Penn Park

Penn Park is a 24-acre green space located on the eastern edge of the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The park, which opened in 2011, transformed a former industrial site and parking lot into a vibrant recreational area for both the university community and general public.

Situated between the university's main campus and the Schuylkill River, Penn Park offers spectacular views of the Philadelphia skyline. The park's design incorporates large sculptural landforms that organize the space and create an interconnected network of pathways and pedestrian bridges, linking the park to surrounding areas.

Penn Park features a mix of active recreational facilities and passive open spaces. It includes multiple athletic fields, tennis courts, and a stadium, catering to various sports and activities. The park also provides areas for relaxation and informal play, with open lawns, picnic areas, and walking paths.

Sustainability was a key consideration in Penn Park's development. The park incorporates innovative stormwater management features, including a sophisticated underground cistern system that collects and treats rainwater for irrigation. This system helps reduce the demand on conventional water supplies and mitigates stormwater runoff into the Schuylkill River. Additionally, the park added over 500 new trees and native flora, significantly increasing the green space on Penn's campus.

Penn Park is open to the public and serves as a valuable community resource, hosting various events and recreational activities throughout the year. It has become an integral part of the university's landscape, enhancing campus life and providing a green connection between the academic buildings and the river.