Bio Pond U. Penn Philadelphia
Urban oasis in West Philly
Bronwyn from Philadelphia
The James G. Kaskey Memorial Park (known by locals as the Bio Pond) was University of Penn’s first botanic garden and is used for education and research, but is also open to the public year-round.
One of the most romantic-sounding dates I was ever asked on was to meet just before dusk at the bio-pond for a midsummer picnic. Though a romance did not blossom, a friendship did, and the setting was certainly a lure with its mating frogs, swooping birds, and a deep green pond surrounded by red poppies, black-eyed susans, pink resurrection lilies and white balloon flowers. Three and a half acres (including the pond) also contain a woodland garden, fernery, and an herb and pollinator garden.
While the park is beautiful any time of year, certainly spring and summer, as the species and pond life awaken, is my favorite time to go. With majestic old trees to take shade under, it’s an ideal setting for meditation, reading, and strolling, as well as romantic dates or picnics with friends or family. An oasis should, I think, be relatively calm and quiet though, so best for soft voices and maybe some kissing.
Philadelphia Spotter Bronwyn
About this spot
Our Philadelphia City Guide
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Two Persons Coffee
Excellent coffee zen space
"Two Persons Coffee" in Philadelphia is in a building that used to be a public vocational school, and its furniture was salvaged to complement the cafe...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Merchant Exchange
Greek Revival architecture in Old City
My favorite building in Philadelphia is the Merchant Exchange, conveniently located across the street from my favorite movie theater...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Sally
Friendly, local, tasty food!
"Sally" in Philadelphia is a casual and friendly restaurant that's also been named the Best New Restaurant of 2021...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Chris Jazz Cafe
Live jazz and Southern cuisine
"Chris Jazz Cafe" in Philadelphia has been keeping the jazz flames alive in Center City for over 30 years. A night here is an absolute event...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Herman’s Coffee
Coffee and more
"Herman’s Coffee" is in a former auto repair and car wash garage in Philadelphia. It's much more than just a coffee shop with espresso & yummy pastries...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Rosenbach Museum
For literature lovers
The "Rosenbach Museum" in Philadelphia will almost make you expect the residents to saunter out in Victorian garb! A must for literature lovers...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
St. Marks Episcopal Church
Center city oasis
"St. Marks Episcopal Church" in Philadelphia is just beautiful. Even though I'm not religious, I have enjoyed many free classical music concerts here...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Function Coffee Labs
Pastry bliss
When I tasted one of "Function Coffee Labs" buttery flaky sourdough-based croissants in Philadelphia, I knew I'd found pastry bliss...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Sassafras Bar
My favorite bar to meet friends
Considered the Grand Dame of neighborhood bars, "Sassafras Bar" in Philadelphia is dark and cozy, with a beautiful vintage wooden bar... A local favorite!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Dizengoff
Satisfy your hummus craving
"Dizengoff" in Philadelphia makes just amazing hummus made by Star Chef Michael Solomonov. The best part is the warm pita bread...
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Good Buy Supply
Eco supplies
"Good Buy Supply" is Philadelphia’s first retail shop dedicated to low-waste and plastic-free alternatives for everyday life. These products are addictive!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Philly Knits Yarn Bombers
Knitted street art
"Philly Knits Yarn Bombers" in Philadelphia make a lot of knit-bombs around the city. I'm sure they'll make your day like they do mine!
by
Bronwyn
Lepore
Heading to Philadelphia?
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Philadelphia
Our team loves Philadelphia
Get to know our other Spotters from Philadelphia
As featured on:
