Vålerenga park

Vålerenga park is a green city park in the Vålerenga neighbourhood of Oslo, part of the Gamle Oslo district. It covers roughly 32 decares, about 3.2 hectares, and was laid out between 1903 and 1916. It sits in the eastern part of central Oslo, and entry is free.

Where is Vålerenga park?

The park is framed by the streets Danmarks gate, Hjaltlandsgata and Opplandgata, and it borders the Hovedbanen railway line. The Vålerengtunnelen tunnel runs beneath it, so the quiet greenery hides railway infrastructure underground. The surrounding area is the historic Vålerenga neighbourhood, a compact residential enclave east of the city centre.

What is there to see?

At the centre of the park stands Vålerenga kirke, a church dating from 1902. It is the natural landmark of the park. Local descriptions note that a glimpse of the Oslofjord can be had from around the church, which makes it a pleasant spot for a short rest with a view.

The park has a playground that dates from 1933. A "Riks" telephone kiosk from the same year stands at one of its corners. Both the park and the kiosk are protected by the municipality; the kiosk's protection follows a 1997 agreement between the Directorate for Cultural Heritage (Riksantikvaren) and Telenor.

A little history

The park took shape in the early twentieth century, as the city expanded eastward. During the Second World War, bunkers were built on the grounds, and they were not removed until 1960. That wartime chapter is invisible today, but it shows that the space has served residents in very different eras.

Who is it for?

The park is popular with families with children and with dog owners. It suits a stroll, a picnic on the grass, or a break while exploring eastern Oslo. Public transport makes it easy to reach, with bus stops nearby.

Frequently asked questions

Is Vålerenga park free to enter? Yes, it is an open public city park.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, the park is a popular place for dog walkers.

Is it good for children? Yes, there is a playground from 1933, and families are among the regular visitors.

How long should I plan to spend here? Usually from a few dozen minutes to an hour, especially if you combine it with a walk around the Vålerenga neighbourhood and a look at the church.

What lies under the park? The Vålerengtunnelen tunnel on the Hovedbanen line runs beneath it.

Vålerenga park is small but well kept and historic, a good choice for anyone who wants to see the less touristy, residential side of Oslo.