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25 Pi Bon Pak nan Philadelphia

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The city’s rich green backdrop of incredible parks and open spaces began with its founding 300 years ago.

William Penn was so inspired by the eastern hardwood forest that greeted him in the New World that he named his colony Penn’s Woods, or Pennsylvania. Another Penn gem, Philadelphia’s five main squares date back to the original city — all part of the founder’s plan for a “greene countrie town.”

Today, the city blooms with lively urban parks and re-imagined recreational landscapes, giving it a city-in-a-park feel.

Residents and visitors enjoy relaxing, picnicking and playing in these public spaces that honor Penn’s vision, including the massive trail systems of Fairmount Pak epi Pak Vale Wissahickon, as well as the delightful riverside enclaves of Kwà Race Street and the seasonal Pak Spruce Street Harbor.

For even more parks, playgrounds and public spaces, check out these maps from the City of Philadelphia Department of Parks & Recreation.

Read on for our guide to the best free parks and open spaces in Philly.

Nòt: This article is arranged in alphabetical order by type of park by default.

Public Squares

01

Pak Dilworth

City Hall’s popular western-facing front yard is a modern and welcoming outdoor space, reestablishing William Penn’s original Center Square as a gathering place for all Philadelphians.

The multi-use space has tree groves, benches, cafes and a large programmable fountain that transforms into an ice rink in the winter and a roller skating rink in the summer.

Ki kote: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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02

Franklin Square

Dlo ap jete soti nan fontèn sikilè a nan Franklin Square pandan limyè solèy la klere atravè vapè a, ak flè, pyebwa ak bilding pak la ki antoure fontèn nan. Dlo ap jete soti nan fontèn sikilè a nan Franklin Square pandan limyè solèy la klere atravè vapè a, ak flè, pyebwa ak bilding pak la ki antoure fontèn nan.
— Photo courtesy Historic Philadelphia, Inc.

A family haven in Old City, Franklin Square has attracted parkgoers of all ages for over two decades, with acres of green space, a carousel, playgrounds, a food stand and a Philly-themed mini-golf course.

Another major plus for the square: a seasonal daytime and nighttime water and light show starring its centerpiece, Franklin Square Fountain — one of the country’s oldest public fountains.

Ki kote: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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Patwone
Patwone
03

Logan Square

Yon vi ayeryen sou Benjamin Franklin Parkway la k ap gade fontèn nan Logan Square, Barnes Foundation, Bibliyotèk Santral Parkway la ak Philadelphia Museum of Art. Yon vi ayeryen sou Benjamin Franklin Parkway la k ap gade fontèn nan Logan Square, Barnes Foundation, Bibliyotèk Santral Parkway la ak Philadelphia Museum of Art.
— Foto pa Elevated Angles pou Visit Philadelphia

This original public square is now four parks in one, centered around Fontèn Memoryal Swann in what’s now called Logan Circle. Designed by Philadelphia-born sculptor Alexander Calder (of Jaden Kalde fame) and accented by greenery, the majestic centerpiece fountain represents the region’s major waterways: the Delaware, Schuylkill and Wissahickon.

Beyond the circle, three parks encompass the larger square. The kid-friendly Pak Sè Vil yo includes a Children’s Discovery Garden, boat pond, cafe and another fountain. Shakespeare Park, across from Parkway Central Library, is home to the Shakespeare Memorial (another Calder creation), while Aviator Park along 20th Street is home to the Aero Memorial World War I ak All Wars Memorial to Colored Soldiers statues.

Ki kote: Logan Square, 18th Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA

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04

Rittenhouse Square

Fanm k ap fè piknik nan Pak Rittenhouse Square Fanm k ap fè piknik nan Pak Rittenhouse Square
— Foto pa D. Knoll pou Visit Philadelphia

William Penn and his wife Hannah Callowhill Penn likely never imagined how popular this green space — with its walkways, sculptures, fountains and reflecting pool — would become among strollers, readers, children, artists, picnickers and dogs.

The namesake for one of Philly’s most popular neighborhoods, the park’s craft fairs, farmers markets and other events shine a spotlight on the picturesque location all year.

Ki kote: Rittenhouse Square, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA

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05

Washington Square

Originally named Southeast Square until 1825, Washington Square was originally a grazing pasture and a burial ground for African Americans, Revolutionary War soldiers and victims of the 1793 yellow fever epidemic. It was also a gathering spot for colonial-era African Americans, who dubbed the park Congo Square.

