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Philadelphia Parks & Recreation

Protecting over 10,200 acres of public land and waterways, and managing hundreds of recreation, environmental, and cultural centers.

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation

What we do

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation connects the city’s residents to the natural world, each other, and fun things to do and see.

Our dedicated staff help manage:

  • Parks, rec centers, playgrounds, and pools.
  • Permits for picnics, sports fields, and important venues.
  • Creative and inclusive programs.
  • Signature city events and important historic and cultural sites.
  • Trees in parks and along the public right of way.
  • Capital and natural lands projects.
  • Recreation paths, trails, and boat launches.
  • Community gardens, farms, and orchards.
  • Special venues such as:
    • Environmental education centers.
    • The Dell Music Center.
    • Ice skating rinks and golf courses.

Connect

Address
1515 Arch Street
10th floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Email parksandrecreation@phila.gov
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Events

  • Oct
    8
    After School Adventures
    4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
    Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600A Verree Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19115, USA

    After School Adventures

    October 8, 2024
    4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, 2 hours
    Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600A Verree Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19115, USA
    map

    After School Adventures  

    Registration required at https://forms.gle/bRhoWZFNJBVTFobeAor PEC@Phila.gov

    This staff led afterschool program, guides children on adventures in Pennypack Park. We will meet at the Pennypack Environmental Center, then enjoy new adventures each week. Kids can join for one, some, or all adventures.  

     Most Tuesdays  (Day Changes Noted)| 4-6 p.m. | Ages 6-12  


    Drop-off | $5/child/afternoon. Or $55 for season paid on September 10. Cash Only.


    Questions? PEC@phila.gov or 215.685.0470. 

     Please check Facebook.com/ExplorePEC for updates, check this link for new info, or call or email us to be added to our email list. 

    Cash only. Exact change is appreciated. We cannot accept any electronic payments. 

    Adventures are subject to change at any time, but will be all-weather, outdoor adventures with hiking, mud, rock climbing, creek, rain, etc. 

    If a specific lesson/activity is scheduled, they will do so in the first hour and hike/explore in the second. 


    Registration required at https://forms.gle/bRhoWZFNJBVTFobeAor PEC@Phila.gov

    Fall Season Registration


    Families receive a $10 discount per child if registering upfront for the 13 Tuesdays of fall adventures. (No adventures Nov. 5) If this option is selected, families would pay $55/child cash or check (payable to City of Philadelphia) on or before September 10, 2024. We cannot refund money for missed days.
  • Oct
    9
    Science for Seniors (Apple Pressing)
    1:00 pm to 2:30 pm
    Pennypack Environmental Center

    Science for Seniors (Apple Pressing)

    October 9, 2024
    1:00 pm to 2:30 pm, 2 hours
    Pennypack Environmental Center
    map
    Registration at: https://forms.gle/D8BQuaLjoJTuC5uf9

    Join us each month for a new adventure in natural sciences.
    Older Adults.
    FREE
    (See exception for Dec. 11).


    October 9 | 1-2:30 p.m. | Apple Pressing
    For this seasonal favorite, we will use the old-fashioned apple press to make cider. There will also be a demo of apple butter making and how to use apple scraps. Of course we will be snacking on cider and apple butter as well.

    November 13 | 1-2:30 p.m. | TBD
    Adventure TBD

    December 11 | 1-2:30 p.m. | Winter Arrangements
    In preparation for the winter celebrations, we will have a workshop on wreaths and swag making. Free to Learn. $ to take home.
    _________________________
    Adventures are subject to change at any time, but will be all-weather, almost always outdoor adventures. Please dress for the weather and hiking.

    Parking is available at the center with additional street parking.

    The center, bathrooms, and picnic areas are all accessible, however, the trails are rocky and uneven.

    Photos will be taken of participants during this program for use by the Pennypack Environmental Center and Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. If you wish to opt out, please let us know before the program.

    City of Philadelphia Covid-19 information at phila.gov.

    TICK CHECK upon return and every day after nature play.


    Questions? Contact us at pec@phila.gov or 215.685.0470
  • Oct
    9
    Free Family Fishing
    4:00 pm to 6:30 pm
    Boathouse at FDR Park, FDR Park, Philadelphia, PA 19145, USA

    Free Family Fishing

    October 9, 2024
    4:00 pm to 6:30 pm, 3 hours
    Boathouse at FDR Park, FDR Park, Philadelphia, PA 19145, USA
    map
    Meet Discovery Pathways at the Boathouse.  No fishing license or experience necessary!

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