Recreation and entertainment in Norway
A guide to 44 Recreation and entertainment in Norway — with descriptions, photos and traveler visits from the NextOnTrip community. Locations spread across 11 cities and towns. Most visited by the community: Sofienbergparken, St. Hanshaugen Park, Voldsløkka.
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Bjølsenparken
Oslo
Bjølsenparken is a neighbourhood park in Oslo's Sagene district, a few kilometres north of the city centre. Locals treat it as the green living room of the area: in summer people sprawl on the grass, in winter the sports ground turns into a skating rink, and in August a music festival draws crowds. For visitors it is a rewarding stop away from the main sights, showing how everyday life in Oslo really looks. How did Bjølsenparken come to be? The land belonged to Søndre Bjølsen farm, mentioned as far back as the 1300s, and was originally the farm's manor garden. In spring 1899 the owners offered the ground to the city at 10 kroner per square metre, but the price was turned down. A year later the two sides agreed, and the municipality bought about 34 decares at 4 kroner per square metre. In 1901 the garden was fenced in and named Bjølsenparken. At first the park was closed in winter and after dark in summer, and electric lighting only arrived in 1938. During the Second World War, several German barracks stood on the grounds, another reminder of the city's turbulent past. What is there to see in the park? The best-known feature is the lime tree alley running along the highest ridge. Most of the trees were planted around 1800. The alley once ended at the main house of the old Bjølsen farm, which was demolished in the 1970s. After 1900, Sarpsborggata was built along the northern end and cut the alley off from the former farmstead. In the south you will find the hill Ormehaugen. From its top you can see the whole park, and its sunny slope is a favourite spot for sunbathing. A music pavilion used for concerts stands in this part too. An earlier pavilion was removed and replaced by an open-air stage. Are there events in the park? Yes. The Bekkerock music festival takes place in Bjølsenparken in August. If you visit Oslo in summer, check the current programme: an open-air concert here feels very different from the tourist attractions downtown. What do locals use it for? In the south-eastern corner, next to Bjølsen school, there is a sports ground that serves as a skating rink in winter, along with a youth club building. Two small artificial-turf pitches are nearby. Kindergartens stand at the northern end and to the east and south-east, so you will often hear children during the day. West of the lime alley lie the Hjemmets Kolonihage allotment gardens, founded in 1912. A stroll along them shows another, more homely side of Oslo. Frequently asked questions Where is Bjølsenparken? In the Sagene district of Oslo, in the northern part of the city, around the Bjølsen neighbourhood. When was the park created? The city bought the land in 1900, and the park was fenced and named in 1901. Is there an entrance fee? No, it is a public city park. It used to be closed after dark, but today it is an open space for residents and visitors alike. What is most interesting for visitors? The old lime alley, the Ormehaugen hill with its view over the park, and the summer Bekkerock festival. Is it a good place for a picnic? Yes, the sunny slope of Ormehaugen is popular with people who want to relax on the grass. Is it worth visiting in winter? In winter the sports ground by the school works as a skating rink, so the park remains an important part of local life in the colder months. Bjølsenparken is not a must-see on every itinerary, but as a calm, historic park with a lime alley and a local atmosphere it complements a trip to Oslo well. Combine it with a walk around Sagene and along the nearby Akerselva river.
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Grorudparken
Oslo
Grorudparken is a public park in the Grorud district of Oslo, in the Groruddalen valley. It covers roughly 119 decares, a little under 12 hectares, and opened in 2013. It is one of four neighbourhood parks built in this part of the Norwegian capital. Rather than a traditional park of formal paths and flower beds, it blends recreation, sport and flood protection in one space. Where is Grorudparken? The park stretches along the Alna river, from the Grorud Senter shopping centre to the Hølaløkka area. Two major roads, Trondheimsveien and Kalbakkveien, cross it. That makes it easy to spot when travelling through the district, and for locals it sits right on the daily route to shops, schools and bus stops. What makes it special? The central idea of the design was to reopen the Alna river. Its course here had previously been hidden or altered, and the site needed repair. The landscape architects at LINK Arkitektur (LINK Landskap) designed the park on commission from Oslo's water and sewage authority, so water is not just decoration but a core part of the solution. Soil remediation is another theme. The ground was polluted, and willow trees were used, among other methods, to help clean it. The park was also planned with strong attention to flood protection, so the river can take in more water during periods of heavy rain. What can you do here? The park was conceived for a wide range of residents. It is described as a place for athletics, play, youth programmes and cultural events. In practice that means a walk beside the water, a run, time with children or a local event. Recognition In 2014 Grorudparken was nominated for Oslo's architecture prize. The project is also featured on landscape architecture websites as an example of combining water management, regeneration of a site and public space. Frequently asked questions Where is Grorudparken? In the Grorud district of Oslo, along the Alna river between Grorud Senter and Hølaløkka. When did the park open? In 2013. How big is it? About 119 decares, or roughly 12 hectares. Who designed it? LINK Arkitektur (LINK Landskap), commissioned by Oslo's water and sewage authority. Is there an entrance fee? It is a public city park. One listing says it is open around the clock, but check the City of Oslo website for current information before you go. Is it worth visiting for landscape architecture fans? Yes. The reopened river, soil clean-up and flood-protection features make it an interesting example of modern urban green space design.
