Please Touch Museum
A vibrant, hands-on children's museum in historic Memorial Hall, encouraging exploration and play for ages 3-12.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Please Touch Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, hands-on children's museum in historic Memorial Hall, encouraging exploration and play for ages 3-12.
"The best kids museum we have ever been to! So much for kids to do, it's almost overwhelming in the best way."
🎯 Register for $2 Days
Book online in advance for $2 admission days to secure your spot!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Play Grocery Store
Kids can shop, scan items, and load carts with pretend food. A truly immersive experience!
Alice in Wonderland Maze
Get lost in a whimsical maze inspired by the classic tale. Perfect for imaginative play.
Carousel Ride
A beloved highlight for many, offering a classic and fun experience for all ages.
Outdoor Play Area
Explore a yard with toy lawn mowers, wagons, and a creek. A great spot for active fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Free Days
Parking & Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Register for $2 Days
Book online in advance for $2 admission days to secure your spot!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so wear comfy shoes!
📱 Download Museum App
Check for any special events or exhibit updates before you go.
🚗 Parking Fee
Museum parking costs $16. Consider alternatives if budget is a concern.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Register for $2 Days
Book online in advance for $2 admission days to secure your spot!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so wear comfy shoes!
📱 Download Museum App
Check for any special events or exhibit updates before you go.
🚗 Parking Fee
Museum parking costs $16. Consider alternatives if budget is a concern.
👶 Toddler-Friendly Zones
Great for all ages, with dedicated areas for infants and toddlers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Please Touch Museum for its incredibly engaging and interactive exhibits that delight children of all ages. The hands-on approach and variety of activities, from the grocery store to the carousel, create a memorable experience. While some note that maintenance could be improved on certain exhibits and the cafe is a bit pricey, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a 'must-visit' for families in Philadelphia.
"My daughter had an absolute blast here! There’s so much for kids to do, it’s almost overwhelming in the best way. The place has two full floors of fun. The bottom floor is packed with activities: staff members read books to the kids, there’s a dedicated arts and crafts room, and tons of toys, from giant building blocks to a playhouse with a kitchen, plus a yard complete with a toy lawn mower and a wagon to push around.
One of the biggest highlights is their giant play grocery store where kids can load up their carts with pretend food and even scan the items at the register. It’s adorable!
They also have a cafeteria. While the menu is a bit limited and prices are on the higher side, it’s about what you’d expect for a place like this. (Pizza, French fries, burgers, snacks, kids menu)
The best part came at the end of the day. All the staff gathered the remaining kids and parents for a big parade march from the bottom floor to the top, followed by a dance party for all the kids before everyone headed home. It was such a fun, memorable experience!"
J R
"The Please Touch Museum is a fantastic place to spend quality time with your kids. It offers a variety of sensory activities that keep little ones engaged and entertained. Our kids stayed happily occupied throughout the visit. The museum features several themed sections where children can explore and enjoy their favorite activities. The carousel ride was a highlight and added an extra dose of fun. Highly recommended!"
Nurjahan Hadi (Rupa)
"Best part of Philly. My kid and us had the best time and spent 4 hours exploring everything. Absolutely must visit for all parents and definitely visit the souvenir shop. It’s so cute and had the best gifts in very reasonable prices. The place is comfortable and just the right size for a day out. Not filled with meaningless displays like lots of other kid friendly museums. Fantastic experience 10/10. Kudos to the imagination of the creators and the funding committee. The result is brilliant."
Tasfia Mahbub
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Please Touch Museum is located in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. You can drive and use their parking facilities, or opt for public transportation like SEPTA buses or the regional rail. Ride-sharing services are also a convenient option.
The museum offers on-site parking for a fee, typically around $16. It's recommended to prepay for parking to ensure a spot, especially on busy days.
Yes, several SEPTA bus routes stop near the museum. Check the SEPTA website for the most current routes and schedules.
Yes, ride-sharing services and taxis can drop you off directly at the museum entrance. This can be a good alternative to parking.
