Our Day at the Please Touch Museum: A Toddler Wonderland Worth the Drive

A few weeks ago, we packed up the car, grabbed enough snacks to feed a small village, and made the two-hour drive to Philadelphia to visit the Please Touch Museum. And let me tell you… it was so worth it. If you’ve ever wondered whether this iconic children’s museum lives up to the hype, I’m here to say: yes. Absolutely. Go. Your toddler will thank you (in their own chaotic, adorable way).

Designed for kids ages 1–7, the museum is two full floors of hands-on fun where little ones are encouraged to explore, imagine, experiment, and follow their curiosity. Their mission is all about empowering children to discover the power of learning through play — and you can truly feel that in every space.

✨ Exhibits My Toddler Loved

Our almost 2.5-year-old was in full sensory-overload-in-the-best-way mode from the moment we walked in. Some of his absolute favorites were Cents and Sensibility, where he “bought” groceries like a tiny accountant-in-training, and the Food & Family area, which quickly became his personal restaurant. Fairytale Garden was a calm and magical spot when he needed a breather — soft lighting, whimsical props, basically toddler zen.

He adored Front Step, a cozy pretend-play neighborhood where he bounced between dress-up and “living” in every little house. The Roadside Attractions exhibit was another hit: steering wheels, pretend gas pumps, and tiny cars he took very seriously.

Then there was River Adventures, which is essentially the Olympics of water play. We absolutely did not come prepared, and let’s just say we left the exhibit with one soaking toddler and a brand new outfit from the gift shop. So if you go… pack. extra. clothes. Learn from us.

Wonderland was a bright, immersive maze of surprises inspired by Alice in Wonderland — he ran around with the kind of wide-eyed wonder that makes the whole drive worth it. And of course, the Independence Blue Cross Carousel House was the star of the show. We rode it, and now he firmly believes every museum should have a carousel. Honestly… same.

🎟️ Tickets & Memberships

You can buy single-day tickets, or if you're somewhat local and see yourself coming back, a membership can save money. After watching our toddler thrive here, I totally understand why families go often.

👶 Is It Worth It for Toddlers?

A million times yes. The Please Touch Museum is designed with toddlers and young kids in mind — everything is at their level, literally and developmentally. Our 2.5-year-old engaged with every space, and we never once felt like he was too young for anything.

🚗 Final Thoughts: 10/10, Worth the Drive

If you're looking for a day trip where your toddler can play freely, explore safely, and learn without even realizing it, this is the spot. The Please Touch Museum is one of those rare places where you can actually watch curiosity ignite and imagination take over.

We loved it, he loved it, and yes… we’d absolutely make the two-hour drive again. 💛