33rd and Oxford Sts., East Fairmount Park, 215/765-4325,
www.smithplayhouse.org [1]
HOURS: Playground: Tues.–Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Apr.–June and Sept.–Oct., daily 10 a.m.–7 p.m. second Tues. in June–Aug.;
Playhouse: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tues.–Sun. year-round
The historic building and grounds were opened in 1899 by Richard Smith, a wealthy Philadelphian who made his fortune in the typesetting business. He and his wife Sarah lived in North Philadelphia and wanted to create a safe, free place for children to play, and that’s what it still is today, more than a century later.
The highlight is the giant enclosed wooden slide. Built in 1905, it is large enough to accommodate about 10 kids across at one time. But there is plenty for kids to play with both outside and inside the unique toy-filled playhouse.
Open only to supervised children 10 years and younger, Smith Playground is a popular spot for kids’ birthday parties.
Links:
[1] http://www.smithplayhouse.org