Get ready for a fun-filled end of February in Philadelphia! This weekend (Feb 28th & Mar 1st) we have some fantastic indoor options like the Dinosaur Discovery Day and the Winter Craft Fair, plus some awesome science fun at the Franklin Institute.
See our top picks
Winter Craft Fair & Market
Germantown Community Center
Free entry with a dedicated crafting corner for kids on Sunday.
Kids Film Matinee: The Great Migration Story
Free Library of Philadelphia - Main Branch
A free, indoor movie screening perfect for hiding out from the weather on Saturday.
Franklin Institute: Science Story Time
The Franklin Institute
A short, perfectly paced science story session designed just for preschoolers on Sunday morning.
· February 28
6DINOSAUR DISCOVERY DAY : Little paleontologists will love getting hands-on with real fossils and learning about ancient creatures. They often have special digging stations set up just for kids.A specific one-day interactive event focused on natural history that is perfect for museum-loving kids.
PHILLY ZOO: TROPICAL DAY EXPLORATION : While parts of the zoo might be chilly, this special day focuses on their indoor habitats like the Reptile House and the aviary—perfect for a late-winter animal outing.It's a clever way to enjoy the zoo when the weather is still iffy by focusing on their heated indoor exhibits.
POP-UP PLAY ZONE AT THE RAIL PARKFREE : This pop-up features simple, creative building materials and games set up on the elevated park space. Dress warm, but enjoy the unique urban views!It's a lesser-known, free activation on the unique elevated park structure happening this specific Saturday.
ART & STORYTIME AT THE PHILADELPHIA MUSEUM OF ART : They read a featured picture book in the galleries and then lead a simple art activity inspired by the reading. It’s a wonderful way to engage with high art for little ones.It’s the museum’s dedicated early-age programming happening specifically on Saturday morning.
KIDS FILM MATINEE: THE GREAT MIGRATION STORYFREE : The library is hosting a screening of an age-appropriate documentary or animated feature focused on historical themes. A perfect, totally free Saturday afternoon plan.It’s a specific, scheduled, and free viewing event taking place indoors this Saturday.
SCIENCE SATURDAY AT THE WORKSHOP OF THE WONDERSFREE : This spot offers drop-in, hands-on physics and engineering demonstrations that are way cooler than what you do at home. Great for older elementary and middle schoolers.It’s a truly unique, science-focused Saturday event often overlooked by parents in Center City.
· March 1
3FRANKLIN INSTITUTE: SCIENCE STORY TIME : A quick, engaging story session tailored for preschoolers that ties into current museum exhibits. A great way to introduce younger kids to big science concepts.This specific timed session is ideal for toddlers who can’t handle a full museum day yet.
ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES: FOSSIL FUN WORKSHOP : Kids get to make their own plaster casts of dinosaur tracks, which is a great sensory and educational activity. Book your spot early as these workshops fill up fast!This is a specific, dedicated workshop session on Sunday, offering a hands-on alternative to just viewing exhibits.
INDOOR PLAY ZONE AT SMITH MEMORIAL PLAYGROUNDFREE : If the outdoor playground is too muddy, Smith opens its massive indoor structure for free play. It’s legendary for a reason—kids burn tons of energy here.This is a local treasure running all day Sunday, offering great physical activity when outdoor options are limited.
Also On· anytime this weekend
3FREE : Escape the late winter chill by browsing local artisan crafts. They usually have a designated children’s crafting corner where kids can make a quick souvenir.It’s a fantastic, free indoor option on Sunday that supports local makers and keeps little hands busy.
: A special session with thousands of bricks set up on low tables, perfect for younger builders who struggle with the huge sets usually found elsewhere. Definitely worth the drive if you are up north!Specific time slot dedicated to building blocks this Saturday morning in the Northeast section.
: This tour focuses on the funky history of South Street using kid-friendly language and stopping for fun photo ops. Bundle up—it's March!A structured, historical walking tour scheduled for Sunday morning, making the most of a potentially crisp day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Philadelphia this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 28-01) there are 4 free events: the Winter Craft Fair & Market in Germantown (Sunday), the Pop-Up Play Zone at The Rail Park (Saturday), the Kids Film Matinee at the Free Library (Saturday), and Science Saturday at the Workshop of the Wonders (Saturday).
Where can my toddler go this weekend?
For younger kids, check out the Franklin Institute: Science Story Time on Sunday morning or the LEGO Building Block Bonanza on Saturday morning in Northeast Philly.
What's a good indoor activity if it rains Saturday?
The Kids Film Matinee at the Free Library of Philadelphia is a fantastic, free, guaranteed indoor option for the afternoon on Saturday.
