5 Fun-Filled Places in Pennsylvania To Take Restless Kids (That Parents Will Love, Too)

Restless kids can lead to, well, restless adults. Most of us have likely dealt with kids with boundless energy who, despite having a selection of things to do that rivals any toy store, get bored. We might even be guilty of it ourselves. While boredom breeds creativity, it can also result in crankiness for everyone involved. Fortunately, we have so many fun-filled places in Pennsylvania that it’s easy to curb that restlessness and have a blast doing so.

1. Philadelphia Zoo – Philadelphia

A trip to the zoo in the 21st century is about far more than strolling around and visiting the animals. The Philadelphia Zoo, the first in America, promises a one-of-a-kind adventure with wildlife chats, behind-the-scenes experiences, an Amazon rainforest merry-go-round, and a petting zoo. You can even feed the giraffes for a nominal fee. Treat yourself and the kiddos to a delicious meal or snack at one of the zoo’s dining areas, serving favorites such as tacos, Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, and nachos.

Please note that extra attractions generally require additional fees.

2. Camelback Resort – Tannersville

Camelback Resort is an epic year-round destination that has something for guests of all ages. As the kids zip down waterslides in the water park (Camelback has outdoor and indoor water parks), float along the lazy river, your feet dangling in the cool water. If you’re visiting during the winter, grab a tube, head up the mountain, and zoom down the snow tubing hill. The resort features a full menu of family-friendly fun, including skiing, snowboarding, mini golf, ziplining, and summer tubing. Join the kids for an adrenaline-inducing ride on the mountain coaster, too.

3. Knoebels Amusement Resort – Elysburg

Remember how fun it was to go to our favorite amusement park as a kid? A trip to Kennywood Park near Pittsburgh was one of the highlights of my summer. Knoebels Amusement Resort is a reminder of childhood summer days and, like days gone by, it offers free admission if you want to walk around and maybe even indulge in goodies, like cotton candy and funnel cake, as the kids ride such classics as the bumper cars, Balloon Race, and Giant Wheel. Bring your gear for a swim or zip down the water slides at the Crystal Pool. Although it’s a free admission park, tickets and all-day ride passes are available.

4. Mount Gretna Roller Rink – Lebanon

Introduce the kids to a blast from the past at the Mount Gretna Roller Rink, an old-school skating rink that opens select afternoons and evenings. Colorful lights illuminate the rink as you glide on the wooden floor and, if you don’t feel like skating, sit back and watch the kids while enjoying a bite from the snack bar.

5. Thrillz High Flying Adventure Park – King of Prussia

Whether you want to ride a virtual roller coaster or kick back with a cold drink, Thrillz High Flying Adventure Park is as much fun for adults as it is for kids. Watch as the little ones, 10 and younger, play on the three-floor jungle gym, or join them for a game of laser tag. From trampolines to super-sized slides, the thrill park in King of Prussia is packed with fun activities. See how many tickets you and the kids can win at the arcade and then stop by the prize booth to redeem them.

Did your favorite fun-filled places in Pennsylvania make this list? If not, let us know by nominating them, and we might highlight them in an upcoming article.

Ready for more family-friendly fun? If you don’t have a lot of time but want the kids to burn off some excess energy, go on one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Pennsylvania. Find more options on AllTrails+.

If you have a few days, pile the whole family in the car and set off on a family-friendly road trip in Pennsylvania to such popular destinations as Wolf Sanctuary of PA in Lititz, Idlewild Park & SoakZone in Ligonier, and Coudersport Ice Mine in Coudersport.