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Idioten
Oslo
Idioten is a small park and green recreation area on a hillside in Oslo, in the St. Hanshaugen district. It sits in a built-up neighbourhood between General Birchs gate and Anton Schjøths gate, and locals use it for walks, jogging and a breather from the city. Where is Idioten and how do you find it? The park stretches along a slope between those two streets, right in the middle of the urban fabric rather than on the city outskirts. It lies in St. Hanshaugen, next to Sagene. It is not a ticketed tourist sight but a typical neighbourhood green space of the kind Oslo has plenty of. The easiest way to reach it is on foot from the surrounding residential streets. Access is open and free. Where does the name come from? The name sounds startling, but it has a local historical explanation. An institution for boys with intellectual disabilities once stood nearby on Ullevålsveien, and so-called special classes were held on Bolteløkka allé in the same area. In everyday speech the boys from these institutions were crudely called "idiots", and the label stuck to the hill. Today it is simply the place name, but it is worth knowing the background and treating it as a trace of old terms that are no longer acceptable. What is the sporting history of the site? The slope also had a sporting past. From the 1930s it hosted organised ski-jumping competitions, and the activity continued until the 1960s. Ski jumping is a national passion in Norway, which is why even a city hillside park once had this kind of facility. The jump no longer serves any purpose, but the shape of the terrain recalls the days when the area belonged to athletes and spectators. Beneath the park there is an underground car park, a neat example of how dense Oslo layers its functions: greenery on top, parking below. What can you do at Idioten? Walk or jog: the park is popular with runners. Dog walking: a common pastime for nearby residents. Views: from the top of the hill you can see the surrounding neighbourhood and, in the distance, higher ground on the horizon. Rest: a good spot for a short pause while exploring the district. Frequently asked questions Is entry to Idioten free? Yes, it is a public green space. Is Idioten a big park? No. It is a modest green slope valued mostly by local residents. Is the name offensive? It comes from an old colloquial label for residents of a nearby institution. Today it works as an ordinary place name, but its origin is unfortunate. Who is it for? Visitors who want to see Oslo's everyday green side away from the main tourist trails, and anyone interested in the city's local history. How long should I plan? A short stroll is usually enough, ideally combined with exploring St. Hanshaugen. Idioten is not a must-see, but it offers a chance to see the city as its residents do: with a ski jump in its past, a view from the hilltop and a patch of green in the middle of the buildings.
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Bjerkedalen park
Oslo
Bjerkedalen park is a district park in Oslo's Bjerke borough, in the north-east of the Norwegian capital. It is built around water: the reopened Hovin brook runs through the middle of it, and the paths, lawns and play areas all follow its course. What makes Bjerkedalen park special? For roughly fifty years the Hovin brook was buried in an underground culvert. When the park was created, it was brought back to the surface and guided from north to south across the recreation area. Today it is the star of the landscape: promenades run along its banks, and at one point the water widens into a small swimming pond with a sandy beach. In a densely built part of the city, that mix of greenery, water and gathering space is rare. The park was designed by the studio Dronninga landskap, with input from local residents during planning. It officially opened on 11 October 2013. A pavilion with a cafe and public toilets followed in spring 2014. What can you do here? stroll the promenades beside the brook and relax on its banks, swim or wade in the pond and lie on the little beach, play beach volleyball or use the ball court, barbecue at the designated grill spot, stop for a coffee at the pavilion cafe, use the public toilets. There is also a naturist area, open in the colder part of the year when the weather allows. Worth knowing if you plan a visit outside summer. Awards and significance The park quickly earned recognition. It received Oslo's architecture prize in 2015, was named Norway's best urban space in 2016, and took the title of Green Park of the Year in 2019. The awards mostly reflect how uncovering the brook turned a once unremarkable area into a place residents genuinely enjoy. Where does the brook run? The Hovin brook begins in the Marka forests near Grefsen and Årvoll, then crosses the city to reach the Oslofjord, passing the Klosterenga area on the way. Bjerkedalen park is one of the most visible stretches of that route, where the water is once again part of everyday neighbourhood life. Frequently asked questions Where is Bjerkedalen park? In the Bjerke borough of Oslo, in the north-east of the city. Coordinates: about 59.938 N, 10.822 E. Can you swim in the park? Yes, there is a swimming pond with a small sandy beach. It is best enjoyed in summer. Is there a cafe and a toilet? Yes, both are in the park pavilion. Is entry free? Yes, it is a public city park managed by the municipality of Oslo. Is it a good place for families? Yes. Water, a beach, ball courts and barbecue spots make it suitable for a family picnic or a longer walk. Children like the pond and the brook, while adults can relax at the cafe or on the grass.
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Vålerenga park
Oslo
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.
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Stoltenbergparken, Tønsberg
Tønsberg
Stoltenbergparken is a small, roughly rectangular park in the centre of Tønsberg, Norway, right next to the railway station. Four streets enclose it: Grev Wedels gate, Halfdan Wilhelmsens allé, Jernbanegaten and Tollbodgaten. It is a quiet green pocket where local history meets monuments and sculpture. How did this park in Tønsberg come about? The land was not always a park. From 1811 to 1854 it served as a burial ground known as Borgermesterløkka. When it closed, the graves were moved to the nearby old town cemetery (Tønsberg gamle kirkegård), and the former graveyard was laid out as a park. For several years gravestones still stood here, and the place was called Kirkegårdsparken, the "cemetery park", before it received its present name. Who was Stoltenberg? The park honours Carl Stoltenberg (1770–1830), a merchant and shipowner who represented Tønsberg at the Eidsvoll assembly in 1814. He was buried on this very site, and a memorial stone (bauta) unveiled in 1926 marks his grave. Sources disagree on his year of birth: church records give 1770, while older literature mentions 1766 or 1767. The park also holds a monument to his son, the painter Mathias Stoltenberg, dating from 1971. Both monuments were made by the local artist Carl Edvard Paulsen. What is there to see? A music pavilion in the middle of the park, inaugurated in 1924. A small pool with the sculpture "Satyren", unveiled in 1920 and created by the Danish sculptor Jens Jakob Bregnø. A bust of Nils Riddervold Jensen, a headmaster and politician, moved here in 2007 from its earlier location at Tønsberg middelskole. The Stoltenberg monuments, two memorial stones dedicated to father and son. Planning a visit Because the park sits beside the station, it makes an easy short stop for anyone arriving in Tønsberg by train. A walk through takes little time, but it is worth pausing to look at the monuments and the sculpture and to read whom they commemorate. The visit pairs naturally with the nearby old cemetery, where the burials from the former graveyard were relocated. Frequently asked questions Where is Stoltenbergparken? In central Tønsberg, near the railway station, between Grev Wedels gate, Halfdan Wilhelmsens allé, Jernbanegaten and Tollbodgaten. Was there once a cemetery here? Yes. A burial ground operated on the site from 1811 to 1854. After it closed, the graves were moved to the nearby old cemetery. Who was Carl Stoltenberg? A Tønsberg merchant and shipowner who represented the town at the Eidsvoll assembly in 1814. Which sculptures and monuments are in the park? Monuments to Carl and Mathias Stoltenberg, the sculpture "Satyren" by the pool, and a bust of Nils Riddervold Jensen. Is there a music pavilion? Yes, a music pavilion inaugurated in 1924 stands in the middle of the park.
