Franklin Square - a rainy day in a large city with lots of buildings
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Franklin Square

4.6
·5k reviews·Philadelphia, United States

A vibrant urban oasis featuring a historic fountain, carousel, mini-golf, and the spectacular summer Chinese Lantern Festival.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings (June-August)

Experience the illuminated Lantern Festival.

CrowdHigh
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Franklin Square - a rainy day in a large city with lots of buildings

Franklin Square

Best Time

Summer evenings (June-August)

Experience the illuminated Lantern Festival.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant urban oasis featuring a historic fountain, carousel, mini-golf, and the spectacular summer Chinese Lantern Festival.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"The Chinese Lantern Festival in Philly is truly a magical experience! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Lantern Fest Tickets

Book Lantern Festival tickets in advance for evening entry. Daytime access may be free.

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during the Lantern Festival.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chinese Lantern Festival

Chinese Lantern Festival

Franklin Square

Mesmerizing illuminated displays, stage shows, and fountain spectacles. A vibrant cultural celebration.

TikTokInstagram
Spooky Mini Golf

Spooky Mini Golf

Franklin Square

A Halloween-themed mini-golf course with kid-friendly decorations. Perfect for fall fun.

TikTok
Historic Fountain

Historic Fountain

Franklin Square

The centerpiece of the park, offering a magical atmosphere, especially when lit at night.

Instagram
Carousel Rides

Carousel Rides

Franklin Square

A classic carousel offering delightful rides for all ages, adding a touch of nostalgia.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Lantern Festival

The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival is a summer highlight, running June through August. While daytime entry can be free, tickets are required for the illuminated evening experience. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram+1

Franklin Square: More Than Just a Park

Beyond the seasonal Chinese Lantern Festival, Franklin Square offers year-round attractions like a carousel and mini-golf. Consider visiting during Halloween for a spooky twist on mini-golf. TikTok The park is also a hub for local eateries, making it a great spot for a casual meal. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Summer evenings (June-August)
Why
Experience the illuminated Lantern Festival.
Crowd
High
When
October afternoons
Why
Enjoy spooky Halloween mini-golf.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for a relaxed visit.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THE PHILADELPHIA CHINESE LANTERN FESTIVAL RETURNS TO 📍 FRANKLIN SQUARE from JUNE 20th to August 31st. We were planning to visit the festival this year and it was worth it. They had a stage show with very talented artists, a fountain show with music & bubbles and an amazing light show. Loved the colorful lantern 🏮 arch walk. It was mesmerizing. We also tried fried dumplings 🥟 ( cheesesteak & bu...
@our.life.in.plates
23.5K likes • 437.6K views

🎟️ Lantern Fest Tickets

Book Lantern Festival tickets in advance for evening entry. Daytime access may be free. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during the Lantern Festival. TikTok

It’s quac time!!!!! @guactimeusa • 📍976 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, NY 11010 https://guactimeusa.com/ • • #guacamole #Foodie #crunchwrap #happy #bigbite
@iambiggroove
14.9K likes • 480.1K views
AMAZINGGGGG Greek food in Franklin Square! 🇬🇷 @greekbrothersny is serving SOME of the best Greek food in Nassau County. 🤤 Think flaky homemade spinach pie, gigantes in rich tomato sauce, charred shrimp souvlaki, top-tier falafel, and spicy feta with real heat. 😍 They’re even importing their pita and feta from Greece. 🙌🏼 And don’t skip dessert—the orange cake is soaked in citrus and made by th...
caitlin_eats_alot
498 likes • 12.7K views

📱 Use the S'mores App

Discover more cool Philly activities with the S'mores App. Instagram

🍔 Try Square Burger

Great chicken tenders and waffle fries, according to reviews. Reddit

Starting this June the Chinese Lantern Festival 🏮is back at Franklin Square ! Come enjoy this light festival with friends & family & find out about more cool things like this to do in Philly using the S’mores App - - #chineselanterns #lanternfestival #funthingstodo #funwithfriends #datenightideas #thingstodoinphilly #chineselanternfestival #philly #phillypa
_whoiselijahl
0 likes • 86.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Lantern Fest Tickets

Book Lantern Festival tickets in advance for evening entry. Daytime access may be free. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially during the Lantern Festival. TikTok

📱 Use the S'mores App

Discover more cool Philly activities with the S'mores App. Instagram

🍔 Try Square Burger

Great chicken tenders and waffle fries, according to reviews. Reddit

💧 Don't Miss Water Shows

The fountain shows with music and bubbles are a highlight of the Lantern Festival. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival for its breathtaking illuminated displays, vibrant cultural experience, and engaging performances. The park itself is noted for its family-friendly attractions like the carousel and mini-golf, with Square Burger receiving positive mentions for its food. Some find the ticket price for the evening festival to be a bit high, but most agree it's a worthwhile experience.

