Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania

Morris Arboretum in Chestnut Hill is one of Philadelphia's most underrated family destinations, and it's particularly good for families who want a mix of outdoor beauty and genuine kid-scale wonder. The 92-acre grounds are the official arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, and while 'arboretum' might sound like a nap, what you actually get is an adventure.

The showstopper for families is Out on a Limb — a suspended tree canopy walk that takes visitors up to 50 feet in the air among the treetops. Kids 5 and up are typically old enough to fully appreciate the experience without being terrified, and it's genuinely memorable. Younger kids who aren't quite ready for the canopy walk are still well served by the grounds: a Victorian-era fernery greenhouse that feels like stepping into a dinosaur movie, a rose garden perfect for toddler meandering, and a reconstructed tree house.

Admission runs approximately $10-15 for adults (check their website for current pricing). Children under 3 are typically free. There's no restaurant, so pack a picnic — the grounds have lovely spots, especially near the swan pond and the formal gardens. A family of 4 should budget $50-65 for admission and bring their own food.

Spring is peak season at Morris Arboretum — the cherry blossoms, flowering trees, and tulip beds from April through May are spectacular and draw larger crowds. Fall foliage is also excellent. Weekday mornings in any season offer the quietest experience.

Free parking is available on site. Chestnut Hill proper is right nearby, with excellent coffee shops and restaurants on Germantown Avenue for a post-arboretum lunch.