Spruce Street Harbor Park
| Spruce Street Harbor Park | |
|---|---|
| Type | Seasonal waterfront park |
| Location | Delaware River waterfront |
| Coordinates | 39.9400,-75.1400 |
| Area | 5 acres (approximate) |
| Established | 2014 |
| Operated by | Delaware River Waterfront Corporation |
| Features | Hammocks, floating gardens, food vendors, bars, games |
| Hours | Seasonal (May-September); check website |
| Transit | Walk from 2nd Street; SEPTA bus 25 |
| Website | Official Site |
Spruce Street Harbor Park is a seasonal waterfront park on the Delaware River in Philadelphia, transforming a stretch of industrial waterfront into one of the city's most vibrant summer destinations. Known for its colorful hammocks strung over the water, floating gardens, and festive atmosphere, the park has become a beloved annual tradition since opening in 2014.[1]
The park typically operates from May through September and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer.
Features
[edit | edit source]Hammocks
[edit | edit source]The hammocks are the park's signature feature:
- Dozens of colorful hammocks
- Suspended over the water
- First-come, first-served
- Prime relaxation spots
- Most photographed element
Floating Gardens
[edit | edit source]Floating barges with plantings:
- Innovative urban greening
- Wildlife habitat
- Visual interest on the water
- Environmental education
LED Light Installation
[edit | edit source]Colorful lighting throughout:
- Tree canopy illumination
- Waterfront lights
- Spectacular at dusk and night
- Instagram-favorite backdrop
Games and Activities
[edit | edit source]- Bocce courts
- Shuffleboard
- Lawn games
- Lounge seating
Food and Drink
[edit | edit source]Food Vendors
[edit | edit source]Rotating food vendors include:
- Local restaurants
- Food trucks
- Seasonal specialties
- Variety of cuisines
Craft Beer
[edit | edit source]The beer garden features:
- Local craft breweries
- Rotating selection
- Waterfront drinking
- Casual atmosphere
Character
[edit | edit source]- No reservations needed
- Casual and welcoming
- Family-friendly (earlier hours)
- Adult-oriented evenings
Visiting
[edit | edit source]Season
[edit | edit source]- Typically May through September
- Check website for exact dates
- Weather-dependent some days
Hours
[edit | edit source]- Generally late afternoon through late evening
- Extended hours on weekends
- Check current schedule
Admission
[edit | edit source]- Free admission to the park
- Pay for food and drinks
Getting There
[edit | edit source]Location: Delaware River waterfront at Spruce Street (near South Street)
By Public Transit:
- Walk east from Old City
- SEPTA Bus 25 to Columbus Boulevard
- Market-Frankford Line to 2nd Street, then walk
By Car:
- Columbus Boulevard parking lots
- Can be crowded on summer evenings
Tips
[edit | edit source]- Arrive early for hammocks (they fill up)
- Sunset is magical
- Weeknights are less crowded than weekends
- Bring cash for some vendors
- The walk from Old City is pleasant
Events
[edit | edit source]- Live music
- Movie screenings
- Special themed nights
- Community events
Nearby
[edit | edit source]- Penn's Landing — Adjacent waterfront
- Blue Cross RiverRink — Nearby
- Old City — Short walk west
- South Street — Nearby
- Race Street Pier — North along waterfront
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Spruce Street Harbor Park". Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. Retrieved December 30, 2025