Wissinoming Park

A Glimpse of History in Northeast Philly

Positioned in the Wissinoming neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia, this 41-acre green sanctuary has been the community's backyard since 1913, when the city purchased the land from Thomas and Indiana Tansey.

Before becoming a public park, this land was part of Robert Cornelius's estate - a chemist and early photography pioneer who clearly had a green thumb. He planted over 4,000 trees on his property, many of them rare specimens that would make today's plant collectors swoon.

Nature's Canvas

While not all of Cornelius's original botanical collection survived the century, the park still showcases an impressive variety of mature trees that create cool shade pockets and homes for local wildlife. There's something magical about the way sunlight filters through the leaves here, with the sunrise views being particularly spectacular if you're an early riser.

The landscape balances active spaces with tranquil natural areas where you can simply breathe and unwind. Two charming bridges add character to your walks, and recent community gardening initiatives have brought fresh blooms and greenery to enhance the grounds.

Get Moving

For those looking to be active, Wissinoming offers several options. The park houses six basketball courts where pickup games are almost always in progress, plus well-maintained baseball fields and soccer fields that accommodate players from wobbly toddlers to seasoned veterans.

The tennis courts provide another sporting option, while meandering walking trails invite you to explore the park's expansive meadows - great for a morning jog or an evening stroll to clear your mind.

Family Fun Central

Kids light up at the sight of the park's robust playground with equipment for various ages. When summer turns up the heat, the splash pad becomes the neighborhood's favorite cooling station, with children darting through sprinklers and squealing with delight.

The picnic area comes equipped with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for everything from casual weekend lunches to birthday celebrations. And yes, there are clean restrooms at the recreation center - a simple but essential amenity for any park outing.

Heart of the Community

Wissinoming Park isn't just a plot of land - it's where neighborhood life unfolds. As part of the Fairmount Park Conservancy, it helps preserve natural beauty within Philadelphia's urban landscape.

You'll notice many familiar faces here; some families have been visiting for generations, creating memories under the same trees their grandparents once enjoyed. Whether you're looking for a space for exercise, Pokemon hunting adventures, or just a peaceful moment away from city noise, these vast open grounds provide a refreshing escape in urban Philadelphia.