What we do
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation connects the city’s residents to the natural world, to each other, and to fun physical and social opportunities. We manage historically significant Philadelphia events and special venues, and we work with communities and organizations, leading capital projects and introducing creative programming.
Philadelphia’s large, diverse parks and recreation system provides something for everyone. Listed below are some of facilities and programs we’re responsible for:
- 300+ neighborhood parks, rec centers, and playgrounds
- 166 miles of trails and 40 historic sites
- 60 community gardens, farms, and orchards
- 3 environmental education centers
- 600+ baseball, softball, football, and soccer fields
- 74 pools
- 400+ basketball and 200+ tennis courts
- 5 ice skating rinks
- 5 golf courses
- 25 public computer centers
Connect
| Address |
1515 Arch Street
10th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19102 |
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parksandrecreation |
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Phone:
(215) 683-3600
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| Social |
Announcements
Announcement
Parks & Rec sites participate in “Philly Shines Blue”
The most iconic buildings and landmarks in Philadelphia will shine blue on World Health Day, Tuesday, April 7.
“Philly Shines Blue” will honor the heroic healthcare workers and first responders battling the COVID-19 pandemic. Three dozen buildings from Center City to South Philadelphia will change their facade lights to blue. These include important Parks & Rec sites. The lightings will continue each Tuesday in April.
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City of Philadelphia
Participating Parks & Rec sites include:
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Cultural institutions on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Other sites interested in taking part should contact BOMA at info@bomaphila.com or 215-567-1775.
Announcement
Parks & Rec to reopen four bridges in Wissahickon Valley Park
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation has reopened four bridges in Wissahickon Valley Park. The bridges serve pedestrians and cyclists using the Wissahickon Valley Park multi-use path. Located near “Ten Box,” they connect the Forbidden Drive and Lincoln Drive sections of the path.
In late February, a vehicular accident damaged one of the bridges. The City of Philadelphia closed the bridge, made repairs, and determined it is now safe to use.
Parks & Rec will close and rehabilitate the four bridges later this year. A detour route will be posted before work begins. These plans were underway before the February vehicular accident.
Parks & Rec thanks residents for their patience while experts assessed the bridge’s condition.
If you go:
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Outdoor activities such as walking, running, and cycling are permitted.
Announcement
Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive closed to vehicular traffic
Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive is closed to vehicles until further notice.
The closure:
- Stretches from East Falls Bridge to Eakins Oval.
- Will be in place 24 hours a day.
- Will allow for greater social distancing among trail users.
The City of Philadelphia encourages residents to stay indoors as much as possible. Under current restrictions, parks and trails remain open.
Residents who visit outdoor spaces to recreate should:
- Practice social distancing.
- Wash their hands for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer after visiting.
