Everything You Need To Know About Emancipation Park

There are many sights to see and things to do when visiting the capital of Jamaica, Kingston. You have an amazing food scene, museums, spectacular beaches and mountains to hike. But there is one place that you must fit into your full itinerary while you are there. That is the beautiful Emancipation Park. This amazing green space in the centre of the hustle and bustle of this ever-expanding city is an absolute must-see.

In this article, we are going to talk about what you can do as you stroll down the green oaths and know just why it’s so important to include it in your itinerary. But before we do that, let’s talk a bit about its history and importance to the city and the island.

History Of Emancipation Park

This seven-acre stretch of land has been many things before becoming the city’s symbol of resilience. After several earthquakes and a shift in the dynamic of the population, the area that Emancipation Park currently sits in became the social site for the better to do patrons of the city. Once a space for horse racing and polo events, this area soon captured the interest of business developers.

The land still owned by one of the social clubs was eventually gifted to the Jamaican government. After trying to figure out what this land should be used for, it was eventually decided that it should be built into a park.

Photo from Pxhere

Things to Do in Emancipation Park

This park is a nice respite from the hectic life of the vibrant city of Kingston. With its well-landscaped seven acres and amazing art, you will easily be able to spend a day roaming its paths. Many locals and tourists alike like to picnic and just relax on a warm summer day on the grass. But though this is a park, there is so much more you can do.

Here are a few suggestions: 

Many tours make a stop at the Kingston landmark. It is a great place to learn a little about the history and culture of the Jamaican people. This landmark and its artwork (which we will talk about in a minute) is a great way to see the park and get a little context of how and why the park is so important.

There are so many flowers and trees that are unique to the island that simply walking the park and taking in all the wonderful flora and fauna could be a great way to relax. Grab your phone and take some great pics and then sit down with a nice lunch and enjoy the landscaped greenery and the warm Jamaican sun.

If you are into health and need to get your exercise in, this is the perfect location to do it. There are many jogging and little paths all around the park that will allow you to get your sweat on. Plus, you can do that while taking in all the wonderful natural beauty and some of the outstanding artwork strewn around the park itself.

Chief amongst the must-see artwork is the huge statue at the entrance of the park. Referred to as “Redemption Song”, it is home to the history and strength of the people of Jamaica. This is just the first piece of art. Throughout the park, there are several other amazing statuses and art exhibitions as well.

Photo by Kevin from Flickr

Because of Emancipation Park’s central location and importance to the city, many festivals are held here. So when visiting the city, make sure to check the event calendar and see if you can attend any of these amazing celebrations in this beautiful location.

There are many other activities that you can do nearby as well. The Bob Marley museum is just a quick walk away as well as several other museums in proximity to this amazing park.

Important Information

There is, of course, the logistics of the entire trip plan. So below are a few of the pieces of the important information you will need for your excursion to Emancipation Park.

How To Get There

The park is centrally located in the heart of the New Kingston area of the capital. It is close to any sites and hotels. It is located at the conjunction of Oxford Road and Knutsford Boulevard. To get there from the downtown area you have many options, and all will take about 15 minutes.

Opening Hours

The park is open seven days a week all year long. On Monday through Thursday, the park is open between five in the morning and eleven at night. The weekend hours are just a little longer. From Friday through Sunday, the park is open from five in the morning until midnight.

Best Time To Visit

Truthfully, the park is a beautiful place to take a little meander any time of the year. However, the best time is during the dry season. And that usually lasts from the mid-December to mid-April.

Prices

Entry to the park is free, though the events held within the park’s borders may be different. So if you are hitting up one of those awesome festivals or events, then you will need to check out their website beforehand.

Photo by KingstonPharaoh (creative commons)

Final Thoughts…

When you are looking for a nice relaxing activity that still allows you to experience the culture and history of Jamaica, Emancipation Park is a great choice. Stroll the paths and watch men play dominoes or checkers. Sit on the lawn and enjoy a picnic of traditional street foods.

No matter what you choose to do with your day at Emancipation Park, one thing is for sure: you will be happy that you took the time to take in the beauty and culture that is housed within its seven-acre plait of land. 

Who said you can’t stay fit while on holiday? Here’s an interesting (and budget-friendly) way to explore Jamaica!