Parks Nature
Utrecht has a diversity of parks in and around the city.
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Fayruz + 5
- Studentlife Team: “Griftpark has so much to offer, from a basketball court to skate park and a “city petting zoo”!”
- Thomas : “A beautiful park, perfect for a picnic with friends. It also has an interesting history. Until 1960, it was the most polluted place in Utrecht due to the gas factory that was built there.”
- Fayruz : “As I wander aimlessly around Griftpark, I forget about my stress. I just focus on the green scenery, the ducks leisurely swimming in the pond, and the trees. If you take a break from studying, I highly recommend taking a stroll in the park, as it can be a rejuvenating experience for the soul.”
Botanical Gardens
Great for a visit in between classes, as all UU students have free access to the gardens- By Sanne + 7
- Hau : “This is a wonderful place to take a walk or have lunch with your friends. Access is free for UU students.”
- Laura : “You can truly relax in the botanical gardens. It comes highly recommended whether you take a short stroll or stay there for hours.”
- Sanne: “It's cool that your're so in the middle of the Botanical Gardens”
Juliana Park
Park, playground and zoo all in one!- By Berne + 2
- Panagiota: “This is a park that you can enjoy all year round. The park has also several fenced areas that are home to a diverse fauna, including deers, llamas, pigs, and different kinds of birds!”
- Studentlife Team: “Visiting this park is the best way to reconnect with nature and boost your well-being by surrounding yourself with animals like chickens, sheep, and ducks.”
- Berne: “In every season the juliana park is a nice place to walk. And in the summer you can have a picnic among the chickens”
Wilhelminapark
This 122-year-old park is Utrecht's most favourite spot for a summer BBQ.- By Studentlife Team + 3
- Jiani : “We held our Welcome Week at this park, and there was plenty of space for a variety of outdoor activities. You can bring a blanket for a picnic, and there is also a beautiful view of the pond and trees, making it an exceptional place to enjoy a good time with friends in good weather! I met my classmates here, enjoyed some beer, and soaked up the sun on a lovely afternoon.”
- Kees: “I have a very sweet dog who I love to walk and play with. When we go to the Wilhelmina Park together, she is as happy as a pup and runs/swims after everything.”
- Studentlife Team: “It is a perfect spot for a date or quality time with friends. Located between the International Campus and the city centre, Wilhelminapark is always full of students having picnics or going for walks. In the summer you should definitely try ice cream from Vorst, which is just around the corner.”