Franklin Square

Park · Old City

Franklin Square

Park · Old City

3

200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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Highlights

Mini-golf, carousel, fountain shows & Square Burger treats  

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200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 Get directions

historicphiladelphia.org
@franklinsquarephilly

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200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 Get directions

+1 215 629 4026
historicphiladelphia.org
@franklinsquarephilly
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@FranklinSqr

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Aug 20, 2025

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@cntraveler

The 26 Best Things to Do in Philadelphia

"One of the original five public squares William Penn plotted out when he designed the city, the eight-acre Franklin Square is home to a classic carousel, Philly-themed mini golf course, and a sprawling playground. The historic square attracts plenty of Old City tourists visiting Philly’s most famous attractions just a few blocks south, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. But it’s also a hub for locals—especially those with kids—in the neighborhood, who come for a ride on the merry-go-round or to romp around the playground. Set to music and lights, a seasonal fountain show is reason enough to visit the park, perhaps on the way back from dinner in Chinatown a few blocks away." - Regan Stephens, Devra Ferst

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-philadelphia
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@cntraveler

Franklin Square — Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start big picture. What’s the vibe here? One of the original five public squares William Penn plotted out when he designed the city, the eight-acre Franklin Square is home to a classic carousel, Philly -themed mini golf course, and a sprawling playground. There’s also SquareBurger—a kiosk selling burgers and a signature Cake Shake blended with Tastykake butterscotch krimpets, one of the city’s quintessential treats. In the center of it all is a historic fountain that dates back to 1838 and reopened in 2019 after a $2 million renovation. The historic square attracts plenty of Old City tourists visiting Philly’s most famous attractions just a few blocks south, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. But it’s also a hub for locals—especially those with kids—in the neighborhood, who come for a ride on the merry-go-round or to romp around the playground. In that vein, it's a popular birthday party destination for the elementary school set. Any standout features or must-sees? Set to music and lights, a seasonal fountain show is reason enough to visit the park, perhaps on the way back from dinner in Chinatown a few blocks away. The Square also hosts events throughout the year, including the Chinese Lantern Festival, with dozens of illuminated displays — seascapes, pandas, an epic dragon—intricately-crafted in China and arranged throughout the square. Was it easy to get around? Spanning just eight acres, the Square is easy to navigate, and from the fountain in the center you can take in most of the park. Plenty of benches and a few tables offer a place to rest, and public restrooms are accessible via ramp. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? Between the carousel, mini-golf, playground and Cake Shakes, Franklin Square is especially beloved by kids. Even if you don’t partake in mini-golf or the carousel (both have a fee) the grassy, landscaped park is a nice city oasis, and families should add it to their list to take a break after exploring Old City historic sites. But even for the child-free, the fountain (and its free, regularly-scheduled light show) makes it a worthwhile destination, especially during annual events like Winter Festival and the Chinese Lantern Festival. (Note: There’s a fee to enter the Chinese Lantern Festival, and the park closes at 5pm daily during the run to accommodate it.)" - Regan Stephens

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/philadelphia/franklin-square
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@eater

Where to Find Free and Discounted Food in Philadelphia This Season | Eater

"The Franklin Square Holiday Festival presented by CHASE runs through New Year’s Eve, and its Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show presented by PECO (free shows every night between 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.) is just one of the seasonal offerings. Bring the kids for Saturdays with Santa, enjoy a locally brewed beer by the firepits, take rides on the holiday train, or keep warm with a gourmet hot chocolate. Every day from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Chase cardmembers get $2 off Philly Mini Golf, Parx Liberty carousel rides, and all food and beverages at Ben’s Sweets and Treats. The s’mores bar is our top pick, where you can roast your own marshmallows." - Vox Creative

https://www.eater.com/ad/maps/free-food-philadelphia-chase
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Mary Ann Bulles

Google
Bathrooms were clean. Square Burger had great chicken tenders and waffle fries! The lanterns were all amazing! So vibrant and meticulously made! My son especially loved the water shows every half hour!