"Nice park. While we were there, the Chinese Lantern Festival was going on. What an amazing activity. It was spectacular during the day. I can only imagine how awesome it would be at night with it lit up! There are so many interactive displays that only work at night. I think it would have been fun but we only had one day in Philly. They do it every summer, so will be sure to plan for it next time we are there."

Jana Patterson

"Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival

The Chinese Lantern Festival in Philly is truly a magical experience! The moment you walk in, you’re surrounded by breathtaking lantern displays that light up the night with vibrant colors and incredible detail. Each lantern tells a story, from majestic dragons to whimsical animals and cultural scenes—it feels like stepping into another world.

Beyond the lanterns, the festival has so much to offer: live performances, cultural demonstrations, delicious food vendors, and fun activities for all ages. It’s not just a visual feast, but also a celebration of Chinese culture and artistry.

Whether you’re going with family, friends, or on a date, this festival is the perfect mix of beauty, culture, and entertainment. It’s one of those events that leaves you with lasting memories and a camera roll full of stunning photos.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A must-see event in Philly—don’t miss it next year —❤️"

Maria G

"Also visited during the Chinese Lantern Festival. We had a great time. All the food vendors were fantastic. Highly recommend the Tidal Tea in the beer garden. Definitely get tickets near the evening time or sundown"

Matt P

What People Like

Spectacular lantern displays
Vibrant cultural immersion
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Evening festival ticket price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Franklin Square is accessible via public transportation. The PATCO Franklin Square station is conveniently located within the park. TikTok If driving, parking options are available nearby, though they can be limited during peak events like the Chinese Lantern Festival. Reddit

The walk from the PATCO Franklin Square station to nearby venues like the Franklin Music Hall is generally considered pleasant and safe, even at night, according to recent visitor experiences. Reddit

The PATCO train is a direct and efficient way to reach Franklin Square from Center City Philadelphia. It's a short ride and drops you right at the park. TikTok

Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of Franklin Square. However, during popular events like the Chinese Lantern Festival, parking can become scarce and more expensive. Reddit

While not directly adjacent, Franklin Square is a relatively short walk from the White House area, making it an accessible destination for those exploring downtown Philadelphia. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for the Chinese Lantern Festival can vary, with some reviews suggesting around $28 per person for the full evening experience. Reddit It's important to check the official website for current pricing and to book in advance, especially for popular dates. Instagram

While the park itself may be accessible for free during the day, the illuminated Chinese Lantern Festival requires a ticket for entry after a certain time, typically around 5 PM. Instagram Daytime access before 5 PM is often free and a great option for families. Instagram

Franklin Square's general hours are typically from dawn until dusk for the park itself. However, specific attractions like the Chinese Lantern Festival or mini-golf have their own operating hours, which vary by season and event. TikTok+1

Yes, there is a fee to play mini-golf at Franklin Square. It's a popular activity, and you can often purchase tickets on-site or as part of a package deal. Reddit

Outside food and drinks may be restricted during special events like the Chinese Lantern Festival. It's best to check the specific event's policies. However, there are food vendors available within the park. Reddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Franklin Square offers a variety of activities including a classic carousel, mini-golf (with a spooky Halloween theme in October), and during the summer, the spectacular Chinese Lantern Festival. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! Franklin Square is very kid-friendly, with attractions like the carousel and the non-scary Spooky Mini Golf. The Chinese Lantern Festival also offers interactive displays that children enjoy. TikTokReddit

At night, Franklin Square truly comes alive, especially during the Chinese Lantern Festival, which features stunning illuminated displays and fountain shows. TikTokInstagram The park's historic fountain also offers a magical ambiance when lit. Instagram

Yes, the Chinese Lantern Festival often features live stage shows with talented artists. TikTok The park's central location also makes it a venue for various community events and performances throughout the year. TikTok

To fully experience the Chinese Lantern Festival, allow ample time to walk around and explore each display. Some lanterns are interactive, and there are explanations of their cultural significance. Reddit The fountain show with music is also a must-see. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

Franklin Square has dining options like Square Burger, known for its chicken tenders and waffle fries. Reddit During the Chinese Lantern Festival, numerous food vendors offer a variety of cuisines. Reddit Nearby, you can find Greek food at Greek Brothers TikTokInstagram and Italian at Filomena's. Instagram

The Chinese Lantern Festival typically features a diverse range of food vendors offering various cuisines, making it a culinary adventure alongside the visual spectacle. Reddit

While specific menus can change, food vendors at events like the Lantern Festival often provide diverse options. Square Burger may have sides, and other vendors could offer vegetarian dishes. Reddit

Yes, there is a beer garden at Franklin Square, which is often part of the Chinese Lantern Festival experience and offers a place to relax and enjoy refreshments. Reddit

Greek Brothers in Franklin Square is highly recommended for its authentic Greek food, including gyros, spinach pie, gigantes, falafel, and spicy feta. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Chinese Lantern Festival offers unparalleled photo opportunities with its vibrant, illuminated displays. TikTokReddit The historic fountain, especially at night, also provides a picturesque backdrop. Instagram

