JFK Plaza, better known as Love Park, is a two-acre public space in Center City, across from City Hall and at the entrance to the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Robert Indiana’s LOVE sculpture draws visitors for photos, while the fountain, paths, benches and green space make room to pause. Look back toward City Hall for a city-centre view, or continue along the Parkway toward its museums. In winter, the plaza hosts Christmas Village, with wooden stalls selling gifts and seasonal food and drink.
How JFK Plaza became Love Park
The plaza’s official name is John F. Kennedy Plaza, but its familiar name comes from Robert Indiana’s LOVE sculpture. The work has been installed here since 1976, with a temporary move during renovation before returning to the park.
City planner Edmond Bacon designed the plaza, which was created in 1965 above an underground garage. Its original design included curved granite steps and a fountain. The sculpture, acquired by Philadelphia Art Commission chairman F. Eugene Dixon Jr., was later placed in the plaza. The LOVE work is a reproduction of Indiana’s original sculpture.
The plaza and the Parkway
Love Park sits just northwest of City Hall, at the beginning of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Its position makes it a natural stop before a walk toward the Parkway’s museums, including the Franklin Institute and the Barnes Foundation. City Hall is close by, and the plaza gives you a view of the surrounding city skyline.
A renovation completed in 2018 restored the LOVE sculpture and fountain and added green space. Paths, benches and lawns give the plaza room for a short rest as well as a photo stop. The fountain is a focal point, and the park has been described as a place where young children can splash on hot days.
Seasonal events and photos
The LOVE sculpture is the main draw for photographs, including couple and engagement pictures. The spot can be busy, so morning light is a useful choice for portraits, and you may need to wait for a clear view. The park also hosts events at different times of year, including summer salsa nights and winter markets.
Christmas Village turns the plaza into an open-air holiday market with wooden stalls. Its vendors sell gifts, ornaments, jewelry and seasonal decorations, while food and drink can include bratwurst, waffles and mulled wine. The market layout and vendors change with the event, so check its current details if you are visiting specifically to shop or eat.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Love Park free to visit?
The park is a public plaza and is described as free to visit. Seasonal events may have their own arrangements.
What is the main attraction at Love Park?
Robert Indiana’s LOVE sculpture is the park’s best-known landmark and a popular photo spot.
How long should I spend at Love Park?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for a photo, a look at the fountain and a short break. You may want longer when a seasonal market or event is taking place.
When is the best time to take photos at Love Park?
Morning is a good choice for portraits, when rising sunlight can illuminate faces. Early morning or late evening can also help you avoid some of the crowds.
