No matter how long you live in Philadelphia, there are always more cool things to discover.

These city gardens are some of the best-hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for a quiet lunch spot or place, check these Philadelphia gardens off your list.

Philadelphia’s Hidden Gems: Secret Gardens in the City

1. Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary

One of West Philly’s best-kept secrets is the Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary. Hidden amongst row homes, the Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary is a great place to spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for everything from chickadees and goldfinches to the occasional hawk.

Spruce Hill Community Association volunteers, Anne Froehling, Julie Bush, and Richard Guffanti, banded together to create the space out of an abandoned lot and continue to maintain the bird haven.

Visit: S Melville St. Philadelphia, PA 19139

2. Perth and Addison Park

Tucked among colonial houses a hop and skip off of South Street, the small and tranquil Perth and Addison Park is a must-see. With its flowerbeds, trees, and benches the place just screams perfect setting for a meet-cute or romantic stroll.

Visit: 420 S Perth St

3. The Summer Winter Garden

Nestled in Powelton Village near Summer and Winter streets lies the Summer Winter Community Garden. The garden is entirely volunteer-run and is one of Philadelphia’s oldest community gardens. Along with its beautiful plots and paths, the garden is home to a mosaic installation by local artist, Karen Krivit.

Best of all, volunteer gardeners grow food for the PHS City Harvest which helps provide fresh produce for low-income families.

Visit: N Natrona St, Philadelphia, PA 19104

4. John F. Collins Pocket Park

“Pocket park” is an accurate description for this small sanctuary hidden in plain sight. Down the street from One Liberty Place, John F. Collins Pocket Park is the perfect secluded spot to relax with high walls, full trees, and calming fountain.

Visit: 1707 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

5. The Gardens of Independence National Historical Park

The colonial style gardens are a little-known oasis in the 40-acre Independence National Historical Park. Maintained by the National Park Service, the Rose, Magnolia, Benjamin Rush, and 18^th-Century Gardens show what Philadelphia gardens would have looked like in the 1700s. Visit in the spring for flowering trees or picnic amongst the lush greenery in the summer.

Visit: 1 N Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, PA 19106 and see the National Park Service map of the gardens

6. Catharine Park

Besides its cuteness, Catharine Park’s claim to fame is that it is Philadelphia’s smallest green space at just 0.02 acres. It also has an inspiring story beginning during the 1980’s when the park was a hotspot for crime.The neighborhood fought to save the park, including in 2013 with a renovation. The park now boasts a playground, garden, and vibrant community gatherings.

Visit: 2200 S 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19146

7. The Spring Gardens

Located just a few blocks from the Eastern State Penitentiary is a large community garden. The site was once an abandoned lot, but community members converted it to a garden in 1995. The Spring Gardens is now a thriving community garden serving about 180 local families. The garden’s raised bed plots, abundant trees, and open green space make it a favorite spot for picnics, neighborhood gatherings, and events. Check out their calendar here.

Visit: N 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19130

8. Independence LIVE Community Center’s Green Wall

The green wall outside the Independence Blue Cross building is a pleasant surprise in Center City. This seating area is open to the public, so enjoy this surprise splash of greenery during lunch.

Visit: 1919 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Readers, what are your favorite Philadelphia hidden garden gems?

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Marie is a senior at Villanova University studying communication and sustainability. She lives for hiking, camping, skiing, and any outdoor activity. Marie is a coffee addict, loves reading, and has never met a cat or dog she didn't like. View all posts by Marie Bouffard