Josh H

Google
I had a bit of a unique experience because I visited during the Chinese lantern festival. It looked like the square was still open during the day for free when we drove by, but we paid for the festival, and my girlfriend and I both think it was 100% worth it! The lanterns were amazing, and we entered awestruck! The lanterns were huge, and some of them were even interactive! It took a while to walk around, see everything, and try to view all of the lanterns moving! We also paid for mini golf, which was fun, and we love to play, but I'd recommend just getting the pass for the festival and seeing how incredible the lanterns look. Each display also had a sign with a short explanation of the importance of the animals in Chinese culture. My favorite part was the massive lanterns in the fountain and how it had a mini water show with music and many moving parts. It was about $28 per person, but worth every dollar!

Anice W

Google
We spent a little time here with our pup. It was really hot, but we enjoyed wandering and looking at the lanterns (daytime). I can imagine how beautiful it is at night! We wanted to play mini golf, but our son was getting tired. It's a beautiful, clean space.

Liza Kq

Google
Came with the family for the Chinesse Lantern Festival and we all had so much fun. It was well organized and clean. The festival itself was beautiful, mostly at night time with all the lights it look magical. They had food vendors with really good options.

Ivy DeWitt

Google
I went to the Chinese lantern festival, overall it was fine. Not especially exciting as it’s really just to walk around and look at various animal shapes, the beginning had the most traditional lanterns. Though the performances weee fantastic, kudos to the hard work of the performers, it was a joy to see. I would’ve given 3 stars, but took off a star for security confiscating my pepper spray and lying about me getting it back at the end of the night. Now my stuff is stolen or trashed when I simply could’ve brought it back to the car if they were being truthful.

Leslie Pezzano

Google
🌟 A Dazzling Night at Franklin Square: Chinese Lantern Festival 2025 If you’re looking for a summer spectacle that blends art, culture, and pure magic, the Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square is an absolute must-see. Running through August 31st, this year’s festival celebrates the Year of the Snake with over 1,100 handcrafted lanterns that transform the park into a radiant wonderland A B. 🐉 Lantern Displays That Mesmerize From a 200-foot-long blue dragon that greets you at the entrance to glow-in-the-dark volcanoes, chatty alligators, and peacocks that fan their feathers, the lanterns are more than just beautiful—they’re animated, interactive, and full of surprises B. Some even puff out smoke, steam, and bubbles, making the experience feel like stepping into a living storybook. 🎭 Cultural Performances & Entertainment The entertainment lineup is just as impressive. Guests are treated to gravity-defying acrobatics, precision juggling, and the mysterious art of Bianlian—face-changing performances that leave the crowd in awe C. The Franklin Square Fountain Show adds another layer of enchantment with choreographed lights and music. 🍜 Food & Drink Delights Foodies won’t be disappointed. The Octopus Cocktail Garden serves up creative drinks (including one in a souvenir fishbowl), while vendors like Sang Kee, Oishii, and Humpty’s Dumplings offer everything from Dan Dan noodles to mochi and cotton candy art C. Don’t miss the Tastykake Butterscotch Krimpet Shake at SquareBurger—it’s a Philly favorite. 🎨 Interactive Fun & Family Vibes This year’s festival goes beyond passive viewing. With 20 interactive elements, including a walk-in jellyfish room, button-activated volcano eruptions, and multiplayer games, it’s designed to engage visitors of all ages C. Plus, the usual Franklin Square attractions—mini-golf and the carousel—are available at discounted rates during the event. --- Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square is a celebration of light, culture, and creativity that’s brighter and more immersive than ever. Don’t forget your camera—every corner is a photo op waiting to happen. Want help planning your visit or finding ticket deals? I’ve got you covered.

Lucas ルーカス

Google
I go here annually for the Chinese Lantern Festival, and I have nothing bad to say! Beautiful lanterns, great concessions, and a ton of stuff to do in the park. Also, the newly completed Franklin Sqaure Station provides access to the park by train. Highly recommended!

Nicole Quillen

Google
We visited for the Chinese Lantern Festival. It was a great atmosphere, not overly crowded. The lanterns were beautiful. The food being sold was reasonably priced.
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Crystal P.

Yelp
Stopped by here one night after dinner just to walk around. My son loved the little light show :P it was a nice thing to do for free on our last night. Easy to park on the Friday night we were here. It was also after the holidays so that probably helped.
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Winny L.

