By: Amy Hopf, Digital Content Associate
Summer fun is kicking off in parks and playgrounds across the city! Whether you’re looking to relax and cool off, or work up a sweat, there is an activity for everyone.
Check out these 15 cool things to do this summer:
1. Watch an outdoor movie.
This summer, many of Philly’s parks and rec centers will turn into free outdoor movie screening venues once dusk sets in.
2. Listen to live music.
Come out to a concert and enjoy summer nights filled with live music, fresh air, and the beautiful scenery of Philly’s parks and playgrounds.
3. Do some yoga.
As the weather gets warmer, many Parks & Rec spaces transform into yoga studios, with a variety of dates and locations offered.
4. Walk the Baxter Trail.
Now through Labor Day weekend, the Baxter Trail will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
5. Visit a farmers’ market.
Grab some fresh food and flowers at farmers’ markets held throughout the summer! Search for a market in your neighborhood.
6. Rent a bike or boat.
Headed to FDR Park? Wheel Fun Rentals offers fun and easy ways to explore the park by bike or boat. And this summer, Night Rides are available at Wheel Fun’s Boathouse Row location!
7. Fish with your neighbors.
Every Saturday this summer, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., we’re hosting free community fishing days with lessons for kids at Pleasant Hill Park.
8. Visit the Rail Park.
Enjoy the newly opened Rail Park in Callowhill, featuring green space, benches, a walkway, beautiful wooden swings, and views of the city.
9. Watch a soccer game.
The Philadelphia International Unity Cup unites neighborhoods and celebrates immigrant communities through a World Cup-style soccer tournament, kicking off August 3. All games are free for spectators.
10. Join a community garden.
Support urban farming and native plants on Parks & Rec property by getting involved with a Philadelphia community garden.
11. Take a dip in a pool.
Parks & Rec has 70+ pools open this summer season! Check in with your neighborhood pool for specific program schedules. (Still hot? Don’t forget about our spraygrounds!)
With so many visitors, it’s best to come to the pool prepared: read our 3 pro tips for Philly pools.
12. Enjoy a picnic.
Picnics are a fun way to enjoy Philly’s parks and recreation centers. Make sure to follow our picnicking dos and don’ts to keep the spaces clean and safe.
13. Check out Treetop Quest.
Did you know you can zipline in West Fairmount Park? Jump, soar, climb, and zip through Philadelphia’s first treetop obstacle course.
14. Visit a Parks on Tap location.
The Parks on Tap beer garden travels to a new park each weekend. Grab some food and drinks, relax in hammocks, and enjoy activities like games and yoga.
15. Save the date for The Oval’s return.
The Oval+ returns to the Parkway on July 20! Make sure to check back for updates on this summer pop-up park soon.