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Rudolf Nilsens plass, Oslo
Oslo
Rudolf Nilsens plass is a public square and neighbourhood park in the Tøyen area of eastern Oslo, at the junction of Vahls gate and Heimdalsgata. It is not a headline sight, but it is a pleasant stop for anyone who wants to see everyday Oslo and learn a bit about a historically working-class district. Where is Rudolf Nilsens plass? The square lies in Tøyen. According to the City of Oslo's park page, it is bordered by Vahls gate to the north, Heimdalsgata to the west and Herslebs gate to the south. It sits among dense city blocks rather than along the usual tourist routes around Karl Johans gate or the harbour. How did it get its name? The place was first called Vahls plass, after the botanist Martin Vahl. In 1952 it was renamed after the author and poet Rudolf Nilsen, who had lived at Heimdalsgata 26. Two years later, in 1954, a statue of the poet by sculptor Knut Steen was unveiled here. The bronze figure shows a strong worker, reflecting Nilsen's ties to the labour movement and to the neighbourhood. How did the square come about? The municipality bought the plot in 1891 to create a playground for local residents. For well over a century it has served as a shared green space in a tightly built part of the city. What can you see and do here? The square was thoroughly upgraded, and the new Rudolf Nilsens plass opened in June 2022. According to the municipality, facilities include: an artificial turf pitch that becomes an ice rink in winter, outdoor exercise equipment, lawns, benches and tables, a large playground for the youngest children, a multi-court. Who is it for? It works well as a stop on a walk through Tøyen, as a break with children, or for a rest on a bench. Readers of literature and history can look at the Nilsen statue and learn about the man the square is named after. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No, it is a public city square that is free to use. Who was Rudolf Nilsen? A Norwegian author and poet who lived at nearby Heimdalsgata 26. The square has carried his name since 1952. Is it good for children? Yes. There is a large playground for small children, plus a pitch, a multi-court and exercise equipment. What happens here in winter? The artificial turf pitch can be turned into an ice rink. Who made the statue? The bronze statue is by Knut Steen and was unveiled in 1954. When was the square renovated? The renovated square opened in June 2022.
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Ravnedalen
Kristiansand
Ravnedalen is a park in Kristiansand, southern Norway, set in a deep valley just north of the city centre and right next to the Baneheia hills. A romantic-style garden framed by cliffs and waterfalls, it is open all year and is one of the most popular green spaces in the area. How did Ravnedalen park come about? Soldiers built the park in the 1870s under Colonel Joseph Frantz Oscar Wergeland, later a major general. The site was a former military camp, and there were plans to turn it into a rifle range. Wergeland objected and argued that the land would make a far better pleasure garden. His view won, and townspeople got a park to stroll in instead of a shooting range. Sources give slightly different opening dates, anywhere from 1874 to 1876, so the late 1870s is the safest way to place it. What does the name Ravnedalen mean? The name comes from ravens (Norwegian ravn), which used to nest in the area. The valley lies beneath the steep face of Ravneheia, which adds to its moody character, and some travel writers call it a mystical nature park. What is there to see? Ravnedalen was laid out as a romantic garden in a narrow valley with rock walls and waterfalls. Exotic plants such as magnolia, cypress and rhododendron line the paths, and some of Norway's largest native spruce trees grow here. A heath and a lake with a pair of swans are among the park's distinctive features. A walk through takes little time, but the water and the valley slopes reward a pause. Are there events in the park? Yes. In summer the park regularly hosts concerts, festivals and theatre performances, with the valley serving as a natural backdrop. A cafe on site serves simple meals, so you can eat without heading back into town. How do you get to Ravnedalen? The park is about a kilometre from the centre of Kristiansand, in the Grim borough, so it is an easy walk. It sits beside Baneheia, a large recreation area, and many visitors combine the two in one outing. Visit Norway tags the place as adapted for visitors with disabilities, but it is worth checking details for specific paths before you go. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? We found no information about admission charges. Check with the local tourist office for current rules. When is the best time to visit? The park is open all year. Summer may bring a concert, festival or play, and the rhododendrons and magnolias are best in their flowering season. Is there a cafe? Yes, the park has a cafe serving simple meals. Is it far from the city centre? No, roughly one kilometre, a short walk from central Kristiansand. Where does the name come from? From the ravens that once nested in the valley. In short Ravnedalen combines the history of a former military site, a romantic garden design and wild scenery of cliffs and waterfalls. It is a good stop for anyone in Kristiansand who wants a break from the city, and in summer a chance to catch an open-air cultural event.
