Forget the tricks — this fall, Philly is packed with treats for all ages. From glow-in-the-dark underwater pumpkins to goats in costume, here are the can’t-miss fall activities for families happening around the city in 2025.
Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square
Open now for the season until Nov. 1, this popular seasonal favorite at Franklin Square transforms the park’s mini golf course into a Halloween-themed attraction featuring theatrical fog, strobe lights, colored spooky lighting, and festive decorations. While here, visitors can also enjoy the free Franklin Square Fountain Show (which runs every 30 minutes until closing), along with the Parx Liberty Carousel and two playgrounds.
Families can additionally mark down Saturday, Oct. 18 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) to head to Franklin Square for a one-day-only pumpkin patch, or Saturday, Oct. 25 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) for trick-or-treating. Both events are free for children under the age of 10.
200 N 6th St., historicphiladelphia.org
Trick or Treating at the Museum of Illusions
Those looking for some fall family activities in Philadelphia are in luck—from Monday, Oct. 27, through Friday, Oct. 31, kids can get a head start on trick-or-treating during regular museum hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Or, opt to head to the venue anytime throughout the month of October to take part in a Halloween Coloring Contest by bringing an illusion-inspired picture to life. As a release notes, entries will be displayed in the museum, and participants can win a family prize basket filled with fall goodies, a Museum of Illusions gift card, and a selection of puzzles and games from the Smart Shop.
401 Market St., moiphilly.com
Fall Festival at Eastern State
On Sunday, Oct. 26, local families can head to Eastern State to check out a slew of fall activities from 3 to 5 p.m. Fun spans trick-or-treating through the penitentiary while exploring its history and legacy, a special scavenger hunt designed for kids ages 8 to 13 and their caregivers, story time, hands-on activities, art making, live music and more. Kids in costume and their guardians receive free admission with no reservations required.
2027 Fairmount Ave., easternstate.org
GOAToberfest
This isn’t your typical Oktoberfest celebration. On Saturday, Oct. 18, Philly Goat Project will throw its fourth annual GOAToberFest. The event will feature goat art raffles, historic cemetery tours, a goat photobooth, yard games, s’mores by the fire pit, snacks, plus, plenty of time to spend with the Goat Project’s 13 beloved goats.
As a release notes, attendees will also be the first to see and purchase the signature 2026 Goat Calendar, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the country. The calendar features the goats at the Museum of the American Revolution, with the Hamilton cast, on the Sixers’ refurbished community basketball court with their mascot, Franklin, and many more landmark spots. Costumes (either Oktoberfest or Halloween) are welcome, and tickets ($75) are available online.
Laurel Hill West Conservatory, 215 Belmont Avenue, Bala Cynwyd, phillygoatproject.org
Tricks & Treats at Dorney Park
Dorney Park is hosting a new family-friendly activation this season, running every Saturday and Sunday at the venue until Nov. 2. Dubbed Tricks & Treats, this experience boasts two new interactive candy stops, a relocated pumpkin-decorating station, and expanded treat sponsors including Mars, Popcornopolis, and Takis. Tickets (prices vary) are available online.
Fintastic Pumpkin Glow Festival at the CAA
The Camden Adventure Aquarium recently announced the return of the Fintastic Pumpkin Glow Festival, set to take over the venue through Nov. 2. As a release notes, during these fall festivities, guests can discover a collection of glowing gourds in every shape, size, and species shining above the surface or illuminating the depths among sharks, stingrays, and other unique aquatic life.
Highlights span a 10-foot underwater octopus, a lively under-water glowing frog, and as a special add-on, guests can pay to paint and take home their own pumpkin masterpiece. The Aquarium’s gift shop will also be selling various pumpkin-themed souvenirs for the occasion. Tickets start around $30, more information can be found online.
1 Riverside Drive, Camden, New Jersey, adventureaquarium.com
Trick-or-Treat Around the Town Center at King of Prussia Town Center
Pumpkin Patch Express
Dates are set for Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26 with departure times at 10 and 11:30 a.m., plus 1 and 2:30 p.m. Prices begin at $28 for adults and $22 for children under 12 years of age. Reservations are strongly recommended.
421 Meadow Street Rockhill Furnace, eastbroadtop.com
