Franklin Square image

Franklin Square

Tourist attraction Park Children amusement center Miniature golf course

Centered on a historic fountain, this park offers mini-golf, a classic carousel & a burger joint. People often mention park, golf, Chinese, Lantern, fountain, Festival, mini, Franklin, Philadelphia, carousel,


Address

200 N 6th St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, United States

Website

www.historicphiladelphia.org

Contact

+1 215-629-4026

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (4.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 7 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: park (34) golf (22) Chinese (21) Lantern (16) fountain (15) Festival (15) mini (15) Franklin (13) Philadelphia (13) carousel (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Matthew U. 2 years ago on Google
    Franklin square is a very nice quiet park, fun for the kids or to spend a romantic one on one with your significant other. For the children this park has many areas for your child to play in. This park also features a carousel (tickets are 3 dollars each). The park is always clean, and also has trash bins in many areas. Good location.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Barb Hauck-Mah (. 2 years ago on Google
    Family-friendly destination for year-round entertainment, some free (evening fountain lights&music show and playground) and some paid: Philly mini-golf and the merry-go-round. It's a good spot for watching the New Year's fireworks and for a dog walk. In winter, there's a food tent and warming pits. In spring, the Chinese Lantern festival is well-worth the admission price.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aidan U. 9 months ago on Google • 72 reviews
    I went to Franklin Square to see the Chinese Lantern Festival during the day and play mini golf. Seeing the lanterns is free during the day, and it was not crowded at all. The lanterns were beautiful and I can't imagine how much prettier they would look at night. I highly recommend stopping by. The mini golf was $13 per adult. They had many iconic Philadelphia landmarks that gave the course a ton of character. Initially, we were stuck behind two families but the worker who gave us our clubs and balls mentioned that we can jump around and do the course in any order. It was a lot of fun and I recommend checking it out!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Donald H. 4 months ago on Google • 351 reviews
    It's the kinda park everybody loves or could potentially fall in love with! It's a park that is home to several traditional activities that will make it a night worth reflecting on for years to come! It's a place that you can take a youngster to for some of the best times possible! There is also a MINI GOLF COURSE that will have you trying to perfect your putt game in your spare time (maybe that's just me)! The Fountain & Chinese Lantern Festival are two highlights of Franklin Square that draw a crowd & put on ONE SPECTACULAR SHOW (at various times of course 😉)...
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mendy O. 2 years ago on Google
    Really beautiful park! The fountain is really cool, especially at night when it's lit up with colorful lights! There are also fountain shows with music and lights. The mini golf was decorated for Halloween and the fixture are really nice! Scenes from around Philadelphia such as Independence Hall and Elfreth's Alley. I went on the carousel at night and it was just so nice!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robin Archer F. 9 months ago on Google • 23 reviews
    The Chinese Lantern festival is not to be missed. My partner and I came on a whim and it was immediately satisfying. We watched all the live performances — which were all equally enjoyable. We received dancing lessons from one of the incredible stage performers after the live sets ended, in the same room where a dumpling making/history class is held. The lanterns and all the adjacent design is breathtaking and impressive. Everything was worthy of our attention — except the mini golf. Take it or leave it, it’s mini golf. The food vendors were in general pricey, but reasonably good with being inside the event. And the crafts vendors were hit or miss with some really awesome wire art and trinkets, and some more irrelevant tourist-trappy stalls. Overall, again — not something to miss. If you haven’t seen this before you must.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica A. 10 months ago on Google • 15 reviews
    We visited the Chinese lantern festival as we were out and about in the area and truly enjoyed it! Im sure this is a sight to be seen at night when everything is lit up & look forward to my family visiting during the evening.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Donald D. 11 months ago on Google
    Visited for the Chinese Lantern Festival. For two people it will run you $44 plus additional fees for food and drinks. If your looking to Laze about for a day it is a calming spot to sit and it seems very child friendly. Overall this experience was not worth it. The drinks will run you about $12 each in the Beer Garden and they are light pours. If you want to do anything extra such as mini golf it will cost more. The decorations are neat, but I can think of much better ways to spend the time and money. There is not a whole lot to do and the park runs it's course after about an hour. I would recommend coming back during normal times when you can visit the park for free. The plus is Chinatown is near by and within easy walking distance
