9 Fun Places in South Central Pennsylvania to Take Your Toddler to Play

We’ve all been there, we get into a routine of doing the same things with our kids. I love taking my two toddlers to new places to play. I’m constantly asking friends or moms groups for ideas on places to take my kids to play.

I did all the leg work for you and I put together a list of 9 fun places to take your kids! Some of these would be perfect for those rainy days where your cooped up inside all day. All of the locations are linked for you.

Here are nine fun places in south central Pennsylvania where you can take your toddler to play:

1. Where the Wild Things Play: Located in Hummelstown, PA, children and their caregivers can explore our seven play vignettes, large indoor play structure with two turbo slides, our STEM screen and “toddler zone.” With comfortable cafe seating, caregivers can enjoy hands-on play with their “littles” or enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend.
2. Lake Tobias Wild Life Park: Located in Halifax, PA, encounter the exotic as you roam among the many wildlife habitats to see giraffes, tigers, zebras, baboons, ostriches, gibbons, kangaroos, lions, and much more. Then, ride a Safari Tour and make memories as you hand-feed wildlife such as bison, water buffalo, yak, eland, and watusi strolling right next to you. Plus, kid’s love the hands-on experiences at the Baby Animal Exhibits, Reptiles and Exotics, and the Petting Zoo. 
3. Paulus Farm: This is a personal go-to place for me and my kids! Located in Mechanicsburg, PA, Kids feed and pet the animals, explore the Tubes, Tires and Tunnels and the unique swings. The Pizza Garden and Children’s Gardens are sure to delight as they grow during the warmer months of the year. Giant Sand Pit, Dirt Diner, or Wooden Tractor and let your imagination run wild!
4. Curiosity Connection State Museum of Pennsylvania: Situated in Harrisburg, PA, the Curiosity Connection at the State Museum of Pennsylvania is a perfect place for your toddler to explore and learn through hands-on exhibits. They can engage in interactive play and discover various educational activities. 
5. The Spot 4 Children’s Fitness: Located in Linglestown, PA, The Spot 4 Children’s Fitness provides a safe, fun and positive atmosphere for children to learn through open ended play and social interaction.  Drop in for scheduled Open Play sessions, or get together with a group of friends and customize your own private group play!
6. My GYM: Located in Mechanicsburg, PA, my Gym offers an environment that empowers youngsters by helping them acquire the skills, confidence, and positive self-image needed to become healthy young adults. My Gym’s main objectives in creating our programs are to ensure that our ingredients are safe, age-approprate, and optimal for building self-esteem. 
7. The Hands-on House Children’s Museum: Located in Lancaster, this museum offers interactive exhibits and activities for children to engage in imaginative play, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. Toddlers can enjoy playing in the “Water Works” area, exploring a mini farm, creating artwork, and building with blocks. This museum encourages creativity, curiosity, and social interaction.
8. Fredricksen Library: Located in Camp Hill, PA Ive enjoyed taking my kids to story time and playing with all the fun toys on the lower level. A lap-sit storytime for our youngest patrons featuring developmentally appropriate books, songs, rhymes and movement, followed by open play time. For ages newborn to 24 months with caregiver. Held in the library lower level on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 am.
9. Sesame Place®: Situated in Philadelphia and the Countryside, Sesame Place® is a theme park based on the popular children’s TV show Sesame Street. It features interactive attractions, water slides, and live character shows that will surely delight your toddler.