Three Bears Park
| Three Bears Park | |
|---|---|
| Type | Neighborhood park / Playground |
| Location | Fairmount |
| Coordinates | 39.9660,-75.1730 |
| Area | Less than 1 acre |
| Established | 2014 (current design) |
| Operated by | Philadelphia Parks & Recreation |
| Features | Playground, spray ground, community space |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk |
| Transit | Walk from Fairmount area; SEPTA bus routes |
| Website | Official Site |
Three Bears Park is a beloved neighborhood playground in Fairmount, known for its distinctive bear statues and popular spray ground. Though small, the park is one of the most cherished family destinations in the Fairmount neighborhood and draws visitors from across the city during summer months.[1]
The park exemplifies successful neighborhood park design and community stewardship.
History
[edit | edit source]Origins
[edit | edit source]The site has served as a playground for generations:
- Historic neighborhood park
- Originally basic playground
- Neighborhood gathering spot
- Named for bear statues
Renovation
[edit | edit source]2014 renovation:
- Complete playground redesign
- New play equipment
- Spray ground added
- Improved landscaping
- Bear statues retained
Community Support
[edit | edit source]Friends of Three Bears Park:
- Active neighborhood group
- Fundraised for improvements
- Organize events
- Maintain park stewardship
Features
[edit | edit source]Playground
[edit | edit source]Modern play equipment:
- Climbing structures
- Slides
- Swings
- Age-appropriate areas
- Safe surfaces
Spray Ground
[edit | edit source]Popular summer attraction:
- Water play features
- Seasonal operation (Memorial Day-Labor Day)
- Free
- Very popular on hot days
The Three Bears
[edit | edit source]Iconic statues:
- Three concrete bear sculptures
- Beloved neighborhood symbols
- Photo opportunity
- Origin of park name
Community Space
[edit | edit source]- Benches for parents
- Shade areas
- Gathering space
- Neighborhood hub
Using the Park
[edit | edit source]Playground Use
[edit | edit source]- Best for children ages 2-10
- Supervised play
- Busy on weekends and summer
- Arrive early on hot days for spray ground
Spray Ground
[edit | edit source]- Free water play
- Summer months only
- Very popular—arrives early
- Bring towels and sunscreen
Visiting
[edit | edit source]Hours
[edit | edit source]- Park: Dawn to dusk
- Spray ground: Memorial Day through Labor Day
Getting There
[edit | edit source]Location: 28th and Cambridge Streets, Fairmount
By Public Transit:
- Walk from Fairmount neighborhood
- SEPTA Bus 43, 48
By Car:
- Street parking (limited)
- In Fairmount residential area
Tips
[edit | edit source]- The spray ground is the main attraction in summer—arrive early
- Bring towels for water play
- Nearby coffee shops and restaurants on Fairmount Avenue
- Small but excellent park
- Combine with visit to Eastern State Penitentiary nearby
Community
[edit | edit source]Fairmount Neighborhood
[edit | edit source]Three Bears Park is central to:
- Young family neighborhood
- Active community involvement
- Neighborhood events
- Strong park stewardship
Events
[edit | edit source]- Community gatherings
- Seasonal celebrations
- Neighborhood events
- Friends of Three Bears Park activities
Nearby
[edit | edit source]- Fairmount — Surrounding neighborhood
- Eastern State Penitentiary — Historic site
- Fairmount Park — West
- Art Museum Area — South
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Three Bears Park". Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. Retrieved December 30, 2025