At 9200 acres, Fairmount Park is the largest inner-city park in the United States and takes up more than 10% of the land in the city of Philadelphia. There are several different sections of the park, each with it's own character and activities.

Wissahickon Valley Park: There are several access areas with parking. One is along Northwestern Avenue near Germantown Avenue. Another is located on Bells Mill Road between Stenton and Ridge. You can also park at Valley Green and finally, there's an access location on Lincoln Drive near Wissahickon Avenue.

The beautiful Wissahickon Creek runs through this valley. On either side you'll find numerous trails, large boulders, and breathtaking scenery. This area is great for a hike or trail bike ride. An interesting hike is from Valley Green to Devil's Pool. Starting at Valley Green, hike southeast on the side of the creek opposite Forbidden Drive, taking the lower path. You'll hike over large boulders and eventually will reach a pond fed by a rushing creek. You can wade in it, swim, or join the brave that jump from the cliff into the pond.

Another, easier hike is Forbidden Drive, which got its name when cars were banned from it. Running along one side of the river, this flat, wide stretch of dirt road is ideal for those who aren't ready for the rigors of the trails or if you're going with young children.

A perfect day activity here would be to spend some time hiking, biking or fishing, followed by a bite to eat at the Valley Green Inn, which is located on Forbidden Drive or Bruno's on the corner of Northwestern and Germantown Avenues. The Valley Green Inn is a historic building where you can sit on the front porch and eat, taking in the creek with its numerous geese and all of the surrounding beauty. Bruno's has an old-time diner feel with milk shakes and a variety of foods.

East Fairmount Park: Located along the Schuykill River, the East side of the park is home to Kelly Drive and Boat House Row. As most locals know, Kelly Drive is a great place to run, bike or rollerblade because there's a four mile long paved path. A lesser known activity on the east side of the park is Disc Golf at Sedgley Woods. Located at 33rd and Oxford Streets and established in 1977, it's the second oldest Disc Golf course in the country. This park is open to the public and charges no fees to play. The course is filled with mature trees and makes you feel like you're a world away from the city. What a great way to spend a few hours on vacation. Follow that with a meal in the Art Museum area for a great staycation activity.

West Fairmount Park: West Fairmount Park is home to the Philadelphia Zoo, the nation's first zoo. If you've never been there, or even if you have, it's a great destination for a staycation. Aside from the grounds and animals, visitors can go on a hot air balloon ride. There are also events throughout the summer, such as a Wine Safari and the Summer Ale Festival for adults or free concerts for people of all ages. It's easy to spend an entire day here as one day of your staycation.