Play: Philly’s Best Summer Camp Programs, Places to The Best of Play, and Sustainable Sports | 2023 LOVE Award Winners and Family Favorites
Discover the best summer camp programs, and have fun with your kids in Philly with these local businesses our Community LOVES.
Discover the best summer camp programs, and have fun with your kids in Philly with these local businesses our Community LOVES.
LOVE Awards Celebration and Luncheon photos by AMC Photography.
2023 LOVE AWARD WINNER: BEST DAY CAMP
Tall Pines Day Camp
“TPDC has excellent owners, wonderful staff, and a plethora of very well-kept and maintained activities. Every year they seem to outdo themselves. The owners and directors go out of their way to make every child as well as every staff member, from the bunk counselors to the specialty coordinators to the food workers, feel like they are part of one very large family!”
– Charles C.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE DAY CAMP
JCC Camps at Medford
“The JCC Camps at Medford, is a family experience, not just a summer camp. When COVID prevented the camp to open as before, they thought outside the box and created a fun summer experience for our children and family experiences that we could enjoy together. Their Open Doors program for children with different needs is incredible!”
– Sarah S.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE DAY CAMP
Liberty Lake Day Camp
“This camp changed my daughter’s life. The camp cares about their campers and our youth. Summer of 2020 Liberty Lake Day Camp literally saved an entire generation of city youth by going through great lengths to provide our children with endless summer days, while keeping us safe when many others could not. Liberty Lake brought out the best in my child and many others feel the same. Their influence on my daughter carries on year round and has shaped childhood. If only there was a Liberty Lake when I was a child.”
– Philly Family Community Member
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE DAY CAMP
Summerside Camps at SCH Academy
“My kids attend their summer camp every year. All teachers, counselors, administration etc. are loving, helpful, professional, and trustworthy. My boys love going every year! It is very important feeling comfort in where you send your children and who they are spending their time with. I feel completely comfortable and at ease knowing they are under the care of Springside Chestnut Hill Academy employees.”
– Philly Family Community Member
2023 LOVE AWARD WINNER: BEST OVERNIGHT CAMP
Appel Farm Arts Camp
“Appel Farms has consistently worked to make arts and arts education accessible to youth in the Philadelphia area and beyond. The camp is inclusive to LGBTQ+ youth, and offers financial aid to make the experience affordable for as many young people as they can. The campers and staff are diverse in race, class, gender, sexuality, ability, national origin, and many other aspects, which makes the experience even more meaningful.”
– Sage M.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE OVERNIGHT CAMP
Echo Hill Camp
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE OVERNIGHT CAMP
Golden Slipper Camp
2023 LOVE AWARD WINNER: BEST PLAYSPACE
Beehive at Bok
“Beehive is a community hub in my neighborhood. Rachel, the owner, has done a magical job of evolving as pandemic habits shift. What started as a place where I spent many many hours socializing and playing pre-pandemic became a go-to spot for virtual schooling, which then evolved to summer camp (my daughter went and LOVED the art classes and the teachers) and now is a home for pupil pod (practice preschool), open community play, an after school program, and our neighborhood go-to spot for birthday parties. Rachel is an elementary education teacher herself and this is showcased in her thoughtful use of the space in Beehive.”
– Beth A.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE PLAYSPACE
Kids at Play
“It was awesome! Super clean, big space but not too overwhelming with lots of cool things to do for toddlers-age 12. (Best part is they have a machine that cleans the ball pit:-) Definitely going back!”
– Deena H.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE PLAYSPACE
Kith + Kin
“Love Kith + Kin! Perfect for rain, snow, heat… an all weather solution for your cooped up kid! Happy with the cleanliness, selection of toys, and thoughtfulness of layout. My husband and I have also taken several online classes through Kith + Kin and appreciate the resources each have provided. First took our daughter when she was 8 months. There is always plenty to explore for all ages and stages.”
– Lauren C.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE PLAYSPACE
Lilypad
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE PLAYSPACE
Nest
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE PLAYSPACE
Rutabaga Toy Library
“The programming they have for school age children on days of school is fabulous-filled with active exploration, nature, art and child-led play.
– Erin E.
We also love borrowing from the library to try new games, toys and activities. Attending family game night and borrowing new toys is a family favorite and a great way for the kiddos to spend time with their friends.”
2023 LOVE AWARD WINNER: BEST SPECIALTY CAMP
Music Theatre Philly
“As the executive director of Music Theatre Philly, I am proud to say we have cultivated an environment that is inclusive, professional and FUN for all kids. Whether child is just experiencing the performing arts for the first time or plans on pursuing it professionally, there is a place for them to grow, learn and thrive. Our classes are designed for beginners and experienced performers alike. Our production company, MTP Presents, puts on professional quality shows where kids in grades K – 12 can put their skills to the test. Through the rehearsal process, they work with other theater loving kids to make a dazzling product. We pride ourselves on making space for ANY child. We offer financial assistance and support for neurodiverse students. “
– Tim P.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE SPECIALTY CAMP
Appel Farm Arts Camp
“My children are loved so much at Appel Farm. Because of Appel Farm, my kids have had the opportunity to discover themselves and their art in such a loving and supportive environment. We love Appel Farm!”
– Jessica B.
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE SPECIALTY CAMP
Rock to the Future
2023 FAMILY FAVORITE SPECIALTY CAMP
Tufas Boulder Lounge
2023 LOVE AWARD WINNER: BEST SUSTAINABLE SPORTS PROGRAMMING
Give and Go Athletics
“Andre is a gift to philly. He supports all kids but his focus is on kids from lower income backgrounds. He provides sports, mentoring and so much more. He is a gift to Philly and its children.”
– Brandi D.
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