Park Im. Jana Pawła Ii

Park im. Jana Pawła II: Visiting Hours, Attractions, and Visitor’s Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Park im. Jana Pawła II, located in Warsaw’s vibrant Ursynów district, is a harmonious urban sanctuary that seamlessly blends verdant landscapes with poignant historical and cultural elements. Established in 2000 to honor Pope John Paul II, Poland’s first pope and an internationally significant figure, the park offers more than just scenic beauty—it stands as a testament to Polish resilience, community spirit, and remembrance. Designed by landscape architect Dorota Sikora, the park spans over 4.3 hectares and features tree-lined pathways, commemorative monuments, and contemporary amenities that cater to families, wellness seekers, and anyone seeking a tranquil retreat.

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Park im. Jana Pawła II is easily accessible by public transportation, with the Ursynów Metro station and several bus lines nearby. The 2023 revitalization of its central square, including a spectacular illuminated fountain, has further enhanced its appeal. Other highlights include the “Maciejka” graduation tower—a unique wellness attraction—as well as sports facilities, playgrounds, and regular community events. For up-to-date visitor details and virtual tours, consult the Ursynów District Official Website (eko.um.warszawa.pl, ursynow.um.warszawa.pl, mundomaya.travel).

Historical Background and Cultural Significance
Visiting Hours and Admission
Getting There and Travel Tips
Park Attractions and Features
Events and Community Life
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Tips
References and Further Reading

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

Opened on May 18, 2000, to coincide with the 80th birthday of Pope John Paul II, the park was designed to serve as both a green haven and a place of remembrance (eko.um.warszawa.pl). Its commemorative features include an obelisk at the Romera Street entrance and a boulder memorializing Poles deported to Siberia. These monuments reinforce the park’s dual role as a recreational space and a living symbol of Poland’s tumultuous history.

The park’s layout, with parallel tree-lined avenues, is oriented towards the nearby Church of the Ascension—designed by Marek Budzyński—which further anchors its cultural importance in the district.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Admission: Free for all visitors; no tickets required.
Special Events: Some community or cultural events may require prior registration or tickets—check the official website for details.

Getting There and Travel Tips

Location: Intersection of Romera and Melodyjna Streets, Ursynów, Warsaw.
Public Transport: Accessible via the Ursynów Metro station (a 10-minute walk) and multiple bus lines.
Parking: Limited street parking available; public transport is recommended for convenience and sustainability.
Cycling: Bicycle racks are provided for eco-friendly visitors.

Park Attractions and Features

Central Square and Fountain Plaza

The revitalized central square, completed in 2023, features a modern LED-lit fountain that operates daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM during the warmer months (ursynow.um.warszawa.pl). The square is a popular gathering spot, especially in the evenings when water jets and colored lights create a striking display.

Green Infrastructure

The park boasts over 4.3 hectares of lush greenery, with hundreds of mature trees, thousands of shrubs, and vibrant seasonal plantings. Its open lawns and flowerbeds provide ample space for picnics, relaxation, and informal gatherings.

Graduation Tower “Maciejka”

A unique wellness feature, the “Maciejka” graduation tower emits a mineral-rich saline mist believed to promote respiratory health. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM (mid-April to mid-October), it is a favorite spot among wellness enthusiasts.

Sports Facilities

Football Pitch: Modern artificial turf field with changing rooms, open weekdays 10:30 AM–10:00 PM and weekends 10:00 AM–9:45 PM. Reservations can be made for group use.
Outdoor Gym: Free outdoor fitness equipment suitable for teens and adults.
Jogging Track: Flat, illuminated paths ideal for jogging, walking, and cycling.

Children’s Playground

The playground features safe, modern equipment for all ages, including swings, slides, climbing frames, and trampolines. The area is fenced and surfaced with soft materials for safety. Nearby kiosks and cafés offer refreshments and shaded seating.

Commemorative Monuments

Obelisk: Dedicated to Pope John Paul II at the main entrance.
Siberian Boulder: Honoring over a million Poles exiled to Siberia, providing a reflective space for visitors.

Water and Refreshment Points

The park includes an oligoceńska water intake, offering fresh, mineral-rich drinking water—a traditional Warsaw feature.

Urban Furniture

New benches, waste bins, and bicycle racks enhance visitor comfort and sustainability.

Events and Community Life

Throughout the year, Park im. Jana Pawła II hosts a wide range of events, including:

Annual Celebrations: May 18th events to mark John Paul II’s birthday.
Spring & Summer Festivals: Open-air concerts, fairs, and family-friendly gatherings.
Educational Programs: Nature walks and environmental workshops, occasionally with guided tours.

Events are designed to foster community spirit and cultural engagement. Details are updated regularly on the district website.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

Physical Accessibility: Step-free entrances, wide paved paths, accessible restrooms, and ramps throughout the park.
Signage: Clear, multilingual signage (Polish/English); Braille and QR codes for audio guides in select areas.
Safety: The park is well-lit after dusk and patrolled by municipal security.
Wi-Fi & Charging: Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are available near the central pavilion and café.
Café and Kiosks: Accessible refreshment points offer snacks and drinks with support for dietary needs.
Rest Areas: Numerous benches with armrests and shaded spots for relaxation.

Nearby Attractions

Church of the Ascension: Architecturally distinctive, located adjacent to the park.
Ursynów Cultural Centers: Offer exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
Other Green Spaces: Easily connect your visit with other Warsaw parks and historical sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the park’s opening hours?
A: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, entry is free for all visitors.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash.

Q: Is the park wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasional guided tours are organized by community groups—check the official site for updates.

Q: Can I reserve the football pitch?
A: Yes, reservations are managed through the local sports center.

Q: Is there bicycle parking?
A: Yes, racks are located near main entrances.

Summary and Visitor Tips

Park im. Jana Pawła II is a standout example of Warsaw’s commitment to merging cultural heritage, ecological diversity, and community wellness. Its free admission, extensive facilities, and inclusive design make it ideal for spontaneous visits, planned outings, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re drawn by its serene landscapes, commemorative spaces, or lively events, the park offers something for everyone.

Visitor Tips:

Visit in spring or early autumn for the best weather and full amenities.
Don’t miss the illuminated fountain in the evenings.
Bring reusable bottles to enjoy the mineral-rich water points.
Check event listings for special celebrations or guided tours.
Use public transport for convenience and sustainability.

References and Further Reading

Image alt text suggestions: “Obelisk at Park im. Jana Pawła II entrance, Ursynów, Warsaw”, “Illuminated fountain in Park im. Jana Pawła II at night”, “Tree-lined avenue in Park im. Jana Pawła II”, “Commemorative boulder for Siberian exiles, Park im. Jana Pawła II”, “Inclusive playground at Park im. Jana Pawła II”.