Looking for affordable family day trips from the Main Line and Philadelphia suburbs? You don’t have to travel far or spend a fortune to enjoy a memorable family adventure. From scenic ferry rides and Delaware beaches to state parks, charming small towns, and outdoor attractions, there are plenty of budget-friendly day trips within an easy drive of the Philadelphia area. These family-friendly destinations make it easy to get out, explore somewhere new, and enjoy quality time together without the cost of a long vacation.
Bucks County, PA
Bucks County offers plenty of affordable family adventures, from museums and history to beautiful outdoor spaces. Visit the Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle in Doylestown to explore fascinating collections and exhibits, or head to Peace Valley Nature Center for scenic trails and nature exploration. Families can also explore the historic grounds at Washington Crossing Historic Park or enjoy hiking, picnicking, and outdoor fun at Tyler State Park. One of our favorite playgrounds, the Kids Castle Playground in Doylestown is worth a stop and Peddler’s Village is a great destination for quaint shopping, restaurants, amusements at Giggleberry Fair and seasonal activities and festivals.
Cape Henlopen State Park, DE
Looking for an easy family day trip from the Philadelphia area or South Jersey? Take the Cape May–Lewes Ferry to Delaware and spend the day exploring Cape Henlopen State Park. The scenic 85-minute ferry ride is an adventure in itself, while the park offers family-friendly beaches (think restrooms and a snack bar!) and the Seaside Nature Center featuring a 500-gallon touch tank, exhibit tanks with local species and habitats, a live Osprey camera feed, and more! The park’s borrow-a-bike program is also operated through the nature center, to explore on two wheels. The town of Lewes is charming and walkable with great restaurants,shops and an historic area, too.
Lancaster, PA
Lancaster is a great destination for families looking for affordable fun, with plenty of hands-on attractions and outdoor spaces to explore on a family day trip. Of course one of our favorite amusement parks is Dutch Wonderland, but there’s more to explore in Lancaster. Visit the North Museum of Nature and Science for interactive exhibits and a planetarium, or explore the hands-on STEM exhibits at the Lancaster Science Factory. Families can also enjoy the playgrounds and open space at Long’s Park or browse the food and vendors at Lancaster Central Market, the oldest Farmer’s Market in America. On the way home or a destination in itself, the Shady Maple Smorgasbord is an event in itself, and the Covered Bridge Tour is completely free and already mapped out for you.
Lehigh Valley, PA
Lehigh Valley has plenty of family-friendly attractions that make it easy to enjoy a day out without spending a lot. Explore the Hoover-Mason Trestle at SteelStacks for a unique look at Bethlehem’s industrial history, or visit the Martin Guitar Museum to learn about the history of guitar making. Families can also explore the Allentown Art Museum or spend time outdoors hiking and exploring along the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. Creative kids will also love a visit to The Crayola Experience in Easton and the Lehigh Valley Zoo features many up-close animal encounters.
For more family adventures, see our guides to Pennsylvania Waterfalls and Outdoor Gardens and Spaces.