One of the best reasons to visit Riyadh’s parks is that they’re a truly wonderful way for visitors to get an authentic experience of local life. Everyday activities – strolling, exercising, socialising and picnicking – happen right here in the capital’s most scenic locations, so following suit and doing as the locals do is a great way to connect with Riyadh culture. And the green spaces in the city are only set to increase as part of the Vision 2030 plan.
The city’s best parks offer endless things to do whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family. From wandering calm, leafy walkways and admiring dancing fountains to exploring nature reserves or just finding the perfect shady spot to spread out a picnic, a day in one of Riyadh’s parks is always a day well spent.
1. King Abdullah Park
King Abdullah Park is one of the capital’s largest and loveliest outdoor spaces. Set in the heart of the city and sprawling across 32 hectares, it’s one of the best parks for a long walk – the wide pathways are often busy with strollers, joggers and rollerskaters. It’s easy to find somewhere pleasant on the well-kept lawns for a picnic, and if you’re bringing family along, remember you can take a ride on the mini train – ideal for anyone who gets tired easily. There are several play areas to keep kids occupied too.
The lake area is bliss on hot days or warm, sticky evenings, and if you stay around until after dark, you can enjoy the fountain shows illuminated and set to music.
Despite the entrance fees (SAR11.50 for adults), the park gets extremely busy at weekends. Events are often hosted on public holidays and special occasions such as National Day or Eid – on these days you can expect serious crowds here.
2. Salam Park
Another inner-city green oasis, the lush Salam Park is one of the best parks in the capital for kids – especially those who struggle with the heat. It’s beautifully designed for making the most of the outdoors on warmer days, as it features an enormous man-made lake surrounded by cool, tree-lined paths and shady seating areas.
There are loads of activities, including bird-watching in the nature reserves and taking boat rides or floating in zorb balls on the lake. Pony rides are on offer for little ones and there are no less than eight play areas dotted across the site. There’s no need to leave the park if anyone gets peckish either – just head to one of the many ice cream stands, food stalls or kiosks across the grounds.
3. Olaya Park
Olaya Park is one of Riyadh’s sportiest green spaces, featuring a well-kept football pitch, spacious fields for casual sports games, cycling and jogging pathways, and an open area that’s become very popular with skateboarders. Those looking for a slower-paced visit can head to the more peaceful areas of the park to bag a picnic table, visit the water fountains or stop by the carefully tended flowerbeds. Small but busy, visitors can expect an urban, lively atmosphere here.
As the name suggests, the park is located in the polished, commercial area of Al Olaya, near some of Riyadh’s top attractions such as the capital’s first skyscraper, Al Faisaliah Tower (which can be seen from inside the park), and the Kingdom Centre. A pleasant park excursion followed by some sightseeing in the local area makes for a very memorable day out in Riyadh. Entrance is free.
4. Lake Park Namar Dam
With soul-soothing views of the 2km-long Wadi Namar Dam, the lake and a pretty waterfall, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Riyadh once in the confines of Lake Park Namar Dam. This is the place to head if you need a little respite from the city and a serene place to chill out.
Take a picnic to the lake area and watch fish darting about in the clear waters, alongside ducks and turtles, or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the palm tree-fringed lakefront. There are food vendors and trucks nearby if you want to pick up a casual bite to eat, or if you’ve come prepared, it’s permitted to barbecue next to the lake too. Entrance is free.
5. National Museum Park
National Museum Park is actually a series of six different parks and gardens, each with its own character and attractions, located by the King Abdulaziz Historical Center. Among them, Al Jisr Park has quiet, leafy walkways, while Al Wadi Park has a cheerful playground that is lots of fun for kids.
There’s always a buzz in this area, not only due to the amount of cultural activities (the renowned National Museum is here, with art installations, sculptures and water features outside) but because the National Museum Park is part of Riyadh Season’s now-permanent Al Murabaa zone, featuring a series of ultra-trendy international restaurants.
