Central Park (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Central Park?
What makes it 89% Solo-Friendly: The extensive shaded trails, free fitness circuit, outdoor pool and safe daytime atmosphere give a solo visitor many low-cost activities, but limited lighting makes late evenings less ideal.
Positives:
- Free entry and parking: Most park facilities are free and parking is complimentary on weekdays.
- Public transit access: Patterson SkyTrain station is a 5-minute walk to the main trail entrance.
Challenges:
- Weekend crowds: Parking lots fill early on weekends; arrive before 10 am to secure a spot.
- Limited food options: No on-site cafes; pack snacks or bring water to avoid walking off-site.
What is Central Park?
- A 90-hectare municipal green space in Burnaby featuring second-growth Douglas fir forest, two ornamental ponds and mature maple and cedar groves
- Includes an 18-hole pitch-and-putt golf course, a heated 50-metre outdoor pool and multi-use sports fields
- Features a network of paved and wood-chip trails winding through manicured lawns, ornamental gardens and natural forest stands
What is so special about Central Park for solo trip?
- 3.5 km loop offers easy navigation and varied scenery
- Free outdoor activities: golf, pool (summer), sports courts
- Join local run clubs or parkrun for social solo experiences
- Quiet wildlife spots at upper and lower ponds for photography
- Easily reachable by transit with on-site parking available
Recommended visit duration: 2-4 hours
Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: 2 to 4 hours lets you walk the loop, visit ponds, and try the golf course at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Central Park
Perimeter Trail Run/Walk:
Circle the 3.5 km perimeter trail to see ponds, forest, and open fields.
Tip: Start at the Patterson entrance to follow signage and avoid steep sections early.
Pitch & Putt Golf:
Play 18 holes on the par-54 mini-golf course under tall evergreens.
Tip: Rent clubs on site and arrive before noon for fewer players.
Outdoor Pool Swim:
Swim laps in the heated 50 m pool with a one-meter diving board.
Tip: Check pool hours online and bring local currency for the drop-in fee.
Parkrun Event:
Join the free 5 km timed run every Saturday at 9 am by Patterson SkyTrain station.
Tip: Register online for your parkrun barcode before your first run.
Wildlife & Pond Photography:
Spot ducks, mandarin ducks, and songbirds at the upper and lower ponds.
Tip: Bring a zoom lens and a low stool for stable shots near the water.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Central Park
- Use the north entrance: Start at Patterson Rd for shaded trails and direct access to the pond loop.
- Download trail map: Save the park map offline from the Burnaby parks website to navigate without signal.
Reviews of Central Park
Stanley Yang
This place needs no introduction. Being a Burnaby boy it was so nice to visit after traveling for 2 years. Been to parks all over the world but this place has a special place for me when it comes to serenity. The air tho! My kiddos love it here!
Emi
This spot is fantastic for a run or walk, offering a well-maintained path with plenty of things to explore. There's a tennis court for those looking to play, and during the warmer months, the outdoor swimming pool is a great option to cool off. Along the path, you'll also find exercise machines, perfect for a quick workout break. However, I wouldn’t recommend visiting alone at night, as the area ...
Bernie
Central Park in Burnaby stands out as a serene oasis of natural beauty, brimming with attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Enjoy a scenic stroll or jog along the trails, surrounded by towering trees that create a peaceful atmosphere. The picnic tables and chairs make it the perfect spot for gatherings with family and friends. Kids will have a blast at the playground, and the ponds ...
Manizha A
Beautiful park located in the city of Burnaby, the trails are well maintained and easily accessible. There are 2 small ponds in the centre of the park as well as a playground, restrooms, tennis courts and a concession stand. The whole park took about an hour to walk around. Very peaceful and relaxing way to unwind, there's lots of wildlife running about.
Rafiqul Haque
Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, Central park in Burnaby is a serene oasis of natural beauty. Unlike any other park in the city, it offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. You can enjoy a scenic stroll, jog, or bike ride along the long perimeter walkway that surrounds the park, or explore the trails that weave through the majestic old-growth...
When is the best time to visit Central Park (Vancouver, Canada)?
Summer: pool open and spray park active. Fall: migrating ducks gather by the ponds. Winter: trails are quieter but can be icy—wear grippy shoes.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parkrun participation | CAD 0 |
| Pitch & Putt green fee | CAD 14 |
| Outdoor pool drop-in (adult) | CAD 5 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 19 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Central Park
Address: 3883 Imperial St, Burnaby, BC V5J 1A3, Canada
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About Central Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 604-294-745010 BEST nearby Activities
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