How to Find Best Parks in Philadelphia
Home to one of the largest parks in the country, Fairmount Park, Philadelphia boasts beautiful scenery, serene creeks and a variety of activities and events that take advantage of the City's rich historical and cultural environment.
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Parks in Philadelphia
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The best place to start searching for parks in Philadelphia is through the Fairmount Park website at http://www.fairmountpark.org. Fairmount Park is Philadelphia's Park System. With over 9,200 acres, it claims 10% of the land in Philadelphia and has been called "one of the largest urban parks in the country." The "Calendar of Events" on the homepage lists a variety of events -- from nature walks, to free concerts to campfire storytelling for kids. It also posts updated information on Kelly and M.L. King Drives, the City's two most popular scenic routes for walkers, bike riders and joggers. Many cultural institutions call Fairmount Park home, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Mann Center for the Performing Arts.
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If you're a Philadelphia resident, visit the Philadelphia Parks Alliance at http://www.philaparks.org. This is the City'swebsite for Philadelphia park information.Click on "Park Directory" on the left side toolbar and you'll have access to parks organized by City Council district. For example, if you reside in Council District #4, you can view a list of parks in that district along with links to websites.
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The 1,800 acres of Wissahickon Valley Park are part Fairmount Park and one of the most popular places for residents and visitors. With over 50 miles of sometimes rugged terrain, mountain bikers and hikers can join those who loves to fish when the Wissahickon creek is stocked with trout each spring. Visit the website for The Friends of the Wissahickon at http://www.fow.org, which includes a calendar of events and notices on special events and safety tips.
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Did you know the Liberty Bell is located in a park? The Independence National Park in Philadelphia is home to the infamous cracked bell and Independence Hall, home of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The National Park Service's website at http://www. nps.gov, includes a map and information on all parks located in Pennsylvania. Tickets are not required to visit the Liberty Bell, but everyone must go through security screening.
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If you're willing to travel about 30 minutes outside of Philadelphia, there's Valley Forge National Historical Park in King of Prussion, PA, that offers hiking, fishing, cell phone tours and historical reenactments throughout the year. Visit http://www.nps.gov for information. Be sure to always check the website before planning a visit as there may be detours or special announcements that will effect your plans.
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Tips & Warnings
The two main roads on either side of the Schuylkill River, M.L. King and Lincoln Drive, have some parking lots. You can walk from there to the paved paths. Both sides offer plenty of grassy space for picnics. Be sure to adhere to litter and safety regulations posted on both sides of the river.
Before venturing out on a trip to any park in Philadelphia, visit the website for safety suggestions and special notices.
