Editing Starr Garden

{{Infobox Park
| name = Starr Garden
| image =
| image_caption = Starr Garden playground in South Philadelphia
| type = Neighborhood park / Recreation center
| location = South Philadelphia (Bella Vista)
| coordinates = 39.9350,-75.1580
| area = 2 acres
| established = 1911
| operated_by = Philadelphia Parks & Recreation
| features = Recreation center, playground, sports courts, summer programs
| hours = Dawn to dusk; rec center has set hours
| transit = SEPTA bus routes; walk from Italian Market
| website = https://www.phila.gov/parks-rec-finder
}}

'''Starr Garden''' is a neighborhood park and recreation center in the [[Bella Vista]] section of [[South Philadelphia]], serving the community since 1911. One of the city's earliest planned recreation facilities, Starr Garden provides playground space, sports facilities, and year-round programming for South Philadelphia families.<ref name="starr">{{cite web |url=https://www.phila.gov/parks-rec-finder/#/locationDetails/3144 |title=Starr Garden |publisher=Philadelphia Parks & Recreation |access-date=December 30, 2025}}</ref>

The facility has served generations of South Philadelphia children and continues as a vital community resource.

== History ==

=== Origins ===

Starr Garden opened in '''1911''':
* Part of Progressive Era recreation movement
* Designed to serve immigrant neighborhood
* Provided supervised play for children
* Named for early benefactor

=== Settlement House Era ===

Early 20th century programming:
* Americanization programs
* English classes
* Youth activities
* Community services

=== Evolution ===

The facility evolved over decades:
* Playground improvements
* Recreation center added
* Programming expanded
* Community gathering space

== Features ==

=== Recreation Center ===

'''Starr Garden Recreation Center:'''
* Indoor facilities
* Year-round programming
* Youth activities
* Senior programs
* Summer camps

=== Playground ===

* Modern equipment
* Multiple play areas
* Safe surfaces
* Shaded areas

=== Sports Facilities ===

* Basketball courts
* Multi-purpose court
* Open play areas

=== Summer Programs ===

* Day camp activities
* Sports leagues
* Arts programs
* Educational enrichment

== Using the Park ==

=== Daily Activities ===

* Playground use
* Basketball
* Recreation programs
* Community gatherings

=== Programs ===

* After-school programs
* Summer camps
* Sports leagues
* Senior activities
* Special events

== Visiting ==

=== Hours ===

* Park: Dawn to dusk
* Recreation center: Check posted hours

=== Getting There ===

'''Location:''' 8th and Lombard Streets, Bella Vista

'''By Public Transit:'''
* SEPTA Bus 47
* Walk from Italian Market

'''By Car:'''
* Street parking

=== Tips ===

* Recreation programs require registration
* The playground is popular after school
* Close to Italian Market for food shopping

== Nearby ==

* '''[[Italian Market]]''' — 9th Street corridor
* '''[[Bella Vista]]''' — Surrounding neighborhood
* '''[[Queen Village]]''' — East
* '''[[Columbus Square]]''' — Nearby park
* '''[[South Street]]''' — North

== See Also ==

* [[South Philadelphia]]
* [[Bella Vista]]
* [[Italian Market]]
* [[Columbus Square]]

== References ==
<references />

== External Links ==

* [https://www.phila.gov/parks-rec-finder Philadelphia Parks & Recreation Finder]

{{#seo:
|title=Starr Garden Philadelphia - Bella Vista Recreation Center & Playground
|description=Guide to Starr Garden in South Philadelphia's Bella Vista. Historic recreation center since 1911, playground, sports courts, and community programs.
|keywords=Starr Garden Philadelphia, Bella Vista parks, South Philadelphia recreation, Philadelphia playgrounds, Italian Market area parks
|type=Article
}}

[[Category:Parks]]
[[Category:South Philadelphia]]
[[Category:Recreation]]
[[Category:Family]]