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Torshov kirkepark
Oslo
Torshov kirkepark is a small city park in the Torshov neighbourhood of Oslo's Sagene borough. Its centrepiece is Torshov Church, and the whole area covers roughly 15.3 decares, or about 1.5 hectares. It is a green pocket for residents of the surrounding apartment blocks, and a quiet stop for anyone exploring the northern part of the Norwegian capital. Where is Torshov kirkepark? The park lies in northern Oslo, in Torshov, a district known for early twentieth-century housing. It is bounded by Åsengata to the northwest, Lammers' gate to the south and Nordkappgata to the east, with residential buildings to the north. It sits right in the urban fabric, so it is easy to stumble upon during a walk through the area. What should you know about the name? The park has no official name. Locals call it simply Kirkeparken (the church park) or Torshov kirkepark, after the church within it. In 2016 the area around the church was named Knut Nystedts plass, in honour of a church organist connected with the place. Torshov Church in the park The main building here is Torshov Church, consecrated in 1958. It seats about 400 people. It dates from the second half of the 1950s, when many new churches were built in Norwegian cities to serve growing districts. Being set among greenery gives the surroundings a calm feel, and the park acts as an open forecourt for the building. What can you do here? The park is above all a place for everyday relaxation. Listings mention a playground and a picnic area, so it suits families with children. The walking route Turvei B9 runs east to west through the park. The park is also part of the planned "Grønn rute" (green route), intended to link Sinsenkrysset with Skøyen through the city's green spaces. Torshov kirkepark versus Torshovparken Do not confuse it with nearby Torshovparken. That is a separate and much larger park of about 41 acres (roughly 16.5 hectares), established in the 1920s. If you want a longer stroll, you can link the two green spaces into one walk around the district. Frequently asked questions Does Torshov kirkepark have an official name? No. The name is informal, and locals also say Kirkeparken. How big is the park? About 15.3 decares, so it is more of a small green square than a large city park. Is there a playground? Yes, listings mention a playground and a picnic area. When was the church in the park consecrated? In 1958. It seats about 400. What is Knut Nystedts plass? The name given in 2016 to the area around the church, in honour of a church organist. Is the park part of a walking route? Yes, Turvei B9 crosses it, and it is also meant to be part of the planned Grønn rute between Sinsenkrysset and Skøyen.
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E.C. Dahls park
Trondheim
E.C. Dahls park is a city park in central Trondheim, in the Kalvskinnet district on Bispegata. English-style landscaping, tall trees and a fountain make it a quiet green pocket a few steps from Nidaros Cathedral. It sits beside the E.C. Dahl foundation building, regarded as one of the city's most typical Art Nouveau structures. Where does the park come from? The land was originally a plant nursery owned by Madame Tronstad in the mid-1800s. In the 1860s the brewery owner Erich Christian Dahl bought the property, and the park carries his name. From 1870 he commissioned plans for the grounds from the royal gardener Kayser. The park opened to the public in 1883, after Dahl's death. What is there to see? The layout follows the English landscape garden tradition. The main features are: tall, mature trees that give shade on summer days, broad lawns where locals relax after work, flower beds, a fountain, clipped hedges shaped into formal lines. Right next door stands the Art Nouveau foundation building, worth a look while you are here. Its facade makes a good backdrop for photos. The park in wartime and after During the Second World War, parts of the park were dug up to build air-raid shelters. In 1970-71 the western section, facing Sverres gate, was used for an extension of the foundation building. As a result, the park today is smaller than the one that opened in 1883. Getting there The park lies in the historic centre, so you can walk to it from most nearby sights. The closest bus stop, Nidarosdomen, is about a four-minute walk away. Entry is free and the park is open to everyone. Frequently asked questions Is E.C. Dahls park the same as E.C. Dahls Arena? No. E.C. Dahls Arena is a concert venue on Strandveien and is unrelated to the park, although both names come from the Dahl brewing family. When did the park open? In 1883. Why is it named after E.C. Dahl? Erich Christian Dahl, a Trondheim brewery owner, bought the land and had the park planned. Is the park free to visit? Yes, it is a public city park open to all. What style is the garden? English landscape style, with large lawns, tall trees, flowers, a fountain and clipped hedges. Can I combine it with other sights? Yes. The park is close to Nidaros Cathedral and the centre of Trondheim, so it fits easily into a walk through the old town. It makes a pleasant pause between sightseeing stops.
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Christian Frederiks plass
Oslo
Christian Frederiks plass is a square in the heart of Oslo, right beside the Central Station (Oslo S) and a short walk from the Opera House. Today it works as a green pocket and a transport hub, but its story goes back to the garden of one of the city's notable mansions. Where does the square come from? The site was once the garden of the Paléet mansion. Known as Paléhaven, the garden belonged to Christian Ancher, who opened it to the public in the 1760s. That is why it is regarded as one of the first publicly accessible parks in the city, then called Christiania. Very little remains of it now: an alley of linden trees running across the square is the surviving trace. The Paléet mansion itself served as a royal residence in the nineteenth century. It was demolished in 1942, and the area came to be known as Christian Frederiks plass. Who is the square named after? The name honors Christian Frederik, the Norwegian king of 1814, who later became Christian VIII of Denmark. His brief reign in Norway is tied to the adoption of the constitution at Eidsvoll, which gives him a special place in Norwegian history. What to see The linden alley – the last remnant of Paléhaven and welcome shade on warm days. The fountain with the "Sun and Earth" sculpture – a work by Ørnulf Bast crowning the fountain on the square, a natural spot for a short rest. Lawns and benches – a good place to sit between connections or after walking around the area. A square shaped by transport In the early twentieth century the site took on a transport role. A tram turning loop was built here, which required demolishing the Meyergården building. The Havnebanen railway line dates from 1907, so the neighborhood developed alongside the city's growing rail infrastructure. Trams and buses still stop by the square today, and the station is only a few steps away. How to visit Its position next to Oslo S makes this one of the easiest places in Oslo to see. You can arrive by train, airport express, tram or bus. A visit usually takes a quarter of an hour or so, so it combines well with further sightseeing: the Opera House, the Bjørvika waterfront and the city center are all within walking distance. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No, it is a public city square. Where is Christian Frederiks plass? In central Oslo, next to the Central Station and near the Opera House. What is left of the old Paléhaven garden? The alley of linden trees on the square. Why is the square named this way? It commemorates Christian Frederik, king of Norway in 1814 and later Christian VIII of Denmark. Is it worth a special trip? It is more a stop along the way than a destination in itself, but the fountain, the lindens and the story of Paléhaven give useful context for what you see around the station.
