FDR Park
A dynamic urban park offering vibrant weekend markets, world-class skating, diverse recreation, and restored natural wetlands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant markets & events
FDR Park
Best Time
Vibrant markets & events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic urban park offering vibrant weekend markets, world-class skating, diverse recreation, and restored natural wetlands.
"FDR Park offers a smorgasbord of things to do and represents what a modern, urban park can offer residents."
💰 Bring Cash for Markets
Many vendors at the Southeast Asian and African American markets are cash-only. Come prepared to feast!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the markets and park grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Southeast Asian Market
The Lakes area
A culinary adventure with over 70 vendors offering authentic flavors. A must-visit for foodies!
FDR Skatepark
Near the sports fields
World-renowned skatepark attracting enthusiasts from all over. A true urban sports icon.
African American Market
The Lakes area
Showcasing local Black-owned businesses with hot plates and handmade goods every Saturday.
The Lakes & Wetlands
Central park area
Enjoy scenic walks, kayaking, and the natural beauty of restored wetlands. Great for picnics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Market Magic
Park Access & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bring Cash for Markets
Many vendors at the Southeast Asian and African American markets are cash-only. Come prepared to feast!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the markets and park grounds.
🦟 Bug Spray for Evenings
Mosquitos can be present on humid evenings, especially near the lakes.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is available but can get crowded, especially during events. Consider public transit.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring Cash for Markets
Many vendors at the Southeast Asian and African American markets are cash-only. Come prepared to feast!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the markets and park grounds.
🦟 Bug Spray for Evenings
Mosquitos can be present on humid evenings, especially near the lakes.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is available but can get crowded, especially during events. Consider public transit.
🧺 Picnic Supplies Recommended
Limited food options within the park; pack your own snacks or a full picnic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
FDR Park is celebrated as a versatile urban oasis, praised for its lively weekend markets, excellent recreational facilities, and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate its accessibility and the diverse events it hosts. However, some note that restroom facilities are basic (portapotties) and food options within the park are limited outside of market days.
"Great spot for a concert. Easy to and from with the trains right there. Misting fountains were fun but could totally surprise someone. I loved that there were fireflies at night too. I should have worn bug spray for the mosquitos on a hot humid night, but had a great time at the Make The World a Better Place concert."
Leah Klein
"The panoramic view of FDR park is quite impressive, especially near The Lakes. There are so many modern upgrades to the park, its refreshing and just a pleasure to walk or jog throughout. This is a definitely a family-friendly area for all to enjoy Nature."
Dhee Possible
"This is a great resource for the city! It's a beautiful, sizeable green space good for picnics, walks, sports, and fishing. There is a huge playground and many tennis/pickle ball courts. There is always something going on at the lakes, whether it's the Asian market, wellness day, jazz music, or kayaking. It's easy and cheap to rent picnic sites around the lake for larger parties, but there is also space to just roll up and set out a picnic blanket. The bathroom situation is not ideal. It's portapotties, but they are useable. Also, there generally aren't food carts or places that sell food in the park, so you need to bring your own stuff. That includes a grill if you rent a picnic site. It's easily accessible by the broad st line. If you can get to the stadiums, you can get to FDR. There is also parking, but it can get cramped during an event day. Be prepared. FDR has become one of my favorite places in the city. It feels like an escape from the buildings and the asphalt and there is plenty of nature. Check it out!"
Tricia ODonnell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
FDR Park is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the Broad Street Line to the NRG Station (stadiums stop), and it's a short walk. Driving is also an option, with parking available, though it can get congested during events.
Yes, FDR Park is well-served by SEPTA. The Broad Street Line's NRG Station is conveniently located nearby, making it a great option for visitors.
There is parking available within FDR Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on event days or during popular market weekends. Arrive early if you plan to drive.
Yes, biking is a great way to access FDR Park. There are bike lanes and paths in the surrounding areas, and you can lock up your bike within the park.
Absolutely! FDR Park is very accessible without a car, thanks to the nearby Broad Street Line station. It's a perfect destination for a car-free day out in Philadelphia.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
FDR Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, individual vendors at the Southeast Asian Market and African American Market will have their own pricing for food and goods.
