Philly Is an Underrated Spring Break Destination for Families, Says AFAR

School’s out, but adventure is in session.

AFAR journalist and mom of four, Jamie Davis Smith, has named Philadelphia as one of the top underrated spring break destinations for families in 2025.

While many families flock to the usual beach or theme park hotspots, Davis Smith spotlights Philly as a refreshing, crowd-free alternative for spring break, listing the city alongside destinations like Poland, Iceland and Dubai.

A frequent visitor herself, the travel expert praises the city’s immersive history, incredible food and exciting attractions for all ages.

Here’s what the well-traveled mom says families shouldn’t miss during their spring break in Philly.

What to See & Do

In the “birthplace of America,” visitors get a front-row seat to the nation’s history.

Davis Smith recommends exploring Independence Hall, where America’s Founding Fathers gathered to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776, seeing the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of freedom, and visiting the Museum of the American Revolution, where families can learn more about the nation’s founding.

Liberty Bell   — Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

Beyond history, Philly offers a variety of museums and attractions for more family fun. Davis Smith calls out The Franklin Institute, a science museum that recently unveiled major exhibit upgrades and a newly curated collection.

For even more kid-friendly fun, she suggests the Philadelphia Zoo, where kids can get up close with animals, or the Please Touch Museum, where little ones can play.

Philadelphia Zoo   — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

For outdoor adventurers, Davis Smith loves Franklin Square’s year-round mini-golf course, carousel and playground. The travel enthusiast also recommends strolling along the 30-mile-long Schuylkill River Trail and exploring the stretch of vibrant riverfront parks and attractions at Penn’s Landing.

Plus, in the spring, the lush gardens of Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center and surrounding Fairmount Park become a picture-perfect spot for cherry blossom viewing — if you’re lucky enough to visit during peak bloom.

Fairmount Park   — Photo by K. Kelly for Visit Philadelphia

Where to Eat & Stay

Philadelphia’s premier dining scene offers a variety of dining options, from award-winning restaurants to family-friendly eateries.

Davis Smith insists that no Philly excursion is complete without a stop at Reading Terminal Market, where visitors can sample everything from Termini Brothers’ iconic Italian cannolis to the city’s famous cheesesteaks.

Reading Terminal Market   — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Then, after a day of exploring, the whole family can rest easy at one of the city’s award-winning hotels.

The well-traveled mom boasts about family-friendly amenities at the luxurious Rittenhouse hotel, like treasure chests full of toys and complimentary in-room movies (with popcorn). Or she suggests taking advantage of the city’s walkability at the centrally located Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City.

Toy Treasure Chest at The Rittenhouse   — Photo courtesy The Rittenhouse

Philly continues to rack up major wins and accolades, showcasing the City of Brotherly Love as a rising star.

In just the first two months of 2025, Tripadvisor named Philly as one of America’s Top Travel Destinations and the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards bestowed Philly the title of Best City in America for Street Art (again). (Plus, who could forget the recent Eagles Super Bowl victory?)