Children’s Playground at FDR Park
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Ages
2-10
About
The Children's Playground at FDR Park sits within one of South Philadelphia's most beloved green spaces, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park. Just south of the stadiums along Pattison Avenue, this large urban park offers families a spacious, free outdoor playground experience that feels a world away from the city streets.
The playground features age-appropriate climbing structures and open turf areas where kids can run freely after time on the equipment. For families visiting the sports complex area for an Eagles or Phillies game, the park is a natural pre- or post-game stop for children who need to burn off energy.
FDR Park itself enhances the playground visit considerably — the surrounding landscape includes a lake with walking paths, athletic fields, and seasonal programming. The park hosts events throughout the year including outdoor concerts and the Oval XP activation in summer, making it worth checking the events calendar before your visit.
Admission is free, parking is available in the park lots, and the size of the park means families can spend half a day here without running out of things to do. Best visited in spring or fall when the weather is comfortable and shade from the park's mature trees keeps the temperature manageable.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
true
Kid Meals
snacks only
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning on weekdays or early on weekends before it fills up; spring and fall for the best weather
Wait Times
None — open public playground
Nearby Food
The Tasker Morris neighborhood along Broad St has casual dining options. Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's are about 10 minutes away. Seasonal food vendors sometimes operate in the park during events.
Why Kids Love It
Kids love the spacious playground structures set within the sprawling FDR Park landscape. The combination of climbing structures, open space to run, and proximity to the lake makes it feel like a complete outdoor adventure.
Pro Tips from Parents
- FDR Park also has a lake, sports fields, and seasonal events — combine the playground with a walk around the lake for a longer outing.
- Parking is free in the park lots along Pattison Ave.
- Bring sunscreen — the playground area can be exposed with limited shade during midday.
- The park hosts the Oval XP summer pop-up and other events — check fdrparkphilly.org for the calendar.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and hats for sunny days
- Snacks and water bottles
- Blanket for sitting in the grass
- Sports equipment (ball, frisbee) to use the surrounding park fields
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
Free.
Bring your own food and drinks — no concessions at the playground itself.
Tips to Save
- Completely free.
- Pack a picnic and take advantage of the surrounding park for a full half-day outing.