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Venugopal K. 2 years ago on Google
    It's a small garden in race road about a kilo metre towards the south of Liberty Bell. Good place for relaxing with kids especially. Also pets are allowed. Entry to park is free. Playing Merry go round and entry to miniature philadelphia is through tickets available inside the park. Mini golf ground is also there. The musical lighted fountain in the centre of the park is an added attraction. Snacks and coffee bar is there. Private area marked exclusively for parties and get together is available.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brandon M. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice park! The place was very clean and the water feature was amazing. The water jets are motorized and move in various patterns. Every 30 minutes the jets and sprayers are choreographed to music, very cool thing to see. At night the fountain is lit up in an array of beautiful colored lights. The park contains a carousel which was very nice and is socially distanced for all riders. There is also a very nice mini golf course featuring various sculptures of famous landmarks throughout the city. There is a fenced in playground for the kids as well. There is also a small Cafe on premises which has great ice-cream and definitely try the Ben Franklin burger! We will definitely go back and visit again. For 50$ you can eat and have hours of fun with the family.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joey R. 5 months ago on Google • 111 reviews
    The Franklin Square Christmas Light Show is an annual tradition that my girlfriend Sue and I attend every Christmas after a dinner out on the town! An active light show synchronized to music is a real treat to both young and old. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, I believe everyone enjoys a light show of this magnitude. There is also a beautiful carousel for the enjoyment of the youngest in your family or for star-crossed lovers. You can even partake in a round of miniature golf decorated for the season at hand, along with Philadelphia landmarks. There is a refreshment stand with food, treats, and drinks. They even have gluten-free wraps! Another spot serves hot chocolate and warmed cider (you can even get them "spiked"). A smores making pit is on sight as well. Miniature Curling available to boot. And yes, a small building housing restrooms is on sight. Oh, BTW, the Christmas Light Show is FREE! All other activities have a varying charge. In addition to all this, benches are at your disposal.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gerald J. 11 months ago on Google • 46 reviews
    Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the mesmerizing Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival, and I must say, it was an enchanting experience that left me awestruck. As I strolled through Franklin Square, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant colors, intricate designs, and the ethereal glow of the lanterns. The festival transported me to a magical world, teeming with rich Chinese culture and traditions. Each lantern exhibit was a masterpiece in itself, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the talented artists behind them. From towering dragons to delicate lotus flowers, the attention to detail was simply astounding. What made the experience even more remarkable was the atmosphere of the festival. The soft music, the delightful aroma of traditional Chinese cuisine, and the warm smiles of the people around me created an ambiance that was both energetic and serene. As the day turned into dusk, the lanterns came alive, illuminating the night sky with their stunning beauty. It was a visual spectacle like no other, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and tranquility. Beyond the lantern exhibits, the festival also offered various cultural performances, adding to the overall charm and authenticity. Traditional dances, acrobatic displays, and live music brought an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the event. Overall, my visit to the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival was an extraordinary experience that exceeded all expectations. It was an opportunity to appreciate the intersection of art, culture, and tradition. I left feeling inspired and grateful for the chance to be part of such a captivating celebration. I would highly recommend anyone in the Philadelphia area to make it a point to visit this enchanting festival. You won’t be disappointed. It’s a true feast for the senses and an unforgettable journey into the heart of Chinese art and culture.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Megan M. 9 months ago on Google • 242 reviews
    Franklin Square is a beautiful park in Philadelphia, PA. The park holds the annual Chinese Lantern Festival, which I was able to view during the daytime a few years back. The lanterns were so intricately created with such vibrant colors!

