Top Spots To Sunbathe In Philadelphia
Sunshine is a cure for the blues; it gives us vitamin D plus plenty of other benefits (just remember to wear that sunscreen if you are going to be out in it for long time!). Finding a place to sunbathe and enjoy a bit of relaxation in your busy schedule is not impossible in the city. Of course, there are numerous places along the New Jersey and Delaware shorelines, but if you don't or can't commute out of the city, here are a few places to help you catch some rays.
Schuylkill River Trail
1 Boathouse Row
Philadelphia, PA 19130
www.schuylkillrivertrail.com
The Schuylkill River Trail is 60 miles long (will be over 130 miles long when complete) with numerous access points, so there are plenty of places throughout the area for hikers to take on. A popular spot is between Kelly Drive and the River. This Philadelphia section gives access to areas in Valley Forge and along Boat House Row. There is an abundance of both scenery and paved areas for those who want to bike or Rollerblade before or after relaxing in the sun. Many sunbathers enjoy the quiet of this area. Because of its size, it never feels crowded despite its popularity.
Franklin Square
200 N. 6th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102
www.historicphiladelphia.org
Franklin Square is about eight acres and is one of the original parks planned by William Penn. Today, it is still a very popular place to get a break from the concrete of the city and spend some time with nature. Not only does the park have a great ambiance from its greenery and fountain, but there is also a carousel, mini golf and eateries for you to get food for a summertime picnic.
Rittenhouse Square Park
18th & Walnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19195
www.pps.org/rittenhousesquare
Rittenhouse Square Park is a beautiful place to catch some rays or some rest. The park has plenty of sunshine and shade with the numerous benches and trees. Families come here to picnic and there are often street performers around, playing music or doing magic. The location of this park for center city dwellers or workers is a huge plus since you are in the middle of the city. This also gives you the option to grab a bite to eat, enjoy some shopping or numerous other activities.
Love Park (JFK Plaza)
1599 JFK Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 683-0246
Love Park is centrally located and might be the option for those who love the sunshine, outdoor art and aren't as crazy about grass. The fountain at Love Park also provides some nice cool refreshment with the breeze. Many people come here for the iconic statue and the location, but it is also a great option for those who appreciate and or prefer the urban feel. After spending some time in the sun, most anything is just a quick ride or walk away.
Liberty Lands Park
Northern Liberties
926 N. American St.
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 627-6562
www.pps.org/libertylandspark
Liberty Lands Park is full of flowers, lilac bushes and entertainment some evenings with movies in the park. The park is well kept and smells wonderful from the many gardens that are planted here. There are two playgrounds for kids, an area for barbecuing and numerous benches and tables. In the mild weather months, a farmer's market comes into town on Saturdays. This park is lovingly maintained by the community and is cared for year round.
Christina Dagnelli is a freelance writer in Philadelphia and the author of Little Squares with Colors: A Different way to look at autism. Her work on examiner can be found here Examiner.com.
