City seeks new ideas to revive the Saucer at LOVE Park

Philadelphia Parks and Recreation is calling on community-minded businesses to help reimagine one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The department is seeking proposals from innovative entrepreneurs—particularly in the food, beverage, retail, and hospitality sectors—to breathe new life into the Saucer at LOVE Park. The goal is to transform the structure into a vibrant hub that reflects the spirit of Philadelphia and serves as a welcoming space for all.

City officials have issued a Request for Expressions of Interest  (REFI), inviting creative proposals for the reimagining of the Saucer. Perched at the edge of LOVE Park, the Saucer is a mid-century modern icon that has drawn interest from Philadelphians for years. Now — with nation’s 250th anniversary quickly approaching — city officials hope to transform the distinctive structure into a vibrant destination that celebrates the city’s identity and welcomes residents and visitors.

The REFI is not a formal proposal process — it is an open call for ideas and concepts, a release notes. The city is looking to hear from restaurateurs, cultural curators, nonprofit leaders, and entrepreneurs with innovative, locally inspired visions for how the Saucer could serve the public in fresh and meaningful ways.

“LOVE Park is one of Philadelphia’s most treasured civic spaces, and the Saucer sits at its center,” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner of Parks and Recreation. “We are looking for a partner who shares our vision of a welcoming and joyful place that reflects Philadelphia, its neighborhoods, its culture and its people.”

Officials note that the city is “especially interested in concepts that celebrate Philadelphia pride and showcase local talent; serve both residents and visitors; offer flexible, community centered use; and reflect the spirit of the 2026 semi-quincentennial.”

“This is a chance to think creatively and collectively about how this space can serve Philadelphia now and in the future,” said Parks and Recreation’s Katie Burns Kays. “We want to hear from food vendors, artists, entrepreneurs and anyone with a strong idea for how the Saucer can become a gathering place once again.”