Today, modern residences surround the green and lively park, now home to the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier.

Ki kote: Washington Square, 210 W. Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA

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Day Trip-Worthy Parks

06

Fairmount Pak

Over 2,000 acres of quiet natural landscapes are within easy reach of Philly residents and visitors.

In addition to rolling hills and waterfront views, Fairmount Pak offers miles of designated trails, dozens of sculptures, two performing arts centers and several historic mansions. Some of Philly’s favorite attractions — including the Philadelphia Zoo, Sant Kiltirèl Japonè Shofuso, Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, and museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the kid-centric Please Touch Museum — are also full-time residents of the park.

Pro-tip: Head to Belmont Plateau for awesome skyline views or to the Azalea Garden outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art for prime picnicking space.

Ki kote: Various locations, including Belmont Plateau, 1800 Belmont Mansion Drive, Philadelphia, PA

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Patwone
Patwone
07

Pak FDR

An aerial view of FDR Park in South Philadelphia, with tree-lined streets, a lake and the Center City skyline in the distance. An aerial view of FDR Park in South Philadelphia, with tree-lined streets, a lake and the Center City skyline in the distance.
— Foto pa Elevated Angles pou Visit Philadelphia

Pak FDR’s fields, trails, lagoon, creek and lakes are nestled among the industry and neighborhoods of South Philly.

The area is a bird-watcher’s paradise and boasts spaces for tennis, rugby and baseball. The park’s gazebo is a great place to set up a picnic lunch.

Of special note are the FDR Skate Park, a public spot designed and built by local volunteer skateboarding enthusiasts; two lakes open for guided kayak tours; and the Mache Azi Sidès, a cultural hub for Southeast Asian vendors — from Laos to Thailand to Vietnam — selling traditional dishes, plus jewelry, clothing and more (early spring through early fall).

Ki kote: FDR Park, 1500 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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08

Pak Istorik Nasyonal Endepandans

Before and during colonial times, city and kitchen gardens were planted alongside homes, while full-fledged farms thrived on the outskirts of the original city. Today, Distri Istorik Filadèlfi has pocket and large parks — most notably the great green expanse that is Independence Mall.

Pak Istorik Nasyonal Endepandans invites visitors to its five gardens, each landscaped in the style of the day, including the Jaden 18yèm Syèk (339 Walnut Street); the Rose Garden (422 Walnut Street); the Magnolia Garden (Locust Street between Fourth and Fifth streets); Franklin Court (322 Market Street); and the Rush Garden, home to the Bicentennial Bell (Third and Walnut streets).

Ki kote: Independence Mall, Chestnut Street & South Independence Mall East, Philadelphia, PA

Gade LÒT KOTE (5)

18th-Century Garden, 339 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

Jaden Woz, 422 Ri Walnut, Philadelphia, PA

The Magnolia Garden, Locust Street between 4th Street and 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA

Rush Garden, 3rd & Walnut streets, Philadelphia, PA

Franklin Court, 322 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

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09

Refij Nasyonal pou Bèt Sovaj John Heinz nan Tinicum

Vizitè yo kanpe sou yon platfòm obsèvasyon an bwa nan Refij Nasyonal pou Bèt Sovaj John Heinz, yo itilize binokl ak teleskòp pou gade zwazo atravè marekaj la. Vizitè yo kanpe sou yon platfòm obsèvasyon an bwa nan Refij Nasyonal pou Bèt Sovaj John Heinz, yo itilize binokl ak teleskòp pou gade zwazo atravè marekaj la.
— Foto koutwazi Rezèv Nasyonal Bèt Sovaj John Heinz nan Tinicum

With nearly 1,000 acres and many species of native wildlife and plants, the Refij Nasyonal pou Bèt Sovaj John Heinz nan Tinicum protects the largest freshwater tidal marsh in Pennsylvania.

The marsh, a key stop in the Atlantic flyway, is well-known among birdwatchers — 80-plus species nest here, and 300 have been recorded. As for recreation, the network of low-lying trails (10 miles in all) attracts joggers and cyclists. Plus, there’s a boat ramp for canoe and kayak access.

Ki kote: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum, 8601 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

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10

The Navy Yard

A woman wearing sunglasses, a gray sweater and jeans walks down the paved Riverfront Greenway at the Navy Yard. She holds a yellow leash attached to a tan French Bulldog. A woman wearing sunglasses, a gray sweater and jeans walks down the paved Riverfront Greenway at the Navy Yard. She holds a yellow leash attached to a tan French Bulldog.
— Photo courtesy The Navy Yard

Featuring 20 acres of parks, The Navy Yard complex is both visually stunning and fun to explore.

