Navy Yard, FDR Park & SE Asian Market Hike, plus Lunch (optional)

Join me on a scenic and fascinating hike exploring three South Philly gems, followed by an optional lunch at one of two locations…please see first comment.

• Total Distance: 6.0-6.5 miles
• Pace: 3.0-3.5 mph
• Time Estimate (hiking): 2 1/2 - 3 hours, depending on pace & breaks
• Terrain: mostly sidewalks & paved, mostly flat
• Difficulty: moderate due to distance & pace

The plan: We’ll head south on Broad St past the sports complex to the Navy Yard where we’ll check out inactive ships, historic and modern buildings, public works of art, parks and gardens, and a scenic river waterfront.
From there we’ll head back to FDR Park and walk the inner loop, passing a picturesque gazebo and boathouse overlooking the lake, the Swedish Museum, innovative playgrounds, sports fields, tennis courts and a skateboard park, and ending with a visit to the Asian Market. For those interested in lunch, you will have the option of eating at the market or, for those who sign up, at Gatehouse restaurant.

The Navy Yard was the first US navy shipyard and was historically important for nearly two centuries. It’s a great American landmark that has been transformed into the most successful commercial redevelopment of a former military facility in the country.
Its greatest period came in World War II, when 40,000 people worked around the clock to build 53 ships and repair 574.
The Navy ended most activities there in the 90s. In 2000 the City of Philadelphia acquired it and began to redevelop it as a large mixed-use campus where nearly 15,000 people are employed by more than 120 companies representing a mix of industries, including cell therapy production facilities, global fashion companies, and a commercial shipyard. The U.S. Navy still operates a naval inactive ship maintenance facility and a few engineering activities at the site.
https://navyyard.org

FDR Park is South Philly’s largest park and one of its most important public institutions. Its lakes, architecture, athletic fields and nature trails create a civic commons where people can recreate, experience nature, and enjoy the cultural expressions of South Philly. Among the sites are the SE Asian Market and the Swedish Historical Museum, the oldest Swedish museum in the US.
https://www.fdrparkphilly.org

Southeast Asian Market in FDR Park is a unique market that has grown from the original Lao and Khmer sellers in the 80’s, to include Thai, Vietnamese and Indonesian vendors -- each a part of the SE Asian refugee and immigrant narrative of Philadelphia. Here you can enjoy many native cuisine, dishes, culturally specific produce, plants, clothing and jewelry.
https://www.fdrseamarket.com

Gatehouse restaurant is situated at the entrance to the historic Navy Yard in an old gatehouse house. It’s a lively yet laidback Vetri eatery featuring a large outdoor patio. Boasting happy hour specials and shareable plates, lunch specials and a full dinner menu, it is the ideal spot to enjoy a few light bites and beverages or sit down to a flavorful meal.
https://www.gatehousephilly.com

Please note This is a moderate level hike. While not difficult, it is 6-6.5 miles and will be at a pace of 3.0-3.5 mph… not fast, but not slow either. Although we try to not leave anyone behind, you should know your own fitness level/capabilities and be prepared to keep up.
In the event of severe weather, the hike will be cancelled

Gear/food/drink
Sneakers should be fine.
Be sure to check the weather and dress accordingly.
Bring plenty of water to keep hydrated, as well as snacks if you feel you’ll need them.

Parking
There are several options for free parking in and around FDR Park. Shortly after entering the park’s main entrance on Pattison Ave, west of Broad St., there is a lot on the left. A short distance past that is another lot on the right in front of the boathouse.
Be aware and read all parking signs, and be careful not to leave anything in your car in plain sight. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are not ticketed or towed, to be safe, and to protect your belongings.

Public Transportation
There is a Broad Street subway stop across from our meeting location. There are also several buses routes that will take you to or near our location. You can use either the SEPTA app or a map app to plan your trip.

Waiver of Liability
By joining this hike or activity organized by Fabulous Philly Friends Meetup group, you acknowledge that outdoor activities involve risks, including injury, illness, or death. You voluntarily participate at your own risk and agree to assume full responsibility for any harm or loss you may suffer. You hereby agree to release and hold harmless Fabulous Philly Friends, its organizers, volunteers, and members from any liability, claims, or demands arising from participation, including those caused by negligence. You affirm you are physically able to participate and understand this waiver is binding. You also consent to the use of any photos taken for group purposes.