I don’t know about you, but playgrounds kept me sane as a parent. Our routine was pretty consistent, especially during the summer: eat breakfast, pack snacks, and visit a playground in Philadelphia before lunch (and sometimes, if it was just too much, we’d pick a spot for lunch after). Check out my list of the best playgrounds in Philadelphia to help pass your mornings!
Table of Contents
Playgrounds in Philadelphia (and where to stop for lunch after)
Jenks Playground
8301 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118
Nestled right in the heart of Chestnut Hill, you’ll find Jenks Playground. The playground at Jenks elementary school is one of those classic wooden playgrounds – my favorite when I was kid. With bridges, tunnels, and lookout towers, it’s a great option for bigger kids and the little ones alike. Because it’s a school playground, you do need to be mindful of the house before stopping by. The playground itself is open from 3-9 on weekends and 8-9on weekdays. There’s street parking and is easily accessible by Chestnut Hill East and Chestnut Hill West train lines.
Where to go for lunch after?
Alright, maybe I’m cheating here but my suggestion is to go to Weaver’s Way – yes, the co-op – and visit the salad bar and deli in the back of the store (there’s parking if you drove). There are so many great options, from soups to salads to sandwiches, along with a robust produce section if your kid is currently living on berries. Head to Pastorius Park with a blanket and eat in the sunshine!
Markward Playground
400 S Taney St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
There’s much to love about the beautiful streets that make up the neighborhood of Fitler Square, and Markward Playground is kind of the cherry on top. Located at the end of Spruce Street and alongside the Schuylkill River Trail, you can make a full day out of a trip there. Out of all of the playgrounds in Philadelphia, I think this one might be the most scenic! After the kids are tired of running around, you can plop them in the stroller to get in some steps, or have a picnic lunch along the river.
Where to go for lunch after?
Café Lutécia is the perfect spot to grab a croissant and quiche, and people watch after a morning at the park. If you’re looking for a heartier spot, try Sabrina’s!
Torresdale Playground
9550 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA
If there is one thing that kids love, it’s a sprayground – and Torresdale Playground delivers. With lots of green space to run around and a huge rope climbing web, there’s something for everyone. I appreciate the soft rubber ground because if there’s one thing I know will happen, it’s that one of my kids will trip and I’m all about avoiding scraped knees.
Where to go for lunch after?
Café Carmela is a short drive from the playground and is the perfect causal lunch spot. There are lots of kid friendly dishes (I mean, what’s more kid friendly than pizza?) along with options for a more sophisticated palette.
Smith Memorial Playground
3500 Reservoir Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19121
It wouldn’t be a list of playgrounds in Philadelphia without mentioning Smith Memorial Playground. Not only does it have an area just for smaller children that has a soft floor, but there are so many climbing structures for older children. And no trip to Smith Playground is complete without a ride down the slide! We love Smith Playground because of the heavy tree cover, which makes the heat a big more bearable in the summer.
Sister Cities Park
210 N 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Sister Cities is such a gem of a spot. If your kids are into water playtime, this is a must visit out of the playgrounds in Philadelphia. Absolutely bring a swim suit or a change of clothing if you’re heading there in the summer, as there is a large splash pad and water feature. You may also want to bring water shoes as there are lots of rocks to climb on (my kids favorite part!).
Where to go for lunch after?
You’re right in the middle of Center City and there are no shortage of restaurants in the area. While there is a cafe attached to the park, but if you’re up for a treat, visit Federal Donuts. There’s outdoor seating to enjoy the weather if it’s nice out!
Enjoy this post about parks in Philadelphia? Glad to hear it! You might also like:
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