Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Philadelphia, PA

We've had some lovely spring-like temperatures this week, and it looks like we have more coming up this weekend (hey, I don't know about you, but 50 degrees looks AWESOME to me after this long and dreary winter!). But there is one tricky issue; it is MUDDY out there as snow thaws and spring rains begin encouraging those early flowers. So where can you go to enjoy the nice weather (and the new longer day -- man, I am LOVING the new early Daylight Savings Time change)? Here are my favorite spots to stroll and explore without having to ruin your favorite sneakers.

1. Kelly Drive and West River Drive. Both of these lovely roads have ample parking areas and expansive paved trails running long both sides of the Schuykill River from the Art Museum out to East Falls. The whole route round-trip comes in at just about eight miles, so it makes for a lovely bike ride as well. They used to close West River Drive on the weekends to cars entirely but apparently that is up for debate this year; it's too bad. It was a great safe spot to teach children to bike in the city.

2. Valley Forge National Park. This amazing park has miles and miles of paved trails roaming through gently rising and falling hills. Many of these trails have no tree cover so they are nice and sunny, perfect for this kind of in-between-season weather; even if it's a bit cool out you can still stay toasty if it's sunny. Another great place to bike as well, plus you get the American history lessons as a bonus!

3. Ridley Creek State Park. This lovely park in Delaware County features a lovely five-mile paved trail that loops throughout the park. For a challenge go up the "hill of doom" from the creek and you will feel the burn, I promise. On the flip side, that same hill makes for a blast of speed when you are on a bike! 

4. Pennypack Park. This charming park in the Northeast section of Philadelphia features a paved path from Pine Road to the Delaware River. Plus with access to the Fox Chase Farm and the Pennypack Environmental Education Center, you can add some excellent education elements into a nice walk.

5. Parvin State Park. This southwestern Jersey treasure offers not only a 4.1 mile paved path, but a nice 5K path that is used by local track teams every day so it stays nice and hard-packed. This spot is an overlooked treasure!