There’s something magical about October in Philly - the air is crisp, leaves are changing, and the city is buzzing with spooky fun and fall vibes. If you’re looking for family-friendly ways to enjoy the season, we’ve rounded up the best activities happening in and around Philadelphia. From mini golf to pumpkin carving, here are our top picks for October adventures with kids.
Franklin Square’s mini golf course gets a spooky makeover in October, complete with fog, glowing decorations, and ghostly surprises.
Cost: $15 adults / $12 kids
Best For: Families with kids of all ages
Tip: Evenings are best for full spooky vibes - bring a jacket!
Carve pumpkins with a waterfront view at Morgan’s Pier. For just a few dollars, you’ll get a carving kit and a pumpkin to design.
Cost: Around $5 for carving kits
Best For: Families looking for a low-cost, festive outing
Tip: Go earlier in the evening before the crowds roll in.
Take a walk through one of Philly’s most haunted and historic prisons with an immersive audio guide. It’s equal parts spooky and educational.
Cost: $21/adults $17/kids - 6 and under free
Best For: Older kids and tweens who love history with a spooky twist
Tip: Arrive early or late to avoid crowds.
Located in Bucks County, Hellerick’s is full of classic fall fun - corn mazes, hayrides, petting zoos, and more.
Cost: Weekdays $15.99 pp | Weekends $19.99 pp
Best For: All ages, especially little ones
Tip: Pack a picnic and wear comfy shoes for a full day outdoors.
See pumpkins like never before - underwater! The Adventure Aquarium hosts glowing pumpkin displays, aquatic jack-o’-lanterns, and plenty of festive fun.
Cost: Add-on to regular aquarium admission
Best For: Kids who love animals and unique experiences
Tip: Pair your visit with a walk along the Camden waterfront.
Step into Philly’s haunted history with a candlelit ghost tour. Guides share spooky legends while you explore cobblestone streets and historic sites.
Cost: Ticketed - $26/adults, $17/kids
Best For: Older kids and teens
Tip: Dress warmly, bring a flashlight, and book tickets ahead.
Read about the family-friendly tour we did earlier this year!
For a quieter fall day, head to your local library and borrow fall- or Halloween-themed books. Combine the trip with a walk, hot cocoa, or lunch nearby. Even check out a family storytime!
Cost: Free (unless you rack up late fees!)
Best For: Toddlers through school-aged kids
Tip: Create a little tradition - each child picks one fall book to read together.
Sometimes the best fall adventures happen at home. Decorate with pumpkins, string lights, and spooky crafts, then host a backyard or living room movie night with s’mores and hot chocolate.
Cost: Minimal - just snacks and supplies
Best For: Families who love cozy traditions
Tip: Record the transformation - it makes fun content and memories.
Pop-up fall festivals across the city
Pick-your-own pumpkin patches just outside Philly
Seasonal exhibits like Philly Magic Gardens
Neighborhood block parties and trick-or-treat events
Best Times: Weekdays or early mornings to beat crowds
What to Pack: Layers, water, snacks, and a camera
Outfits: Matching tees, cozy jackets, and comfy shoes
Content Ideas: “Mom + Me” outfit photos, night shots with twinkle lights, POV walking videos
October is hands-down one of the best months to explore Philly with your kids. Whether you’re carving pumpkins by the river, wandering through a ghost tour, or cozying up for a movie night at home, these adventures are guaranteed to make memories.
✨ Dress the part with our Philly-inspired fall tees here, and don’t forget to share your October adventures with us - we love seeing how Philly families celebrate the season!
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Celebrate Red October with your kids at the Free Library! On October 4th, Walnut Street West Library is hosting a free Phillies Pep Rally with crafts, snacks, and baseball fun for families.
Looking for free family activities in Philadelphia? Here’s a roundup of museums that offer free admission days each month, from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to hidden gems like the American Swedish Historical Museum.
Philly moms - don’t miss PECO Family Jams: Eggshell Mosaics on October 12th! Kids can paint, smash, and create their own mosaics at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, with family activities included in admission.
Amber Bowie
Author