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Spruce Street Harbor Park park in Philadelphia, PA
Photo: Spruce Street Harbor Park
View of Spruce Street Harbor Park in Philadelphia, PA
Photo: Spruce Street Harbor Park
View of Spruce Street Harbor Park in Philadelphia, PA
Photo: Spruce Street Harbor Park

Spruce Street Harbor Park

4.6(8,184 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Toddlers and preschoolers love the giant lawn games and exploring the hammock garden, while older elementary kids enjoy the boat rentals and more independence to roam the boardwalk. Teens may find it enjoyable for the unique atmosphere and photo opportunities.

About

Spruce Street Harbor Park is a vibrant seasonal waterfront escape where kids can lounge in colorful hammocks, challenge parents to oversized versions of Connect Four and Jenga, and watch boats drift by on the Delaware River. The park's relaxed atmosphere and free Sunday family craft activities make it a perfect low-key outing where children can run freely while parents actually relax.

Highlights

  • Colorful floating hammock garden with dozens of hammocks suspended over the boardwalk
  • Giant-sized lawn games including oversized Jenga, Connect Four, chess, and shuffleboard
  • Free family craft activities every Sunday afternoon (1-3 PM)
  • Kayak and paddleboat rentals to explore the Delaware River waterfront
  • Floating barges with games, seating areas, and unique waterfront views

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early on weekends (right at 11 AM) to snag the best hammock spots near the water before they're all claimed
  2. 2.Bring quarters or small bills for the arcade-style games and prepare for kids to want snacks from the multiple food vendors on-site
  3. 3.The free Sunday family crafts run from 1-3 PM and are very popular,arrive by 12:45 PM to secure your spot
  4. 4.Wear comfortable shoes as the boardwalk features wooden planks that can be tricky for flip-flops, especially for running kids
  5. 5.Park at the nearby Pier 68 lot on Columbus Boulevard for easier access, though street parking can be found on side streets if you arrive early

Best Time to Visit

Visit on Sunday mornings (11 AM-1 PM) before the free craft session for the best combination of available hammocks and activities. Weekday late afternoons (when open Thursday-Friday) offer smaller crowds. The park is most magical at sunset when string lights illuminate the boardwalk.

What to Know

The park is FREE to enter with pay-as-you-go options for food, drinks, and boat rentals. Limited days are open (weekends plus Thursday-Friday evenings), so check the seasonal schedule before visiting. Multiple food vendors accept cards, and the boardwalk is stroller-accessible though hammocks areas can be tight.

Seasonal Notes

Open seasonally from late spring through early fall (typically May through September). The park is closed Monday-Wednesday, so plan accordingly. Hours are limited to evenings only on Thursday-Friday. Check their website before visiting as weather can affect operations. The park closes for the winter season.

Nearby Eats

Race Street Pier (5-minute walk north) has food trucks and open green space for kids to continue playing. Penn's Landing area offers multiple casual family options including Chickie's & Pete's for kid-friendly crab fries and chicken tenders.

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