I recommend the Franklin Institute, Philly Zoo, and definitely a hotel with a pool (Rittenhouse, AKA University City--right by the train station, which is a plus, AND it has full kitchens and suites, so that's awesome--it's only @ 15-20 minutes walk to Rittenhouse Square, maybe the Lowes--haven't stayed there myself). Sounds fun!

Baltimore is also good for a night or two (Aquarium, Science Center, Walters Art Museum for armor, Zoo).

And of course, NYC, if you find an affordable hotel!

Embassy Suites at the airport or Sheraton Suites at the airport. Both have decent pools and breakfast in the morning. Just know that there aren't a lot of options for restaurants nearby.

we've stayed at the Embassy Suites which was reasonably priced with the 2 rooms.

Adventure Aquarium is near

Smith Playground, Please Touch Museum, Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Museum of Art.

You could for sure spend a whole day at the Franklin Institute with kids that age.

The Art Museum is a great indoor space and they have more and more family oriented events. Might not fit your calendar, but worth checking. If youre staying by city hall, find out about the one price bus that loops through all the tourist areas. Easy on / off saves parking. Also, reading terminal market for lunch or brunch. Check schedule for organ and light shows in whatever the department store is now called. Macy’s maybe. Once was Wannamakers. Pa Academy of Fine Art has way cool building in walking distance. Just stick your head in to see it.

We stayed at Loews by the Reading Terminal Market and I think it was good for kids. The pool was small but our kids (ages 5 and 7) played in it for quite a while. The hotel restaurant was kid friendly. Pre-pay for parking with your room.

In Philly-- Franklin Institute is awesome.

All of the history stuff is great.

Williamsburg is another good choice (but more outside time than you may want).

Thank you for your reply! Sounds like it could be perfect for us. Do you have any suggestions as to hotels?

Thank you for your reply! Sounds like it could be perfect for us. Do you have any suggestions as to hotels?

Absolutely do Philadelphia with kids that age, OP. It's a hidden gem of a tourist city. They'll love the Liberty Bell, Constitution Hall, Independence Hall, Rittenburg Square and just walking through the downtown area. Great, great restaurants too.. so many of them are BYOB, which means it's less expensive for a family of four to eat out and the chef concentrates on the food, rather than selling booze.

We have an 11 year old and a 7 year old. They're not huge cold weather fans, which is why I thought a city where there'd be some cool museums and restaurants could be good. I'm more inclined to do Philadelphia then say Richmond but could be persuaded!

How old are the kids? Personally I don’t think cities are that fun for kids. What about Busch Gardens? I think it’s open iver Christmas.

Hi! For the first time in a while we won't be traveling over the holidays. I'd love to take the kids away someplace close for a night or two after Christmas. Would you suggest Philadelphia? I know there are some fun things for kids to do there. If we go, any hotel recs? Or should we try somewhere (other than NYC) else? Thanks!