Bannerman Park

Imagine a green oasis where Victorian history blends seamlessly with modern urban comfort. Bannerman Park is more than just a recreation area; it is the oldest public park in St. John's, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. Located in the heart of Canada, this spot is rightfully considered a cultural and social hub of the region, attracting both locals and travelers with its tranquility and beauty.

Walking along the well-kept paths, you will notice elegant cast-iron lamps and vintage fences that highlight the park's historical significance. A recent renovation has made it even more inviting, now featuring a blend of classical gardens and modern facilities for active recreation. The park is famous for its vast lawns, perfect for picnics, and cozy spots tucked away in the shade of the trees.

Visitors will find excellent infrastructure here, from children's play areas and a baseball field to a heated swimming pool and a splash pad. Regardless of the season, the park offers unique experiences: in summer, it comes alive with the sounds of music and festivals, while in winter, it invites active lifestyle enthusiasts to the famous skating trail known as The Loop.

For more information about events or specific facilities like the pool, you can use the following contact details:

There is something for everyone in this picturesque location. In summer, the park becomes the perfect setting for family fun: children can spend time at the modern playground with swings and a sandbox or have fun at the splash pad. For those who enjoy swimming, there is a heated pool where lifeguards are always on duty. The green lawns are a perfect invitation to set up a cozy picnic with a view of the historical architecture.

Cultural life here is vibrant. The park is home to the famous St. John's Folk Festival, widely considered one of the province's best musical events. During the warmer months, you can catch open-air theater performances, including classical Shakespearean plays, or enjoy live concerts in the pavilion. If you are looking for some peace and quiet, head to the secluded oval of trees deep within the park—it's the best place to read a book away from the bustle.

The activity doesn't stop when winter arrives. The park transforms, opening The Loop for residents and tourists—a specially designed ice trail for skating. Gliding in a circle among snow-covered trees and lights creates a truly magical atmosphere, turning an ordinary walk into a memorable winter adventure.

Located in the heart of the historic center, Bannerman Park is situated at Military Rd, St. John's. If you are already exploring the city center, getting here on foot from popular streets like Water Street or Duckworth Street is easy—the walk takes very little time and allows you to enjoy the architecture of the old city.

For those who prefer public transport, buses run regularly in the area, stopping in the immediate vicinity of the park entrances. If you plan to take a taxi from further away or the airport, drivers will easily find their way to this iconic spot, using the Colonial Building as a landmark.

Travelers arriving by car should keep in mind that while there is parking nearby, finding a spot can be challenging on weekends and during festivals. The park is also conveniently visited as part of a walking route that includes iconic spots like Signal Hill or The Rooms museum complex.

Established in the mid-19th century, this green space is the city's oldest public park. Its history is closely linked to the development of St. John's itself, one of the oldest settlements in North America. The park still retains its unique Victorian charm, visible in details like the elegant cast-iron lamps and classical fences along the paths.

In recent years, the area underwent a major revitalization program. City authorities invested significantly to breathe new life into this historical space. They managed to achieve a rare balance: implementing modern amenities, such as a high-tech ice rink, without disrupting the historical spirit or the traditional landscape layout.

Bannerman Park has always served as a cultural and social center. Located adjacent to the Colonial Building, it remains a place where history meets the modern life of the city's residents. Walking here, it's easy to imagine the social strolls of past centuries, which have now been replaced by active recreation and vibrant music festivals.

To leisurely walk through the shaded paths, admire the Victorian design details, and simply enjoy the quiet, 1–2 hours is usually enough. This is ideal for a standard tourist visit during the summer.

If your trip falls in winter and you plan to skate on the famous ice loop, allow about one hour for the visit. If you happen to attend one of the many festivals or open-air theater performances, it is worth clearing half a day in your schedule to fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

The park is open to the public daily, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary any day of the week. The general schedule for the area is as follows:

• Monday — Sunday: from 09:00 to 22:00.

Please note that the operation of the pool, splash pad, and The Loop ice rink depends on the season and weather conditions. Opening hours for specific facilities may change slightly on public holidays.

Exploring the park's surroundings allows for a deeper immersion into the atmosphere of Newfoundland's capital. Since the park is located in a historic district, important cultural and architectural monuments are just a few steps away and are well worth including in your itinerary.

The proximity to key museums and historic buildings makes this spot an ideal starting point for a full discovery of the city. Below is a list of interesting sites located nearby: