It’s time to play your way through Fredericton. With a wide range of parks, trails, beaches, playgrounds, courts, fields, and neighborhood spaces, there’s something for every age, and interest.
As you explore, remember to Rec Responsibly: follow posted parking directions, supervise children (especially near water), stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and respect shared spaces.
Parks
From lakeside beaches and old-growth forests to splash pads, skate parks, dog parks, and play spaces, Fredericton’s parks offer plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you want to explore nature, get active, gather with friends, or take part in free summer programming, the city’s parks make it easy to spend more time outside.
Killarney Lake Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Just seven minutes from the city centre, the park offers more than 1,200 acres of nature and over 35 km of multi-use trails. Spend the day lounging, swimming, or paddling at Killarney Lake Beach; explore walking, mountain biking, and off-leash dog trails; then wrap up your visit with a picnic or barbecue.
The fun doesn’t stop there. As part of the Recreation and Leisure Master Plan, Killarney Lake Park continues to grow, with future additions including a disc golf course, an accessible nature-inspired playground, and more.
Take a step back in time at Odell Park, considered one of Canada’s best old-growth forests, showcasing Hemlock trees more than 400 years old. Play a round of disc golf, hike along 16 km of trails, visit Harold the Hippo at the duck pond, or enjoy the park’s picnic areas, charcoal barbecues, and destination playground.
The Fredericton Botanic Garden is full of beauty, culture, and history, with more than 10 unique gardens to explore. Admire public art, visit the Wabanaki Healing Garden, wander through the Literature Garden, stop by the Little Free Poetry Library, and watch creativity flourish through the Artist in program. The garden also hosts plant sales, events, and workshops throughout the season.
Wilmot Park has been a recreation hub for more than 100 years, and it continues to evolve as a welcoming space for all ages. Cool off at Fredericton’s largest splash pad, play tennis, basketball, or lawn bowling, enjoy the groomed walking paths, gather for a barbecue, or spend time at the playground. The park also includes accessibility upgrades such as accessible play structures, a communication board, and more.
Fredericton is home to four amazing outdoor skate parks, including one of the largest in Atlantic Canada: The Garrison Skate Park. Wheelers of all kinds are invited to enjoy the city’s skate parks, whether they ride skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, or trick bikes. All ages and skill levels are welcome!
Furry friends deserve park dates too. Fredericton has four dog parks located throughout the city, giving pups plenty of space to run, play, and socialize. From fenced areas to an agility course for extra fun, these parks are great for dogs of all sizes, ages, and energy levels. For dogs who prefer a longer walk, check out the designated off-leash dog trails at Killarney Lake Park.
Downing Street Park in Marysville has received exciting upgrades, including new play structures and an outdoor rink. This summer, those improvements are being put to good use with free community programming. On Wednesday evenings, Sunshine Rollers hosts a community skate with limited free roller skate rentals available.
Although Willie O’Ree Place isn’t a park, it offers plenty of outdoor courts and fields to enjoy. Play a friendly game on the pickleball courts, feel the sand in your toes at the beach volleyball courts, or grab a few friends for soccer or football on the turf.
Please note: the beach volleyball courts and turf fields may be booked for scheduled use.
Fredericton’s neighborhood parks make it easy for families and residents to play close to home. These welcoming community spaces offer green space, play structures, shaded areas, and room to gather, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. During the summer, FREE supervised play is available at select neighborhood parks through the Zig Zag program, giving kids even more opportunities to stay active, make friends, and have fun.
Trails
With more than 150 km of trails throughout Fredericton, summer is the perfect time to walk, roll, bike, and explore. Use the trail network to reach local parks, connect to favourite shops and cafés, enjoy riverfront views, or add more movement to your daily routine.
Breathe in the fresh morning air with a visit to The Green, a large grassy riverside area perfect for sitting, strolling, and playing. Located along the South Riverfront Trail, The Green offers views of iconic Fredericton landmarks, easy access to downtown, and nearby public art displays. Follow the trail toward Wilmot Park, the Fredericton River Centre, or even Odell Park.
Nestled along the North Riverfront Trail, Carleton Park is a scenic spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard. Watch the sunset, play a game, or enjoy a picnic with the best views of the city. From here, take a walk across the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, explore nearby natural spaces such as the Hyla Nature Reserve, or continue to local shops.
Carleton Park is also home to one of Fredericton’s Park & Ride locations. Park in the upper lot, then catch a bus, ride your bike, or walk to your destination.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, looking for a new trail to explore, or searching for free summer fun close to home, Fredericton’s parks and trails offer endless ways to get outside, stay active, and enjoy the season.
Follow the Fredericton Recreation & Culture Facebook page for the latest updates on free summer programming, special events, and family-friendly activities happening across the city.