Yelp
Been to Franklin Square a couple of times - aside from special events, there is also Mini-Golf here as well. Was walking around and saw Philly Chinese Lantern Festival all set up shortly after it opened for 2023. During the day, can walk around before they set up for the actual event in the evening, which starts at 5pm which requires tickets. Nice to see the lanterns (minus the lighting up) during the daytime to get some clear pictures. It was raining on and off so glad to get a change to see it. Will have to come back for the evening event again. Was here a few years back for the lantern festival at night and it was nice. Also played mini-golf here which is also fun. There is a small carousel for the kids and public restroom as well.
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Helen H.

Yelp
The park is next to the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. There is a mini golf course, carousel, and burger shack located here. There is also a Once Upon a Nation Storytelling Bench, where uniformed storytellers share short 3-to-5-minute stories. What was most impressive was the fountain. It was built in 1838 and restored in 2019 with a fountain show. It features water spraying and soaring in the air, in sync with music and colorful lights in the evening. The music was to the Rocky theme song. The show runs every 30 minutes. We also came during the Chinese Lantern Festival. In the evening, admission is required for the lighted lanterns. We were able to view them during the day at no charge.
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Suzanne A.

Yelp
A nice little park on the outskirts of Old City. I went to the Chinese Lantern Festival with a photography group. It was fantastic! The lanterns are amazingly detailed. Lots of animals, dragons, arches to walk through and selfie spots of course. It was a lot of fun exploring the exhibits. They're set up throughout the park and around the water fountain. Bathrooms are available. They could probably use a few more. Benches and some seating is also around the park. Square Burger had reasonably priced food that was also tasty. My friend liked the bbq rib bites. The ice cream was a good size, tasted delicious and was only $3.50! It was a fun night!
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Dallas A.

Yelp
Amazing park with lots of outdoor seating available, plus a big playground for kids of all ages, mini golf, a carousel, a small park restaurant, and lots of grassy space that currently hosts a variety of animal displays (butterflies, birds, flamingos, dragon, and more). But the best part for me was definitely the fountain, which has a show to music every 30 minutes (on the hour and half-hour). A great way to get a break from the hustle and bustle of the city! Would 100% recommend!
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Kelly B.

Yelp
Really cute park. It has a nice playground, miniature golf, carousel, a burger shack, restrooms, and lots of art pieces that remind me of Alice in wonderland meets Chinese new years. Fun place to come and bring the kids.
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Leah M.

Yelp
What a great space for parties weddings or any other special event. I recently attended the event at Franklin Square or Franklin view the tented area with chandeliers is absolutely stunning. The spaces lay out nicely if you're having a wedding one room for the actual ceremony and another for food dining dancing. If you're lucky enough to be invited to a event here do not decline. Keep in mind it is difficult to park in the area although there are garage you can walk the 4-5 blocks from Jefferson Station.
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Christopher S.

Yelp
They are setting up for the Chinese Lantern Festival and it looks like it will be amazing!! All the led animals and dragons I can't wait to come back and see the finished event.
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Cianah H.

Yelp
This review is strictly based on the park around Christmas time. The lights on the tree are very pretty, but the actual light show they do here is kind of boring. There are so many other places you can look at for Christmas lights. They have a lot of other fun activities that you can do, but they are way overpriced. Speaking of overpriced, the drinks that they serve inside are pretty ridiculous. And if you want alcohol in it it'll be more obviously. I ordered the spiked hot chocolate and it was good, but it tasted like a regular hot chocolate. Not strong at all. The workers were very friendly though. If you ever do find yourself near Franklin square during the holiday season, come look at the lights. They're not the most spectacular, but at least that parts free. Skip out on anything you gotta pay for.
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Laura E.

Yelp
My boyfriend purchased two tickets for the carousel. I felt like a kid again and I can honestly say my boyfriend and I enjoyed ourselves. Aside from the carousel, we were also able to enjoy the fountain show. We weren't able to check out the minigolf but it's a must whenever we return.

Korey B.

Yelp
Rented Franklin Square's Pavilion for the second time and the staff never disappoints me or my guests. From booking to the end of the event, the staff's attentiveness was impeccable. Thanks to Shamali, the event planner who exhibited nothing but patience and understanding for my delayed replies and last minute changes. Very informative and thorough. Evy and Isaiah, the attendants were by far my favorites. They were helpful, entertaining and were available during the entire party. The Pavilion is spacious, clean and budget-friendly and I would definitely use this space again.
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Candace L.