The Central Green is a hub for recreation, featuring a social track, fitness station and sun lawn, while Crescent Park is designed for quiet strolls and picnics. Don’t miss the Riverfront Greenway, a mile-long path along Admiral Peary Way with great views of the Delaware River.

Ki kote: The Navy Yard, 4747 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA

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11

Pak Pennypack

Ki pote non mo Lenni Lenape ki vle di dlo k ap koule dousman, Pak Pennypack follows Pennypack Creek southeast as it runs from Montgomery County to the Delaware River in Philadelphia.

The landscape of this rambling city park — clocking in at a massive 1,600 acres — covers rolling hills, open meadows, and many miles of paved and unpaved trails that are great for hiking, biking, running and horseback riding. Visitors can also find numerous historic buildings, including Pennypack Bridge — one of the nation’s oldest stone bridges.

Ki kote: Pennypack Park, Rhawn Street & Holmehurst Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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12

Pak Vale Wissahickon

De moun k ap monte bisiklèt nan Wissahickon Valley Park De moun k ap monte bisiklèt nan Wissahickon Valley Park
— Foto pa J. Fusco pou Visit Philadelphia

With more than 50 miles of rugged trails, Pak Vale Wissahickon’s thousands of acres are great for hiking, cycling and exploring.

Wissahickon schist bedrock, sliced through centuries ago, has created steep hills punctuated by a creek, with paths for both climbers and horseback riders. Also on site: Philadelphia’s last covered bridge. Especially accessible is Forbidden Drive, a five-mile packed gravel trail with stunning views.

Ki kote: Wissahickon Valley Park, Valley Green Road, Philadelphia, PA

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Delaware River Waterfront Parks

13

Kwà Race Street

Moun ap detann yo epi ap mache sou Pier Race Street la ki bay sou Rivyè Delaware ak Benjamin Franklin Bridge yon jou ki gen anpil solèy. Moun ap detann yo epi ap mache sou Pier Race Street la ki bay sou Rivyè Delaware ak Benjamin Franklin Bridge yon jou ki gen anpil solèy.
— Foto pa M. Stanley pou Delaware River Waterfront Corporation

Everyone needs a little R&R — riverside recreation — from time to time. In the shadow of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, the two-level Kwà Race Street offers multi-tiered seating and waterfront views for miles.

A perfect picnic spot, the pier is equipped with a spacious lawn and more than three-dozen trees overlooking the Delaware River. At high tide, the river comes just 4.5 feet from the lower level of the pier, bringing you right up to the water’s edge.

 

Ki kote: Kwà Race Street, Race Street ak North Columbus Boulevard, Filadèlfi, PA

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14

Pak Penn Treaty

Two people stand by the water at Penn Treaty Park Two people stand by the water at Penn Treaty Park
— Foto pa M. Kennedy pou Visit Philadelphia

According to legend, Pennsylvania founder William Penn signed his peace treaty with the local Lenape tribe under an elm tree just off the Delaware River in 1683. Though the tree fell in a storm in 1810, the city officially opened Pak Penn Treaty on the surrounding land in 1894.

Today, a statue of William Penn greets local picnickers and dog walkers, and throughout the year, people from all over the city come for special events and festivals.

Ki kote: Penn Treaty Park, 1301 N. Beach Street, Philadelphia, PA

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15

Pleasant Hill Park

A decorative metal archway stands along a paved path beside a pond and pavilion in a leafy park setting. A decorative metal archway stands along a paved path beside a pond and pavilion in a leafy park setting.
— Foto koutwazi Fairmount Park Conservancy

Riverside trails, a playground and a boat launch keep this 35-acre area of Philadelphia’s northern Delaware River bustling, while an expansive lawn on the waterfront makes a serene picnic spot.

But the must-see part of Pleasant Hill Park is the Fish Hatchery, a 20th-century water feature where local fish species were once cultivated. The hatchery’s two ponds now serve as a space where young visitors can learn to fish.

Ki kote: Pleasant Hill Park, Linden Avenue and Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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16

Pak Spruce Street Harbor

Visitors relax in a netted lounge area along floating barges at Spruce Street Harbor Park in Philadelphia, overlooking the Delaware River on a sunny day. Visitors relax in a netted lounge area along floating barges at Spruce Street Harbor Park in Philadelphia, overlooking the Delaware River on a sunny day.
— Photo by Beaumonde Originals for Delaware River Waterfront Corporation

Sa a spring-to-fall destination attracts crowds with bocce and lawn games; tree-slung hammocks and colorful lights, and floating barges with over-the-water seating.

