Kick Off Your Cruise Right

 

Why Plan a Pre-Cruise Day in Philadelphia?

Arriving the day before your cruise offers major benefits for families:

• Avoid embarkation-day stress and traffic

• Give kids time to adjust to a new city

• Turn Philadelphia into part of the vacation, not just a departure point

With walkable neighborhoods, iconic food, and family-friendly attractions, Philly is an ideal pre-cruise stop.

 

Easy Planning for Picky Eaters & One-Stop Philly Food Fun

Traveling with kids sometimes means one bite fits all and no one wants a hangry pre-cruise meltdown. The good news? Our food tours are perfect for flexible, kid-friendly eating, and can make it effortless when planning where to eat the day before embarkation. 

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Why it works for families:

• Small bites, lots of variety; different tour and food options let every child find a favorite

• One-stop tasting adventure! No need to plan multiple restaurants; the tour covers several stops in a short walk

• Guided pacing; the tour keeps kids moving and engaged without rushing parents

• Local storytelling. Kids love the fun facts and stories behind each food stop

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This kid-friendly pre-cruise itinerary is designed to keep children engaged, parents relaxed, and everyone well-fed with a food tour experience before embarkation day.

Sample Itinerary

Morning Arrival

• Arrive in Philadelphia and check into your hotel or drop off luggage

• Grab a casual breakfast or snack nearby

• Let kids stretch their legs after travel with a short walk or take a rest before the tour starts

Mid-Afternoon Food Tour

• Join a City Food Tours experience for a family-friendly lunch or early dinner

• Sample classic Philadelphia favorites in hearty, satisfying portions

• Enjoy short walks and fun local stories that keep kids engaged

Evening: Explore or Rest

• Choose what works best for your family:

  • Light exploring in Old City or along the waterfront

  • A quick dessert stop like ice cream or cookies

  • Head back to the hotel early for downtime and packing

• Lay out embarkation-day outfits and prep carry-on bags

Next Day: Embarkation

• Enjoy a relaxed morning knowing you’re already in the city

• Head to the Norwegian Cruise Line Philadelphia port for embarkation

• Board the ship refreshed, fed, and ready for vacation

 

Tour Options Close to Hotels and Port

1. Flavors of Philly Tour

What it is: A curated tasting tour of Philadelphia classics; cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and iconic local treats.

Why families love it: Small bites at multiple stops keep kids engaged and allow picky eaters to choose what they like.

Perfect for: Families who want a “taste of the city” in a short, fun walk before embarkation.

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2. Chinatown Food Tour

What it is: Explore Philly’s vibrant Chinatown with small bites from dumplings, noodles, and much more! 

Why families love it: Kids get to try exciting flavors in manageable portions and enjoy the bustling, colorful neighborhood.

Perfect for: Adventurous eaters and families looking to add a cultural twist to their pre-cruise experience.

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3. Reading Terminal Market Tour

What it is: A lighter, educational tour focused on iconic Philly foods, history, and fun facts about the market. Includes a couple small bites.

Why families love it: It’s a low-key experience where kids can snack, learn, and explore all under one roof.

Perfect for: Families who prefer a short, indoor option or want to combine eating with easy sightseeing. 

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4. Historic Dine Around

What it is: A guided journey through Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood paired with local bites at multiple stops, highlighting both food and the city’s history.

Why families love it: It mixes movement, storytelling, and tasting so kids learn without feeling like a lecture.

Perfect for: Families who want a walking history lesson with a side of tasty food before embarking on their cruise.

 

Pro Tips for Families:

All tours can accommodate picky eaters and dietary restrictions  just let your guide know ahead of time.

Tours are paced for families, with lots of opportunities to stop, take photos, and let kids stretch.

Combine the tour with a short stroll in nearby Old City or Chinatown to burn off extra energy before heading back to the hotel for embarkation prep.