We already have enough reasons to visit Penn’s Landing this summer with the many festivals, concerts and events planned for the Great Plaza.... The multicultural festival series, concerts at the RiverStage, Screenings Under the Stars and Smooth Jazz Summer Nights. But now we can take a short stroll south and step into the unexpected urban landscape at Philly's newest pop-up village, Spruce Street Harbor Park.
With the help of an ArtPlace America Grant and Groundswell Design Group, this riverfront space is being completely transformed into a summertime village with lush landscaping, interesting programming and art installations influenced by the area’s maritime history, the River’s industrial past and the exciting future ahead for Philadelphia’s historic waterfront.
Park Highlights:
The Oasis - Made up of three barges, a lily pad water garden, colorful seating, a net lounge extending out over the river and The Blue Anchor Restaurant and Bar, named after one of Philly’s first taverns.
Cleverly constructed of two shipping containers, the Blue Anchor features a walk-up window and alfresco seating consisting of Adirondack chairs, picnic tables and bistro sets. Casual, summer-inspired fare, local craft beer and cocktails will be provided by The Garces Group.
The Hammock Lounge – Relax in one of the 50 colorful, oversized hammocks strung throughout the trees on the west side of the park. More than 800 feet of string lights have been designed to illuminate the space after dark.
Harbor Boardwalk – Take a stroll on an oceanfront-style boardwalk lining the waterfront, complete with dune grasses and repurposed cargo containers with vendors selling summertime concessions, arcade games and lawn games like Bocce and shuffleboard. Free games like cornhole, ping pong, tetherball, Connect Four, giant Jenga and life-sized chess are also available.
The Scene
The Urban Beach - Located next to the tall ship Gazela, you’ll find a beach area complete with sand, lounge chairs and umbrellas.
Mist Walk - Further north, check out the Mist Walk where a soft spray of water will help cool you off.
Art Star Pop-Up Market - For your shopping fix, a group of 10 to 20 rotating vendors will sell kids items, clothes, jewelry, posters, pottery and more on Saturdays between 11 a.m and 3 p.m. (weather permitting) in the park.
Spruce Street Harbor Park is free and open to the public daily from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. from June 27th to August 31st. See you there!
Spruce Street Harbor Park
401 South Columbus Boulvard at Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
INSIDER TIPS
On opening day (Friday, June 27) - The Visit Philly Beer Garden Happy Hour Series will offer specials and giveaways from 4 to 7 p.m.
Boardwalk concession and games will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors are welcome to order food from The Blue Anchor and take it off of the barge, but alcoholic beverages must be consumed in The Oasis.
Getting there – Public transportation, biking and walking are ideal ways to reach the park. Take the Market-Frankford line to 2nd Street or hop on SEPTA bus routes 17, 21, 25, 33, 42, and 48. If you prefer to drive, paid parking is available at Lombard Circle, Walnut and Market Streets at Columbus Boulevard.
