As the autumn season unfolds, Philadelphia is gearing up for a plethora of family-friendly activities that promise to delight visitors of all ages. From glow-in-the-dark pumpkins to festive trick-or-treating, there is no shortage of exciting experiences to look forward to this fall.
One of the highlights of the season is the Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square. Open now through November 1, this Halloween-themed attraction transforms the park’s mini golf course into a ghostly adventure. Visitors can enjoy theatrical fog, strobe lights, and colorful spooky decorations as they navigate the course. Beyond mini golf, guests can relish the captivating Franklin Square Fountain Show that runs every half hour until closing, along with the Parx Liberty Carousel and two playgrounds for the little ones.
Mark your calendars for October 18, when Franklin Square will host a one-day pumpkin patch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and again for October 25 when kids can experience trick-or-treating during the same time. Best of all, these events are free for children under 10.
For those seeking a unique twist on traditional Halloween festivities, the Museum of Illusions offers a special trick-or-treating experience from October 27 to October 31, during regular hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Additionally, throughout October, kids can partake in a Halloween Coloring Contest by bringing their illusion-inspired pictures to life. This competition allows participants to display their artistic talents in the museum, with the chance to win a family prize basket filled with seasonal goodies, a gift card for the Museum of Illusions, and an array of puzzles and games from the Smart Shop.
On October 26, families can head to Eastern State Penitentiary for the Fall Festival, running from 3 to 5 p.m. This event features a wide array of activities including trick-or-treating within the historic penitentiary, a scavenger hunt tailored for kids aged 8 to 13, engaging story time, hands-on activities, and live music. Children dressed in costumes, along with their guardians, will be granted free admission without needing reservations.
For animal lovers, GOAToberfest at the Philly Goat Project is a must-visit event set for October 18. This quirky Oktoberfest celebration features goat art raffles, tours of historic cemeteries, a goat photo booth, yard games, s’mores by the fire, and, of course, plenty of opportunities to bond with the Goat Project’s beloved goats. The event will also debut the 2026 Goat Calendar, showcasing these charming animals at various iconic Philadelphia locations. Costumes are encouraged, with tickets available for $75 online.
Families looking for seasonal fun can experience the Tricks & Treats at Dorney Park, an interactive family-friendly activation running every weekend until November 2. This new experience features interactive candy stations, a pumpkin-decorating area, and treats from sponsors such as Mars and Popcornopolis. Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online for a day filled with adventure and sweet surprises.
The Camden Adventure Aquarium’s Fintastic Pumpkin Glow Festival, running through November 2, offers a magical underwater experience. Visitors can marvel at a stunning display of glowing pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, illuminating the aquarium’s currents alongside fascinating marine life like sharks and stingrays. Highlights include a 10-foot underwater octopus and a vibrant underwater glowing frog. Guests can also participate in a pumpkin painting activity, taking home their own creations. Tickets start at around $30, with additional details available online.
On October 27, join the sixth annual Trick-or-Treat Around the Town Center event from 5 to 7 p.m. in King of Prussia. This free community celebration invites families and friends to explore the town center where participating shops and restaurants will hand out treats. Attendees can enjoy games and activities in the green space, dance to music provided by a DJ, and capture moments at festive photo spots throughout the venue.
Lastly, get ready for the Pumpkin Patch Express, a scenic adventure set to run on dates including October 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, and 26. Families will board a vintage steam train for a picturesque 60-minute, nine-mile round-trip ride through the Aughwick Valley, culminating in 90 minutes at a sprawling pumpkin patch. Along the way, travelers can participate in a variety of fun activities, including a costume contest, hay bale wagon rides, mini-golf, and gem mining. Tickets start at $28 for adults and $22 for children under 12, with advanced reservations strongly recommended.
With an abundance of options this fall, families in Philadelphia are sure to find thrilling activities that satisfy every member of the family. Whether navigating a haunted mini golf course, diving into underwater pumpkin displays, or enjoying festive events at local attractions, the city is alive with seasonal festivities waiting to be explored.
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