Philadelphia is a dense city, but it is also family friendly. There are hundreds of playgrounds, parks and hidden away gems perfect for the urban family or tourist with children. Below are some excellent choices for playgrounds, pools, restaurants and festivals to be found in Center City West for an active family:
Parks/Playgrounds:
Markward Playground: Sitting on 4.1 acres, this recreation facility has a ballfield, a hockey court, a sports field, two basketball courts, two tennis courts and two volleyball courts; all adjacent to Schuylkill River park.
Schuylkill River Park: The Park, nestled along the Schuylkill River, spans the area from Lombard Street to Manning Street. For active recreation it offers Schuylkill Pocket Veterans Memorial field – a baseball diamond and soccer field – tennis courts and basketball courts.
Rittenhouse Square Park: Rittenhouse Square is a gem in the heart of Philadelphia: a green, leafy oasis, bounded by Walnut Street, 18th and 20th Streets, Locust and Spruce.
Swimming:
O’Connor Pool: The O’Connor Swimming Pool (The city pool at 26th and South Streets) has been cooling off the neighborhood since the 1920’s.
Lombard Swim Club: A summer haven, surrounded by a wall to shield it from the outside hustle and bustle. Open-air construction circulates fresh air inside, which helps keep the interior temperatures in the men’s and women’s locker rooms down, even on 95-degree days. The grill and patio restaurant satisfy any appetite with impeccable service and delicious choices. And the Adult Deck, complete with shade, a library and a view of the Philadelphia skyline, overlooks what’s at the center of it all: an 82.5-foot pool.
Camp:
Markward Day Camp: Day trips, arts and crafts, tennis, swimming, sports, breakfast and lunch.
Attractions/ Things To Do:
Barnes and Noble Rittenhouse Kids Activities: Story time and kids events on a weekly basis.
Kid Friendly Restaurants:
Max Brenner: Chocolate, Desserts, Breakfast Lunch and Dinner Options.
Five Guys: Burgers, Fries and Hot Dogs.
The Shake Shack: Burgers, Hot Dogs and Shakes.
Yogorino: Frozen Yogurt.
Hip City Vedge: Vegetarian and Vegan Sandwiches.
Underdogs: Hot Dogs, Sausages and Fries.
Rita’s Water Ice: Italian Water Ice and Frozen Custard.
Red Mango Frozen Yogurt: Smoothies, Frozen Yogurts.
Marathon Grill: Soups, Sandwiches and Salads.
Parc: French-style bistro. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Desserts.
Stores:
Born Yesterday: Born Yesterday has been home to the most gorgeous baby and kids goods in Philadelphia for over 30 years.
The Children’s Boutique: Children’s clothes and gifts for over 40 years.
Festivals:
Fall Festival in Schuylkill River Park: This family-friendly event will have activities for everyone: fall-inspired crafts, food, local vendors, a raffle and even a silent auction. (October)
Little Friends Festival: The festival encompasses live music, rides, amusements, food, games, crafts and raffle prizes all created with the little ones in mind. (June)
Rittenhouse Square Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony: The Tree Lighting Ceremony features holiday entertainment, character visits, complimentary roasted chestnuts, Santa Claus and plenty of holiday surprises. (December)
