Sister Cities Park

Location and History

Tucked at the intersection of 18th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, Sister Cities Park offers 1.3 acres of urban refreshment in the heart of the city.

While the park has been around since 1976, it received a complete renovation in 2012, changing from a standard city park into the more dynamic space you'll find today.

Bronze statue of Thomas Fitzsimons against winter sky

Photo: 123 Chroma Pixels (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Natural Design Elements

Walk through Sister Cities Park and you might forget you're downtown - the design is inspired by the Wissahickon Valley, with rocks, flowing water, and native Pennsylvania plants that reference Philly's natural areas.

At the center of it all stands a fountain featuring 10 spouts, each one representing one of Philadelphia's sister cities around the world. On hot summer days, you'll find people of all ages cooling off in this interactive water feature that is both functional art and the park's centerpiece.

Children's Water Play Area

If you have kids in tow, the Children's Discovery Garden is likely where you'll spend most of your time. This imaginative space features a meandering stream and pond where little ones can splash around and launch toy boats on miniature adventures.

The designers cleverly mimicked the Wissahickon's natural landscape, complete with a small hill and climbing areas that invite exploration. During summer, the area transforms into a natural splash pad with ankle-deep water that's regularly maintained for safety and cleanliness.

The water play zone has everything from gentle fountains to climbable rocks and flowing streams ideal for impromptu boat races. If you're planning a visit with children, pack bathing suits, water shoes, and dry clothes for afterward - you'll need them!

The General Galusha Pennypacker Memorial stands north of the park

Photo: ajay_suresh (CC BY 2.0)

Amenities and Services

When hunger strikes, head to the café and visitor center housed in a sleek pavilion topped with an eco-friendly green roof (which does double duty managing stormwater and keeping the building cooler). Restrooms are available inside for when nature calls.

Within the park, you'll find various seating options - tables with umbrellas near the café provide shade for your coffee break, while benches beneath mature trees offer spots to watch the kids play or take a break from the city bustle.

Park Features and Surroundings

The park offers some pretty impressive city views, with historic architecture and modern skyscrapers creating a uniquely Philadelphian backdrop. It's no wonder the space draws such a diverse crowd - from families and office workers to curious tourists.

You're also perfectly positioned to explore more of the city, with a historic cathedral just across the way and the Free Library of Philadelphia only steps away. Don't worry about seasonal closures - when winter arrives and the wading pool shuts down, the area transforms into an alternative play space for year-round enjoyment.

Kids particularly love the large spider web rope attraction for climbing, and if you time your visit right, you might catch one of the children's events or outdoor movie nights that bring extra life to the park during warmer months.