The most dramatic and colorful photos of the Chinese Lantern Festival are taken after sunset when the lanterns are fully illuminated. Reddit Capturing the transition from dusk to night can also yield stunning results. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in public parks and during events. It's advisable to check local regulations and park policies regarding drone photography before flying. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is recommended for the Lantern Festival. A tripod can be helpful for capturing sharp, long-exposure shots of the illuminated displays. Reddit

Many visitors highlight the massive lanterns in the fountain and the lantern archways as particularly photogenic spots. TikTokReddit Exploring the entire festival grounds will reveal numerous unique and beautiful displays to capture. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Franklin Square is a fantastic destination for families. The carousel offers classic fun, and the mini-golf is a hit, especially during the Spooky Mini Golf season in October, which is designed to be kid-friendly with no jump scares. TikTok The Chinese Lantern Festival is also a great family outing, with many interactive displays and vibrant visuals that captivate children. TikTokReddit Daytime access to the Lantern Festival grounds before 5 PM is often free, making it an accessible option for families looking for budget-friendly entertainment. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Franklin Square offers several cost-effective options. Daytime access to the Chinese Lantern Festival grounds is often free, providing a chance to see the impressive lantern structures without purchasing an evening ticket. Instagram Enjoying a stroll through the park, admiring the historic fountain, and perhaps a ride on the carousel can be done with minimal expense. TikTok Packing your own snacks or grabbing a more affordable meal from a local eatery outside the immediate festival area can also help manage costs. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Franklin Square, especially during the Chinese Lantern Festival, is a photographer's dream. The illuminated lantern displays at night offer incredible opportunities for vibrant, low-light photography. TikTokReddit The historic fountain, when lit, also provides a stunning backdrop. Instagram Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset to capture the transition of light. Instagram For those interested in capturing the park's daytime charm, the carousel and fountain offer classic photographic subjects. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Chinese Lantern Festival

The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival transforms Franklin Square into a breathtaking spectacle of light and culture each summer. Running from June to August, this event is a major draw, featuring hundreds of intricate, handcrafted lanterns that illuminate the park after dark. Visitors are treated to a dazzling array of designs, from majestic dragons and mythical creatures to cultural scenes and blooming flowers, creating an immersive and magical atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the visual feast, the festival offers a rich cultural experience. Attendees can enjoy live performances, traditional demonstrations, and a variety of food vendors offering diverse culinary delights. Reddit The festival's centerpiece is often the stunning lantern display over the park's historic fountain, which is accompanied by a captivating water and music show. TikTokReddit While daytime entry might be free, the true magic unfolds at night, requiring a ticket for entry. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

Many visitors find the festival to be a worthwhile investment, describing it as a 'magical experience' and 'worth every dollar.' Reddit It's an ideal outing for families, couples, and anyone looking for a unique and memorable evening. The sheer scale and artistry of the lanterns, combined with the engaging performances and food, make it a standout event in Philadelphia's summer calendar. Reddit

Franklin Square: A Year-Round Destination

While the Chinese Lantern Festival garners significant attention, Franklin Square is a vibrant destination throughout the year. At its heart is a beautiful historic fountain, which serves as a picturesque centerpiece and offers a serene spot for relaxation. Instagram The park also features a classic carousel, providing timeless fun for younger visitors and a touch of nostalgia for adults. TikTok

For those seeking a bit of friendly competition, mini-golf is a popular attraction. During the fall, this attraction gets a spooky makeover, transforming into Spooky Mini Golf for the Halloween season, making it a perfect family-friendly activity for October. TikTok The park is also home to Square Burger, a casual eatery known for its delicious chicken tenders and waffle fries, making it a convenient spot for a quick bite. Reddit

Franklin Square's accessibility, with the PATCO station located directly within the park, makes it an easy destination to reach. TikTok Its central location also makes it a hub for various community events and a pleasant place to stroll, especially when illuminated at night. Instagram Whether you're visiting for a specific event or just looking for a pleasant urban oasis, Franklin Square offers a range of activities to enjoy.

Culinary Delights in Franklin Square

The Franklin Square area, particularly in Long Island, New York, is a haven for diverse culinary experiences. Greek Brothers stands out as a highly recommended spot for authentic Greek cuisine, serving up everything from perfectly made gyros and flaky spinach pie to charred shrimp souvlaki and top-tier falafel. They even import their pita and feta directly from Greece, ensuring a genuine taste of the Mediterranean. TikTokInstagram

For those craving Italian fare, Filomena's in Franklin Square offers homemade pasta, including their signature Orecchiette, promising a delicious and authentic Italian dining experience. Instagram If you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal within the park itself, Square Burger is a popular choice, praised for its great chicken tenders and waffle fries. Reddit

During the summer months, the Chinese Lantern Festival transforms Franklin Square into a temporary culinary hub, with numerous food vendors offering a wide array of international and local flavors. Reddit Visitors have reported enjoying everything from pretzels from Philly Pretzel Factory TikTok to unique drinks at the beer garden. Reddit The variety ensures there's something to please every palate.

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