Philadelphia, PA
- Philly is full of fun and unique places to take your little ones and explore the city. From a fun fountain at Dilworth Park to a trip to Frankin Square with a Philly-themed miniature golf course, a restored marble fountain, two playgrounds, and an old-fashioned carousel. We have you covered with these great places for the whole family to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Parks & Public Spaces in Philadelphia
City Hall and Dilworth Park
Philadelphia's City Hall recently refurbished its front yard, Dilworth Park, which boasts tree-lined fountains (splashing encouraged) in warm weather and an ice skating rink in winter. Year-round movies, festivals, a cozy Cuban cafe, and excellent public transit access have revived Center City's center. 15th & Market Streets, (215) 482-9565.
Trip to Fairmount Park
Endless trails, an enormous public pool, historic houses, and a Japanese garden are among the pleasant surprises that await explorers of Fairmount Park, one of the nation's largest urban parks, stretching from Boathouse Row to West Philadelphia Strawberry Mansion, Chestnut Hill, and Northeast Philadelphia.
Franklin Square Philadelphia
One of William Penn's original five squares, Franklin Square is a modern and fun family park, with a Philly-themed miniature golf course, a restored marble fountain, two playgrounds, and an old-fashioned carousel featuring some famous Philly horses. When hunger strikes, SquareBurger delivers burgers, fries, and Cake Shakes. 6th & Race Streets, (215) 629-4026.
The Oval on Benjamin Franklin Parkway
In summer, an alfresco hangout pops up in The Oval, a once little-used parking lot at the edge of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Though the programming changes year to year, reliable fun includes mega-sized games to play, visits from food and retail trucks, plus arts festivals and family parties. 2601 Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Benjamin Franklin Bridge Towers
The Benjamin Franklin Bridge towers above Race Street Pier, a finger pier reinvented as a multi-use, two-level recreational space now used for picnicking, yoga classes, concerts, fireworks-watching, and simply catching the Delaware River breeze. Columbus Boulevard & Race Street, (215) 629-3200.
The Sister Cities Parks
The pebble-bottom wading pool sheltered by a landscaped hill and randomly spouting fountains makes Sister Cities Park a summertime paradise to wee water fans. The lifeguard, cafe, and kiosk that sells plastic boats swim diapers, sunscreen, and other essentials are just as great to the fans' caretakers. 18th Street & Logan Square, (215) 440-5500.
Spruce Street Harbor Park & Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest
With seasonal pop-ups, Penn's Landing doubles down on riverside fun, Spruce Street Harbor Park, and Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest. With tree-slung hammocks, cargo container arcades, concessions, misting palm trees, and planted barges (with bars), the former was an instant hit during its 2014 summer debut. With a skating rink, fire pits, indoor games, cozy couches, and hot drinks, the latter warms up winter. Spruce Street Harbor Park, Columbus Boulevard & Spruce Street; Winterfest, Columbus Boulevard & Walnut Street, (215) 629-3200.
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly
