Active Girl
Rittenhouse Square
Spending a Sunday in the park may sound very cliche, but it really is one of my favorite ways to slow down and pass some time.
Rittenhouse Square is a little slice of heaven, a peaceful place to relax and unwind smack dab in the center of this bustling city. There have been times where I’ve heard nothing but birds chirp, and as if just for me, the street noise seemed to silence for a few moments.
There are numerous city parks to enjoy, but Rittenhouse still seems to be the most popular, it’s centrally located and quite active at times. Several paths lead to the center; walkways are lined with benches and trees are scattered throughout. The square is a central gathering and meeting spot that offers a real sense of community.
This park can be a great place to watch others or just escape into your own world. I’ve seen everything from people sipping coffee, sun bathing or exercising, doing yoga, to taking pictures, children playing, and dogs (even a few cats) being walked. Some people bring their laptops or a good book and rest upon a blanket in the grass. Others add to the liveliness by feeding the pigeons, playing instruments or painting a canvas.
Restaurants, stores and outdoor cafes line the exterior. There are also several festivals, art shows and similar events, held in the park throughout the year.
Be sure to stroll through during the wintertime as well, hundreds of colorful gumdrop lights are strewn amid the trees, it’s such a beautiful and romantic sight. The child in me has been tempted to dance and twirl around underneath those glimmering lights, maybe this year I actually will.
Rittenhouse Square is a breathe of fresh air, a refuge from the frenzied pace, on days when the city sometimes becomes overwhelming. There’s something about the beauty of nature amidst an occasionally crazy, hectic manmade world that reminds me to take a step back, appreciate life and just be.
Rittenhouse Square
Walnut Street, between 18th & 19th