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Eli plass
Trondheim
Eli plass is a park in the Lademoen district of Trondheim, Norway. Locals also call it Lademoen park or La'moparken. It is a green space in the part of the city lying east of the centre. Where is Eli plass? The park sits in Lademoen, bounded by the streets Mellomveien and Innherredsveien. It lies next to Lademoen school and Lademoen church. Its coordinates are roughly 63.437° N, 10.428° E. Where does the name come from? The name was given in 1903. It comes from the farm Eliplass, which served as a court site in the 1700s. The name is a reminder of a time when this area looked very different from today. How did the park come about? Politician and newspaper editor Anders Buen campaigned to keep the land as a park for residents of the city's east side. The park opened in 1909, after Lademoen church was completed. It gave a largely working-class district a place to relax outdoors. What is there to see? The Anders Buen monument. A stone memorial by sculptor Alessandro Tomaso Santi stands in the western part of the park. Norwegian Wikipedia dates it to 1938, while the Strinda historical society's wiki places it in the years before the First World War. The sources disagree. Amphitheatre. Built in the 1980s, it serves as a gathering spot for small events. Bear sculptures. Two bronze bears by Karl Johan Flaathe also date from the 1980s. Paths and playgrounds. A 2008 upgrade added new paths, playgrounds and lighting. Who is it for? Eli plass is a quiet neighbourhood park rather than a one-visit tourist sight. It suits anyone who wants to see everyday life in Trondheim beyond the old centre. Families can use the playgrounds, and history fans will find traces of the former working-class district: a monument to the man who fought for green space for residents, and the neighbouring church. Frequently asked questions Is Eli plass the same as Lademoen park? Yes. The park is also known as Lademoen park and La'moparken. When did the park open? In 1909, after Lademoen church was completed. Who campaigned for the park? Politician and editor Anders Buen, whose monument stands in the western part of the grounds. Is there anything for children? Yes. Since the 2008 upgrade the park has playgrounds, and the bronze bear sculptures are popular with young visitors. What is next to the park? Lademoen school and Lademoen church, with Mellomveien and Innherredsveien running along its edges.
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Ilaparken
Trondheim
Ilaparken is a city park in the Ila district of Trondheim, Norway, laid out on the former Ilevollen fields. A green space with roots in the Middle Ages, it pairs a quiet stroll under the trees with a monument to one of Norway's best-known medieval kings. What should visitors know about Ilaparken? The park is public greenery within Trondheim municipality. It was laid out in 1891 and finished in time for the city's 900th anniversary celebrations in 1897. The push to plant the area began in 1886, led by Johan Christopher Brun, a pharmacist at the Svaneapoteket pharmacy. What was here before the park? The land was known as Ilevollen. In 1180 it was the scene of a battle in which King Sverre defeated Magnus Erlingsson. Until 1882 the field also served as a military drill ground. Nearby stands the hill Galgeberget, once used as an execution site, where the last execution took place in 1807. What is there to see? At the eastern end of the park stands a bronze sculpture of King Sverre titled "Mannen fra utskjæret" ("The Man from the Skerry"), made by sculptor Sivert Donali. A memorial stone stands on the western side. Together they keep the history of the place visible. What is the Ila district like? Ila was originally part of Bymarka, and its first buildings date from the early 1700s. In the 1800s it was Trondheim's entertainment quarter, home to the Hjorten revue and variety theatre and several dance halls. The park sits in a neighbourhood with a lively urban past. Who is the visit for? Ilaparken suits anyone who wants a short break among greenery combined with a taste of Norwegian history. It makes a good stop while exploring Trondheim, especially for those interested in the saga of King Sverre and the city's early story. Frequently asked questions Where is Ilaparken? In the Ila district of Trondheim, Norway. When was the park created? It was laid out in 1891 and completed for the city's 900th jubilee in 1897. Who started the project? Pharmacist Johan Christopher Brun, who in 1886 took the initiative to have the area planted as a park. What monument stands there? A bronze sculpture of King Sverre, "Mannen fra utskjæret", by Sivert Donali, at the park's eastern end. What happened here in 1180? King Sverre defeated Magnus Erlingsson in a battle on the Ilevollen fields. Was the area once a military site? Yes, until 1882 Ilevollen was also used as a drill ground.
