad

Everyone loves a good Polar Express train ride! There's something about trains that evokes the spirit of Christmas; whether it's memories of model trains under the tree, that "coming home for the holidays" feeling, or Tom Hanks playing the conductor in one of the best kids' Christmas movies ever.

Visits with Santa are even more fun on a train, so we've rounded up all the railroads hosting Polar Express trains and Christmas train rides near Philly. At many of these locations, families can ride a real locomotive with Santa Claus, hear Christmas stories, sing carols, sip hot chocolate, and admire views of the passing countryside. So put on those PJs and get ready to ride the rails with Santa!

Stay up to date on all things holidays by browsing our Philadelphia Holiday Guide, which is packed with great ways to celebrate the season.

Not-So-Scary Halloween Events for Philly Preschoolers

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 10/16/2022 - 7:15am

Come in costume to the Morris ArBOOretum and explore the Spooky Scarecrow loop while trick-or-treating. Photo courtesy of the Arboretum

Check out these not-so-scary Halloween events for preschoolers and toddlers who prefer more treats than tricks.

Halloween is the centerpiece of this spooky season, but lots of kids would rather eat their candy without a side of fear. Certain activities can feel a bit unsettling for little ones, with scary themes and decorations that leave preschoolers (and even some school-aged kids) rattled. So if your family is looking to celebrate a Halloween with more treats than tricks, we've got age-appropriate attractions that maintain the spirit of the holiday and keep small children feeling happy and safe.

Be sure to browse our Guide to Halloween Fun for more ideas to make the most of the season, or check out our Top 50 Halloween Events for Philly kids.

Top Free Halloween Events Near Philly

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 10/07/2022 - 6:40am

Celebrate Family Saturdays with laughter, learning, and live performances at Parkway Pals. Photo courtesy of Center City District

What could possibly be sweeter than Halloween fun? Free Halloween fun! Kids can pretend to be their favorite superhero, character, or whatever concoction they dream up at a number of free Halloween events near Philadelphia, with everything from campfires to movie nights to Halloween parades. We've rounded up a witch's cauldron filled with all the best Halloween activities near Philly that won't cost you a dime, scoring a win for parents, too.

Looking for more? Make sure to visit our top 50+ Halloween events in the Philly area for more spooky fun in 2021.

50+ Top Halloween Events in Philly: From Not-So-Spooky to Haunted Happenings

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 09/23/2022 - 7:08am

Treat your family to Halloween festivities at Hersheypark. Photo courtesy of Hersheypark

We all know that Halloween can be silly-scary, but the parental task of finding fun things to do for the holiday can also give moms and dads quite a fright! Thankfully, this time of year is chock-full of fun Halloween events for kids in Philadelphia, and we know all the top spots for ghouls, goblins, and witches of every age.

Best Summer Day Trips from Philly: Quick Getaways for Families with Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 06/24/2022 - 8:08am

Take a splashy day trip to Morey's Piers Ocean Oasis. Photo by David Howarth

When a summer day with no play dates, soccer practice, or camp presents itself, Philly parents love to hit the road and change the scenery. To make your mini getaway easier, we've rounded up some of our favorite summer day trip destinations where you'll find everything from amusement parks to beaches. To extend your daycation into a true vacation, check out our top ten weekend vacay ideas in PA, or browse our list of 20 family road trips under ten hours from Philly.

Drive-in Movie Theaters Near Philly for Outdoor Movie Nights With Kids

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 05/13/2022 - 10:25am

The Mahoning Drive-In has delighted area residents since 1949. Photo by Thomas Hawk, via Flickr/Creative Commons

Watching movies under the stars is a traditional summer bucket list activity. Many families have enjoyed the resurgence of retro drive-in theaters and the popularity of pop-up outdoor movies near Philadelphia to watch their favorite films. The trend continues this year, and we've rounded up all the places to catch a drive-in movie near Philly. From spots near the Jersey Shore to others closer to the Pocono mountains, pack the pillows and snacks for these drive-in movie theaters near Philadelphia.

Most drive-in movie venues require online ticket purchases, so be sure to view the schedules in advance. Check out our Summer Activity Guide for Philadelphia for more warm-weather family fun.

17 Kid-Friendly Philadelphia Hotels for a Family Staycation

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 04/10/2022 - 10:14am

Try the indoor s'mores kit and the Rocky-style robes for kids at the Logan Hotel.

Family vacations create memories to last a lifetime. But that doesn't mean leaving the country, state, or even the city for that matter. There are several great Philadelphia hotels with perks for kids and families that are perfect for a Philly staycation. We've found all the best spots where parents can get some much-needed R & R while the kids stay entertained. Enjoy a busy day of sightseeing, or simply unwind and enjoy the family-friendly amenities at these hotels in Philadelphia.

A Philadelphia staycation is a great opportunity to make your way through our list of Top Attractions in Philly for Kids. For quick and easy escapes, don't miss our guide to Philly Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways.

St. Patrick's Day Parades and Celebrations in Philadelphia

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 03/04/2022 - 9:51am

Revelers at the annual Bucks County St. Patrick's Day Parade. Photo courtesy of Visit Bucks County via Philly Burbs

After two years off for a pandemic hiatus, St. Patrick's Day 2022 in Philly is back and greener than ever. As home to one of the longest continuously held St. Patrick's Day parades, Philadelphia certainly knows how to celebrate the luck of the Irish. Throughout the Delaware Valley, there are opportunities to learn about Irish history, see Irish step dancing, listen to Celtic music and Irish stories, search for hidden leprechauns, and more! From the well-known Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade to several parades and activities in the suburbs, these St. Paddy's day events are worth more than a pot of gold. Sláinte!

For more holiday celebrations this month, don't miss the Best Things To Do in Philadelphia in March with Kids. Make sure you never miss a thing by signing up for our newsletters.