Trees from three different continents provide a lush backdrop for this 8.4-hectare (21-acre) former burial ground. Kungsparken (King’s Park) opened to the public in 1872 and today is the central location of the free Sommarscen festival and a casino. Ove Høegh Hansen, the Danish landscape architect, designed the park with manicured English gardens in mind.
When visiting King’s Park, the first thing you will notice is the diverse collection of tree and plant species. A 29-metre (95-foot) Turkish oak towers over the park, and nearby is a century-old sweet chestnut tree and a “Tree of Heaven”, found in China and Taiwan. The park’s leafy trees make it a popular spot for picnickers, sunbathers and people enjoying their daily exercise. Join the locals on a few laps around the park or picnic in the grass with families on a sunny weekend.
The fountain surrounded by tall trees in the centre of the park makes for a wonderful photo opportunity. Sit on the lawn by the fountain and take in charming views across the canal and the bridges that link up to Castle Park.
The park is home to an on-site casino, one of four legal casinos in the country. The casino contains a nightclub, restaurant and plenty of gambling tables.
King’s Park is the central hub for the free summer festival, Sommarscen. The festival runs for two months and features circus and acrobatic shows, alternative theatre performances and theatre for kids. Check out the events schedule on the Sommarscen website.
The park is located on the border of the Old Town, but is still within walking distance from the major attractions in the city. Gustav Adolf’s Square and Stortorget are both less than a 10-minute walk away. There is parking available for a fee near the casino, but it is limited. Local buses stop nearby.
Kungsparken is open every day and there is no charge for entry.
