Historic Philadelphia

The Carousel provides great fun for young and old, and also tells one of Philadelphia's great heritage stories. Philadelphia was once the carousel-making capital of the world. The three biggest fabricators, Philadelphia Toboggan Company, Dentzel, and D.C. Muller & Bro. were all headquartered in Philadelphia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Eventually, the exquisite "Philadelphia Style" emerged and dominated the carousel industry, exhibited by large, strong, and realistic figures. Many of the animals that will make up the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel were modeled in that style.

The 18-hole Philadelphia-themed course allows Guests to putt through favorite icons including Elfreth's Alley, Benjamin Franklin Bridge, Philadelphia Museum of Art, LOVE statue, Chinatown Friendship Gate, and on the 18th hole, putt through the crack in the Liberty Bell and land in front of Independence Hall. Plus, holes celebrating Philadelphia Sports teams and Philadelphia Music legends.

The newest addition to Franklin Square has created quite a buzz. At last, a great place for a snack between rounds of golf and rides on the carousel.

The menu for SquareBurger consists of hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries, salad, and a variety of frozen treats and drinks. Brought to you by Starr Restaurants!

SquareBurger Menu

SquareBurger Fall Menu

Built in 1838, after the city council passed a resolution in 1837 calling for a fountain of grand scale. It has served as the centerpiece of the square into the 19th century. It is thought to be the oldest surviving fountain in William Penn's original squares.

In the late 70's the fountain fell into disrepair and ceased operation. In 2006, during the parks restoration great lengths were taken to preserve the fence surrounding the fountain and the stone work in its center, both of which date back to its original construction!

It is regarded as one of the best playgrounds in the city featuring two ages appropriate playgrounds under stately trees. Children can swing, twirl, climb and explore. The curious nature of Dr. Franklin was our inspiration in this modern day playground.

Franklin Square began the unique Sand Sculpture presentation in 2007 with “Egypt-A-Delphia”.  It was a celebration of the King Tut exhibit that appeared in the city that year.  It featured pyramids, obelisks, rams and more.  It proved so popular that we decided to make it a yearly park feature. 

In 2008, “Sand-A-Delphia” premiered featuring icons from the summer in Philadelphia such as Independence Hall, Dinosaurs, and the Election.

After months of secrecy regarding its theme, on May 14 2009, The Phillie Phanatic appeared at Franklin Square to unveil this seasons’ theme – “Baseball and the 2008 World Champion Phillies”.  The completed sculpture debuted Memorial Day weekend.  A must-see for a fan of the Phillies! 

(Yes, it is made entirely of sand!)

In 1976, the city of Philadelphia dedicated the Living Flame Memorial to the city's fallen policemen and firefighters, centered on a sculpture by local sculptor Reginald E. Beauchamp.