The waterfront destination for rest and relaxation also serves up tasty al fresco eats. You can find a variety of food options along the boardwalk and hit up its beer gardens and bars for craft brews, draft cocktails and frozen beverages.

Ki kote: Spruce Street Harbor Park, 301 S. Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

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17

Washington Avenue Green

The Land Buoy scultpture at Washington Avenue Green. The Land Buoy scultpture at Washington Avenue Green.
— Foto pa M. Fischetti pou Visit Philadelphia

Next to Kwà Avni Washington is a mile-long hidden gem offering panoramic views of the waterfront and city skyline. Herons, turtles, beavers and other fauna make their homes among the park’s plant life and you can walk the rocky shores all the way to the river’s edge.

The most striking part? At the end of the elevated boardwalk and the gravel trails stands Bwoy tè, a public art piece by Jody Pinto made up of a climbable spiral staircase circling a lit 55-foot spire. The sculpture memorializes the site’s history as the nation’s first navy yard and as the immigration station that welcomed over one million people to the United States.

Ki kote: Washington Avenue Green, Pier 53, S. Christopher Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

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Schuylkill River Waterfront Parks

18

Bartram's Garden

People walking through Bartram's Garden People walking through Bartram's Garden
— Foto pa J. Fusco pou Visit Philadelphia

Anvan Longwood Gardens and even the Philadelphia Flower Show, there was this  Southwest Philadelphia natural oasis.

Located on 50 acres along the Schuylkill River, Jaden Bartram is a free public park, National Historic Landmark and America’s first botanic garden, not to mention a local favorite for boating, fishing and picnicking.

Named for Quaker farmer and botanist John Bartram (1699–1777), Bartram’s features an 18th-century estate, along with fragrant gardens, a reclaimed meadow, riverfront recreation trail, urban farm, natural tidal wetlands, a public dock for fishing and boating, and significant historic trees — including the oldest ginkgo tree in North America.

Ki kote: Bartram's Garden, 5400 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA

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19

Penn Pak

Sandwiched between the University of Pennsylvania campus and the Schuylkill River waterfront, Penn Pak attracts Philadelphians of all ages and athletic levels looking for an outdoor escape.

An awesome balance of open space and athletic facilities, the 24-acre urban recreational area includes bike trails, walkways, courts and fields for formal and informal athletics, and plenty of lawns and meadows to relax and unwind in.

Ki kote: Penn Park, 3000 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

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20

Schuylkill Banks and the Schuylkill River Trail

Silwèt vil Philadelphia sou yon jounen solèy, ak Rivyè Schuylkill ak Pwomnád Schuylkill Banks yo devan. Silwèt vil Philadelphia sou yon jounen solèy, ak Rivyè Schuylkill ak Pwomnád Schuylkill Banks yo devan.
— Foto pa Elevated Angles pou Visit Philadelphia

Spanning eight miles of riverfront winding through the heart of Philadelphia, Bank Schuylkill is open year-round for walking, jogging, cycling, picnics and dog-walking.

Part of the Senti Rivyè Schuylkill, the park stretches along the Schuylkill River and links the western edge of Sant Vil to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Fairmount Park and Kelly Drive.

Schuylkill Banks offers outdoor movie screenings in the summer, while scenic cruises and kayak tours on the river take in various historic sites. Also available: fishing, kayaking and boating.

Pèsonèl Philly la di...

Warm-weather days along the Schuylkill River Trail turn Philly into a scene straight out of Georges Seurat’s famed painting, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. You know the one. Bring a blanket (and a picnic basket) and lounge along the water for a perfectly chill afternoon. My favorite stretch is just south of the Walnut Street Bridge, offering trees for shade, views of the West Philly skyscrapers and convenient access to a restroom right on the trail.

Michael Hanisco,
Maketing

Ki kote: Schuylkill Banks, 2501 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

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More Awesome Philly Parks

21

Sira Vèt

Sira Vèt, which debuted in 2015, sits 95 feet above the street and wows guests with skyline views and cool breezes.

Visitors can grab burgers, fries, desserts and more from onsite restaurant Sunset Social (open seasonally), and elevators across from the entrance to the AKA University City hotel make the park easily accessible.

