Rhododendron Park

Rhododendron Park in Haaga, also known colloquially as Rhodo Park, is a unique gem among the parks of Helsinki. It is at its most beautiful in early June when hundreds of rhododendron and azalea bushes bloom in a variety of colours.
The park is divided into two sections. Evergreen rhododendrons grow in the southern section, while park azaleas can be found at the northern end. Pine trees form a canopy over the blossoming bushes. In addition to being open to the public, the park serves as the university’s plant breeding test area.

Luxurious blossoms

The oldest rhododendrons in the park were planted in 1975. The acidophilic bushes were originally planted in a natural bog for research purposes. Rhododendrons bloom in shades of pink, violet and white, but the park also has yellow-flowered varieties that bloom earlier than the other rhododendrons.

Park azaleas thrive in the more sun-exposed areas of the park. Shedding their leaves for the winter, the azaleas have particularly beautiful autumn foliage colours. Their flowers bloom in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, pink and white.
The park azaleas are the first to start flowering in June, and some continue to bloom after Midsummer, while the rhododendrons stop flowering. The amount of flowers varies from year to year. Usually, an abundant year is followed by a more modest one.

See a base map of the park and listen to the signposts (Green Hearts)(Link leads to external service)
 

Fairly large in size, Rhododendron Park is a pleasant destination for walks in all seasons. It is also a popular photography location, especially during the flowering season in June.
You can admire the park’s blooms from two platforms rising above the bushes, providing a view over the flowers in all their glory.

Events in the park

Events held in the City’s parks can be found in the event calendar, where you can search for them.
Event calendar(Link leads to external service)
 

In June, the park often features pop-up restaurants. Nearby cafés and restaurants can be found within walking distance. There are no toilets in the park.

Rhododendron Park covers an area of almost ten hectares. The routes of the park include both wide sand roads and wooden duckboards. The duckboards through the bushes are partially accessible. There is no winter maintenance on the routes.

The park has benches where you can rest and enjoy the blooming flowers. In addition to Finnish, the park’s signposts are also in English and Swedish. The pathways are partially lit.

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

The trees and bushes of the park thrive when they are allowed to grow in peace. Please do not cut any branches or walk in the planting areas of the park.
Read about park rules and park etiquette on the following page: Visit parks responsibly | City of Helsinki.