Things to Do in
Center City
Discover the best activities, events, classes, and experiences in Center City. All carefully curated for families!
Science Story Time
Sat, Apr 18 • 12:00 AM-12:00 AM
Fun weekly science story time with Academy educators featuring family-friendly tales and hands‑on crafts for young natural history fans.
Saturday Spotlight Series: Bruce H. Klauber and Andrea Kauffman
Sat, Apr 18 • 1:00 PM-1:00 PM
Join us for another installment of our Saturday Spotlight Series at the Center City Barnes and Noble! This is an event series focused on celebrating Philadelphia's amazing community of local authors with signings and meet-and-greets each Saturday at the Center City Barnes and Noble. Stop by the store, chat with the authors, and pick up a signed edition of their book! We've cast our 1pm April 18th Saturday Spotlight on Bruce H. Klauber and Andrea Kauffman, authors of Let Me Be Frank: The Extraordinary Life and Music of Frank Sinatra, Jr.
Huddle Up for Autism 2026
Sun, Apr 19 • 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Join us at The Franklin Institute for Huddle Up for Autism, a sensory-inclusive event in Philadelphia created in collaboration with the Philadelphia Eagles. This inspiring experience is designed to support, celebrate, and connect individuals and families in the autism community. Enjoy a welcoming, accessible environment featuring interactive science exhibits tailored for sensory comfort, hands-on activities that encourage creativity and exploration, exclusive Eagles-themed experiences for fans of all ages, and a community-focused atmosphere built on inclusion, understanding, and fun. Come be part of a morning filled with connection, engagement, and lasting impact at one of Philadelphia’s most visited museums.
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.