For families with young children, driving and using the museum's parking or using a ride-sharing service is often the most convenient to minimize walking with little ones.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $22 per person, but look out for special $2 admission days on select Wednesdays throughout the year. It's crucial to register online in advance for these popular dates.
Yes, the museum offers $2 admission on specific Wednesdays throughout the year, but these require advance online registration. Check their website for the latest schedule.
It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially for $2 admission days, as they often sell out. For regular admission, booking online can save time.
Hours can vary, but typically the museum is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. It's always best to check the official Please Touch Museum website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
While not always free, the museum offers $2 admission on select Wednesdays, which is a significant discount. Keep an eye on their website for these special dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Giant Play Grocery Store, the Alice in Wonderland Maze, and the Carousel. The outdoor play area and the dedicated toddler zones are also big hits.
Absolutely! The Please Touch Museum has dedicated areas specifically designed for infants and toddlers, making it a fantastic experience for even the youngest visitors.
Older children can enjoy the interactive exhibits like the pretend bus driving, the rocket room, and the various role-playing areas, including the grocery store and pizzeria.
Yes, the Please Touch Museum features a beautiful carousel that is a highlight for many visitors, offering a fun ride for children and adults alike.
Contrary to its name, the Please Touch Museum encourages interaction! The core philosophy is 'hands-on learning,' so touching is not only allowed but expected and celebrated.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has an on-site cafeteria that offers a selection of kid-friendly options like pizza, burgers, fries, and snacks.
The cafe menu is somewhat limited and can be on the pricier side, but it includes typical kid-pleasing items and a kids' menu.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check the museum's policy on outside food. Many museums allow small snacks or baby food.
Yes, there are various dining options in the surrounding Fairmount Park area and nearby neighborhoods if you prefer to eat outside the museum.
Prices at the cafeteria are considered on the higher side, which is common for attractions of this nature.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that might disrupt exhibits or children.
While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or filming may require special permission. It's best to check with the museum staff if you plan extensive photo shoots.
The Alice in Wonderland Maze, the Carousel, and the vibrant grocery store exhibit offer great photo opportunities. The grand architecture of Memorial Hall itself is also picturesque.
Similar to photos, personal video recording is typically permitted. Be considerate of others and avoid blocking pathways or exhibits.
The interactive exhibits, especially the grocery store and the whimsical Alice in Wonderland setup, provide colorful and engaging backdrops for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Parents will appreciate the thoughtful design that caters to different age groups, ensuring that both infants and older children remain engaged. The on-site cafe offers convenience, though it can be a bit pricey. The end-of-day parade and dance party are often cited as a magical way to conclude a visit, leaving lasting memories for the whole family.
💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
+1While the museum parking has a fee, consider using public transportation or ride-sharing to save on costs. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help manage expenses, although the on-site cafe is available for convenience. Look out for potential discounts through memberships or special promotions if you plan to visit multiple times.
💖 Couples and Date Activities
Consider visiting during a less crowded weekday morning to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The carousel ride and the charming gift shop offer opportunities for shared moments. It's a departure from typical date spots and can lead to some memorable and fun interactions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing the 'Please Touch' Philosophy
From the moment you step inside, the museum is designed to spark curiosity. Exhibits are built to be robust and engaging, inviting children to touch, feel, and manipulate. This philosophy is particularly beneficial for younger children who learn best through sensory input. It fosters a sense of wonder and empowers kids to be active participants in their learning journey.
Exploring the Exhibits: A World of Play
Beyond these iconic attractions, the museum features a pretend pizzeria, a rocket room, and areas dedicated to arts and crafts. There are also specific zones designed for infants and toddlers, ensuring that even the youngest visitors have engaging activities. The variety ensures that children of different ages can find something they love, making it a great destination for families with mixed-age groups.
+1The Grand Architecture of Memorial Hall
Walking through Memorial Hall feels like stepping back in time, offering a unique contrast to the modern, interactive exhibits within. The sheer scale and beauty of the building contribute to the memorable atmosphere of the museum. It’s a place where history and childhood imagination beautifully intertwine, making the visit special for both children and adults.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit