Discover Forest Theatre in Philadelphia

Introduction

Tucked away in the heart of Fairmount Park, the Forest Theatre in Philadelphia is a hidden gem that feels worlds apart from the bustling city streets. This outdoor amphitheater, shaded by towering trees and carved into the natural landscape, has been a stage for community performances, concerts, and cultural events for over a century.

First built in 1914, the Forest Theatre was designed as an open-air performance space, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek theaters. Over the years, it has hosted Shakespearean plays, music festivals, and community celebrations, making it a cultural landmark in Philadelphia. Even when the stage is quiet, the theater remains a magical spot to visit—its stone seating, leafy canopy, and woodland backdrop create a serene escape that’s perfect for strolling, exploring, or simply imagining the applause of audiences past.

Whether you’re a history lover, theater enthusiast, or traveler seeking a peaceful retreat, the Forest Theatre offers a unique blend of nature, performance, and history. Visiting it is like stepping into a different era—one where art and nature meet under the open sky.

What is Forest Theatre in Philadelphia famous for?

The Forest Theatre is famous for being one of the oldest outdoor amphitheaters in the United States. Known for its rustic design and woodland setting, it has been a stage for Shakespeare festivals, summer plays, and community performances for more than a century.

Why should you visit Forest Theatre?

You should visit Forest Theatre because it’s a place where Philadelphia’s cultural and natural beauty come together. It offers a peaceful escape within Fairmount Park, with historic stone seating and wooded trails. Whether or not a performance is happening, the site is worth exploring for its unique atmosphere and connection to Philadelphia’s cultural past.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit Forest Theatre?

Forest Theatre is part of Fairmount Park, which is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. The best times to visit are spring through fall, when the trees are lush and events are more likely to be scheduled. Evening performances during summer create a particularly magical experience.

How much does it cost to visit Forest Theatre?

There is no admission fee to visit Forest Theatre. Events held at the venue may have ticketed entry, depending on the organizer, but the site itself is free to explore.

What can you see or do at Forest Theatre?

At Forest Theatre, you can:

Attend performances during seasonal festivals or special events.

Explore Fairmount Park, using the theater as a starting point for walks or picnics.

Admire the architecture, with its semi-circular stone seating blending into the hillside.

Enjoy photography, capturing the play of light and shadow through the trees.

Reflect on history, imagining the plays and concerts staged here for over a century.

What is the history behind Forest Theatre in Philadelphia?

The Forest Theatre was built in 1914, making it over 100 years old. It was designed in the style of an ancient Greek amphitheater, carved into the hillside of Fairmount Park. Its creation reflected a nationwide trend during the early 20th century to bring arts and culture into natural public spaces.

In its heyday, the Forest Theatre hosted Shakespeare festivals and community performances, drawing large audiences eager to enjoy culture under the open sky. Though periods of disuse followed, the theater has remained a beloved site, symbolizing Philadelphia’s dedication to both the performing arts and public green spaces.

Where is Forest Theatre located and how do you get there?

The Forest Theatre is located in Fairmount Park, near Chamounix Drive, Philadelphia, PA.

By car: Take Belmont Avenue or Chamounix Drive into Fairmount Park; parking is available nearby.

By public transit: SEPTA bus routes serving Fairmount Park bring you within walking distance, though schedules may vary.

By bike or foot: The park’s trails connect easily to the theater, making it a great stop on a longer walk or ride.

Insider Tips for Visiting Forest Theatre

🌿 Pack a picnic: The theater’s setting makes it an ideal place for a relaxed meal outdoors.

🎭 Check event schedules: Local theater groups sometimes stage productions—worth catching if you can.

📸 Visit in golden hour: Early morning or late afternoon light makes the stone seating and trees glow for perfect photos.

Nearby Attractions to Forest Theatre

When visiting Forest Theatre, consider exploring these nearby highlights in Fairmount Park and beyond:

Chamounix Mansion & Carriage House – A historic 19th-century estate now serving as a hostel and event space.

Shofuso Japanese House and Garden – A serene traditional Japanese garden with koi ponds and cultural exhibits.

Please Touch Museum – A family-friendly museum located in Memorial Hall.

Belmont Plateau – Offers some of the best skyline views of Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Zoo – America’s first zoo, just a short drive away.

Experience Forest Theatre with Questo

Forest Theatre isn’t just a quiet amphitheater in the woods—it’s a stage where Philadelphia’s history, culture, and natural beauty converge. With Questo, you can go beyond the stone steps and leafy paths, turning your visit into an interactive quest full of riddles, stories, and discoveries.

👉 Download the Questo app today and let Forest Theatre become part of your Philadelphia adventure.