Five Fabulous Mini-Vacations for Philly Families

Budgets, family dynamics, and time constraints can make a full-length, long-distance vacation unfeasible this year. You might also just want to take the family away for a mini weekend vacation. Philadelphia has so many amazing areas just around the corner from the city limits. Check out some great ideas for local getaways that you and your family will love. Pack up the car and the kids and go explore all the area has to offer!

Hershey, PA – The chocolate lures you to Hershey, but there’s way more than just the chance to live out a delicious chocolate fantasy. Of course, you’ll want to begin with a tour of Hershey’s Chocolate World to learn about your favorite candies. Then head over to Hershey Park to burn off some of those sugar calories and have a blast on their theme park attractions. Take in the beautiful Hershey Gardens and see things like their Butterfly Atrium while you visit.

Lehigh Valley- Getaway to the nearby Lehigh Valley to check out fun learning experiences. Tour the Crayola Experience with the avid coloring fanatics in your family. Dive deeper into Science at the DaVinci Science Center. While in the area, take in the Canal Museum to learn about this fascinating part of Pennsylvania’s History!

NYC- The options are endless in New York City for family friendly fun. A short trip by car or train, you can have a big city adventure with your family over a weekend. Check out the American Museum of Natural History for some fascinating exhibits. Hit up a family friendly Broadway show, such as Disney’s Aladdin. Top the trip off with some magic at the iconic FAO Schwartz Toy Store. 

The Poconos- Head to the Poconos for gorgeous outdoor mountain fun. See the sights at Bushkill Falls. If you’re feeling more adventurous, go rafting on a Jim Thorpe River Adventure. Stay at the famous Split Rock Resort and visit their Indoor Water Park for some family fun together!

Lancaster- See what life at a slower pace looks like in the beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch Amish Country in Lancaster. Learn all about how the delicious ice cream is made and sample the offerings at Turkey Hill. Take a buggy ride to see how the Amish live.  Indulge your family’s adventurous side by going on adventures at the Refreshing Mountain Adventure Center.

These are just a few of the options that can get your weekend getaway planning started. You don’t have to travel far to have fun, you just need to get out and explore all the amazing treasures that are just a short drive from Philadelphia.