Creating Joyful and Meaningful Interactions Through Play

We are a world of indoor and outdoor fun that is always free to visit. Our one-of-a-kind historic Playhouse offers three floors of interactive play. Our 6 1/2 acre Playground has multiple zones for climbing, swinging, spinning and exploring as well as our famous Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide - a Philadelphia tradition.

Hours & Location

Visiting Hours

APRIL  - SEPTEMBER

Tues - Fri: 10 am - 6 pm

Sat - Sun: 10 am - 7 pm

 OCTOBER  - MARCH

Tues - Fri: 10 am - 5 pm

Sat - Sun: 10 am - 5 pm

Please Note: Smith Memorial Playground is always closed on Mondays.


We also occasionally close for private events or maintenance. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend checking our website or social media before your visit for the most up-to-date hours and announcements.

Smith Through the Years

Celebrate more than a century of play with Smith’s beautifully illustrated book, Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse: A Legacy of Play. This publication shares the rich history of Smith, from the founding of the playground in 1899 to the generations of families who have created memories here for more than 125 years.


Filled with historic photographs, stories, and reflections on the importance of play, the book offers a fascinating look at how Smith has evolved while remaining true to its mission of providing free play opportunities for children and families.


Books can be purchased during your next visit or online!


Book cover with sepia photo of children and adults in a park, titled “Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse.”

 Kidchella Music Festival

Children and adults cheering with raised hands in a grassy park during a group outdoor event

Smith Memorial Playground kicks off the summer with our Kidchella Music Festival, presented by Wawa Welcome America. Join us for a FREE, one-day extravaganza featuring four dynamic, family-friendly musical artists. Enjoy art stations, delicious treats, exciting giveaways, community  partner tables, delightful pre-show activities, and a stunning main concert—all while celebrating our 125th Anniversary! Register for FREE tickets here.


"We The Heroes!"

Step into "We the Heroes!" Smith's newest interactive Play-Stallation celebrating America's 250th birthday through creativity, imagination, and play. Inspired by the people who helped shape our nation, this hands-on exhibit encourages children to discover the hero within themselves through kindness, leadership, and community.


Children can sign their own "Declaration of Independence," design superhero masks, build and "fly" over a city skyline, cast a ballot in a kid-friendly voting booth, create signs supporting causes they care about, and enjoy comic book-inspired art activities. Every experience encourages self-expression, creativity, and confidence while showing that anyone can make a positive difference.


There are countless ways to imagine, create, and explore in this exciting new exhibit.


"We the Heroes!" is now open! Visit the Bodek Den on the first floor of the Playhouse and discover how every child has the power to be a hero.


Play-Stallations are made possible by generous support from Vanguard Strong Start for Kids
.

Colorful “play is fun!” sign above a shelf of orange, green, and yellow balls in a classroom display.

Wonderspring Summer Camp

Now enrolling: Wonderspring Preschool at Smith Memorial Playground is now enrolling for their Summer Camp. Camp is for preschoolers ages 3-5 - space is limited!


To learn more, call 267-876-3800, or email cspencer@wonderspring.org. 


Black outline map with a location pin icon on a white background

Location:

Directions

Playground Map

Illustrated map of Smith Memorial Playground with labeled play areas, trees, paths, and a large green banner title

Things to Do

CONTACT INFORMATION

ADDRESS

3500 Reservoir Drive

East Fairmount Park

Philadelphia, PA 19121-1095

*if you encounter any issues mailing us, please contact Cheryl Carson at cheryl@smithplayground.org

Please consider supporting our non-profit organization!

Give the Gift of Play