Yelp
I'm a sucker for any carousel ever, not sure if this one is a PTC one or not but once I spotted it I knew I had to visit this park. It's super cute and decorated for the holidays right now. They also have mini golf which I didn't partake in but could be nice for the kiddos. I brought lunch here to enjoy and bought myself a ticket for the carousel. I felt it only right to ride the eagle in Philly, am I right? This is one that does not move but after a cheesesteak and going round and round with the others moving, you'll think you're moving. I'd had just enough of an experience as the carousel came to a spot. It's the little things like this that keep me happy. Great spot for a date, some solo time and an area to let the kids blow of some steam.
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Steve V.

Yelp
This park has definitely changed over the years. We came here to meet some friends. All of us had little kids and this place could not have been more perfect. We were the first ones there, so we went on the carousel. The ticket booth is not near the carousel itself, and they do offer bulk specials. This ticket booth is also where you would buy tickets for the mini golf. Both kids enjoyed the carousel ride. From there, we hit the playground. It is a large one and in good shape. There are things for all ages and two distinct sections. The kids spent a few hours here without being bored. We then moved to the many picnic tables and benches they have for some food. Some people brought theirs, while others bought from the small concession they had. There was real food as well and it was fairly priced. Everyone had a great time and I highly recommend this park!
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Mike J.

Yelp
Very nice small light show. The area is not to large to walk through. They few things for the kids to do. The carousel is nice lite up when it is going around. They have a mini golf area. The Ben's sweets and treats tent is nice. Very good hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies. Also in the tent you can get few drinks to warm the adults that need one. Parking will be the toughest to find in this area. But well worth the walking through. Definitely a place to return
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Cindy M.

Yelp
[1032] 11/2019 This place was always on my bucket list so I was happy check it out when company came to visit. We parked in the visitor center garage We visited on a Saturday night in November. It was cold out but we were able to warm up by the FirePit. There was a tent that looked like it served s'mores and hot chocolate but you can see the crazy long line so we did not go inside. The kids rode a train, carousel and played mini golf. The golf course was good as each hole was a different landmark in Philly. The place looks cool with the zillion holiday lights. There was a music/light show each half hour that was pretty cool. Definitely a cute place to take the kids. We stayed 2 hours in the 30 degree cold but definitely could have stayed more. I'll definitely be back
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Max W.

Yelp
The light show is pretty mid but the drinks were strong and delicious, bartenders were very friendly and helpful.
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Courtney K.

Yelp
Bottom Line: A small green space in Philadelphia with a historic fountain, a carousel and a Philly themed miniature golf course. On a warm September Sunday morning Franklin Square was a nice experience. We visited the park because my husband and I have a thing with playing miniature golf but we were pleasantly surprised by the 180+ year old fountain. The Franklin Square Fountain was originally built in 1838 after the Philadelphia City Council set out to build a fountain of "grand dimensions." Apparently, the fountain was in really rough shape for a long time but in 2006 it was fully restored. Just looking at the fountain, it looks like a majestic fountain but apparently at certain times it comes to life with a full-on Vegas-style water and light show choreographed to music! Wow, how fancy. I am sure the show is fun but what I like about the fountain is that it is the oldest functioning and refurbished public water fountain in the United States. There are some nice signs throughout the park - one that notes Franklin Square is one of Philly's five original squares set forth by William Penn. I didn't know much about William Penn and his squares so I like that the park left me wanting to know more. In addition to the fountain, carousel and miniature golf course, the park also has benches, bathrooms, a playground, grassy areas and benches.

Meybol G.

Yelp
Loved the fountain, same for carousel, but the grounds could use a bit of cleaning up.
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Tank G.

