Borden Park
Edmonton's vibrant community park featuring playgrounds, picnic spots, a unique natural pool, and seasonal Halloween magic.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the magic of Pumpkins After Dark
Borden Park
Best Time
Experience the magic of Pumpkins After Dark
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edmonton's vibrant community park featuring playgrounds, picnic spots, a unique natural pool, and seasonal Halloween magic.
"An amazing park close to downtown with lots of amenities and easy public transit access."
Book Pumpkins After Dark Tickets
Tickets for Pumpkins After Dark sell out! Book online in advance to secure your spot for this popular Halloween event.
Natural Pool Etiquette
The natural pool uses zooplankton for cleaning. Avoid lotions and heavy soaps to protect the ecosystem.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pumpkins After Dark
Borden Park
Wander through a magical Halloween wonderland with over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins and dazzling displays.
Borden Natural Pool
Borden Park
Canada's only natural swimming pool, using zooplankton for filtration. A unique summer cool-off spot.
Art Sculptures
Various locations within Borden Park
Discover unique and interesting art installations scattered throughout the park, adding a creative flair to your visit.
Picnic Shelters & Playgrounds
Borden Park
Ample shaded and unshaded picnic spots, perfect for gatherings, with multiple play structures for kids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Spectacles: Halloween & Summer Fun
Park Amenities & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Pumpkins After Dark Tickets
Tickets for Pumpkins After Dark sell out! Book online in advance to secure your spot for this popular Halloween event.
Natural Pool Etiquette
The natural pool uses zooplankton for cleaning. Avoid lotions and heavy soaps to protect the ecosystem. +1
Pack a Picnic
Borden Park has many great picnic spots. Bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst the greenery.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you visit Pumpkins After Dark. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Pumpkins After Dark Tickets
Tickets for Pumpkins After Dark sell out! Book online in advance to secure your spot for this popular Halloween event.
Natural Pool Etiquette
The natural pool uses zooplankton for cleaning. Avoid lotions and heavy soaps to protect the ecosystem. +1
Pack a Picnic
Borden Park has many great picnic spots. Bring your own food and enjoy a meal amidst the greenery.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you visit Pumpkins After Dark. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Check Event Schedules
The park hosts various events like Ufest. Check local listings to see if there's anything happening during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Borden Park is a highly-rated urban oasis praised for its diverse amenities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and the unique natural pool. Visitors appreciate its accessibility and free parking. However, some reviews note occasional cleanliness issues and the potential for overcrowding during popular events.
"Amazing park close to downtown. Lots of shaded and unshaded picnic spots. Easy access via piblic transit. Lots of parking. Washrooms are in the pavilion. Nice walking and running trail/track. Very unique art sculpture. 3 play structure for kids including slide, monkey bar, ropes etc. Free parking lot. Fenced Swimming pool not sure what are its operating time frame, during our visit it was closed. There is a stage/stadium. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Over all great park must visit if you are in Edmonton. Check out videos and images follow me for more detailed reviews."
Vids Tube
"This park offers visitors a decent-sized area for walking and relaxation. This park also boasts several amenities that make it a favorable destination for those seeking outdoor activities. One of the standout features is the enclosed public bathroom housed in a heated building, providing visitors with convenience and comfort throughout their visit.
The park's layout allows for leisurely strolls, and the ample space ensures that visitors can enjoy their walks without feeling crowded. However, it is worth mentioning that the park could benefit from some attention when it comes to cleanliness. There have been instances of scattered garbage, which detracts from the overall ambiance. Proper maintenance and regular cleaning would greatly enhance the park's appeal.
While the natural beauty of the park is evident, it becomes apparent that with proper landscaping, Borden Park could truly flourish as an exquisite destination for exercise enthusiasts. If this park was introducing well-planned green spaces, floral displays, and perhaps even a variety of trees and shrubs, the park could transform into a picturesque haven, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature."
Bry Gutierrez
"Mid sized urban park with a playground, pool and many picnic shelters to rent. The park was very clean when we visited and seemed many facilities were fairly recently renovated. Lots of trees all around! And parking was free which is a bonus."
Zoltan Wagner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Borden Park is easily accessible by public transit in Edmonton, making it convenient for those without a car. There is also a free parking lot available on-site for visitors who prefer to drive.
Yes, Borden Park is generally wheelchair and stroller accessible, with paved paths and ample space for easy navigation.
Borden Park offers a free parking lot, which is a significant bonus for visitors.
Yes, Borden Park is well-served by public transit, with bus routes providing convenient access from various parts of Edmonton.
Borden Park is conveniently located close to downtown Edmonton, making it an easy destination for a quick visit or a longer outing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to Borden Park itself is free. However, special events like 'Pumpkins After Dark' require separate ticket purchases.
