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Media, PA is a gem of a town in Delaware County, just a few miles outside of Philadelphia. Known for its beautiful parks and for being the first fair trade town in the United States, Media, PA is a unique destination for families looking for a fun day trip. Many of the best restaurants in Media serve fair trade coffee, a real winner for parents who need a little caffeine to power through a day at a playground, state park, or u-pick paradise.
Looking for a new playground or one that's close to home? Check out our Guide to Playgrounds & Parks in the Philly Area.
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Linvilla Orchards get decked out for the holidays. Photo by R. Kennedy
Best Outdoor Adventures in Media, PA for Families
1. Linvilla Orchards
An outdoor wonderland all year round, Linvilla is one of the best orchards and u-pick destinations in the Philadelphia area. But the fun doesn’t stop there: other activities include barnyard animals, hayrides, festivals, face painting, train rides and pony rides.
2. Tyler Arboretum
There’s always plenty to explore at this outdoor park, where kids will clamor for the treehouses, which are usually open April through November. The Crooked Goblin Shack, Hobbit Hollow, ponds, seasonal gardens, trails of varying lengths, and other cool places make Tyler Arboretum a fun destination for kids of all ages. Be sure to check out special programs that are offered throughout the year.
3. Ridley Creek State Park
This sprawling park is home to thirteen miles of hiking trails that are broken up across the park, with some trails being easier than others. There are playgrounds and picnic tables at many of the parking lots, making it easy to make a day of exploring one of Pennsylvania’s local state parks. Colonial Pennsylvania Farmstead helps show visitors what it was like to farm in the 19th century. Plus horse lovers can check out Horseback Riding at Hidden Valley Farm, which makes its home in the park.
4. Glen Providence Park
This pint-sized park is the oldest in Delaware County, and it’s a quiet space tucked into a corner of Media that’s otherwise bustling and busy. Short hiking trails along a little creek are very accessible for little legs, and in snowy weather there’s an epic sledding hill.
5. Hildacy Preserve
The Hildacy Preserve is the perfect place to take your little nature lover, as it’s a paradise for birds, bugs, and other wildlife that can be seen throughout the 55-acre park.
At Rose Tree Park, the playground is only the start of destination-worthy fun.
RELATED: Play all day at these great playgrounds for toddlers in Philadelphia
Best Playgrounds in Media, PA
6. Rose Tree County Park
This 118-acre park features a new epic, inclusive playground, plus trails, picnic tables, and more. The playground is the real draw for families with kids, and features swings, a spinning zone, monkey bars, and a climbing tower, plus plenty of fun options for kids who have extra mobility needs.
7. Media Tot Lot
This is a great low-key play space for toddlers and younger kids with great features to climb, swing, bounce, twirl and run around all year round.
Best Indoor Fun in Media, PA for Families
8. Painting with a Twist
Painting with a parent can be great bonding for older kids. Some of Painting with a Twist’s classes have age limits, and most classes and events are by reservation only, so it’s best to check out their website first.
9. Game On State
This super cool vintage arcade features pinball, arcade games, Wii sports, plus more than 300 kinds of candy!
Best Restaurants in Media, PA for Families
10. Pinocchio’s
Pinocchio’s is perhaps the oldest pizza place in Delaware County, and kids get a dough ball to play with while they wait for their food!
11. Scooped Ice Cream and Gelato
This ice cream shop sells homemade ice cream and gelato–plus vinyl records!
12. Bittersweet Kitchen
Bittersweet is one of the best family friendly restaurants in Media because they do it all–breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, burgers, plus gluten free and vegan options!
13. Tap 24
With 24 beers on tap, happy hour specials, and a kids menu, you can't go wrong at Tap 24.
14. Off the Rail
Off the Rail has a kids menu that features something for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they have lots of delicious sandwiches and drinks for the adults.
There are so many great restaurants on State Street and throughout Media, that we couldn't list them all. In summer months, don't miss Dining Under the Stars, where State Street is closed off for restaurant seating.