Yelp
I really really really liked this square. They have socially distanced tables, benches and chairs around the park that you can lounge on. They also have a venue that you can hold events there and a miniture golf course. There are places that you can get food there as well, but they close relatively early. There is a carousel that lights up the square that you can ride, for a small fee. The heart and soul of the park is the lighted fountain that comes to life at the top and bottom of the hour, dancing to popular songs. I got treated to the fountain dancing to Katy Perry's "Firework". There is a lot going on in the square. There were people running, others doing some type of sword fighting class, while others were playing catch. The park closes at 9PM, so plan accordingly. It is a good time for the reasonable price of free. I highly recommend visiting this square if you are in town. However, you may want to consider bug spray, if you will be there after dark. Those mosquitos lit me up. There is metered and garage parking in the vicinity, but is still a short walk.
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Amelia Jane L.

Yelp
Visited for the 12 keys Challenge for Ben Franklins birthday! We had a great time. The challenge is tricky enough that adults/parents will enjoy it but still easily enough that it seems great for kids! The hot chocolate here is the best in town and all the staff are extremely kind and accommodating. This park is a nonprofit so make sure to support them!
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Cassandra Y.

Yelp
Now Franklin Square is transformed to Chinese Lantern Festival~ Before 6pm, admission is FREE!! You can check out all the lantern pieces. Great photo opportunity!! After 6pm, there will be admission fee because all the lanterns will be light up. Also, there will be food & beverage for sale.
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Carlan M.

Yelp
Loved the mini golf. Loved the carousel and loved the water show that played every thirty minutes. Nice place to relax and walking distance of independence hall
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Lenore G.

Yelp
William Penn set up Franklin Square and four others shortly after Philadelphia was founded. It's located near Chinatown, due West of the Ben Franklin Bridge. This park has a little something for everyone! There's a playground, a miniature golf course, a carousel and (last but not least) a lovely fountain :-) If you need a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city just to charge your batteries, this is a great place to head for :-)
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Jinsol L.

Yelp
Most of my favorite 2020 summer and fall memories have been at this park! Since I wanted a place to spend time with friends outdoors due to covid and many of my friends live in Chinatown area, it became the perfect spot for countless picnics and long sunny hangouts. I love that the fountain offers a water show with music every half hour - often enough that it's fun to watch and listen but not so often that you can't hold conversations in between. The bnches and chairs are nicely social distanced. It was a bit of a bummer when one food truck came and fenced off a bunch of the picnic tables, and how it wasn't even open most of the time. But there were still usually plenty of seating options available, even during the more busy times. Chinatown is conveniently close enough so we could pick up bubble tea or food anytime too. I love that there's a really cute Philly themed mini-golf there too and the carousel feels so romantic. Just very thankful for this happy space!
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Karla D.

Yelp
This park is super close to Chinatown and this is where they have the Chinese Lantern Festival which is just magical. Riding the carousel reminds me of what it would be like to ride one at the turn of the century. Mini golf here is fun too though sometimes a really long line.
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Sari Marissa G.

Yelp
Such a fantastic play place! With views of William Penn peeking out high above the city to one side and the Ben Franklin in the back to the other, this centrally located park with lots of fun activities is brilliant and we just LOVE it! What's not to love really? A cool playground sectioned off by age suggestions and fenced in for safety. Philly landmark designed mini golf with clubs for all ages...baby, toddler, teen and adult. A historic carousel with rides for just $3 a person. (They have a combo ticket for under $10 a child which included one round of golf and one carousel ride!) A beautiful fountain perfect for photo ops and making wishes. A Steven Starr pop up shack with delicious burgers and veggies burgers topped with diced onions, and pickles on top and served with crispy, crinkle-cut fries. Grab a flavor of the month milkshake like Philly's own Tastycakes and dine around the fountain, or picnic the grass or at one of the picnic tables. People bring coolers and their own food too! There's a small gift shop near the ticket booth too. They also have a pavilion you can rent for parties. Handicap friendly restrooms. Only one at a time. They host many, super fantastic FREE events here! We have attended them all and have always had a blast! Holidays & NYE celebrations complete with food trucks and a holiday light show "Spectacle" which is not to be missed! It's a tradition in our fam. 4th of July with a small train that rides around the park. A pumpkin patch every fall with FREE pumpkin picking and painting for kids under 10. Easter, Halloween, you name it. Stay up to date with Fab Philly Mom on FB or Instagram. I always promote these events as we just adore them! The only negative is unfortunately the parking situation and they can't do much about it. Really, this is the only reason we haven't hosted a birthday party here. If you are lucky enough to be able to walk here, that's awesome!! Do it! Uber it perhaps? There are a few spots you can leave your car at on the NE side of the park, by the fence for the playground. There are also some spots on Race but you would have to keep an eye on your car as it's "authorized vehicles only" and it's troublesome. There are some kiosk pay spots in Old City but they go fast. We have been parking in a EZ Park lot on 8th and Race and hitting up Chinatown for lunch after since we already paid to park. It's not cheap: $6 first half hour. $14 unlimited on weekdays and $17 on weekends of yore going to stay for an event it's worth it not to have to worry and run back. $5 up charge for SUV's, vans and trucks.
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Ashley L.

