Glaswerks

Set aside some time to visit the oldest surviving botanical garden in the United States. Bartram’s Garden covers 46 acres in Fairmount Park, and is open to the public for free admission. Try taking a tour inside the historic garden area (the original 8-acre garden begun in 1728), the historic stone house, through the elaborate grove and the largest variety of North American plants in the world.

The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, referred to more commonly as simply the Penn Museum, was founded in 1887 and grew into one of the most internationally renowned education and research institutions dedicated to the understanding of cultural diversity. View some of the artifacts that have unlocked mysteries of the past and explore the worlds of other cultures found across the globe.

Have fun learning about science and natural history as you explore the attractions at The Franklin Institute. One of the oldest centers of science education and development in the country, the Franklin Institute provides a variety of permanent and traveling exhibits that are sure to appeal to people of all ages and interests—from a giant walk-through heart to the interactive KidScience exhibit.

Less than an hour and a half away from downtown Philadelphia, Allentown’s Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a popular nearby amusement and water park. Ride on the eight roller coasters (including the ninth longest steel roller coaster in the world!), enjoy the dozens of carnival-themed rides and cool down as you slide down the 22 water slides into pools of water recreation fun.