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Frøyas have
Oslo
Frøyas have is a small city park in Oslo's Frogner district, set beside the Frognerkilen inlet. It covers 13 decares, about 1.3 hectares, so think of it as a quiet pocket of green rather than a large park complex. It was laid out and named in 1994, with funding from Sigval Bergesen. The name refers to the Norse goddess Freya (Frøya in Norwegian), as does the nearby street Frøyas gate. Where is Frøyas have and how do you get there? The park lies in the western part of central Oslo, around Majorstuen and Frogner. Frøyas gate runs along its western edge, the E18 road follows the inlet to the south, and the railway line and buildings close it in to the north and east. The main entrances are on Frøyas gate and at the eastern end, where a pedestrian bridge crosses the E18 to the neighbouring Skarpsnoparken. That makes it easy to combine with a walk along the waterfront. What can you do here? A playground sits in the middle of the park, which makes it a practical stop when travelling with children. Besides that you will find benches and a large open lawn, ideal for spreading out a blanket, reading, or having a picnic. Some of the benches are surrounded by shrubs and greenery that form small, sheltered nooks. It is a good choice for a short break from sightseeing if you want some peace. What is the atmosphere like? According to the Norwegian Wikipedia, the park is usually calm, with few visitors. There are no headline attractions such as sculptures or monuments, and that is part of the appeal: this is everyday green space for Oslo residents, tucked between transport infrastructure and the water. Traffic noise from the nearby road is part of the setting, but the lawn and trees still give a real sense of breathing room. Are there events here? Occasionally. In June 2025 the band deLillos staged its 40th-anniversary concert in the park. On ordinary days, though, Frøyas have remains a quiet neighbourhood park. Is it the same as Frogner Park? No. Frøyas have is sometimes confused with the nearby Frogner Park (Frognerparken), the famous Vigeland sculpture park on Kirkeveien. They are very different places: Frøyas have is smaller, calmer, and free of big tourist crowds. Both sit in the same district, so you can visit them on the same day, and Frøyas have makes a relaxed counterpoint to the busier sights. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee for Frøyas have? No. It is a public city park, and most of the land is owned by the municipality of Oslo. Is there a playground? Yes, in the middle of the park. When was the park created? It was laid out and named in 1994, with financial support from Sigval Bergesen. Can you walk from here to Skarpsnoparken? Yes. From the eastern end of the park, a pedestrian bridge crosses the E18 to the neighbouring Skarpsnoparken. Is it worth a special trip? Mostly as a stop while exploring Frogner and Majorstuen. It is a place to rest, not a destination in itself.
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Høybråtenparken
Oslo
Høybråtenparken is a small neighbourhood park in Oslo, in the Stovner district on the city's north-eastern edge. It covers about half a hectare (5 decares) and has served local residents for decades as a place to meet, play and enjoy outdoor events. Where is Høybråtenparken? The park sits in the Høybråten area of Bydel Stovner. It is bordered by the streets Høybråtenveien, Skogstien and Myrbakkveien, with detached houses all around. This is a green pocket in a residential suburb rather than a headline sight, so it suits visitors exploring the outskirts of Oslo or curious about how locals spend everyday time outdoors. How did the park come about? The story begins with Anton Tschudi (1848–1914), who bought the Øvre Høybråten farm in 1905 and the Nedre Stovner farm in 1912. The park area was split off from Nedre Stovner and given as a gift to the people living nearby. Older municipal records list the site as "Høibråten lekeplass", meaning Høybråten playground. The land belongs to the City of Oslo and Bydel Stovner manages it. What is there to see and do? Outdoor stage. Theatre performances were staged in the park in the 1950s, and an open-air stage followed. It was rehabilitated in 2007. Playground. The 2007 renovation also covered the play equipment, which makes the park a handy stop for families. Large granite barbecue. The same upgrade added a big granite grill built for communal cooking. Bust of Anton Tschudi. In 2014 a bust of the park's benefactor, made by Svein-Tore Kleppan, was unveiled here. It commemorates the man whose land gift started the park. Who is it for? Høybråtenparken rewards people who like quiet, local places with a bit of history. Families get a playground, history fans get the Tschudi bust and the story of the donated land, and anyone wanting to see Oslo beyond the tourist centre gets an ordinary green space among homes. The park is small, so a visit takes only a few minutes. Frequently asked questions Is Høybråtenparken big? No. It covers roughly 5 decares, or half a hectare, which makes it a typical neighbourhood park. Which Oslo district is it in? Stovner, in the Høybråten area. Who runs the park? Bydel Stovner manages it, and the land is owned by the City of Oslo. Who does the bust in the park honour? Anton Tschudi, who bought the Øvre Høybråten and Nedre Stovner farms. The park land was taken from Nedre Stovner and given to local residents. The bust was unveiled in 2014. When was the park renovated? In 2007. The work covered the stage, the playground equipment and a large granite barbecue. Is there a stage? Yes. The outdoor stage was built after theatre performances were held in the park in the 1950s.
