Love Park (JFK Plaza) | Philadelphia

Love Park, officially known as John F. Kennedy Plaza, is a public park located in Center City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

This urban plaza features a prominent fountain and the iconic LOVE sculpture.

Visual Characteristics

The plaza is paved with granite and features a central fountain with tiered basins. The iconic LOVE sculpture, a red, four-letter word in stacked block form, is positioned prominently. The surrounding area includes benches and planters.

Location & Access Logistics

Love Park is situated at the intersection of 15th Street and John F. Kennedy Boulevard, directly west of City Hall. It is approximately 0.5km west of the central business district. Parking is available in several commercial garages surrounding the plaza, including the LOVE Park Garage at 1500 Arch Street. SEPTA's City Hall station (Broad Street Line subway) and 15th Street Station (Market-Frankford Line subway and various trolleys) are within a 0.2km radius.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The plaza was dedicated as John F. Kennedy Plaza in 1969. The LOVE sculpture, designed by Robert Indiana, was installed in 1976 as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration. The park underwent a significant renovation, completed in 2019, which modernized its design and amenities.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can photograph the LOVE sculpture. The central fountain is a focal point. The open space is used for public gatherings and events. The surrounding area provides seating.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the park's underground facilities. Shade is provided by surrounding buildings and some trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the plaza. Food vendors are not permanently stationed within the park, but numerous restaurants and food trucks operate in the immediate vicinity.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the LOVE sculpture with optimal lighting, early morning (sunrise to 9 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM to sunset) is recommended. The plaza is accessible year-round. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The LOVE sculpture was originally created as a Christmas card design in 1964. The original sculpture was stolen shortly after its installation in 1976 and was later recovered. A second, identical sculpture was commissioned to replace it.

Nearby Landmarks

• City Hall (0.2km East)
• Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (0.5km Southeast)
• The Franklin Institute (1.2km Northwest)
• Rodin Museum (1.3km Northwest)
• Barnes Foundation (1.5km Northwest)