About Philadelphia's Fitler Square

Fitler Square is truly a hangout for locals who live in the quiet, tree-lined neighborhood that's known as a calmer, more residential cousin of Rittenhouse Square. It's smaller than other squares, but if you venture west for another block, you'll come across tennis courts, fields, two dog parks - one general and one for smaller dogs, and the gorgeous Schuylkill River Garden at the Schuylkill River Park. Every fourth Sunday from April - October, gardeners and residents bring dishes for an outdoor garden potluck there. This makes Fitler Square a nice community hideaway full of outdoor possibilities.

The 23rd and Pine square was named after former Philadelphia mayor Edwin H. Fitler. Inside you'll find an assortment of curious animal statues, such as the Fitler Square Ram, the dangerous Grizzly Bear, and the Family of Turtles, all of which were added in the 1980's. We like a square that has a love for animals and a sense of humor about it. Dogs might be walked in Rittenhouse Square, but at the dog park here, they can really get some exercise in.

Check out the contrast of this lively garden with the tall buildings of Center City standing proudly in the background. This is what we love so much about a rapidly greenified Philadelphia. Urban gardens and farms are what turns any gritty metropolis into a city that has it all - fresher air, more surrounding plantlife, and a populace that is likely to be in a better mood by having green space to enjoy.

Next time you're in Rittenhouse Square, interested in some different scenery or a few minutes of solitude? We suggest walking a few blocks over to Fitler Square.