Yelp
Franklin Square is such a nice little green space in the middle of an urban area. They have plenty of benches, tables, and chairs so you can spread out and picnic, enjoy the view and soak up the sun while getting some much-needed fresh air. They have a beautiful fountain in the middle and a gorgeous (operating) carousel for children to play on. There's a little venue area for events and you can also get some food there as well from a food stand, but it's in such close proximity to so many great food options nearby in Chinatown that you don't have to worry about going hungry here. You can also clearly see the Benjamin Franklin Lightening bolt structure from this park which is pretty nifty. Apparently, Franklin Square is also one of the original squares that was planned by William Penn! I love the deep-rooted history of this park. Overall, a great place to relax and spend a day.
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Chingi Z.

Yelp
I think people may think I live at this park ha ha. I mean, I often walk here, work remotely from here, relax here, stalk the tai chi club on Thursday mornings here, participate in arts and rec here and most recently drank (on more than 5 occasions a delicious cider by a fire here! A wonderful neighborhood park that provides something for everyone. Can't wait to see what installation will be there this spring. Bring the kiddos, have some churros, play mini Philly mini golf, kiss your sweetie on a park bench, people watch, lay in the grass, be mesmerized by the fountain, have a picnic, daydream! Do all the things.
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Richard R.

Yelp
The city has done a nice job with Franklin Square park. It is a beautiful park in a really great location. There is a really charming carousel, miniature golf course, ice cream, and Square burger. There is even a little enclosed pavilion that can be rented out for weddings and parties etc. This review also takes into consideration the Dragon light festival. The lights and displays were really beautiful but I think the $17 price tag was a little steep. Maybe because it was towards the end of the festival or because it was a beautiful Saturday night but the place was packed. Lines were long to use the bathroom (thank God didn't have to go) and for Square Burger, etc. I really enjoy Franklin Square, Park and it is a nice place to go on a weekend but the Dragon Lantern Festival was a little overpriced and overhyped in my opinion. 3.5 stars.
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Bill B.

Yelp
I was a little underwhelmed with Franklin Square. It's a small non descriptive park in the city. A lot of dust on dry days not much grass to be had.
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Yasmin R.

Yelp
Beautiful! It caught our eye from off the hwy, and we decided we would go back when it opened at 6pm. So we checked into a hotel for the night, grabbed some dinner at Marmont Steakhouse, and headed over around 7:30ish. Horrible idea...afterall it was opening wknd. The line was wrapped along side the park, and it was getting cold; and because we had our small children with us, we decided to call it a night and try again another time. So, it's two weeks later, and we're back in Philly. This weekend is not an issue with cold, but scattered showers. But not letting that stop us. We arrived at 6:30pm - No line but also nothing illuminated, and grass very wet (muddy puddles). In my white converse sneakers and all, I trekked thru the grass carefully to enjoy all the beautiful art. I justbhad to see it all lit up, so we stuck around. Once 8pm hit, BAM! "Let there be LIGHT." It was astonishing! But at this hour its a Madhouse (tons of kids and adults, of all ages). There are a couple of food stands, a souvenir shop and 3-4 vendor stands, selling fans, jewelry, compact comb sets, toys. The Carousel, is another hit - tickets sold separately (not included with admission). There is also miniture golf, sold separately. This is an event the whole family will enjoy.
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Bob H.

Yelp
We were recently at Franklin Square in downtown Philadelphia for their Christmas activities. So glad to see this park being put to good use. Parking can be extremely tough! They offer a carousel, mini golf and a burger shack (Stephen Starr). During Christmas they offer a free light show that runs every 30 minutes. It was pretty cool. They have seating and multiple fire pits. They also have a tent with a bar and s'mores. Our daughter really enjoyed herself. We would go back, solid 5 stars.
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Carolen M.

