Kaivopuisto

Located by the sea in the southernmost part of the city, Kaivopuisto is one of the most famous and oldest parks in Helsinki. The otherwise peaceful park’s lawns and rocks are packed on May Day as happy revellers gather for a picnic.
The lawn area of Kaivopuisto.
The historic Kaivopuisto provides a great setting for spending leisure time. Photo: Satu Tegel

What can you experience in Kaivopuisto?

Located in a beautiful place by the sea, Kaivopuisto has come a long way from an early 19th-century spa park to the park that it is today, where people gather for picnics, exercise, games and play.

The park’s terrain and routes are winding, and the tallest bedrock provides a stunning view over the sea. Large old trees grow in the lawn areas. In autumn, the park glows in shades of yellow and orange and the lawn is covered with colourful fallen leaves. Linden trees line the road through the park.

The lawns and bedrock areas of the extensive park provide a peaceful environment for relaxation. The busiest time of year is May Day, when the park is filled with carnival atmosphere and merry revellers – regardless of the weather.

A taste of history

The old building of the Kaivohuone restaurant in Kaivopuisto is an indication of the park’s long history. When in operation, it was one of the oldest restaurants in Helsinki. The building is now closed, but since the early days of the park, it served as a restaurant and a venue for various events.

On top of the park’s rocks is the Ursa Observatory that dates back to 1926. The Ursa Astronomical Association organises star and sun shows there during clear weather. There are many sculptures and monuments throughout the park.
 

The lawns and bedrock areas of Kaivopuisto are popular picnic spots. The large park also provides space for games, play and winter activities.

Playgrounds and outdoor gyms in the Kaivopuisto area

The Kaivopuisto park area and its surroundings feature playgrounds and outdoor gyms.

Playground Kaivopuisto, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Playground Meripuisto, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Kaivopuisto outdoor fitness area, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Kaivopuistonranta outdoor fitness area, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Meripuisto outdoor gym, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Park chess area and sand field

The park chess area of Kaivopuisto is a popular outdoor game venue that hosts chess tournaments as well. The adjacent sand field provides space for games and play.

Park chess area and sand field, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Dog park

The dog park of Kaivopuisto is located in the park area, close to the seashore.

Kaivopuisto dog park, location on the map(Link leads to external service)

Observatory

The Ursa Astronomical Association organises shows on demand in the observatory built on the tallest area of bedrock.

Ursa Astronomical Association(Link leads to external service)
 

There are several cafés and restaurants in the Kaivopuisto area, along the seaside trail. The park also has a public toilet.

Kaivopuisto covers an area of about 16 hectares. The park’s sand-covered routes are mainly lit. Benches are placed throughout the park. The road through Kaivopuisto has winter maintenance.

Benches on the map (Helsinki Map Service)(Link leads to external service)

Lighting on the map (Helsinki Map Service)(Link leads to external service)
 

The plants in the park thrive when they are allowed to grow in peace. Please do not cut any branches or trample on any plantings. Furthermore, be sure to collect your rubbish and place it in the park’s bins after your visit.

Read about park rules and park etiquette on the following page: Visit parks responsibly | City of Helsinki.
 

Location of Kaivopuisto on the Service Map

Location of Kaivopuisto on the Service Map - Open larger map(Link leads to external service)

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