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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
    17
    Garden Club
    4:00 pm to 6:00 pm
    Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600A Verree Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19115, USA

    Garden Club

    October 17, 2024
    4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, 2 hours
    Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600A Verree Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19115, USA
    map
    New for 2024! Join other gardeners throughout the growing season as we tend to the Verree House Herb Garden and the immediate land around the center. Throughout the season we will plan, weed, plant, weed, harvest, weed, share, weed, and eventually put the gardens to bed.
    Volunteers will be able to take home any harvest, when available. We will also have small gardening workshops along the way.

    Come to one, some, or all garden days. Registration is helpful with planning and tool gathering.
    This is best for older children, teens and adults interested in learning while getting dirty. Adults must supervise their children.

    Registrationhttps://forms.gle/2yAbMrLiqsoJQ4yU6
    Questions? PEC@phila.gov or 215.685.0470.
  • Oct
    17
    Full Moon Hike at Champions Playground
    6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
    Champions Park Playground, 910 Tustin St, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA

    Full Moon Hike at Champions Playground

    October 17, 2024
    6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, 1 hour
    Champions Park Playground, 910 Tustin St, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
    map
    Join us at Champions Park Playground (910 Tustin Rd 19111) to see the full moon rising (weather permitting). We will look for the wild sights and sounds that are unique to the night covered forest.
    Outdoors, almost all weather.

    Moonrise 6:19 pm    
    Sunset 6:17 pm

    ~1-mile hike on uneven, rocky trails in the dark.
    No flashlights will be used on the hike.

    Adults & Teens. Free.
    Questions? PEC@phila.gov or 215.685.0470.

    PLEASE NOTE: We cannot predict the appearances of specific wildlife, full moon, etc., however, you can expect a beautiful hike in nature. These are all-weather, outdoor program. Please dress for the weather and hiking. The center, bathrooms, and picnic areas are all accessible, however, the trails are rocky and uneven.
  • Oct
    18
    The Wissahickon in October with Debbie Hoellein and Jim McClory
    9:00 am to 12:00 pm
    Walnut Lane Golf Club on Magdalena Street, Wenover Street and Magdalena Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19118, United States

    The Wissahickon in October with Debbie Hoellein and Jim McClory

    October 18, 2024
    9:00 am to 12:00 pm, 3 hours
    Walnut Lane Golf Club on Magdalena Street, Wenover Street and Magdalena Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19118, United States
    map
    Meeting at the parking lot on Magdalena Street across from the Walnut Lane Golf Club Join Debbie and Jim as we hike the Wissahickon in October. We hope to see some beautiful fall color during our walk. We’ll observe what our favorite plants look like this time of year and may even see some Osage oranges and a flowering native euonymus. Toleration is on our route along with some other points of historical interest. Our approximately 3.5-4 mile route includes some steep and rocky inclines and descents. Children 12 years of age and older are welcome when accompanied by an adult, but please, no dogs other than service animals. Distance: 3.5-4 miles Level: Difficult (many inclines and declines, uneven surfaces) Registration is required for all hikes so that participants can be informed of weather or other emergency cancellations. Unless otherwise specified, Trail Ambassador Walks may be on rocky, rugged trails that may be wet and slippery. Wear sturdy shoes or boots with socks. Walks are cancelled in heavy rain or icy conditions. Service animals are always welcome. For more information contact Marisa Miller at miller@fow.org. Visit www.fow.org for updates. Register below!

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