Leanna Arnold

When the concrete jungle that is city living has you down, Philadelphia parks provide a welcome respite when a trip out of town just isn’t in the cards. Philadelphia parks can be found all around town and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes—from charming Center City oases to green spaces like Fairmount Park that are so expansive, you’ll forget you’re in the middle of a thriving metropolis. Philadelphia parks are an excellent option when you’re looking for worthwhile free things to do in Philadelphia, and they’re always a hit with out-of-towners looking to take in the very best of Philadelphia attractions.

The newly renovated and named, Race Street Pier opened in May 2011. While still a young park, it has quickly gained a following of lunch-breakers, yogis, tourists and runners. Check the website for upcoming events, such as free yoga, to take full advantage of this little haven under the Ben Franklin Bridge. Keep an eye on this area over the next few years. The pier is the first completed project of an ongoing master plan that proposes open space improvements every half mile along the central Delaware River.

Although it is located within West Fairmount Park, the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden deserves its own spot in the limelight. This traditional-style Japanese house was originally conceived as part of an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in NYC, but was moved to Philadelphia in the 1950s to the site of a Japanese garden that has roots dating back to the 1876 Centennial Exposition. When in need of a moment of Zen, visit Shofuso and enjoy the koi pond, tea garden and house. Check the website for ongoing programming, classes, events and exhibitions. Shofuso is especially popular in the spring during cherry blossom season.

The perfect day trip leads just outside the Philadelphia grid to this lush wonderland of greenery. Comprising 1,800 acres and 57 miles of trails, you can explore the wilderness for days at a time and still leave parts untouched. Follow the beginner-level gravel trails along the creek or venture up the surrounding mountains for a more challenging adventure. Stop at the historic Valley Green Inn if you need sustenance along the way and don’t forget to inquire about permits if you plan to picnic, off-road bike or horseback ride (and yes, these are all options!).

One of William Penn’s five original squares, Washington Square has a rich history. It originally served as a burial ground and pasture but in the 19th century trees, paths, benches, lamps and fencing were added to turn it into a true park. In the mid-20th century, a memorial to Washington and an eternal flame for unknown soldiers of the American Revolution made their debut. Don’t forget to check out the Moon Tree, a clone of a sycamore tree whose seed was carried by an astronaut on Apollo XIV.

Valley Forge Park is both a beautiful collection of rolling hills and a living monument to the Revolutionary War. This site housed the Continental Army encampment under General George Washington in the winter of 1777-78. Stop in at the Visitor Center to learn more about the rich history and the many significant sites you will see such as Washington’s Headquarters, Muhlenberg Brigade Huts, Washington Memorial Chapel, Varnum’s Headquarters and the PC Knox Estate. Aside from hiking and exploring the area on foot, you can also opt for a self-guided driving tour, cell phone-guided tour, 90-minute trolley tour (ADA accessible), private guided tour or bicycle tour (bike rentals and guided bike tours are available).

Just as the name suggests, Penn Treaty Park is the site where William Penn signed the “Great Treaty” with Native Americans. Whether such a meeting ever occurred may be debatable, but the stunning views of the Ben Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River are not. The newly installed playground equipment will surely delight the younger crowd; while the whole family enjoys picnicking on the expansive lawn and watching the boats pass by.

Dilworth Park, originally William Penn’s Center Square, is hard to miss. Located on the west side of City Hall, it provides respite right in the heart of Center City. With its central location, it serves as a gateway to public transportation. Dilworth Park was completely renovated and reopened in 2014 and now boasts an interactive fountain, lawn, tree grove, seating areas, café and seasonal activities. Visit in the winter to go ice skating or in the summer for live musical performances, outdoor movies and happy hour at the Dilworth Park Café and Air Grille.

South Philly is famous for more than just the cheesesteaks. Visit FDR Park, just south of the stadiums, to find remarkable lagoons, creeks and lakes. Fish, boat, golf, bird watch, play sports, picnic or just meander through this glorious gem. Note the internationally renowned FDR Skate Park, which draws professional skaters and bladers from around the globe. The boathouse, gazebo and American Swedish Historical Museum are relics from the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition, America’s 150th birthday celebration, so make sure to show them some love.