  • 5/5 Kerrie L. 11 months ago on Google
    I finally got to see Franklin Square during the day, & it was beautiful! It's June & they're setting up for the annual Lantern Festival, so we got to see a lot of the attractions in various stages of being built. They are currently building a PATCO train station there, as well. Year round, there is a playground, a carousel, mini-golf, & a food stand with things like soda, grilled cheese, & chicken fingers (the latter of which my mother in law said were the best she ever had!).
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kyle G. 1 year ago on Google
    My sister and I went here to play mini golf. The golf was great, but what's even better is that it was open on a Monday in November! There were not many people out, yet they were there for us. It is pricey ($12 for adults), but we had a blast. The course has a lot of mini Philly landmarks. There's also a food stand, fountain and carousel to enjoy as well.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 KGQ N. 2 years ago on Google
    Franklin Square is one of the five public “squares” (parks) of Philadelphia. Quiet and peaceful in the evenings and colder months, hustling and bustling during prime temperate weather days. The park offers much for the younger set, like a beautiful vintage carousel, an ample playground, and a Philadelphia-inspired mini golf course. There is also a large fountain at the center of the park with a light and music show every half-hour. This park has many spaces to sit: park benches, picnic tables, and Adirondack chairs. There are also areas for private parties ranging from fancy events in the large tented area along 6th Street to smaller children’s birthday parties in the smaller tents near the carousel. The park is located at 6th and Race, in the Old City neighborhood, across the street from the National Convention Center and within walking distance to the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, and many more historic sites.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Lisa P. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice park nearby the historic park and liberty bell. There’s a merry go round and mini golf. We did the mini golf — probably a tourist trap (it was about $10 per person for JUST mini golf) but still fun nonetheless. Love the golf course built to showcase popular Philly landmarks. Otherwise a pretty standard park — nothing particularly exciting. There is a large fountain in the center but wasn’t on when we went. Not really a must-see if it’s out of the way, but a chill spot to rest your feet after a day of walking around.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debbie Light Miller Curtis, A. 1 year ago on Google
    Overall a brilliant Concept for a park. The event planners transformed the area with tents and decorated the tents to be like a hall with several stations, dining room, cocktail lounge, bars and other areas suitable for hosting a gala. I’m beyond pleased with the host’s choice to select this spot of land to honor their top sponsors and donors for Turning Point Children Services. Our CEO was among the honorees of top donors for the evening and us as guests walked away feeling very proud to work for a company that gives back to our communities especially programs which support underserved children. Overall a gorgeous event and special thanks to the host, sponsors, musicians, decor coordinator, lighting and backstage crews, speakers and all who came together to make this a night to remember. Phil we salute you and thanks for your impactful leadership at Fulton Bank.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Julia N. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a cute place. I loved the mini golf and had a little Liberty Bell, Love sign, and other well known Philadelphia sights. I gave it only four stars because it wasn’t even October yet and they already had Halloween Decor which isn’t something I am super fond of - spiderwebs covering everything, scary creatures, etc. but it was a clean and pretty park with a fun carousel, playground, and an ice cream place. It is a fun place to go in Philadelphia.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 J S. 1 year ago on Google
    Well I was really excited about coming here because I wanted to see the fountain show with the lights and was curious to see the Chinese Lantern Festival as well. We walked 15 min in the heat to get there and they're charging $23 with change per ticket. Umm that's completely ridiculous. We turned around and left. No thanks, absolutely not worth that much money.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tien S. 1 year ago on Google
    I really enjoyed the Chinese Lantern Festival but do wish there had been more explanations or demonstrations of culture to enjoy. If that had happened I would've given it 5 stars. Having to pay extra for each little feature makes it coat prohibitive for most Philadelphians who can't afford $100+ trips to a park. If it's meant for tourists and out of towners, it was very successful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Terri S. 1 year ago on Google
    Park was very nice and clean, the water show every half hour was good, and Merry-Go-Round was an added bonus. I'm almost certain that the Chinese Festival after 6pm is going to be amazing. The decorations are beautiful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 H A. 2 years ago on Google
    Played a lil round of miniature golf at Franklin Square with my bf. Had so much fun playing all 18 holes! We got our tickets online before we arrived. We just had to walk up to stand in line to wait for our turn to start playing. Really cool date night idea.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tanvir P. 9 months ago on Google
    Franklin square park was an unexpected experience! The most attracting view was the beautiful water fountain ⛲ in the middle of the park. There were also rides and other entertainment in the area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Julie P. 2 years ago on Google
    They should keep the holidays lights on all the time, and not just during the show. Very misleading when you get there and lights are off. We thought they were broken. Hot chocolate is over priced and not hot at all.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Euphoria 9 months ago on Google • 62 reviews
    Went during the Chinese Lantern Festival. It’s was well constructed, designed beautifully and staff were on hand conducting safety searches at the entrance. Lovely time for family , friends or solo visits . The food was delicious as well, ordered the General T’os chicken and was still warm when I got it .

  • 4/5 Aylin T. 4 months ago on Google • 61 reviews
    Nice park/square. There is holiday decor and little holiday pop up bar with themed drinks, S’mores and fire pits.

  • 5/5 Benjamin S. 11 months ago on Google
    Great Philadelphia park. Compact but beautiful. The Chinese Lantern Festival is fantastic. Great fountain too. Concessions were closed during our visit.

  • 5/5 Steven B. 9 months ago on Google
    We didn't know about the Chinese lantern festival until we drove past one day. Glad we went. They have really great shows and light displays throughout the whole park. Interactive lighting and a big contrasting in the middle that does shows like bellagio in Vegas.

  • 5/5 Corrynn 10 months ago on Google
    Wonderful first time experience at the Philly Chinese Lantern Festival. Amazing displays and craftsmanship. Excellent performances as well.

  • 5/5 susan w. 9 months ago on Google
    You absolutely must go to the Chinese Lantern Festival! Perfect and only $25! Parking right next door for ~$15

  • 4/5 Lisa H. 9 months ago on Google
    Attended the Chinese Lantern Festival. Beautiful, colorful light displays, Mini Golf, Carousel, Dragon Beer Garden and 3 different food locations. Fountain Show, various performances including plate spinning, folk dancing, face changing, ect...

  • 4/5 Roshelle M. 2 years ago on Google
    I love this park for me and the kids. It's clean, there's parking, a carousel, bathroom and a little playground. I love how spacious it is. Great for a picnic. Not to mention, it's beautiful 😍

  • 5/5 Dwayne S. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved the fountain, the food, and the fun (miniature golf, swings/playground and carousel.

  • 5/5 Sara B. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful park in the heart of Philadelphia. The kids enjoyed it immensely. Has play equipment, a carousel, bathrooms, and a fountain. Also, a snack place. I think it had ice cream.

  • 5/5 Natasha D. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place to go with the family and have a really good time. Mini golf, water show, carasouel, and nice playground!! Just bring your own water it’s expensive down there.

  • 5/5 Rachel H. 2 years ago on Google
    We always have a fabulous time here! Hidden gem! Love the regular fountain shows, merry-go-round, mini golf & beautiful playground. Concessions are reasonable and bathrooms are pretty clean. The event space looks pretty nice too.

  • 5/5 Nicole M. 2 years ago on Google
    The Pop-up Beer Garden is epic! Nice touch Franklin Square. Yummy and diverse food menu. Drinks weren't watered down. Great prices. Live music and entertainment was so much fun! In Philly until 08-28-2021!

  • 4/5 Eric P. 2 years ago on Google
    They have done such wonderful stuff at Franklin square. The fountain there is the best one in the city. It's great to sit and watch. The miniature golf is kind of weathered, but super fun to play with important sites in Philadelphia. Square burger never seems to be fully stocked, but the burgers are very good.


Call +1 215-629-4026 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • ✓️ Dogs allowed
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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