Looking for peace close to the city? Head to Josaphat Park alone to read a book, look at the statues, and visit the greenhouse. Or take the kids along and hit the minigolf course.
Surrounded by large avenues, Josaphat Park lies in the municipality of Schaerbeek, right next to the city of Brussels. Many visitors swear that its centuries-old plants muffle the noise of the traffic, making it the perfect quiet spot to recharge.
The park was inaugurated by King Leopold II of Belgium back in 1904. It has gone through a complete renovation since 2003, including cutting tree overgrowth, new open spaces and cleaning up the water network. Visitors of Josaphat Park can now enjoy clean ponds, a recently restored waterfall, and even new pathways.
With a surface of 20 hectares, the park is open to everybody and is divided into three parts: the historical park, the great lawns and the playground area.
- Perfect for kids: there are 2 play areas for children, one for children 3-7 and the other for children 7-12. And if the playground isn’t enough for them, check out the minigolf course. Note that you’ll need to reserve beforehand (you can do so by calling 0486 23 70 69, or send an email.
- Greenery: The park is also home to a communal greenhouse, which cultivates the floral decorations for special events or for neighborhood festivals. In May, the greenhouse opens its door to show its work to every visitor -- for free. Some 27,000 plants come out of the greenhouse each year!
- Artsy-fartsy: take a walk in the park and get ready to be impressed by the many sculptures from famous Belgian artists.
- Pet an animal: Did you know there’s also a small (free) zoo in the park? Here you’ll find chickens, pigeons, ducks, rabbits and even donkeys!
- Activities galore: If you’re looking for something new to do during the summer, this is when the park hosts a wide range of activities: yoga sessions, creative workshops, dance classes, writing groups, zero waste workshops and many more. The park’s busy summer agenda is usually kicked off by the “cherry festival” at the end of June. Check out the official agenda of the park to see what’s up next (only in French and Dutch).
- Summer beats: not only workshops and free activities. During the summer, you can even enjoy free live concerts at the park.
Tips and Tricks
- The paths of the bottom loop of the park have been adapted for people with reduced mobility and the visually impaired. Accessibility and Braille signs are available in the different park entrances.
- The most picturesque part of the park is arguably the cherry blossoms path, on the north side. Wanna be impressed? Visit in March or April when they bloom.
- If you need a break after a long walk, you can either have a picnic in the picnic kiosk or head to La Laiterie (in the park) or 1030 Cafe (a few steps away).
Getting There
- By Car: on-street paid parking available nearby the park (Orange zone - Schaerbeek).
- By Bus: close to bus stop Azalees. Bus 66 stops here.
- By Tram: 10 min walk from tram stop Bienfaiteurs. Tram 25 stops here.
24/7 (park). M, Tu, Th, F: by reservation; W: 14:00 to 20:00; Sa, Su 12:00 to 20:00 (mini-golf)
All seasons
Free (park); 5€ for adults, 3€ for children and schools, 3,5€ for groups with at least 8 people (mini golf)
Open; national COVID guidelines apply
“The perfect place to relax during the day, or have an afternoon drink with friends at La Buvette Saint-Sebastien. Go around sunset and watch from the hill for an amazing view! If you have kids, make sure to hit up the mini golf course and Glacier Cocozza for ice cream.”
— Lotte, local living in Brussels.