Penn Park
| Penn Park | |
|---|---|
| Type | University park / Athletic complex |
| Location | University City |
| Coordinates | 39.9480,-75.1880 |
| Area | 24 acres |
| Established | 2011 |
| Operated by | University of Pennsylvania |
| Features | Athletic fields, running track, green space, skyline views |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk (public access) |
| Transit | SEPTA trolley to 33rd Street; walk from 30th Street Station |
| Website | Official Site |
Penn Park is a 24-acre athletic and recreational park on the eastern edge of the University of Pennsylvania campus, built atop a former postal facility and rail yard. Opened in 2011, the park transformed an industrial brownfield into one of Philadelphia's most impressive modern green spaces, featuring world-class athletic facilities and sweeping views of the Center City skyline.[1]
While primarily serving Penn athletics, the park is open to the public and offers one of the best skyline viewing spots in the city.
History
[edit | edit source]Former Use
[edit | edit source]The site previously housed:
- U.S. Postal Service facility
- Rail yards and industrial uses
- Underutilized brownfield land
- Barrier between campus and river
Development
[edit | edit source]Penn undertook a $46.5 million transformation:
- 2008-2011: Construction
- Extensive environmental remediation
- Created elevated park over infrastructure
- Connected campus to Schuylkill River
Features
[edit | edit source]Athletic Facilities
[edit | edit source]Varsity and recreational athletics:
- Synthetic turf multipurpose field
- 12-lane outdoor track
- Tennis courts
- Field hockey pitch
- Softball field
Green Space
[edit | edit source]Landscaped areas:
- Native plantings
- Walking paths
- Open lawn areas
- Shade trees and seating
Skyline Views
[edit | edit source]The park offers exceptional Center City views:
- Elevated position provides clear sightlines
- Especially dramatic at sunset
- Popular photography location
- Unobstructed panorama
Sustainability
[edit | edit source]Green design features:
- Stormwater management systems
- Native plant species
- Reduced heat island effect
- LEED-certified design elements
Using the Park
[edit | edit source]Public Access
[edit | edit source]- Park is open to the public
- Athletic facilities may be reserved for Penn use
- Walking and jogging welcome
- Casual recreation permitted
Running and Exercise
[edit | edit source]Popular for:
- Track running (when available)
- Path jogging
- Exercise with a view
- Cool-down after Schuylkill trail runs
Photography
[edit | edit source]One of the best spots for:
- Skyline photography
- Sunset shots
- Cityscape panoramas
Visiting
[edit | edit source]Hours
[edit | edit source]- Dawn to dusk
- Some facilities have specific schedules
- Athletic events may limit access
Getting There
[edit | edit source]Location: 3000 South Street (eastern edge of Penn campus)
By Public Transit:
- SEPTA trolleys to 33rd Street
- Walk from 30th Street Station
- LUCY bus service
By Car:
- Limited parking nearby
- Penn parking garages available
By Bicycle:
- Connected to Schuylkill River Trail
- Bike racks available
Tips
[edit | edit source]- Sunset is the best time for skyline views
- The track is often available for public use
- Combine with a walk along the Schuylkill River Trail
- Check Penn athletics schedule for field availability
Nearby
[edit | edit source]- Schuylkill River Trail — Adjacent
- University of Pennsylvania — West
- 30th Street Station — North
- Schuylkill Banks — River access
- University City — Surrounding neighborhood