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.