Port Richmond: Five Parks that Promote Community Bonding

With a diversity of cultures scattered around Port Richmond, parks enable the community to come together. Neighbors can be found walking through the middle of a scenic Campbell Park, burning some energy off with the children at Frank Glavin Memorial Playground or playing fetch with their pets at Samuels Playground. People enjoy everything from a long strolls to a circle of dominos over light banter as the sun falls behind the skyline.

Campbell Park  – Allegheny Avenue near Belgrade and Almond streets

This iconic park is easily the most recognizable by any Philadelphian familiar with the area. Hosting a wide array of events throughout the year, the park is the center of attraction for park enthusiasts. Enjoy a cool summer day on a bench, play a game of tag or simply sit in the shade of the large, swaying trees.

Samuels Playground – East Tioga and Belgrade streets

A large Phillies mural wraps around the baseball fields. Four metal basketball courts host a variety of pick up games. Scattered metal benches give rest to the tired occupants. Near the Samuel Recreation Center, this playground offers a massive amount of room for recreational team sports or an engaging game of catch with the family dog. Children’s football games are often held at the field located at 3539 Gaul Street.

Frank Glavin Memorial Playground – East Westmoreland street, between Almond and Mercer streets

Boasting two children’s playground jungle gyms and a full-length basketball court, this playground is the ideal spot to spend a day burning off energy with the children. Adults watch as children run around the colorfully crafted equipment. The memorial park is located at 2600 E Westmoreland St.

General Pulaski Park – East Allegheny and North Delaware avenues

Barley noticeable among the industrial buildings surrounding it, General Pulaski Park gives ample space for dogs to run around or spend a day fishing on the Delaware River. Being the only park in Port Richmond on the waterfront, this park is ideal for picnics or a unique view of the skyline. Pictured above, Bill brings his dog, Elvis, multiple times a day to burn off energy. Finding Elvis in the park almost five years ago, he says they come back almost every day.

Powers Park – Almond and East Ann streets

The many benches and picnic tables are better suited for card game enthusiasts or a picnic brunch. Hosting a variety of different events, the Friends of Powers Park often fill the quiet area into a lively event encouraging bonding and a true sense of community.

-Text and images by Andrew Thayer and Patrick McCarthy.