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Tøyen Park
Oslo
Tøyen Park is a public park in Oslo, Norway, on the city's eastern side. It lies to the north-east of the old Munch Museum and directly neighbours the University of Oslo Botanical Garden. It is a grassy, tree-dotted recreation area that locals use all year round. Where is Tøyen Park? The park sits in the Tøyen district of Oslo. Its best-known neighbours are the old Munch Museum building to the south-west and the University Botanical Garden next door, so a visit to the park combines easily with a walk through the garden. The coordinates are roughly 59.9175 N, 10.7775 E. What can you do in Tøyen Park? The park is open, green recreation ground rather than a formal garden. In summer people come to barbecue on the lawns and to play frisbee. The park also has playgrounds for children and sports fields, which makes it a practical stop for families and for anyone who wants to spend an afternoon outdoors without leaving the city. Winter changes the character of the place. When snow lies on the slopes, tobogganing is popular here, and the park becomes a simple, free sledging hill close to the city centre. What is the history behind the park? The park belongs to the old Tøyen estate. The land was originally owned by Nonneseter Abbey. Around 1640 Chancellor Jens Bjelke acquired the property. The current Tøyen Manor house dates from 1679 and is one of Oslo's oldest timber buildings; its main wing is probably the oldest wooden building in greater Oslo. In the early nineteenth century King Frederik VI bought the manor and its estate and, in 1812, donated it to the university, with the intention that it should include the campus of the new University of Oslo. In 1814 the botanical garden was founded on part of the land. Only about 5 percent of the estate, around 7.5 hectares, was set aside for the garden. It is Norway's oldest botanical garden, belongs to the Natural History Museum of the University of Oslo, and has about 800,000 visitors a year. Frequently asked questions Is Tøyen Park good for children? Yes. The park has playgrounds and open lawns, and in winter its slopes are used for tobogganing. Can you have a barbecue in Tøyen Park? Barbecuing on the grass is a popular summer activity here. Check current local rules and any seasonal restrictions before lighting a grill. What is next to Tøyen Park? The University of Oslo Botanical Garden is a direct neighbour, and the old Munch Museum building is nearby to the south-west. Historic Tøyen Manor is also part of the area. What is the best time to visit? Summer suits picnics, barbecues and games on the grass, while winter suits tobogganing when there is snow. Is the park far from the centre of Oslo? No. Tøyen is an inner-city district on the eastern side of Oslo, a short distance from the centre.
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Kristparken
Oslo
Kristparken is a small park in Hammersborg, right in central Oslo, laid out on the grounds of a former cemetery. Today it serves local residents as a playground and sports area, but beneath the lawns and the ball court lies several centuries of the city's history. It is also known as Hammersborg lekepark, although the older name is still familiar to some locals. Where is Kristparken and what does it look like? The park sits in the Hammersborg district of central Oslo, next to the street Grubbegata. It is not a grand garden with promenades. It is a practical neighbourhood space with children's play equipment and a ball court, used mostly by families who live nearby. Visitors looking for lesser-known corners of the Norwegian capital will find historical traces here rather than a classic attraction with signs and ticket booths. What is the history of the site? The land was once part of Krist kirkegård, a cemetery founded in 1654 beside Kristkirken church. It was established when plague struck Oslo again, and it served as a burial ground for its victims. The Peststøtten, or plague monument, dates from the same year and is regarded as the oldest grave monument in the city. The cemetery was extended during the cholera outbreak of 1835, and new burials stopped in 1924. After the Second World War, the extension of Grubbegata split the cemetery in two. The lower part was cleared and turned into a park, after a forty-year protection period that ended in 1964. Protected gravestones were moved to the upper part of the cemetery, and the rest were removed. Sources differ on exactly when the lower section became a park, giving dates from the late 1940s to the mid-1960s. What happened to the upper part of the old cemetery? The upper section did not disappear. In autumn 1999 it was restored and reopened as a memorial park. It is a quiet, intimate place where old gravestones have been preserved, with the main entrance from Grubbegata. The memorial park has seasonal opening hours and is closed during the winter half of the year, so check current information from the City of Oslo before visiting. Who is this place for? Families with children looking for a playground in the city centre. Local history enthusiasts interested in plague and cholera in Oslo. Travellers who enjoy discovering everyday, non-touristy corners of the capital. Frequently asked questions Is Kristparken the same as Hammersborg lekepark? Yes, it is the same park. Kristparken is the older name and is used less often, but some residents still know it. Are there still graves in the park? In the lower section, now a play and sports park, gravestones were removed or relocated. Preserved monuments are in the upper section, restored as a memorial park in 1999. Is there an entrance fee? No fees are documented. The lower part is an ordinary city park, while the upper part has seasonal opening hours. Is it worth a special trip? More as an addition to a walk through the centre. Its main value is historical context: the park shows how burial grounds in Oslo gave way to everyday urban space. Where does the plague monument come from? The Peststøtten dates from 1654, when the cemetery was founded after an outbreak of plague, and it is considered the oldest monument of its kind in Oslo.
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Voldsløkka
Oslo
Voldsløkka is a sports park in the Bjølsen neighbourhood of Oslo, on the border between the Sagene and Nordre Aker districts. Officially called Voldsløkka idrettspark, it is run by the sports club Sagene IF. It serves local people all year round and turns into an open-air ice rink in winter. What is Voldsløkka? It is a large green area in the middle of a residential part of the city. Its centrepiece is a field hockey stadium with room for about 800 spectators. The scale is local: a club and neighbourhood venue rather than a big arena, where you watch a match from close range. There is also an artificial-turf field hockey pitch used by the club and by amateur players. How does it change with the seasons? In the warmer months the venue is used for field hockey. In winter one of the surfaces becomes a bandy rink. Bandy is a sport similar to ice hockey but played with a ball, and it is very popular across the Nordic countries. Ice-making usually starts in November. Sagene IF is responsible for the rink, and its bandy team plays home games here. The venue also hosted matches of the 2020 Women's Bandy World Championship. A little history Before its rebuild in the second half of the 2010s, Voldsløkka was a football ground. It had a place in Oslo's football history as a local home pitch, and after the changes it became a modern centre for field hockey and bandy. Older history of the site is described by the Norwegian site lokalhistoriewiki: a barn once stood here, and emergency housing barracks were built in 1911–1912. Who is it for? Sports fans: field hockey in summer, bandy in winter, and the occasional international event. Residents of Bjølsen and Sagene: green space and a public ice rink nearby. Visitors looking for a less obvious Oslo: a spot off the usual tourist route that shows how Norwegians stay active through the year. Frequently asked questions Where is Voldsløkka? In the Bjølsen neighbourhood of Oslo, next to the Sagene and Nordre Aker districts. Who runs the facility? The sports club Sagene IF. How many people can the stands hold? The field hockey stadium seats about 800 spectators. Can you skate here in winter? Yes, one of the surfaces becomes an ice rink in winter, with ice-making from November. Check current opening hours with the operator. Is it still a football stadium? No. After the rebuild, the venue is focused on field hockey and bandy. Practical tips Check the Sagene IF or City of Oslo websites for match dates and rink opening hours. Bjølsen is well connected to the city centre, and the Akerselva river, with its popular walking path, runs close by. A visit combines well with a stroll through this part of Oslo.