FDR Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific market hours vary, with the Southeast Asian Market and African American Market typically running on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 6 PM, April through October.
No, there is no admission ticket required for the Southeast Asian Market. You can freely wander and purchase food and items from the various vendors.
Yes, FDR Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, wellness days, jazz music, and the popular weekend markets. It's best to check local event listings for specific dates and times.
Yes, you can rent picnic sites at FDR Park, especially around the lake area. This is a great option for larger gatherings and parties.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
FDR Park offers a wide range of activities, including exploring the vibrant Southeast Asian and African American markets, visiting the iconic skatepark, enjoying picnics by the lakes, playing on the playground, and utilizing the tennis and pickleball courts.
Restroom facilities are available, though they are primarily portapotties. While usable, they may not be ideal for everyone.
Yes, FDR Park is very family-friendly. It features a large playground, open spaces for running around, and the lively weekend markets offer a fun experience for all ages.
Yes, fishing is permitted in the lakes at FDR Park. It's a great spot for a relaxing afternoon of angling.
FDR Park is a significant green space with restored wetlands, offering opportunities to see diverse flora and fauna. You might even spot fireflies on a warm evening!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main culinary attractions are the Southeast Asian Market and the African American Market, offering a vast array of delicious dishes. You'll find everything from Thai tea and spring rolls to hot plates and handmade goods.
There are generally no sit-down restaurants or permanent food carts within FDR Park itself. The weekend markets are the primary source of food.
Yes, bringing your own food is highly recommended. FDR Park is an excellent spot for picnics, and you can even rent picnic sites and bring your own grill.
Popular items include strawberry green Thai tea, pork and crab spring rolls, papaya salad, and stuffed chicken wings. Be adventurous and try as much as you can!
It is strongly advised to bring cash, as many vendors at the weekend markets operate on a cash-only basis.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views near The Lakes offer stunning vistas. The vibrant stalls of the Southeast Asian Market and the dynamic FDR Skatepark also make for excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, especially in the restored wetland areas. You can capture diverse plant life and potentially spot local wildlife. The lakes also provide scenic backdrops.
Absolutely! The FDR Skatepark is a visually striking location, perfect for capturing action shots or the impressive architecture of the park.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or filming, it's always best to check with park management for any specific permits or guidelines.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscapes and general park photography. Weekday mornings provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic is highly recommended, as food options within the park are limited to the market vendors. The open green spaces are perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal together. Consider bringing bug spray for evening visits, especially near the water, to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Taking the SEPTA Broad Street Line is a very affordable way to get to the park, especially compared to parking fees.
👟 Active Enthusiasts
The park's extensive grounds are perfect for jogging and walking, with scenic routes around the lakes and through the restored wetland areas. Renting a kayak on the lakes offers another way to get your heart rate up while enjoying the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vibrant Weekend Markets
+3The African American Market, held on Saturdays, showcases a variety of local Black-owned businesses. Visitors can find everything from delicious hot plates to unique handmade crafts and goods. This market is a fantastic opportunity to support local entrepreneurs and discover hidden gems.
+1Both markets are typically open from April through October, on Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 AM to 6 PM. They are a testament to the diverse cultural fabric of Philadelphia and a major draw for locals and tourists alike.
A Hub for Sports and Recreation
For those seeking a more relaxed pace, FDR Park offers tennis and pickleball courts, providing ample opportunities for friendly matches. The playground is a hit with families, ensuring younger visitors have plenty of space to play and explore. Fishing is also a popular activity in the park's lakes, offering a peaceful escape.
The park's commitment to recreation extends to its natural areas, with restored wetlands offering walking and hiking trails. This blend of organized sports facilities and natural recreational spaces makes FDR Park a versatile destination for active individuals and families.
Park History and Restoration
A key aspect of the park's restoration involves returning areas west of the main park to their original wetland/tidal estuary state. This initiative aims to preserve the delicate ecosystem, provide natural flood control, and serve as a vital habitat for young wildlife. These restored areas now offer beautiful walking and hiking trails, allowing visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of preserving these landscapes.
This commitment to ecological restoration, alongside modern upgrades like improved sports facilities and the vibrant cultural markets, positions FDR Park as a model for urban green spaces. It’s a place where history, nature, and community converge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit