Visit

Free Play is the Smith Way

Explore a world of indoor fun across 3 levels of hands-on activities like our Playbrary Imaginative Playspace, Smithville, and seasonal Play-stallations. Outside, discover over 50 distinctive play structures for running, jumping, and sliding adventures, including the beloved Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide. Embrace outdoor creativity in our certified Nature Explore™ Classroom, where nature sparks imagination.

Indoor children's play area with toy cars, a small tent, and a traffic light under a high ceiling
Bright, colorful living room with yellow chairs, a red rug, and large windows in a cozy interior
Adult and child playing with a toy village on the floor beside a fireplace
Two children wearing masks read a colorful pop-up book together on a couch
Children climbing on a colorful rope playground pyramid in a park
Child crouching outdoors, arranging sticks and wood rounds beside a small pile in a wooded area.
Two children in winter clothes sit on a rug on a wooden slide, facing each other and smiling.

Admission is free!

Visiting Hours

APRIL - SEPTEMBER

Tues - Fri: 10 am - 6 pm

Sat - Sun: 10 am - 7 pm

 OCTOBER  - MARCH

Tues - Fri: 10 am - 5 pm

Sat - Sun: 10 am - 5 pm

Smith is closed on Mondays.  The Playground closes at dusk in the fall and winter.  The Playhouse closes one hour before the Playground in the spring and summer.  All hours are weather permitting.

Black outline map with a location pin icon on a white background

Location and Directions

Directions

Public Transportation

Smith, is easily accessible by public transportation. Take SEPTA bus #32 to 33rd and Oxford Streets. Walk 1/3 mile into Fairmount Park, and Smith will be on your left.

OR,

Take SEPTA Bus #3 to 33rd & Cecil B. Moore Streets* walk one block south to 33rd & Oxford St. Walk 1/3 mile into Fairmount Park. Smith will be on your left.


*The #3 bus route comes directly to Smith on Saturdays and Sundays during our visiting hours

Group Visits

Immerse young learners in the Power of Play on your next school trip or group visit.

Smith welcomes hundreds of schools, camps, and community groups each year. Advanced reservations are required for groups of 10 or more children. Groups have access to indoor and outdoor play spaces, and picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis for lunch.

Group visits can be scheduled from 10am-12pm or 1pm-3pm.

Group Visit Fees:
• $25 for 11–25 children
• $50 for 26–50 children
• $75 for 51–75 children
• $100 for 76–100 children

Payment must be received by Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse at least three weeks prior to your reservation date. All payments are non-refundable. If payment is not received by the three-week deadline, your reservation will be canceled. Due to high demand, Smith cannot hold space for groups with past-due balances.

Smith accepts cash, credit cards, checks, or money orders made payable to Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse.


Email reserve@smithplayground.org, or call 215-765-4325, x100 to book today!

Frequently Asked Questions

The following FAQs can help you prepare for your next visit to Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse.

  • Q: What age range is appropriate for Smith?

    A: Although, Smith can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. It is ideal for children 10 and under. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Adults are responsible for making sure that children use age-appropraite equipment and are supervised.

  • Q: Do I have to pay to visit?

    A: No, daily visits are free.. A nominal admission fee is charged for groups of 11 or more.

  • Q: What happens during inclement weather?

    A: Based on the severity of the weather conditions, the staff may close all or part of the Playground and Playhouse.

  • Q: Is parking available?

    A: Yes, there’s a free parking lot in front of the Playhouse. When the lot is full, cars may park along Reservoir Drive. Please don’t leave any valuables in your car.

  • Q: Where can I eat?

    A: You are welcome to bring food or have food delivered. Please note that there are very limited food options within walking distance. Eating is permitted in the cafe area of the Playhouse, on the front lawn and side porches. 

  • Q: Can I grill or BBQ?

    A: No, grilling and BBQing are prohibited for safety reasons.

  • Q: Is Smith available for birthdays, weddings, and events?

    A:  Yes! Please see Rentals for more information.

  • Q: Why do you charge for birthday parties?

    A: Smith Memorial Playground is a nonprofit organization that relies on the revenue from birthday parties and other events to sustain its operations, maintain the Playground, and continue providing a safe, fun environment for all children. Your support directly contributes to our mission!

  • Q: Are animals allowed at Smith?

    A: For the safety and comfort of all visitors, animals are not permitted at Smith. Service animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines.

Rules and Safety

We want everyone to have a great time at Smith! We ask visitors to observe a few rules to ensure a community of respect and keep everyone safe:

  • Play Safe. Please keep an eye on children at all times. You should always be able to see them, and they should always be able to see you.
  • Play Smart. Make sure that equipment is appropriate for the age and skill level of the child. Please supervise play at all times.
  • Play Fair. Clean up after yourself and use gentle hands and voices so others can enjoy the space too.