Keizerpark

Keizerpark is one of the liveliest parks in Ghent, tucked away in the Oud-Gentbrugge district on a small island that once formed part of the city's fortifications. Covering roughly 1.8 hectares, the park is linked to the rest of the city by two cycling and pedestrian bridges — one toward Visserij, on the edge of Ghent's historic center, and another toward Scheldekaai in Gentbrugge. Its island setting gives Keizerpark a surprisingly secluded feel, even though it sits just minutes from the buzz of the city center.

What is the history behind Keizerpark?

The land the park now occupies had a long industrial past, including an iron foundry that once operated on the site. Keizerpark itself was laid out in 1949-1950, but for decades it remained fairly isolated, reachable in practice only from the Brusselsesteenweg side. That changed between 2004 and 2009, when the park underwent a major transformation. Construction of the Keizersparkbrug — a large pedestrian and cycling bridge over the Scheldt — began in 2004, aiming to give cyclists a safer, more direct connection between the city center and Merelbeke and Gentbrugge. Since then, the park has taken on a new role as one of the busiest crossing points for walkers and cyclists moving through this part of the city.

What can visitors do in the park?

Today's Keizerpark has something for almost every visitor. On the Brusselsesteenweg side, a basketball court and a dedicated skating corner draw plenty of local youth. Anglers can head to the wooden pontoon along the Scheldt, casting a line right from the riverbank. At the heart of the park lies a grassy area with steps leading down to the water, a favorite spot for relaxing on sunny afternoons. Families with young children will find a playground designed for kids aged 0 to 6, along with a nearby picnic area for a break outdoors.

What makes Keizerpark stand out among Ghent's parks?

Keizerpark is known for its unmistakably lively atmosphere — arguably the most vibrant park in all of Ghent, and a favorite gathering spot for young people. In summer, free festivals and pop-up parties with food trucks and bars regularly bring residents from across the city together here. One notable feature is the park's official tolerance zone for street art and graffiti, where artists are free to experiment legally and display their work — giving Keizerpark a distinctly artistic edge that sets it apart from Ghent's more manicured, traditional green spaces.

How do you get to Keizerpark?

Thanks to its two cycling and pedestrian bridges, the park functions as an important junction for people on foot or on bikes. The bridge toward Visserij offers a quick route into Ghent's historic center, while the connection to Scheldekaai makes the park easy to reach from Gentbrugge. As a result, Keizerpark draws both local residents and cyclists simply passing through on their way across the city.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Keizerpark located? It's in the Oud-Gentbrugge district of Ghent, on an island that was once part of the city's fortifications.

How big is Keizerpark? The park covers about 1.8 hectares.

Can you fish in the park? Yes, there is a wooden pontoon along the Scheldt set up for fishing.

Is there a playground? Yes, designed for children aged 0 to 6.

Does the park host events? Yes, free summer festivals and parties with food trucks and bars are a regular feature.