Yelp
We came here for the musical holiday light show and the free kid activities during the week of Thanksgiving. It's a fairly nice sized park with a large playground which my nieces were enjoying before their parents treated them to the carousel! Yes a carousel! But of course you have to pay for it. It also has a restroom area. Overall a nice park.
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Patrick L.

Yelp
Don't hate my 3 star review, but I'm from California and I'm not urbanized (yelling at my kids in public and grabbing them borderline child-abuse style.) Philly is a tough place (Ben Franklin would be proud..."I'm gonna fly my effin' kite during a lightning storm if I want!") and I'm def not "Philly tough." So, the park...it's a nice spot, but I'm lame. 3.5 stars (please don't kick my ass!)
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Antonio W.

Yelp
A nice place to sit, have lunch, and watch the water fountain. The Good: A nicely kept area in center city Philadelphia with a carousel ($3 per rider), mini golf (also a fee), a place to buy tasty food, and a nice playground for the children. In addition, when I ordered my chicken fingers and a side of fries, I thought it would be a light lunch. I was wrong! The "Square Burger" gave me 4 good size chicken tenders and more fries than I could eat. It was pretty good food from a place in a park. The Bad: Restrooms were not the cleanest (not the worst) and short on paper towels. The Ugly: I don't think they should charge a parent $3 to ride a carousel with their children when the children are too small to ride alone. With all that being said, I will go back with my family after taking in another attraction. Not sure if it's worth a trip into the city just for the park. Enjoy!
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Bill M.

Yelp
I'm sort of surprised to not see this park listed yet. They reopened it to the public last July after a huge restoration project. the restoration project included retouching an old fountain from 1838 and making it the centerpiece. They also included new features like a huge playground, a 30 animal carousel, and a mini-golf course that includes replicas of some notable Philly structures. so not only is it a beautiful park, it's also a whole lot of fun during the day. The only flaw is the location. You find yourself going through Rittenhouse Square on a regular basis due to the area it's in. The same can be said for Washington Square, Liberty Lands, Clark Park, etc. But Franklin Square is pretty close to the highway, and not much else. So it's not that good of a "just passing through" park. but it's really worth the visit due to all that's inside it.
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Trang N.

Yelp
I really love the events they have at Franklin Square! We've had our 6 year old's birthday party there and there's so much good old fashioned fun to keep them entertained- the carousel, the playground and Philadelphia themed mini golf is always a big hit! The train is a kid favorite when we catch it running! The pavilion makes a great place to have cake and pizza and take a break from the hot summer days! We've been here for special events and the bathrooms aren't always kept up and Square Burger, while the food is good, doesn't seem to be managed very well as the service tends to be slow. It's a bit of a hassle to find parking if you can't walk or Uber over there unless you get there first thing in the morning in which case there is usually parking around the perimeter of the park! We always come here during the winter time to take in the holiday charm, there is a adult beverage tent and open fire pits to roast marshmallows and warm up in general. It's a nice spot and great use of space in an otherwise busy corridor or town.
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Chris B.

Yelp
Fun place to take the family. Especially great during the summer and the holiday season. Neat places to eat and the mini golf course is usually heated. Chris Vtrainers Personal Training.
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Aileen K.

Yelp
Cute play area for dates and gettogethers! It has a beer garden and mini golf, as well as a food stand with some basic options. Oh, and did I mention carousel? The bathrooms could use some work but overall, great but intimate park!
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Samson L.

Yelp
Cool park minutes from Chinatown. I visited this park for the Chinese lantern festival. The park was not too large. This park has a nice children's play area, beer garden, mini golf, food stands, a couple large lawns, and a center fountain. It was very crowded at the festival, but would imagine it would be nice to come here just to relax and have a picnic lunch.
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Ahmed A.

Yelp
Nice historical gem in Old City Philly! Came during the holidays during the tree lighting show. They showed the Christmas lighting show every half hour from 4:30 to 8pm. They also have a nice tent area where they sell some cold brew and some bites. I enjoyed a nice brew right next to the fire pit. Nice historical fact for you this park was renovated in 2006.
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Chanthorn H.

