7 Fun Philly Things to Do With the Kids Over Spring Break

Knowing Spring Break is coming up in Philadelphia April 14th through 18th, we did some research to find some of the best kid-centric to-dos happening in town. From rock camps to book festivals to Dr. Seuss, we think we pretty much covered the gamut. 

Philadelphia Book Festival

The Free Library's Philadelphia Book Festival, running April 14-19, has plenty of free activities to keep kids and parents busy this Spring Break — all while sneaking in a little education. On Monday, Moore graduate Sa-De Brown hosts a workshop on simple book craft at the Kensington Branch. That same day youngsters can learn the "ups and downs" of pop-up books, as they make and take one home at the Lovett Branch. On Wednesday, at the Central Branch, Jen Bryant presents on her children's book, A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin; and award-winning children's book author and illustrator Lindsey Barrett-George lets kids in on the fun of illustration with an interactive workshop, on Richmond Branch, and later at the Bushrod Branch. Full schedule here, including some events for grownups, too.

Family Spring Break at Shofuso

What's spring break without a trip to Fairmount Park? Take the kids to the beautiful Shofuso tea house and garden for a bit of culture and nature. The kids can enjoy scheduled activities and outdoor play while you take in the gorgeous scenery and tons of matcha. Thursday, April 15th to Saturday, April 17th, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., $5-$7, Shofuso Japanese House & Garden, Horticultural Drive in Fairmount Park.

Special Hours at the Franklin Institute

A perennial favorite for kids and those holding the juice boxes, the Franklin Institute is a prime Spring Break destination. From Monday April 14th to Wednesday April 23rd, the Institute has extended its hours so there's no bad time to check out the educational fun. The popular "One Day in Pompeii" exhibit is only on display until April 27th so now's the time to check it out. April 14th to April 23rd, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., The Franklin Institute, 222 North 20th Street.

Longwood Gardens

It's the perfect time of year to visit Longwood Gardens, with spring in full bloom and the kids out of class. Through May 2nd, the lush gardens features its "Spring Blooms" exhibition, with acres of gorgeous tulips and peonies. So much to see and nothing kids can break! Daily at Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road.

Rock to the Future Spring Break Rock Camp

For budding rockstars aged 9-17, Spring Break is the perfect time to get shredding. Rock to the Future offers its Summer camp as a week-long Spring program, with daily group instrument lessons, craft workshops, and concerts by and for campers. The camp provides the instruments, so all the kids need is a bagged lunch and a will to rock. April 14th to April 15th, $250, Rock to the Future, 2130 East Cumberland Street.

Nature Photography Workshop at Morris Arboretum

University of Pennsylvania's sprawling tree sanctuary always has plenty to do for the sprouts. But this Spring Break, tote the kids to the Arboretum for even more nature-themed fun. Starting April 17th, Morris Arboretum offers a four-week photography course for the little ones. Kids get built-in souvenirs, with their photographs of their newfound craft. Even without the course, Morris Arboretum has plenty of free activities. Print out a guide to lead your own nature trek. Photography classes start Thursday, April 17th, and continue consecutive Thursdays until May 18th, $100, 4:30 p.m., Morris Arboretum, 100 East Northwestern Avenue.

Cat in the Hat at Arden Theater

Everyone's favorite accessory-loving feline comes to life at Arden Theatre just in time for Spring Break. Starting Wednesday, April 16th and running until June 2nd, the master of rhyme and whimsy has a solution to your third day of watching Spongebob. Featuring the acrobatic antics of Thing 1 and Thing 2, and the apropos story of two kids who overcome their out-of-school boredom, there's definitely something for everyone. Starts Wednesday, April 16th, runs through June 2nd, 10 a.m., Arden Theatre, 40 North Second Street.

Still didn’t find what you’re looking for? Check out our Philadelphia Event Listings page for a roundup of local events happening now through June.