Smith Playground

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse is one of Philadelphia's most beloved and best-kept family secrets — a completely free playground and indoor playhouse in East Fairmount Park that has been welcoming children since 1899. The outdoor playground features some of the largest play structures in any Philadelphia park, with enormous climbing frames, slides, and open grassy areas spread across a gently sloping hillside.

The crown jewel is the Smith Playhouse: a historic wooden building that houses the famous giant wooden slide — a long, smooth wooden ramp that children have been riding since the 1930s. The slide is as popular today as it ever was, and children instinctively queue up for repeated runs. The indoor playhouse also offers structured play sessions with age-appropriate toys and activities for children under 9.

Smith Playground is entirely free — operated by a nonprofit that accepts donations but charges no admission. This makes it one of the best free family destinations in Philadelphia, and a park that genuinely competes with paid attractions for quality and delight.

The playground is located within East Fairmount Park along Reservoir Drive, easily combined with a park walk, bike ride, or visit to nearby Fairmount Park attractions. Hours are limited to Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday), so check the website before visiting. The playhouse has structured session times, while the outdoor playground is open during park hours.

For families visiting Philadelphia with young children, Smith Playground should be on the itinerary — it's the kind of place that generates vivid childhood memories.