Tickets for Pumpkins After Dark typically start around $21.95 for adults, with youth tickets being slightly less. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website. 
Pumpkins After Dark usually runs from late September through October 31st, transforming Borden Park into a Halloween spectacle.
Children under 3 are typically free for Pumpkins After Dark. It's a family-friendly event suitable for all ages.
It is highly recommended to purchase Pumpkins After Dark tickets online in advance, as they can sell out and may not be available at the gate.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
The Borden Natural Pool is Canada's only natural swimming pool, utilizing zooplankton and aquatic plants for water filtration instead of chemicals. +1
The operating hours for the Borden Natural Pool vary by season and are not always consistently posted. It's best to check local listings or the city's parks department for current information.
Yes, Borden Park features three play structures for children, offering slides, monkey bars, and rope elements for active fun.
Yes, Borden Park has multiple picnic shelters available for rent, making it an ideal location for parties and gatherings.
Borden Park is known for its unique art sculptures, though some visitors have noted that certain statues may be missing at times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Pumpkins After Dark often features fall treats and food vendors, adding to the festive Halloween experience.
Absolutely! Borden Park offers numerous shaded and unshaded picnic spots, making it a perfect place to enjoy a meal outdoors.
Being close to downtown Edmonton, there are many restaurant options available near Borden Park for those looking for dining out.
Typically, there are no dedicated food vendors directly at the Borden Natural Pool itself. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your swim.
Yes, bringing your own food is encouraged, especially for picnics. There are many designated picnic areas throughout the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Borden Park offers great photo opportunities, especially during 'Pumpkins After Dark' with its elaborate pumpkin displays. The art sculptures and natural scenery also make for beautiful shots.
Pumpkins After Dark is incredibly photogenic, with thousands of hand-carved pumpkins and themed scenes creating a magical backdrop for photos.
For general park photography, mornings or late afternoons offer softer light. For Pumpkins After Dark, the entire event is designed for evening photos with its illuminated displays.
Yes, you can take photos at the Borden Natural Pool, capturing its unique natural aesthetic. However, be mindful of other swimmers.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial photography or filming, you may need to inquire with the city's parks department.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the summer, the Borden Natural Pool offers a unique and fun swimming experience for kids. In the fall, 'Pumpkins After Dark' is a must-visit Halloween event that captures the imagination of children with its magical pumpkin displays. Remember to book tickets in advance for this popular attraction.
+1🎃 Halloween Enthusiasts
+1Plan to visit on an evening in October for the full effect. Tickets are essential and should be purchased online well in advance, as this is one of Edmonton's most popular Halloween attractions. Be prepared for crowds, but the sheer spectacle is worth it for any Halloween lover.
☀️ Summer Swimmers
Keep in mind that the natural pool's ecosystem is sensitive, so avoid using lotions or soaps that could harm the zooplankton. While it's a fantastic amenity, it can get busy during peak summer days. Check operating hours before you go, as they can vary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Pumpkins After Dark
+1The event is a massive draw for families, couples, and friends looking for a festive fall activity. Many attendees highlight the incredible artistry and creativity involved in the pumpkin displays, noting the sheer scale and detail. It's a highly visual experience, perfect for capturing memorable photos and videos.
+2Planning your visit to Pumpkins After Dark is key. Tickets are required and often sell out, so booking online in advance is strongly recommended. The event runs nightly from late September through October 31st. While it can get crowded, the extended hours and vastness of the park allow for a relatively smooth flow of visitors.
Borden Natural Pool: A Unique Swimming Experience
While the natural filtration is innovative, it also means that the pool's ecosystem is delicate. Visitors are often advised to avoid using lotions, heavy soaps, or other chemicals that could disrupt the zooplankton and plant life. This eco-friendly approach is a key part of the pool's appeal for those seeking a more sustainable outdoor experience.
The Borden Natural Pool is a popular summer destination, offering a unique way to cool off. However, its popularity can lead to crowds, and some concerns have been raised about the strain too many swimmers might put on the filtration system. It's essential to check operating hours as they can vary, and to be mindful of the pool's natural maintenance requirements.
Park Amenities and Community Hub
For those seeking active recreation, Borden Park offers sports fields and tennis courts. The presence of well-maintained walking and running trails, along with unique art sculptures scattered throughout, adds to the park's appeal for exercise enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The park's accessibility, including free parking and stroller/wheelchair-friendly paths, makes it a welcoming space for everyone.
While the park is generally well-maintained, some reviews mention occasional cleanliness issues with scattered garbage. However, many visitors praise recent renovations and the overall cleanliness during their visits. The park's central location and diverse offerings solidify its status as a beloved and versatile urban green space in Edmonton.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit