Iconic LOVE Park Visitors Center Could Reopen for U.S. 250th Celebration

The oval-shaped landmark known as the "flying saucer" may get new life as a cafe, bar, or event space.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Philadelphia's iconic LOVE Park visitors center, known for its distinctive oval "flying saucer" design, has been shuttered for a decade. But the city's Parks and Recreation Department is now seeking proposals to revive the space, with the goal of having it reopened in time for the United States' 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.

Why it matters

The LOVE Park visitors center is a beloved Philadelphia landmark that has been vacant for years. Bringing it back to life could provide a boost to the park and surrounding area, offering new amenities and programming for residents and visitors alike as the city prepares to mark a major national milestone.

The details

The city issued a Request for Expression of Interest and received over 50 proposals for repurposing the space, with a consistent theme of "light vending and public programming." This could translate to concepts like a cafe, beer garden, or bar that would allow for events open to the public. A mandatory meeting for interested bidders will be held on February 18, with bids due by March 18.

  • The LOVE Park visitors center has been closed since 2021, when the park underwent renovations.
  • The city plans to have the revived space open in time for the United States' 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.

The players

Katie Burns Kays

Director of business and event development for the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department.

Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department

The city agency overseeing the LOVE Park revitalization effort and seeking proposals for the visitors center space.

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What they’re saying

“We received more than 50 different RFEIs during this process. The ideas they received had a consistent theme focusing on 'light vending and public programming.'”

— Katie Burns Kays, Director of business and event development (whyy.org)

What’s next

A mandatory meeting for interested bidders will be held on February 18, with bids due by March 18. The city aims to have the revived visitors center space open in time for the United States' 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.

The takeaway

The revival of the iconic LOVE Park visitors center, with its distinctive "flying saucer" design, represents an opportunity to breathe new life into a beloved Philadelphia landmark and provide new amenities and programming for residents and visitors as the city prepares to mark a major national milestone.