Carleton Park - Image 1
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Carleton Park

4.5
·240 reviews·Fredericton, Canada

A serene riverside park in Fredericton, offering paved trails, wildlife viewing, and festive holiday lights.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Outdoor fitness classes

CrowdMedium
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Carleton Park - Image 1

Carleton Park

Best Time

Summer evenings

Outdoor fitness classes

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene riverside park in Fredericton, offering paved trails, wildlife viewing, and festive holiday lights.

4.5
(240 reviews)

"Beautiful place with river's view."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Feed the Ducks

Bring seeds to feed the ducks and pigeons by the river – a hit with kids!

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the paved trails comfortably. Great for dog walks too!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverfront Trails

Riverfront Trails

Along the Southside Riverfront

Stroll paved paths with stunning river views, leading to local breweries and bridges.

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife Watching

Near the water's edge

Feed ducks and pigeons by the river, a delightful activity for all ages.

Holiday Light Displays

Holiday Light Displays

Throughout the park

Experience magical, expanded light installations during the festive season.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Riverfront Charm

Carleton Park offers a serene escape along the river. Enjoy paved trails, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll or a family outing.

Seasonal Delights

While beautiful year-round, Carleton Park truly shines during the holidays with expanded light displays. Summer evenings are also popular for outdoor fitness classes.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Outdoor fitness classes
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season
Why
Magical light displays
Crowd
High
When
Anytime
Why
Peaceful river views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fredericton is shining brighter than ever this holiday season! ✨ Explore new and expanded light displays across the city, from Carleton Park to Main Street, Nasis Commons, Devonshire Drive, Officers’ Square, South Riverfront Trail, and the Pedway Bridge. Come stroll, snap photos, and feel the holiday magic all around!
cityoffredericton
46 likes • 712 views

🐾 Feed the Ducks

Bring seeds to feed the ducks and pigeons by the river – a hit with kids! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the paved trails comfortably. Great for dog walks too! Instagram

On Tuesday 14 October 2025, the Carleton Park Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) was officially opened, with representatives from the Carleton Park Recreation Group, Penrith Town Council, Cumbria Community Foundation and Westmorland & Furness Council in attendance. The Carleton Park Recreation Group has been tirelessly fundraising for the project for a number of years. A £15,000 grant from Penrith Town ...
penrithtowncouncil
6 likes • 402 views
Carleton park to Old Rez via riverfront front trail....
bigpapimvp2013
4 likes • 40 views

📸 Sunset Spot

This is a favorite spot for watching the sunset over the river. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

There's a watering station to refill your bottles along the trails. Reddit

Every Tuesday and Thursday all summer at Carleton Park! DM for details.
babybump.fit
14 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Feed the Ducks

Bring seeds to feed the ducks and pigeons by the river – a hit with kids! Reddit

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the paved trails comfortably. Great for dog walks too! Instagram

📸 Sunset Spot

This is a favorite spot for watching the sunset over the river. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

There's a watering station to refill your bottles along the trails. Reddit

🚗 Rough Parking

Be aware that the parking lot can be a bit rough. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(240 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Carleton Park for its calming and peaceful atmosphere, especially along the riverfront. The paved trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and connection to city attractions are frequently highlighted as positives. Some note the parking lot can be rough, but overall, it's considered a beautiful and well-kept spot for relaxation and recreation.

"Very calming and peaceful park! You can go near the river and see the ducks and pigeons you can walk on a ramp and get inside the river like 50-60 meters i guess! Overall really nice place to get close to river also the trail next to it takes you along side the river and really pretty views"

Jay patel

"Clean and well kept. Ducks are the main attraction! There is a small boat landing with a dock area, popular fishing the river. Beautiful views of the Southside river front, paved walking trails, leading towards Picaroons , a brewing establishment, from there walk to the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, that leads across to the Southside of Fredericton, with panoramic views, you will not be disappointed. Picnic tables are set up so famlies can picnic there, beautiful flowers, shade trees, benches, and a watering station to fill up your water bottles! Garbage cans along the way as well as a portable toilet."

Dee King

"This is my favourite place to sit and watch the sunset. It is also a beautiful spot to have a picnic, read a book, and walk your dog. By the water there are usually some ducks so you can even bring seed to feed them which is a fun activity for the little ones."

Margaret Brooks

What People Like

Calming river views
Paved walking trails
Wildlife observation

What People Dislike

Rough parking lot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Carleton Park is located in Fredericton, New Brunswick. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. The paved trails also connect to other parts of the city, making it reachable by bike or on foot from nearby areas. Instagram

Yes, there is a parking lot available. However, some visitors note that the parking lot can be a bit rough. Reddit

Information on direct public transport routes to Carleton Park may vary. It's best to check local Fredericton transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. The park's proximity to the city center suggests it might be accessible via bus routes.

