Franklin Square golf is creative, but sub-par

By Lisa Angelucci
Collegian Editor
August 30, 2006

Even with cloudy skies, the threat of thunderstorms and higher than usual humidity, Once Upon a Nation’s newest attraction drew a good crowd. Franklin Square opened on July 31 and is a fun stop for families and visitors who have spent the day touring the Historic District.

Located at the corner of Sixth and Race, the square features a fountain, a carousel, ample seating, refreshments, a playground and, most notably, a Philadelphia-themed miniature golf course. Although this mini-golf course has received a lot of attention for creative holes and clever design, the overall experience was a bit disappointing. There are 18 holes in the complete course, but only half have any type of scenery. The other nine are nearly bare, decorated only by a brown plastic rock or a bump in the green.

There are a few highlights, however: the seventh hole, which requires the golfer to putt the ball across the Ben Franklin Bridge. The 11th hole includes a strategically-placed replica of the Love sculpture from Love Park. Aim to hit the ball between the “V” and the “E” for the best angle. Another hole starts at the base of the Art Museum steps and is decorated by Rocky’s footprints. The final hole has a ramp that leads into the crack in the Liberty Bell. Hit the ball exactly right, and the bell even rings.

A favorite replica is the model of Boathouse Row and the Schuykill River. The creation is detailed down to the boaters in the river and even features authentically green-colored water. Fortunately, the designers left out the ugly LED lighting now used on the boathouses and settled for a painted version instead.

Philadelphia sports teams get the shaft from Hole 16, where Philly’s beloved Eagles, Flyers, Sixers and Phillies are honored only by sports balls on poles, team logos and an off-center field goal. The hole was a bigger letdown than the Philadelphia sports teams.

Franklin Square contains more than just golf, although for anyone over the age of 10, the mini-golf is the biggest draw. There are two playgrounds, an easy version for toddlers and a more complicated area for the older kids.

The square is home to the Philadelphia Park Liberty carousel, made from the original molds of the Philadelphia Toboggan Company. This fancy carousel is tempting even to older patrons, but be warned—a single ride on the carousel will cost an adult rider $3.

Keeping in line with other overpriced tourist traps, Franklin Square boasts refreshments for purchase around the fountain. Philadelphia favorites like soft pretzels and hot dogs are available, but prices are high. It’s probably better to stick with bagged lunches, because there are plenty of benches that provide a nice view of the recently restored 19th century fountain in the center of the square. Beware the bench with the Ben Franklin lookalike, unless you’re interested in learning the history of Philly from a guy whose costume must be too hot even on a nice day.

Many Philadelphia attractions are a short walk away, including the National Constitution Center, the U.S. Mint and, of course, historic Philadelphia and more of Once Upon a Nation’s costumed storytellers.

During the summer, the area is open until 9 p.m. every night. The attraction switches to winter hours on Sept. 5, but will continue to open daily, even as the weather cools off.

angeluccil1@lasalle.edu