Affordable and Fun Staycation Ideas
Don’t miss out on the fun before summer ends! Summer fun doesn’t have to mean expensive, complicated travel plans. A “staycation” can provide a wonderful summer experience when your vacation time is limited or money is tight. Luckily, staying home in the Philadelphia region doesn’t need to be boring. You can take advantage of everything the area has to offer. Here are local attractions and day trips to consider:
Museums
Fascinating for both children and adults, museums offer fun, interactive displays on a variety of topics, including science, aerospace, glass, history, mineral, music and many others.
- The Franklin Institute – Free admission starting at 5PM on August 19. Don’t miss the MARVEL: Universe of Super Heroes’ exhibit before it’s over on September 2.
- The Mummers Museum – $5 admission, view original Mummers costumes from all 5 Divisions, learn the Mummers Strut and create your own medley
- American Philosophical Society Museum – Free admission, a $2 donation is appreciated, the current exhibit Mapping a Nation: Shaping the Early American Republic includes journals from the Lewis and Clark Expedition and George Washington’s copy of the 1792 map of Washington D.C.
- Pizza Brain - Guinness World Records certified largest collection of pizza memorabilia housed in a Fishtown pizza shop
- Fireman’s Hall – Free admission, view antique firetrucks, 9/11 tribute, and interactive displays
Art Galleries
Often overlooked, local art galleries can be a great source of learning and entertainment for families. In addition to displaying the paintings, sculptures and other art forms of both historic and contemporary artists, many galleries offer classes, films and educational programs for children and adults.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Free to local art students and children under 12
- Pay as You Wish Days - first Sunday of every month and every Wednesday from 5PM to 8:45PM.
- The Impressionist’s Eye exhibit displays the work of Claude Monet, Mary Cassatt and Vincent van Gogh through August 18- while you’re here stop by the “Rocky Steps” and Rocky Balboa Statue
- Children 12 and under are free
- Free admission - first Sunday of every month from 10AM to 5PM
- Admire the famous works of Renoir, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso
- Daily “Pay What You Wish” ($10 suggested for adults)
- Free entry to Garden area year round
- Home to one of the largest collections of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures outside of Paris
Historic spots
As the birthplace of America, Philadelphia has many places of historic significance to explore.
- Liberty Bell Center – Free admission to see the bell itself and related videos and exhibits
- U.S Mint – Free tours focusing on the story behind U.S. coins
- Independence Hall – Free tickets to this UNESCO World Heritage Site distributed at the Independence Visitor Center daily on a first-come, first-serve basis
- Elfreth’s Alley – Stroll down the nation’s oldest residential street
- National Constitution Center – Expand your knowledge of nation’s Constitution with tickets ranging from $11-$14.50
- Museum of the American Revolution – Explore all facets of the war for American independence; individual ticket prices vary, but a family four pack is available for $55
Amusement Parks
Take a day trip outside of the city to enjoy rides and shows!
- Dorney Park and WildWater Kingdom – Starting at $42.00
- Sesame Place –$74.99 for single day admission, tickets are valid through January 1, 2020 (Children 23 months and younger are free)
Over 21 Fun
Ready to kick back and relax? Make plans to exercise in the park or quench your thirst with an adult beverage.
- Center City ‘Sips’ – Every Wednesday until August 28 from 5PM to 7PM discount adult beverages and apps at participating Philadelphia bars and restaurants
- Parks on Tap –Pop-up bars at various Philadelphia parks until September 29
- Philadelphia Brewing Company Tours– Free tours and tastings only on Saturdays from noon to 3PM
- Zumba at Dilworth Park – Free every Monday until October 14 from 6PM to 7PM
- Food & Flick Fridays at The Oval – Every Friday from July 20 to August 16 enjoy free movies at Eakins Oval along the Parkway. Get there early for a good seat and enjoy the food trucks. Movies start at 9 PM, bring a blanket or a lawn chair!
Of course, before heading to any of these attractions be sure to check the website for more details.