In 1876, more than 10 million people journeyed to Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park for the nation’s Centennial Exposition. Today, the expanse remains a refuge from the bustling city, keeping quiet natural landscapes within close reach of all residents and visitors. With more than 2000 acres of rolling hills, gentle trails, relaxing waterfront and shaded woodlands, Fairmount Park, divided in 2010 into East Park and West Park under the care of Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, keeps a wealth of natural landscapes within easy reach of city dwellers.Fairmount Park houses miles of trails for horseback riding, off-road cycling and deep-woods hiking, yet there are also tours of historic mansions, Japanese tea ceremonies and outdoor concerts.There are the usual haunts, like Boathouse Row and the many historic mansions that dot the park’s landscape. But there are plenty more spots, from gardens to sculptures to architectural gems, that are a bit more off the beaten path, yet very much worth the visit. From abandoned bridges to scenic trails, here are more than a dozen hidden gems found throughout West and East Fairmount Park.
