Audio Guide of Hupisaaret Park

Hupisaaret Park is open 24 hours a day all year round, as it is a public outdoor park, although buildings such as the botanical museum have specific hours (generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM in season). You can easily get there on foot from central Oulu, by bicycle, or by bus; the nearest stops are by the Oulujoki River. For more details, visit the official website at Visit Oulu.

Entry to the park is completely free, making it ideal for tight budgets. However, if you visit the botanical museum or the art museum located inside, there may be a small fee (around 5–10 euros). Check updated prices at Oulu Museums.

It is recommended to spend at least 1–2 hours walking through the islands, enjoying the gardens, and seeing the waterfalls. If you include a visit to the botanical museum, it could extend to 3 hours. It is a relaxed place, so adjust according to your pace.

Hupisaaret Park, known as the Park of the Islands, was designed in the 19th century as a green oasis in Oulu and is one of Finland’s first public parks. It houses the country’s oldest botanical museum and represents the industrial and natural heritage of the region, with bridges and paths connecting several islands in the Oulujoki River. It is an iconic site for local culture and nature conservation.

Summer (June to August) is ideal for seeing the gardens in bloom and enjoying the midnight sun, while winter offers a magical snowy landscape. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and get better light for photos, especially at sunrise when the waterfalls are most impressive.

The park is partially accessible, with paved paths and adapted bridges in the main areas, but some parts with stairs or uneven ground can be challenging. All-terrain wheelchairs are recommended; contact the City of Oulu at +358 8 5584 7000 for specific assistance or adapted routes.

Nearby you will find Oulu’s historic center with its lively market square (a 10-minute walk away) and the Oulu Museum of Art. You can also visit the Oulu Observation Tower for panoramic views or the Turkansaari district. Explore more at Visit Oulu for combined itineraries.

Bring comfortable shoes for the trails, sunscreen in summer, and warm clothing in winter; do not forget water and a picnic to enjoy the rest areas. Download the map from the Visit Oulu app so you do not miss anything, and respect nature by avoiding littering. If you are traveling with family, look for the information signs about the local flora.