Things to Do in
Center City
Discover the best activities, events, classes, and experiences in Center City. All carefully curated for families!

Member Happy Hour and Tour: Olympia
Thu, Jun 18 • 12:00 AM-12:00 AM
Exclusive happy hour and tour for museum members.

Member Happy Hour and Tour: Olympia
Thu, Jun 18 • 5:30 PM-7:30 PM
Join us for an ISM members-only happy hour and tour. Enjoy drinks and light snacks on Olympia, then an exclusive tour with our expert ship staff. This tour will explore the Battle of Manila Bay on the ship where it happened. Along the outer decks, we will trace the preparations and alterations made for war, the causes that led to the first and most climactic battle of the Spanish-American War at Manila, walk in the footsteps of the gunners and crew, and hear the echo of Commodore's softly spoken command that heralded a new empire.

Friday Night Jazz Series: Mervin Toussaint
Fri, Jun 19 • 12:00 AM-12:00 AM
Experience a series of unforgettable nights on the Waterfront featuring an exceptional collective of jazz musicians in partnership with Rising Sun Presents. Free and open to all ages. Live Waterfront jazz with skyline views, food, drinks, and laid-back lounge vibes.

TFI Block Party | Summer Solstice Event | The Franklin Institute Philadelphia
Sat, Jun 20 • 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
Celebrate summer at The Franklin Institute's Block Party on June 20. Free with admission — live music, science shows, solar viewing & more in Philadelphia.

The Franklin Institute Block Party: A Summer Celebration
Sat, Jun 20 • 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
The TFI Block Party brings summer to The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on Saturday, June 20 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. DJ Ben Arsenal sets the tone on the iconic front steps, bringing live music and summer energy to one of Philadelphia's most beloved landmarks. Inside, the experience continues with hands-on science activities, interactive programming, a live weather science show with NBC10 meteorologist Justin Gozdzicki, solar viewing, soccer science hosted by the Philadelphia Union, and giant bubble demonstrations for every age. Festivities flow from the front steps through the atrium and throughout the building — blending an outdoor summer kickoff with all the discovery and exploration available only at The Franklin Institute. Rain or shine, the fun goes on.

TFI Block Party | Summer Event | The Franklin Institute Philadelphia
Sat, Jun 20 • 11:00 AM-3:00 PM
Celebrate summer at The Franklin Institute's Block Party on June 20. Free with museum admission — live music, science shows, solar viewing & more in Philadelphia.

Pollinator Week!
Sun, Jun 21 • 12:00 AM-12:00 AM
Happy Pollinator Week! We love our pollinators here at Friends of the Rail Park, they are an integral part of our world! Every June, we get to spend a little extra time appreciating the plants and critters that keep our ecosystems healthy and help make our food! You might think of bees when you think of pollinators (and you wouldn’t be wrong) but, they’re also birds, butterflies, beetles, bats, and rats! Any insects, mammals, or birds that are attracted to flowers' bright colors or nectar are pollinators! They move from flower to flower feeding, and inadvertently fertilize them as they transfer pollen.

Seaport Summer Camp - Week 1 (Full STEAM Ahead!)
Mon, Jun 22 • 12:00 AM-12:00 AM
Come discover the history of the Philadelphia region through the lens of the Delaware River. Enjoy hands-on programming, to crafts, on-water activities, and so much more!

Seaport Summer Camp
Mon, Jun 22 • 12:00 AM-12:00 AM
A summer camp experience at the seaport for kids.
Drop-in Science Workshops: Rainforest Rangers!
Hours vary
What is so important about the rainforest? What plants and animals can you find there? Drop in to learn about the lungs of the planet and be amazed at how biodiversity plays a big part in this habitat. Explore real mammalogy and herpetology specimens and craft your own rainforest ranger button to take home. Learn more about Drop-In Science Workshops
Drop-in Science Workshops: Rainforest Rangers!
Hours vary
What is so important about the rainforest? What plants and animals can you find there? Drop in to learn about the lungs of the planet and be amazed at how biodiversity plays a big part in this habitat. Explore real mammalogy and herpetology specimens and craft your own rainforest ranger button to take home. Learn more about Drop-In Science Workshops

Garden Bar
Hours vary
Enjoy a change of scenery at the Rodin Garden Bar pop-up. Explore the Rodin Museum, enjoy refreshing summer cocktails and tasty small plates, listen to music, and take in the garden oasis.

Garden Bar
Hours vary
Enjoy a change of scenery at the Rodin Garden Bar pop-up. Explore the Rodin Museum, enjoy refreshing summer cocktails and tasty small plates, listen to music, and take in the garden oasis.
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About Activities in Center City
Center City Philadelphia is the cultural heart of the city, offering world-class museums, libraries, and family attractions all within walking distance. The Free Library's Central Branch hosts daily story times, while Rittenhouse Square and Sister Cities Park provide beautiful outdoor spaces for toddlers to explore. From the Please Touch Museum to family-friendly restaurants, Center City makes it easy to fill your day with enriching activities.
The neighborhood's walkability and public transportation access make it ideal for families without cars. Many venues offer free or low-cost programming specifically designed for babies and toddlers, including music classes at Settlement Music School, library programs, and seasonal festivals in the parks.