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Franklin Square
History comes alive with mini-golf, a carousel, storytelling and more
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The Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel at Franklin Square
Photo by M. Kennedy for GPTMC
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Outsider Tip
New plantings complement the beautiful shady trees already in the Square, including 153 new shrubs, 34 large trees and 24 small trees, including the rare Franklinia Tree named in Benjamin Franklin’s honor, in various parts of the Square.
The Experience
One of Philadelphia’s newest historic attractions is also one of its oldest.
Franklin Square, one of the five public squares that William Penn laid out in his original plan for the city, has undergone a dramatic renovation. The park now boasts several all new, family-friendly attractions, including a miniature golf course, a classic carousel, storytelling benches, a picnic area and more.
At Philly Mini Golf, an 18-hole miniature golf course decorated with some of Philadelphia’s favorite icons, play a round of putt-putt and learn a little history at the same time.
Close your eyes and take a nostalgic ride on the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, a classic tribute to Philadelphia’s great heritage of carousel-making. It’s sure to be a instant kid favorite.
Then catch up on your history at one of the storytelling benches located throughout the park, where you can hear tales of Franklin Square's past, or learn about the many communities touched by the Square, courtesy of the friendly storytellers of Once Upon a Nation.
And emanating from the corners of the historic park, four new herringbone brick walking paths with nighttime lighting bring even more charm to the Square after dark. The paths lead to the centerpiece of the Square, the Franklin Square Fountain, a marble masterpiece built in 1838 surrounded by wrought iron fences, which is currently still going under cosmetic restoration.
COME PREPARED
Bring a blanket and enjoy the historic surroundings at one of the new picnic areas in the Square. Grab a Philly-style lunch from one of the many concession stands that surround the park and spend the day enjoying all the new amenities. The Square now has restrooms as well!
DON'T MISS
Franklin Square will hold extended hours throughout the summer, staying open until 9 p.m. every night.
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