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.[1]
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
References
- ↑ "Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse". Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse. Retrieved December 30, 2025