Starr Garden
| Starr Garden | |
|---|---|
| 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 | Official Site |
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.[1]
The facility has served generations of South Philadelphia children and continues as a vital community resource.
History
[edit | edit source]Origins
[edit | edit source]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
[edit | edit source]Early 20th century programming:
- Americanization programs
- English classes
- Youth activities
- Community services
Evolution
[edit | edit source]The facility evolved over decades:
- Playground improvements
- Recreation center added
- Programming expanded
- Community gathering space
Features
[edit | edit source]Recreation Center
[edit | edit source]Starr Garden Recreation Center:
- Indoor facilities
- Year-round programming
- Youth activities
- Senior programs
- Summer camps
Playground
[edit | edit source]- Modern equipment
- Multiple play areas
- Safe surfaces
- Shaded areas
Sports Facilities
[edit | edit source]- Basketball courts
- Multi-purpose court
- Open play areas
Summer Programs
[edit | edit source]- Day camp activities
- Sports leagues
- Arts programs
- Educational enrichment
Using the Park
[edit | edit source]Daily Activities
[edit | edit source]- Playground use
- Basketball
- Recreation programs
- Community gatherings
Programs
[edit | edit source]- After-school programs
- Summer camps
- Sports leagues
- Senior activities
- Special events
Visiting
[edit | edit source]Hours
[edit | edit source]- Park: Dawn to dusk
- Recreation center: Check posted hours
Getting There
[edit | edit source]Location: 8th and Lombard Streets, Bella Vista
By Public Transit:
- SEPTA Bus 47
- Walk from Italian Market
By Car:
- Street parking
Tips
[edit | edit source]- Recreation programs require registration
- The playground is popular after school
- Close to Italian Market for food shopping
Nearby
[edit | edit source]- Italian Market — 9th Street corridor
- Bella Vista — Surrounding neighborhood
- Queen Village — East
- Columbus Square — Nearby park
- South Street — North
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Starr Garden". Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Retrieved December 30, 2025