Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse have been a Philadelphia landmark for generations. The original building was constructed in 1899 was in need of some repairs, upgrades, and innovation to bring this historic place into the 21st century. Smith Playhouse is now open again, and is a place where all children can come together to learn, interact, and just be kids, something that they lose a little bit more of with the intrusion of technology in their play, as well as the two year long pandemic which has affected their education and social interactions.

What’s New?

The Starr Indoor Playground, lower level, now has increased space for climbing, building, imaginary play, and more. The tinier guests have not been forgotten! There is an area for their exploration, as well as a loft under the skylights. Head upstairs for the nursing room and new library!

You won’t miss the trikes and bikes, as well as the kitchen and restaurant areas, puppet theater, and block areas that you loved before- they’re all still on the first floor!

Tinker Town

Interactive and hands-on play is the way young children learn best. Allowing them to touch, to experience, and to immerse themselves teaches them that they can become anything they want to be. Tinker Town encourages this by providing stations for drawing and design; a soft construction area with fabrics, weaving and quilt-making; recycled materials and blocks fill a building area; and for those who want to really make something with real tools- there is a construction area with wood and real tools! These centers will be part of a rotating series on the second floor with future installations that include La La Land (a music and performance experience), Word World (where books and stories come to life), and Fortlandia (a fort building extravaganza!).

Worth Noting

There are new bathrooms downstairs, a great improvement! The track, called Smithville, on the lower level might be something your children won’t ever want to leave. This indoor racetrack is so unique! The giant wooden slide remains, of course! Reservations are required for the indoor playhouse, and you should check their website for any inclement weather closures. We hope you love it, new and old, and encourage you to share your adventures at Smith with us on Instagram using #phillyfamily when you post!

Photo courtesy of Kristen Micucci.

Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse support the Philly Family Community as Education Partners. Please leave them a review!