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St. Hanshaugen Park
Oslo
St. Hanshaugen Park is a large public park just north of Oslo's city centre. The green hill overlooks the city, is a classic example of a nineteenth-century urban park, and gave its name to the whole surrounding borough. Where does the name St. Hanshaugen come from? "St. Hans" is the Norwegian term for Midsummer Eve, and "haugen" means hill, so the name roughly translates as "Midsummer Hill". From the 1840s, Oslo residents gathered here to light Midsummer Eve bonfires. At that time the hill was still bare rock, with no trees or paths. How did the park come about? Planting began in the middle of the nineteenth century. During the 1860s more than a thousand trees went in, turning the rocky rise into a green recreation area. It was the first major park created outside the strict city centre. From 1867 the city took responsibility for it. Sources give slightly different dates for the later stages of the work, but the direction is clear: a bonfire site became a municipal park. What is there to see? A reflecting pool. A shallow pool covers a former water reservoir that served the city's water supply. The old pump building. A tower-like house nearby, completed around 1875, was connected to the pumps serving the reservoir. Festplassen. The square at the top of the hill, home to an open-air café since 1936. It is a good spot for coffee with a view. Lawns and paths. The hilly ground suits strolls, picnics and a rest after sightseeing downtown. The park also hosts concerts and festivals, especially in summer. Where exactly is the park? It sits at the very centre of the St. Hanshaugen borough, bounded by Geitmyrsveien, Colletts gate, Ullevålsveien and Knud Knudsens plass. Bislett Stadium and Alexander Kiellands plass are nearby, so the park combines easily with a walk through neighbouring districts. Coordinates: 59.9267 N, 10.7409 E. Frequently asked questions Is there an entrance fee? No. It is a public city park open to everyone. Is the park far from the centre of Oslo? No, it lies just north of the centre, and many downtown spots are within walking distance. Where does the name come from? From the Norwegian Midsummer Eve (St. Hans) and "haugen", meaning hill. Residents lit Midsummer bonfires here from the 1840s. Can I get a coffee in the park? Yes. An open-air café has operated on the Festplassen square at the top of the hill since 1936. What is nearby? Bislett Stadium and Alexander Kiellands plass, both a short distance away. Who is it for? Anyone who wants to see how Oslo residents spend their free time. It suits a short walk, a picnic, a coffee with a city view, or a starting point for exploring the surrounding streets and districts. It is especially worth a visit on warm days, when the lawns are full of people and outdoor events take place nearby.
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Sofienbergparken
Oslo
Sofienbergparken is one of the most heavily used parks in Oslo, set in the Grünerløkka district. Today it is a place for relaxing, playing and meeting friends, yet its story begins as a burial ground for the city's poorest residents. What kind of place is it? Sofienbergparken is a large city park in the middle of the densely built-up Grünerløkka neighbourhood. Green space is precious here, so the park works as a shared living room for the area: people come for a stroll, to use the playground, to play table tennis or simply to sit on the grass. Public toilets on site make it easy to stay a while, especially with children. What is the history of the park? The site was consecrated in 1858 as a cemetery for the poor of Christiania, today's Oslo. Sofienberg gravlund operated until 1931 and received around 60,000 burials, including urn interments. The location was chosen after the Ankerløkken cemetery closed following the cholera epidemic of 1853. The Sofienberg meadow, between Grünerløkka and Trondheimsveien, lay outside the city at the time and suited the purpose. As the city grew around it, residents objected to a graveyard so central in a dense neighbourhood. Between 1918 and 1972 the area was gradually converted into a city park. The western part opened as a park in 1961, and the eastern part was finished in 1972. Are there traces of the cemetery left? Yes. Most of the graves were removed, but the Jewish section was preserved. A small fenced Jewish burial ground lies north of the church. It is an important, if easily missed, part of the site's history. What stands in the middle of the park? Sofienberg church stands in the centre of the park. It was built in 1877 on the old meadow, first named Paulus' church, later Petrus' church, and since 1962 simply Sofienberg. It is a clear landmark and a good backdrop for photos. What can you do here? Stroll and relax on the open lawns, which fill up with locals on warm days. Bring children to the playground. Play table tennis at the tables in the park. See the church from 1877 and the fenced Jewish burial ground. Combine the visit with Grünerløkka, the neighbourhood of cafés, shops and local life right next door. Frequently asked questions Is entry to Sofienbergparken free? Yes, it is an open public park. Are there toilets in the park? Yes, there are public toilets on site. Was it really a cemetery? Yes. The cemetery operated from 1858 to 1931, and the park was created on its grounds between 1918 and 1972. The Jewish section remains. Is it a good place for families? Yes, there is a playground and plenty of open space for play. Where exactly is it? In the Grünerløkka district of Oslo, near Trondheimsveien. Why visit? Sofienbergparken shows how a city repurposes its space: a former cemetery became one of residents' favourite parks. If you want to see everyday Oslo, sit on the lawn, look at the church and visit the preserved corner of the Jewish burial ground. It is a calm stop on a walk through Grünerløkka that also offers a glimpse into the city's past.
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