Where to Stay in Philadelphia
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Philadelphia
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
Rittenhouse Square
Upscale and sophisticated, centered around a beautiful park.
Our top picks in Rittenhouse Square
Iconic luxury hotel offering impeccable service and stunning park views.
Book NowModern hotel with an art-deco flair and rooftop lounge.
Book NowHistoric hotel with elegant rooms and prime access to the square.
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Old City
Historic charm meets trendy boutiques and art galleries.
Our top picks in Old City
Midtown Village
Eclectic and vibrant, known for its independent shops, theaters, and diverse dining.
Our top picks in Midtown Village
Modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Midtown Village | Mid-range | Eclectic and vibrant, known for its independent shops, theaters, and diverse dining. | nightlifefoodies | Generally safe, but be mindful of your b... |
Fishtown | Mid-range | Bohemian and artsy, with a thriving music scene, unique shops, and innovative restaurants. | nightlifefoodies | Mostly safe with good foot traffic in ma... |
Old City | Luxury | Historic charm meets trendy boutiques and art galleries. | first-timersculture | Generally safe during the day, but be aw... |
Rittenhouse Square | Luxury | Upscale and sophisticated, centered around a beautiful park. | luxurycouples | Very safe day and night, a popular area ... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Philadelphia
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Philadelphia
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Philadelphia, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Philadelphia
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Philadelphia
Midtown Village
Mid-rangeEclectic and vibrant, known for its independent shops, theaters, and diverse dining.
- +Excellent restaurant and bar scene
- +Lively and diverse atmosphere
- +Central location
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some streets can feel a bit gritty
🛡️ Generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings and stay on well-lit streets at night due to its lively bar scene.
Fishtown
Mid-rangeBohemian and artsy, with a thriving music scene, unique shops, and innovative restaurants.
- +Vibrant live music venues
- +Independent boutiques and art spaces
- +Excellent and diverse food options
- -Further from historical sites
- -Can feel industrial in parts
🛡️ Mostly safe with good foot traffic in main areas, but be aware of less-trafficked side streets, especially later at night.
Old City
LuxuryHistoric charm meets trendy boutiques and art galleries.
- +Abundant historical sites
- +Lively nightlife and dining
- +Walkable to many attractions
- -Can be very crowded
- -Parking is difficult and expensive
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but be aware of your surroundings at night, especially on less populated side streets.
Rittenhouse Square
LuxuryUpscale and sophisticated, centered around a beautiful park.
- +Excellent dining and shopping
- +Beautiful, well-maintained park
- +Central and convenient location
- -Can be expensive
- -Less focus on historical attractions
🛡️ Very safe day and night, a popular area for evening strolls and dining.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 250/day
Hidden Gems in Philadelphia
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Rodin Museum Sculpture Garden
FREEEscape the city bustle in this serene outdoor space featuring Auguste Rodin's iconic sculptures, including 'The Thinker'. It's a tranquil oasis perfect for quiet contemplation and appreciating art amidst greenery.
Reading Terminal Market
While known, it's often overlooked by those sticking to Old City. This historic market boasts an incredible array of local foods, from Amish baked goods to cheesesteaks and diverse international cuisine. It's a vibrant sensory experience.
Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
Discover a slice of Japan in West Philadelphia. This traditional 17th-century style Japanese house and meticulously maintained garden offer a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Japanese culture.
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site
Step back in time at this hauntingly beautiful former prison, once home to Al Capone. Its imposing architecture and fascinating history offer a unique and thought-provoking urban exploration experience.
Safety in Philadelphia
SafeSolo Female Travel
Philadelphia is generally safe for solo female travelers, especially in popular tourist areas and well-lit, populated neighborhoods. Standard precautions like staying aware of surroundings and avoiding poorly lit streets at night are advised.
At Night
Stick to well-populated and well-lit areas, particularly around Rittenhouse, Old City, and Midtown Village. Be aware of your surroundings, especially if walking alone after dark.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers (use official taxis or rideshares).
- 2Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
- 3Distraction thefts in crowded areas.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Philadelphia
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Philadelphia Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Philadelphia on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Philadelphia Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Philadelphia with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Philadelphia: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Philadelphia's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Philadelphia: Scenic Excursion
Escape Philadelphia for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Philadelphia Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Philadelphia's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Philadelphia
Families in Philadelphia: FAQ
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