The Nitty Gritty
Return to The Ardent Credit Union Blog Home
/ Posted in Kids. See all posts in Kids

Affordable and Fun Staycation Ideas

Are you looking to save more this year, but don’t want to miss out on summer fun? A “staycation” might be exactly what you’re looking for! A “staycation” can be a cost-effective way to enjoy your summer experience when your vacation savings are tight, or your time off is limited.

Luckily, if you live in the Philadelphia region, staying home doesn’t have to be boring. Here are some of our favorite ways to take advantage of all that Philadelphia has to offer this summer:
 

Museums
Fascinating for both children and adults, museums offer fun, interactive displays on a variety of topics, including science, aerospace, glass, history, mineral, music and many others. Museums are also a great way to spend a rainy day!

  • The Franklin Institute – Free admission starting at 5PM on August 19. Don’t miss the MARVEL: Universe of Superheroes’ exhibit before it’s over on September 2.
  • Wawa Welcome America: Free Museum Night – Free admission to the Eastern State Penitentiary’s Night Tours: Summer Twilight, Monday July 3, from 6-10:00PM.
  • The Mummers Museum – $5 admission, view original Mummers costumes from all five divisions, learn the Mummers Strut and create your own medley.
  • Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History – Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Visit Thursday-Sunday 10AM-5PM.
  • American Philosophical Society Museum – Free admission, a $2 donation is appreciated, the current exhibit Mapping a Nation: Shaping the Early American Republic includes journals from the Lewis and Clark Expedition and George Washington’s copy of the 1792 map of Washington D.C.
  • Pizza Brain – Guinness World Records certified largest collection of pizza memorabilia housed in a Fishtown pizza shop.
  • Fireman’s Hall – Free admission, view antique firetrucks, 9/11 tribute, and interactive displays.
     

Art Galleries and Museums
Often overlooked, local art galleries and museums can be a great source of learning and entertainment for families. In addition to displaying the paintings, sculptures and other art forms of both historic and contemporary artists, many galleries offer classes, films and educational programs for children and adults.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art

  • Free to local art students and children under 12
  • Pay as You Wish Days - first Sunday of every month from 10AM-5PM and every Friday from 5PM-8:45PM.
  • While you’re here stop by the “Rocky Steps” and Rocky Balboa Statue

The Barnes Foundation

  • Children 12 and under are free.
  • Free admission on the first Sunday of every month from 10AM-5PM
  • Admire the famous works of Renoir, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso

The Rodin Museum & Garden

  • Daily “Pay What You Wish” ($12 suggested for adults, 7$ for students, free under 18)
  • For $25, get two-day admission to both the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum & Garden!
  • Free entry to Garden area year round
  • Home to one of the largest collections of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures outside of Paris

Rittenhouse Square Fine Art Show

  • September 15-17, 2023
  • Friday & Saturday 11AM-6PM, Sunday 11AM-5PM
  • Free admission
     

Family-Friendly Activities
Here’s your guide to some of the best affordable “day-cations” that Philadelphia has to offer for the entire family.

Historic Attractions
Considered to be the birthplace of America, Philadelphia has many places of historic significance to explore.

  • Liberty Bell Center – Free admission to see the bell itself and related videos and exhibits.
  • U.S Mint – Free tours focusing on the story behind U.S. coins.
  • Independence Hall – Free tickets to this UNESCO World Heritage Site distributed at the Independence Visitor Center daily on a first come, first serve basis (Reserve tickets include a $1 fee.)
  • Philadelphia: In-App Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour – History comes to life in this completely self-guided walking tour of Philadelphia for $7.99 per person.
  • Elfreth’s Alley – Stroll down the nation’s oldest residential street.
  • National Constitution Center – Expand your knowledge of nation’s Constitution with tickets ranging from $11-$14.50.
  • Museum of the American Revolution – Explore all facets of the war for American independence; individual ticket prices vary, but a family four pack is available for $55.
     

Amusement Parks
Take a day trip outside of the city to enjoy rides and shows.

Over 21 Fun
Who says you need kids to enjoy a “stay-cation”? Or maybe you’re a parent looking for some fun outside of the house; either way, here are some of the best 21+ deals in Philadelphia this summer.

  • Center City ‘Sips’ – Every Wednesday June 7 until August 30 from 5PM-7PM. Participating restaurants and bars will offer 7$ cocktails, 6$ wine, 5$ beer, and half-priced apps!
  • Parks on Tap – Pop-up bars at various Philadelphia parks until September 29
  • Philadelphia Brewing Company Tours – Free tours and tastings only on Saturdays from noon-3PM
  • Center City Fit – Free every Monday & Tuesday until August 29 from 6PM-6:45PM


Of course, before heading to any of these attractions be sure to check the related website for details to be sure you have the latest information. Now go enjoy your (affordable) summer!