Family time outdoors - outdoor destination for families with children
Playgrounds, art, history, flower splendor and pets – in Vaasa’s diverse parks there is much to experience for the whole family.
1. Edvin’s path playground och sculpture trail
Along Edvinin polku in there is something for everyone.
- A forest park filled with sculptures made from wood, metal and other recycled materials by the ITE-artist Edvin Hevonkoski.
- A “korsu” (a war dugout) and a smoke sauna.
- The play ground in Lystitie 42 with its versatile swings, climbing frames and rope courses are a favorite place for children of all ages.
- Campfire site where you can barbecue.
2. Laivapuisto (the Ship park)
Metviken Activity Park is located in the Vöyrinkaupunki district and has earned its nickname from the large play ship in the middle of the park. This park is full of fun for both children and adults, and an hour or two passes by quickly here. Children are kept active by the playground’s versatile equipment, ranging from climbing frames, spring riders, and sandboxes to musical instruments. Meanwhile, adults can stay active using the outdoor gym equipment, improve their volleyball skills, or simply relax on the park benches and enjoy a summer day.
3. Alkula park
In the culturally and historically significant Alkula Park and its surroundings, there is plenty to see:
For history enthusiasts: Alkula Manor functioned from 1773 to the early 1800s as Abraham Falander’s tobacco plantation. In 1847, August Alexander Levon purchased the manor and gave it the name Alkula. The estate was located outside the actual city walls, and during the Great Fire of Vaasa in 1852, the flames did not reach it—allowing the manor to survive.
For garden lovers: Levon had a great interest in gardening, and plants from his time still grow at Alkula today, including cinnamon roses, lilacs, and Siberian pea shrubs. The floral display is at its best from June to August.
For animal lovers: The local 4H association rents the meadows in the area and maintains Alkula Farm, where animals such as sheep, rabbits, and chickens can be found during the summer. Information and opening hours (in Finnish)
4. Moomin park
Moomin Park, or Satopuisto as it is officially called, is a playground with a Moomin theme located in the Sandviken district. In addition to playhouses and figures inspired by the Moomins, the park features swings, slides, sandboxes, and other traditional, well-loved playground equipment. For older visitors, there is a pergola with wooden sun loungers, a garden swing, as well as fixed benches and tables where you can enjoy a picnic.
5. Setterberg’s Park
Setterberg Park Playground is also known as the Children’s Park. It is easy to spot thanks to its bright red climbing structures and play train. The fenced playground is safe for play enthusiasts of all ages and is located along the atmospheric waterfront promenade near the centre of Vaasa. Adults can admire the historic buildings nearby and, of course, enjoy the sea view.
