Lindsay Li

Latest posts by Lindsay

Blueberry Picking Near Philadelphia: Favorite Farms for Picking Your Own Fruit

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Fri, 07/08/2022 - 8:00am

The blueberry bushes are ready at Johnson's Corner Farm. Photo by Liz Baill @creativishmom

Blueberries for Sal was one of my all-time favorite stories when I was little. I still love reading it to my kids today, and it is the inspiration behind the seasonal excitement I get when it's time to gather my own bucket and "kuplink kaplank kaplunk" berries for canning, topping pancakes and pies, and making delicious blueberry jam.

In the Philadelphia region, we have access to a number of wonderful pick-your-own farms. We've rounded up a list including some of the best for blueberry season. Or, if you want to make a day trip out of it, check out additional farms in nearby New Jersey, where the blueberry is the state fruit.

Be sure to browse our pick-your-own farm directory as well as our U-pick strawberry farms post, too!

Jersey Shore Boardwalks and Amusement Parks for Family Fun

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Tue, 07/05/2022 - 1:09pm

A trip to the boardwalk isn't complete without a Kohr's frozen custard. Photo by Kevin Jarrett via Flickr

Everyone loves a good trip to one of our favorite Jersey Shore beaches, but Jersey Shore boardwalks are where the real memories are made. Whether you make it a day trip or have weekend or week-long plans for a summer vacation, one thing you most definitely don't want to miss is time on the boardwalk.

From frozen custard and funnel cakes to rides and mini golf—and a few that feature water parks and toddler amusements—a Jersey Shore boardwalk ups the ante on your usual trip to the beach. Boardwalks and the fun things to do at the Jersey Shore go hand-in-hand, so if you are making only one trip this year, make sure it's to one of the best! Read on for our top picks for Jersey Shore boardwalk fun below and bookmark our Guide to the Jersey Shore for more help in planning your best visit yet.

Philly Winter Fun List: 40 Things To Do with Kids

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Sun, 01/16/2022 - 10:41am

The Harry Potter Exhibit casts its spell on Philly this February. Photo courtesy of the Franklin Institute

Check back soon! This piece is currently being updated for 2022-23.

Winter can test your creativity in entertaining the kids, and sometimes you just need to get out of the house or at least find new indoor activities. Fortunately, we have some amazing outdoor winter activities that allow kids to romp, play, and explore, as well as fresh ideas for being at home that can shake off winter fatigue while keeping the family safe.

For all the best ways to make the most of the chilly temps, check out 20+ Free Activities for Philly Kids this Winter, and don't miss our Winter Activities Guide.

Family-Friendly Skiing and Snowboarding Near Philadelphia

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Fri, 01/07/2022 - 11:10am

Happy kids take a break in the snow at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Photo courtesy of Seven Springs

When Old Man Winter comes calling, it's time to hit the slopes. Pennsylvania is home to several kid-friendly ski areas boasting endless lanes, steep trails, and snow tubing action to boot. Whether you're looking for the highest peaks or some bunny hills to teach your kids the sport, these ski resorts near Philadelphia have it all.

We've got over 20 family-friendly places to ski and snowboard near Philly, from Montgomery County to the furthest reaches of the Poconos. We also realize that the sport can get pricey, and isn't always super accessible to families living in urban areas. So as an additional bonus, we've listed some money-saving tips to make your family's trip to the mountain a memorable and wallet-friendly outing.

Best Sledding Spots Near Philadelphia for Kids

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Fri, 01/07/2022 - 10:10am

Kids enjoy sledding on a hill off Kelly Drive. Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation

Get ready for a snow day with our list of the best sledding hills near Philly.

When the forecast calls for snow, Philly parents ought to be prepared. Not just with the milk, bread, and toilet paper, but with the best spots to take the kiddos sledding on a snow day. Sledding is one of our favorite winter activities, so we're breaking down all the best sledding hills near Philly (not just by their cool factor, but also by age group), so you know exactly where you should head when we get a decent coating.

For more amazing ways to enjoy the snow with your family, check out the best places to go Snow Tubing near Phil adelphia and Family-Friendly Skiing and Snowboarding near Philly.

Where to Take Pictures with Santa Near Philly

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Sun, 11/21/2021 - 12:26pm

Give Santa a wave at Linvilla Farm. Photo courtesy of the farm

Kids and adults alike can't wait to see Santa Claus every year. Children are excited to tell him their Christmas wishes, and parents get a snapshot of a precious memory; everyone loves this tradition! Children young and old in the Philly area can find Santa riding a train, on the farm, amusement park, at brunch, and of course, at one of his favorite hangouts–the mall. Whichever spot your family chooses, Santa pictures make special memories that last well beyond the holiday season.

We've made a list, and we checked it twice, of where to take Santa Claus pictures in the Philadelphia area. For extra fun, we included places offering seasonal entertainment once the photo session is complete. Check out Philly's Best Holiday and Christmas Events for even more seasonal entertainment options.

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Thrilling Tubing Near Philly and Water Rafting Adventures for Families

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Fri, 08/06/2021 - 11:03am

Tubing near Philadelphia means eight miles of FUN, splashing and laughing at Jim Thorpe River Adventures.

Nothing beats a day on the river—floating, swimming, or enjoying a whitewater rafting adventure. In fact, whitewater rafting in the Philadelphia area is one of the most enjoyable, fulfilling activities I can think of to do as a family.

If you are eager to enjoy some outdoor family fun or just want to escape these 90-degree summer days, we have compiled the best whitewater rafting and tubing in Philadelphia and the surrounding area. For more water fun, check out our roundups on the Best Places for Canoeing and Boating and the Best Swimming Lakes near Philadelphia.

30 Rainy Day Activities for Families in Philadelphia

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Fri, 05/14/2021 - 12:20pm

Have your kids climb the walls, literally. Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Rock Gym

If rainy days and Mondays always bring you down, it's probably because you feel stuck indoors. While a rainy day here and there is a great excuse for cuddling on the couch and watching movies, baking cookies, or crafting, a few rainy days in a row can be a real drag.

But don't fret, there are so many ways to get out of the house and have an indoor adventure in Philadelphia—from indoor playgrounds to more educational experiences— than we can possibly name in one list. It could rain for 40 days and 40 nights and there would still be plenty to explore.