Absolutely! The paved riverfront trails are excellent for cycling, offering scenic views as you ride. Instagram

Carleton Park is conveniently located near local breweries like Picaroons and connects to the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, offering access to the Southside of Fredericton. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Carleton Park is a public park and generally does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities freely.

As a public park, Carleton Park is typically open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for any facilities within the park may vary.

For general park access, no tickets are needed. However, if there are specific organized events or fitness classes, you might need to register or pay a fee. Instagram

Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for dogs and respecting wildlife. Check for any seasonal or event-specific restrictions.

Yes, dogs are welcome at Carleton Park, but it's essential to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, cycling, picnicking, bird watching, and photography. During the holidays, the light displays are a major attraction. InstagramReddit

Yes, Carleton Park has picnic tables set up, making it a great spot for a family meal outdoors. Reddit

The paved walking trails are generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, offering a smooth experience. Reddit

The park is known for its ducks and pigeons, especially near the river. It's a lovely spot for casual wildlife observation. Reddit

Yes, there are portable toilets available within the park for visitor convenience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Carleton Park itself doesn't have on-site dining facilities, but it's located near establishments like Picaroons brewery. Reddit

Absolutely! Carleton Park is a perfect spot for a picnic, with tables available. Reddit

You can find dining options nearby, including breweries and other eateries accessible via the walking trails and bridges. Reddit

There are no shops within the park itself, so it's best to bring your own snacks and drinks or plan to visit nearby establishments.

Packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated tables is a popular and pleasant way to dine in the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The river views, sunset, ducks, and holiday light displays offer fantastic photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a favorite spot for photographers to capture beautiful sunset views over the river. Reddit

Certainly! The ducks and pigeons by the river are common subjects for casual photography. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography might require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.

Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for photography. The holiday season is also a prime time for festive shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Carleton Park is a fantastic choice for families. The paved trails are perfect for strollers and little legs, and the chance to feed the ducks is always a hit. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy at the tables, and let the kids explore the riverfront. During the holidays, the light displays create a magical experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Strollers & Dog Walkers

🏃‍♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts

Carleton Park is a great spot for outdoor workouts. During the summer, you might find organized fitness classes taking place, offering a dynamic way to exercise in a beautiful setting. Instagram The paved trails are also ideal for running or cycling, allowing you to combine your workout with scenic views of the river.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Riverfront Trails

Carleton Park boasts a network of well-maintained paved trails that hug the Southside Riverfront. These paths are perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling, offering continuous scenic views of the water. Many visitors enjoy the ease of access and the connection these trails provide to other city landmarks. Instagram

These trails are not just for recreation; they serve as a gateway to local attractions. You can follow them towards popular spots like Picaroons, a local brewery, and then continue on to the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge. This bridge offers panoramic vistas of Fredericton and connects you to the Northside of the city, making Carleton Park a great starting or ending point for a larger urban exploration. Reddit

Whether you're looking for a short, peaceful stroll or a longer, connected journey, the riverfront trails at Carleton Park provide a beautiful and accessible way to experience the city's natural and urban landscape. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and perhaps bring a water bottle, as there's a convenient watering station available. Reddit

Seasonal Spectacles: From Summer Fitness to Winter Lights

Carleton Park transforms with the seasons, offering unique experiences throughout the year. During the summer months, the park becomes a hub for outdoor fitness enthusiasts, with classes like those advertised on Tuesdays and Thursdays, providing a vibrant atmosphere for active visitors. Instagram

As the weather cools, the park's appeal shifts towards its natural beauty and tranquility. It remains a favorite spot for quiet contemplation, dog walking, and enjoying the simple pleasure of watching the river and its inhabitants. Reddit

However, Carleton Park truly comes alive during the holiday season. It's renowned for its expanded and dazzling light displays that illuminate the park, creating a magical ambiance. This makes it a must-visit destination for families and anyone looking to soak in the festive spirit. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters and Family Fun

One of the most charming aspects of Carleton Park is the opportunity to get up close with local wildlife, particularly the ducks and pigeons that frequent the riverbanks. Visitors often bring seeds to feed these friendly birds, a simple yet delightful activity that brings smiles to both children and adults. Reddit

The park's amenities, such as picnic tables and paved, accessible trails, make it an ideal destination for families. It provides a safe and pleasant environment for children to explore, play, and connect with nature. The ability to walk along the river and observe the waterfowl adds an educational and engaging element to any family outing. Reddit

Beyond the immediate riverfront, the park's connection to other city attractions via walking trails means that a visit to Carleton Park can easily be extended into a larger family adventure, combining nature, recreation, and urban exploration. Instagram

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