10 23 18 proof version

1. Please Touch Museum: 4231 Avenue of the Republic Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131 215-581-3181. I recently visited
this museum for the first time and walked away excitedly anticipating bringing my youngest. The size and
scope of the attractions might overwhelm parents, but kids ages 2-8 will be completely entertained for
hours! From the world of Alice in Wonderland to a Shoprite in “miniature” where kids can buy, ring-up and
bag a plethora of groceries, the Please Touch Museum will please all types of children.
☺ The staff is courteous, helpful, professional and enthusiastic.
☺ There are plenty of clean bathrooms and hand-sanitizing gels to keep the little ones free of germs.
☺ There are a few toddler-designated areas reserved for children ages 3 and under.
☺ Be sure to check out the extensive “water-play” areas. Smocks are available to keep everyone dry.
Parking costs $12 on the lot, but you can park on the street for free.
The museum is huge and easily overwhelming. It might be best to visit over more than one trip.
However, it’s pricy, especially if you are bringing a lot of kids. (Snacks at the café are also pricy).
2. The Insectarium: 8046 Frankford Ave Philadelphia, PA 19136 215-664-8950. Located a mere 15 minutes away,
the Insectarium is a (somewhat gross) gem in Northeast Philly. Personally, I would have preferred to spend a
little less, given that the museum is only 3 floors (including the first floor which houses the gift-shop, dining
room and Butterfly pavilion).
☺ There is a bathroom on each floor and ample opportunity to wash your hands!
☺ There is a cute little climbing area on the second-floor for kids to get their energy out.
☺ Staff is extremely knowledgeable, great with kids, and super-friendly.
☺ There is a small (though unpaved and somewhat bumpy in spots) parking lot next the museum,
but, hey, it’s close-by and free.
☺ There is no elevator, so be forewarned that you will have to walk up a set of (carpeted) steps.
However…
☺ I was able to park my stroller in the lobby, so I wouldn’t have to lug it up the stairs.
* In the summer months, the Butterfly Pavilion is hot, so be sure to bring a refreshing beverage to
quench your thirst!
* Parents, you have been warned: upon entering you walk smack into the gift shop. So, either increase
your spending power, or stay strong.
3. The Franklin Institute: 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 215-448-1200. I haven’t been here recently, so I
can’t give a current “review”, however, there are a TON of fun things to learn while you and your family explore
this state-of-the-art science museum. After taking a peek at their website:
☺ Super fun exhibits, plus an IMAX theatre and Escape Rooms (requiring you to use your wits, levelheaded
thinking and patience to crack codes and solve puzzles — within 60 minutes— in order to leave the
room).
☺ On-site parking is available, but limited. A friend told me that if you want to “make a day of it” one
might park at the nearby Whole Foods, grab some snacks and head over to the museum for the afternoon.
☺ Admission is pricy, but check their web-site for Community Nights (typically held on Wednesdays)
where admission is free to the public from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.
The Frum Ladies Guide to Northeast Philadelphia 22