Smith Memorial Playground

Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse
Type	Children's playground / Historic recreation
Location	Fairmount Park (East)
Coordinates	39.9880,-75.1840
Area	6.5 acres
Established	1899
Operated by	Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse
Features	Giant wooden slide, indoor playhouse, outdoor playground, tot lot
Hours	Seasonal; check website
Transit	SEPTA bus to 33rd and Oxford
Website	Official Site

Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse is a historic children's playground in East Fairmount Park, founded in 1899 and featuring the famous Giant Wooden Slide—a beloved Philadelphia institution for over 125 years. The site includes an expansive outdoor playground, indoor playhouse, and dedicated spaces for children of different ages, all free of charge.

Generations of Philadelphia children have grown up playing at "The Smith," making it one of the city's most cherished family destinations.

History

Founding

The playground was established through the will of Richard and Sarah Smith:

• 1899: Opened to the public
• Gift to the children of Philadelphia
• One of America's first playgrounds
• Free admission since opening

The Vision

The Smiths' vision:

• Safe outdoor play space for children
• Accessible to all, regardless of income
• Wholesome recreation
• Connection to nature

Preservation

The playground has been preserved and updated:

• Original Giant Slide maintained
• Historic playhouse renovated
• Modern equipment added
• Expanded programming

Features

The Giant Wooden Slide

The Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide is the icon:

• 40 feet wide
• Three stories of sliding surface
• Burlap sacks for sliding
• Original feature from 1905
• Must-do Philadelphia experience

Outdoor Playground

Extensive play areas:

• Climbing structures
• Swings (many types)
• Sand play areas
• Nature play elements
• Shaded picnic areas

Tot Lot

Dedicated space for ages 5 and under:

• Age-appropriate equipment
• Enclosed area
• Soft surfaces
• Nearby seating for caregivers

The Playhouse

Historic indoor play space:

• Three floors of activities
• Imaginary play areas
• Climbing and sliding
• Rainy day destination
• Climate-controlled

Grounds

Park setting:

• Mature shade trees
• Open lawn areas
• Picnic facilities
• Wooded surroundings

Visiting

Hours

Seasonal operation:

• Generally April through October (outdoor)
• Playhouse may have extended season
• Check website for current hours

Admission

• Free — Always has been, always will be
• Donations welcome
• Some special programs may have fees

Age Limits

• Playground: Ages 10 and under
• Some areas designated for specific age groups
• Adult supervision required

Getting There

Location: 3500 Reservoir Drive, East Fairmount Park

By Public Transit:

• SEPTA Bus 32 to 33rd and Oxford
• Walk into park

By Car:

• Free parking lot
• Enter park from 33rd Street

Tips

• Bring socks for the playhouse
• The Giant Slide can have lines on nice days
• Sunscreen essential—limited shade on playground
• Pack a picnic lunch
• Bathrooms available

Programs

• Summer camps
• Birthday party rentals
• School field trips
• Special events
• Family programs

The Smith Legacy

The playground embodies its founders' values:

• Free and accessible
• Focused on children's wellbeing
• Maintained for future generations
• Community gathering place

Nearby

• Fairmount Park — Surrounding park
• Strawberry Mansion — Historic house nearby
• Woodford Mansion — Historic house
• Laurel Hill Cemetery — Across the river
• Kelly Drive — River drive access

See Also

• Fairmount Park
• Franklin Square (also has playground)
• Sister Cities Park
• Please Touch Museum

External Links

• Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse