Drexel Park

Urban Oasis

Situated in Philadelphia's University City neighborhood, Drexel Park is a 2.5-acre green haven that offers a breath of fresh air from city life. Located at the corner of 32nd Street and Powelton Avenue, this cozy spot offers a peaceful retreat where both Drexel University students and locals can unwind.

What strikes you immediately about this park is how surprisingly serene it feels despite its urban setting. It's one of those spots that manages to stay clean and quiet - a little pocket of calm in the midst of Philly's energy.

From Laundry to Landmark

Before becoming the lush space it is today, this spot was once home to the Consolidated Laundry industrial facility. In 2008, it underwent a complete transformation into the public park we now enjoy. One of the park's best features? Its elevated position that provides panoramic views of the Philadelphia skyline - if you're into photography, this is a great spot for cityscape shots.

The height of the park also helps filter out much of the typical street noise, creating a surprisingly quiet atmosphere. Since opening, it's become a popular green space for both the university and the Powelton neighborhood.

What You'll Find

As you explore, you'll discover well-kept walking paths winding through grassy areas. The park is home to more than 45 trees that not only make the space more beautiful but also provide welcome shade on sunny days.

You'll find benches thoughtfully placed along the paths - perfect spots to sit and take in the views, read a book, or just enjoy some outdoor time. The subtle lighting across the park makes it inviting at any time of day.

Community Hub

Drexel Park has naturally evolved into a versatile community space. On any given day, you might see students sprawled out with their books, friends gathering for small meet-ups, or locals just enjoying some fresh air.

The open design makes it easy to use the space however you'd like. People toss footballs around, set up impromptu volleyball games, and you might even catch cultural activities like double dutch jump rope happening on the lawn.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

If you have a dog, you'll appreciate that Drexel Park is a dog-friendly space. The open grassy areas are great for letting your pup stretch their legs (though do keep them under control). The park has become something of a hotspot for local dog owners.

Just remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park in good condition for everyone to enjoy.

Leisure Your Way

When the weather's nice, the park's grassy areas and shady trees create an ideal setting for picnics. Pack a lunch and find your spot - weekdays tend to be quieter if you're looking for more solitude.

If you're in Philly on the Fourth of July, the park offers some of the best views of fireworks displays across the city. Its elevated position means you can see celebrations happening throughout Philadelphia without battling the crowds.

Environmental Benefits

Beyond being a place to visit, Drexel Park has practical environmental functions too. It helps with local stormwater management and contributes to the greening initiatives throughout University City.

The park is maintained by Drexel University, providing green space that benefits both their student body and the surrounding neighborhoods.