Living in the wonderful city of Philadelphia is a great experience, but sometimes you just want to escape the noise and concrete sidewalks to a quiet place surrounded with trees and grass. You don’t have to be a nature-person to enjoy some serenity and a nice place to read a book.
We’ve come up with the best parks in Philadelphia to visit when the city gets to be a little too much.
Rittenhouse Square Park
18th and Walnut
A perfect square, Rittenhouse is one of the most famous parks in Philadelphia. One of the original five squares designated by William Penn in the late 17th century, it is located in the ritziest part of Philadelphia. Park-goers can enjoy themselves on the many benches provided and watch dog walkers, photographers, and performers in the generous amount of shade. Admire the sculptures and fountain as you walk along the diagonal paths and enjoy the bustling city around you.
Independence National Historical Park
143 S. 3rd St
Though trees and wildlife do not surround this park, it does offer a luscious green lawn to sit and relax on while admiring where our country was first founded. You will never be bored in this part of town. Line up to see the Liberty Bell or take a tour of Independence Hall and see where our Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. Enjoy the city while lying in the grass and get in touch with Philadelphia’s history.
Wissahickon Valley Park
W Valley Green Rd
Escape the city without driving hours away from it. Located in Northwest Philadelphia, this beautiful park is great for hiking or biking on a trail. Enjoy the wildlife, streams, and old ruins as you walk on easy trails or pack a lunch and find a space to layout a picnic blanket. Philadelphians can get the best of both worlds by living in the city and venturing to Wissahickon Valley Park on the weekends to enjoy some genuine nature under tall trees.
Spruce Street Harbor Park
1 Columbus Blvd and Spruce St.
A Philly favorite, this pop-up park is only open during the summer months (May-October). Decorated with neon glow-sticks hanging from the trees and comfortable hammocks, this is a great park to hangout with friends or loved ones. With multiple food trucks, activities, and even a beer garden, there is something for everyone at Spruce Street Harbor Park.
Washington Square Park
7th and Walnut St
Another one of the original five squares made by William Penn, Washington Square Park is peaceful and tranquil. With a large fountain placed in the middle of the square, park-goers can enjoy the sound of flowing water as they sit on a bench and eat their lunch or read a book. With plenty of grassy space and shade from full-grown trees, it’s the perfect place to take your lunch break or catch up with a friend.
Fairmount Park
Reservoir Drive
Over 14 square miles, Fairmount Park stretches through the Northwest section of Philadelphia starting from the Art Museum. Perfect for hiking, setting up a picnic, or bike riding, there is something for everyone in this massive city park. It’s a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Broad street and get lost in nature. Admire the beautiful houses on Boathouse Row, see the glistening water of the Schuylkill River, or visit the Japanese House and Garden to meditate in serenity and under cherry blossom trees.
Dilworth Park
1 S. 15th St.
Created in 2014, this park is located right next to City Hall in the center of Philadelphia. It isn’t your typical park, having more concrete than greenery. It’s modernity and convenient location makes it popular to Philadelphia natives. Offering many events throughout all seasons of the year, there is something for everyone. Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at one of the two food vendors and enjoy while sitting at the tables and chairs provided.
Looking to Move to Philadelphia?
Are you looking to move to Philadelphia and become familiar with the city’s most popular parks? Contact Philadelphia’s leading real estate agent, Agent Lady, today! With diverse knowledge of the city and neighborhoods, Agent Lady will find the best home for you.
