Philadelphia families know the big state of Pennsylvania offers many possible weekend getaways. But have you considered the big city life, sand beaches and roller coasters nearby in New York, Maryland and Virginia?
It’s truly one of America’s oldest cities and a magnet for any family interested in American history. So yes, Philadelphia itself is one of our favorite all-time destinations. Catch our New York-based team driving or training often to Philly for weekend getaways. We spend short school breaks sharing all the educational attractions — there’s so much to see and do.
But sometimes the weight of hosting the Betsy Ross legend and the noise of the Liberty Bell can be too much.
The Top Family Weekend Getaways from the Philadelphia Metro Region
That’s when local Philadelphia area families and their suburban neighbors look for a change.
Whether your family is looking for a short break holiday, a cheap vacation package, or a fun last-minute excursion to break up a road trip, there are lots of options within a 200-mile radius of Philadelphia. In fact, many are much closer than that. For farther away adventures with less time, logistics are key. If you want your vehicle along for the journey, exploring good car shipping companies can be a practical solution. Enjoy the convenience of having your car at your destination without the hassle of a long drive.
The following weekend getaway roundup includes some of our family’s favorite kids’ destinations. There are, of course, many other choices for spending your time and money on a short break. In this roundup, we’ll just highlight some of the top local attractions, kid-friendly festivals and events that suit all ages. We welcome you to submit your own favorite mid-Atlantic weekend getaways.
Big City Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
New York City Family Attractions
Use our how-to guide to nibble on the Big Apple’s charms. NYC is easily accessed by trains, planes and automobiles — not to forget cheap buses.
Baltimore, Maryland Family Attractions
Baltimore families love the mid-Atlantic port city’s historic, educational and fun places. Put the the aquarium and Camden Yards on your must-do list.
Washington DC Top Family Attractions
There are several reasons to visit the nation’s capital… Here are some fresh ideas if you are visiting with kids of different ages.
Sustainably Fun Family Attractions In Pittsburgh
Explore the city’s galleries, theatres, museums and local cuisine. FTF’s family guide covers it all from fine arts to fun attractions in the eco-friendly city of Pittsburgh.
Why Families Love Wilmington Delaware
Quiet Wilmington, Delaware is more than a bargain (at least compared to farther north). It’s a friendly town with stunning gardens, museums, and monuments to American history.
Explore Richmond
Named a “Best City for Families” by Parenting magazine, historic Richmond, Virginia has developed many fun tourist attractions since the Civil War.
Short Breaks & Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia
Hershey Pennsylania’s Family Adventures
What to do beyond candy in the surprisingly entertaining chocolate capital of the world.
Pennsylvania Apple Farms
Families will find many regional u-pick apple farms and pumpkin patches. They’re easily accessible to Philadelphia, Wilmington and New Jersey families.
American History Road Trip: Philadelphia, The Amish, Gettysburg
Leave Philly behind on your American history road trip to explore Lancaster and Gettysburg.
Free Travel Fun in Gettysburg
While some may think battlefield, others look forward to dropping by Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum, one of the many free attractions around Gettysburg.
Connecticut Family Attractions
There’s so much to do in Connecticut, from the oldest themepark to Mystic Seaport and an aquarium full of whales.
Family Beach Weekends Beyond Philadelphia
Cape May, New Jersey
Our insider’s guide to a peaceful family beach getaway vacation in historic Cape May.
A Weekend at the Jersey Shore
Check out two different family beach scenes, minutes from each other on the Jersey shore, for a weekend, mini-vacation or daytrip.
Rehoboth Beach Promises Family Fun
Explore the east coast Atlantic shoreline south of Philly. The pristine sands of Rehoboth, Delaware provide ingredients for the ultimate family beach getaway.
Ocean City Attractions
There’s “shore” to be something fun for everyone in Maryland’s beach town. Ocean City promises watersports adventures on the sea. On land, look for rides and games.
Favorite Family Resorts for Philadelphia Weekend Getaways
Pennsylvania: Poconos Family Hotels & Resorts
The friendly mountain region, known by outdoorsmen and honeymooners, welcomes families.
Pennsylvania Dutch Country Resorts & Hotels
Tour the classic Amish country surrounding Lancaster and choose between country inns, farm stays, resorts or motels.
Skytop Lodge Family Weekend
Visit a surprisingly fun resort in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. Here’s where time and tradition stand still.
Woodloch Pines Family Resort
Woodloch Pines is one of FTF’s best places to host your family’s next reunion.
Spa Stop at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort & Spa
Pamper the familiy with an amazing spa getaway! Nemacolin offers a great Kids Club and entertaining nearby attractions around Farmington.
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