Stroud Preserve is creeks and ponds, fields and meadows and woodlands as far as the eye can see. While the public is welcome, this 574-acre preserve is privately owned. The land is used for research, education and wildlife preservation. Birding, walking and horseback riding is encouraged at Stroud. There are nearly nine miles of unpaved trails. It has fields of soybeans, corn and hay, birds such as the downy or red-bellied woodpecker or the tufted titmouse, and trees like red oaks and maples. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
One of Philadelphia's most popular new attractions, the seasonal Spruce Street Harbor Park is part pop-up beer garden, part street festival and all fun. Open every day from late May to late September, Spruce Street Harbor park offers free entertainment, an arcade, gourmet eats, swan boats and more. Along the Delaware River on Philadelphia's east side, Spruce Street Harbor Park is an ideal place for some fun in the sun without leaving the city.
Parking and Public Transportation at Spruce Street Harbor Park
The closest parking is available at a lot at the intersection of Lombard Street and Columbus Avenue--it'll set you back $15 a day.
If you're riding public transportation, take Septa bus routes 21, 33 or 42 to the Great Plaza, then walk south; the park will be on your left. You can also take the Market-Frankford subway line eastbound to 2nd Street and then walk south.
Admission to Spruce Street Harbor Park
Admission is free! While you can bring your own picnics and snacks, no outside alcohol is permitted.
Spruce Street Harbor Park is open late May-late September, and is open 11:00 a.m. -11:00 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The food offerings have separate hours; check their website for more information.
Must See/Do at Spruce Street Harbor Park
This seasonal garden is also home to exclusive food and drink, like Yard's Brewing Company's exclusive Lazy Hammock IPA, or Port FedNut's (an extension of the local favorite Federal Donuts, famous for their fried chicken and doughnuts) chicken sandwich. Once you've refreshed with some grub, play some bocce ball or rent a kayak.
Other Places to Visit Near Spruce Street Harbor Park
There are many other seasonal parks nearby, like the Blue Cross RiverRink SummerFest, the Race Street Pier, and the Morgan's Pier beer garden.
If you want to fit in some historical sightseeing, both Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center are about five blocks away.
Insider tip for visitors to Spruce Street Harbor Park
Arrive early on the weekends to secure a seat in one of the two types of very popular hammocks: those between trees and those hanging over the water of the Delaware River (don't worry, there's extra netting as well to minimize drowned cell phones). Hang out after sunset for some great ambiance as the lights hanging around the park illuminate the night.
Author's bio: Jeff Birou is an education administrator by day, travel and freelance writer by night. You can find him at his blog, Lance+Jeff, or on Twitter at @Jetsetter_Jeff.