When you live in a concrete jungle, sometimes your soul yearns for a little greenery. Fortunately, when you live in Philly, you can have the best of both worlds — fro sprawling greenspaces to lively oases in the center of town. Looking for some of the best parks in Philadelphia? Keep reading, we’ve got you covered.
Schuylkill River Park
Green space and water combine at Schuylkill River Park. One of the best parks in Philadelphia, it’s popular among families and sports enthusiasts. There are soccer and baseball fields and tennis and volleyball courts. A runners’ delight, Schuylkill River Boardwalk has been listed as one of the best urban running trails in the country. There’s also a playground for children, a trail to the art museum, dog park, biking path, seasonal swimming pool, and much more. Need a little pick me up after all that activity? Check out Good Karma Cafe, one of Philly’s best coffee shops.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
Though this park is seasonal, it buzzes with life from May through October. Situated along the Delaware River, Spruce Street Harbor Park regularly hosts live music events. It’s home to floating gardens, arcade games, ping pong tables, and shuffleboard courts. Worked up an appetite? Take a short stroll down the boardwalk and take your pick from cheesesteaks, funnel cakes, ice cream, or fried chicken. And if you’re lucky, you might be able to enjoy it from the comfort of one the park’s coveted hammocks.
Wissahickon Valley Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city when you visit Wissahickon Valley Park. The 1,800-acre park has more than 50 miles of hiking trails and, during the summer, visitors can enjoy free guided hikes. It’s also a great place for equestrians and mountain bikers. Marvel at the stunning stone bridges, or keep your eyes peeled for creatures like deer, foxes, raccoons, and aquatic wildlife. The perfect place for a day trip (or maybe even longer), Wissahickon Valley Park is definitely one of the best parks in Philadelphia.
Valley Forge Park
A tribute to the Revolutionary War, what is now Valley Forge Park once served as the place where the Continental Army encamped during the winter of 1777-1778. Check out the visitor center to learn more about the park’s history and visit significant sites, including George Washington’s headquarters, the Washington Memorial Chapel, and the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts.
You can explore the area on foot or, if you prefer, opt for a self-guided driving tour, cell phone-guided tour, or an ADA accessible 90-minute trolley tour. There are also private guided tours and bike tours. With so many ways to explore, there’s no excuse not to visit one of the best historical parks in Philadelphia.
Fairmount Park
Fairmount Park is the largest outdoor space in Philadelphia and is actually a system of 63 individual parks. Spreading across 9,200 acres, Fairmount Park is also one of the largest urban park systems in the United States. From swimming pools and playgrounds to barn stables and off-road cycling, people of all ages can find something they’ll enjoy here. Learn about nature and the local wildlife at one of three environmental centers. Work on your swing at the ballparks, or see what you can catch at one of the local fishing spots.
Franklin Square
Franklin Square is one of Philadelphia’s original town squares. Here you’ll find endless family fun. Hop on the carousel or challenge your friends to a game of miniature golf (the course is modeled after iconic Philly landmarks). Kids can run off some energy at the large playground or scarf down a delicious shake and SquareBurger. The park also hosts events and activities throughout the year, so be sure to check their site for upcoming events.
Dilworth Park
Right in the heart of Center City is Dilworth Park. Originally William Penn’s Center Square, the park sits just west of City Hall. Recently renovated, Dilworth Park now features an interactive lawn fountain, various seating areas, a cafe, and seasonal activities. During the winter, they set up an outdoor ice rink for skating, and in the summer they host outdoor movies and live musical performances. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from Federal Donuts, one of the top places for cheap eats in the city. If you’re seeking an outdoor space in the heart of the city, you can’t go wrong with Dilworth Park.
They don’t call Philadelphia America’s Garden Capital for nothing; this city knows a thing or two about parks. If you’re ready to see what it’s like to live there, check out thousands of apartments for rent on Zumper and get to know your new city’s green spaces.
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