This elevated park is open year-round and hosts seasonal events.

Ki kote: Cira Green, 80 S. 30th Street, Philadelphia, PA

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22

Pak Clark

People lay in the grass and play on a sun-dappled lawn in wide open park under leafy trees. People lay in the grass and play on a sun-dappled lawn in wide open park under leafy trees.
— Foto pa L. Reehling

Let your inner kid out to play at Pak Clark, the beating heart of Spruce Hill. In addition to tall trees, playgrounds and basketball courts, the nine-acre park maintains a busy events schedule with festivals, flea markets, theatrical performances, concerts and a year-round farmers’ market.

If food trucks, soccer leagues and cute dogs aren’t your jam, stick around for the LARPers (live-action role players) whacking each other with foam weaponry.

Bonus: In addition to Clark Park, West Philly boasts an enviable collection of outdoor spaces. The Woodlands — the area’s largest green space — is a historic cemetery and mansion set atop 54 acres of pastoral wonder. Family-friendly hotspot Malcolm X Memorial Park features a vibrant playground, a picnic pavilion and plenty of seating.

Ki kote: Clark Park, 4300-4398 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia, PA

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23

Mwen renmen Pak

Yon moun kanpe anba estati LOVE pandan yon lòt moun ap pran foto li ak yon telefòn mobil. Lòt vizitè yo ap tann nan liy pou pran foto yo ak estati a. Yon moun kanpe anba estati LOVE pandan yon lòt moun ap pran foto li ak yon telefòn mobil. Lòt vizitè yo ap tann nan liy pou pran foto yo ak estati a.
— Foto pa Visit Philadelphia

The grand entrance to the Pakwèy Benjamin Franklin, John F. Kennedy Plaza — better known as Mwen renmen Pak — brings together world travelers, lunchtime snackers, sunbathers and fitness buffs for warm-weather fun in the heart of the city.

Lovely greenery, a splashy fountain, abundant seating and the park’s namesake centerpiece set the scene for the perfect Philly photo op, with Robert Indiana’s iconic Mwen renmen eskilti serving as the backdrop for countless pics each day.

Ki kote: LOVE Park, 15th & Arch streets, Philadelphia, PA

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24

Pak Pastorius

Benches shaded beneath broadleaf evergreens. The fresh scent of flowering shrubs. Ducks and turtles splashing around the fountain-aerated pond.

Locals love this 16-acre park for its picturesque landscape and walking trails — perfect for pups and picnics. Plus, each summer, the amphitheater springs to life with outdoor concerts and community events.

Ki kote: Pastorius Park, 8177 Roanoke Street, Philadelphia, PA

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25

Pak Rayon Ferye a

Moun ap detann sou ban an bwa ak balanço nan The Rail Park, ak pyebwa ak atizay piblik ki vizib nan fon an. Moun ap detann sou ban an bwa ak balanço nan The Rail Park, ak pyebwa ak atizay piblik ki vizib nan fon an.
— Foto koutwazi Zanmi Pak Chemennfè a

A quarter-mile stretch of elevated tracks of the former Reading Railroad features plantings, artwork, seating areas and giant wooden swings.

Pak Rayon Ferye a is the first phase of a plan to transform a three-mile section of abandoned elevated and below-street-level rail lines into green spaces where people can walk, bike, sit and admire the urban views. It’s part of an international movement to transform unused infrastructure into functional, beautiful and accessible public spaces.

Ki kote: The Rail Park, Broad and Noble streets to 11th and Callowhill streets, Philadelphia, PA

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Fèmen Fèmen kat la Montre kote m ye sou kat la

Public Squares

Pak Dilworth
Franklin Square
Logan Square
Rittenhouse Square
Washington Square

Day Trip-Worthy Parks

Fairmount Pak
Pak FDR
Pak Istorik Nasyonal Endepandans
Refij Nasyonal pou Bèt Sovaj John Heinz nan Tinicum
The Navy Yard
Pak Pennypack
Pak Vale Wissahickon

Delaware River Waterfront Parks

Kwà Race Street
Pak Penn Treaty
Pleasant Hill Park
Pak Spruce Street Harbor
Washington Avenue Green

Schuylkill River Waterfront Parks

Bartram's Garden
Penn Pak
Schuylkill Banks and the Schuylkill River Trail

More Awesome Philly Parks

Sira Vèt
Pak Clark
Mwen renmen Pak
Pak Pastorius
Pak Rayon Ferye a

Sabrina Carter

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