Yelp
My son loves it here. It's kept very clean and there's plenty of room for him to run around. He also really likes the merry-go-round. That's the one thing that always catches his attention when we go here. The kids playground has slides, swings, and a seasaw (sort of). He loves going on the swing and the slide. I haven't gone on the mini golf course yet, but one day I will when he's a little older. I know they also do parties here. I was looking into throwing my son's bday here, but decided elsewhere instead, but it's always an option for the parents wanting to do something special for the young ones. The only thing that I'm not too fond of is the parking situation. It's street parking, but it's also very limited. Try to walk here if possible. Overall: If you are around the area and need a resting place while your kids play, this is it.
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michelle z.

Yelp
Perfect spot to sit in the sun & sip tea with friends. The park is clean & adorable. Has a carousel for kids & a play ground. Just watched people riding around on segways. Right by Chinatown. Grab a bubble tea and go check it out!
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John S.

Yelp
Adult festive entertainmen happens here too. The fountain gets funky with strobe lights and instrumental music from Christmas Eve until New Year's Eve after 5:PM celebrating the cold season. Most of the year the Square's Fountain and the kite ad a reason to sit in the park and watch things happen. Restrooms make it nice too.
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Renee L.

Yelp
I was under the impression there would be more to do here. If you were planning on bringing your children, you only need to carve out an hour or so. There is miniature golf, The carousel, and a few small playgrounds. The grounds are very nice and well taken care of. There's a bathroom. Parking was not difficult on a Sunday evening.
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Rosy V.

Yelp
It's a very kid friendly environment, there are train rides that go around the park, a food stand area and a mini golf section. The place had a lot of seating arrangements, but the park wasn't the cleanest looking places you'll see, but it's doable, for this I give a 4 star review. Cleanliness, in my opinion, is the most important thing for a park. I think it's worth to note, but the mini golf area features all the famous landmarks of Philly. So if you're a tourist, it's an interesting place to go play golf at.
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Karen F.

Yelp
My daughter and I come here ALL THE TIME for the gorgeous playground, fountain, sand castle sculpture and free historical stories told all summer long. We occaisionally splurge on the $3.00 a ride carousel (that is pricey if you need to accompany your little one it's $6.00 - and just TRY telling my little one that she can only ride it once. Good luck. Anyhow, they also have a mini golf course and a fancy schmancy new snack bar. Bathrooms that are relatively clean, too. GREAT PARK.
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Cherie C.

Yelp
There's a playground, a carousel, mini-golf, a playground, and now a burger shack. What's not to love? In the summer, the fountain is fun to see. I've seen Egyptian monuments recreated in sand here. I've played many games of miniature golf (damn that art museum-themed hole!). I've taken my nephew to play here and to ride the carousel. Santa hangs out here during the season, when the fun multi-colored globes hang in the trees. One of the parks from the city's original plan, I'm so glad to see Franklin Fountain looking so good after years of well...not looking so good.
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Tia L.

Yelp
Wonderful for kids of all ages! Only $8 to "mini golf" or, in my case, run amuck through miniature Philadelphia, pose with the Liberty Bell, Run up the pint-sized Art Museum steps, and pretend to be Godzilla in Olde City. When you're finished grab a shake or root beer float at Steven Starr's new little burger shack, sit and enjoy the view, or take a spin on the Carousel. Plus, there are public restrooms and they're clean! Walk there, don't drive. Although, if you must drive, there is a ridiculous block on Race St. between 6th & 5th Streets with 12-hour meter parking. That's like 12 rounds of mini-golf, if you so dare!
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Jessica D.

Yelp
This was the second time I was at Franklin Square Park and it is spacious, beautiful, fun, and relaxing! There's a playground, mini golf, merry-go-round, and small food stand too. The first time my boyfriend and I came here it was a hot Summer afternoon and during the middle of the heatwave so we didn't have the best experience. However, we did enjoy our second time here and played mini golf too. There was a lot of people playing mini golf since the day we went was a beautiful, Spring afternoon. I love the American, Patriotic, and Philadelphia theme they had in the golf course. Finally, there is a big fountain and sign in the front of the park for those who love taking pictures.