Head to Yarkon Park (Ganei Yehosha) for year-round outdoor fun in Tel Aviv away from the city’s Mediterranean coastline. Straddling the Yarkon River, Yarkon Park is to Tel Aviv what Central Park is to New York and Hyde Park is to London. Bring the children and take advantage of a host of family-friendly attractions. Attend live music and theatrical performances, meet exotic animals, ride in a hot air balloon and browse public art.
The park has several themed gardens to discover. See curious rock formations found throughout Israel in the Rock Garden and decorative hedges in the Topiary Garden. Admire thousands of plant species in the Cactus and Succulents Garden. A wooden boardwalk weaves between orchids, palms and vines in the Tropical Garden.
Children will love exploring the playground facilities, which include slides and climbing frames. Get up close with deer, guinea fowl, peacocks and raccoons at the petting zoo. At the park’s large, manmade lake you can rent peddle boats and motorboats. Four designated picnic areas have facilities such as tables, water fountains and washrooms.
Put on a pair of comfortable shoes or rent a bike and follow miles of paved and natural trails. These follow the riverfront, through gardens and past historical monuments, including the Seven Mills flour mill. Be ready to spot sculptures by Jack Jano, among other Hebrew artists. See the park and Tel Aviv’s skyline from 400 feet (122 meters) on a hot air balloon.
Music and theater fans should check the event schedule at Wohl Amphitheater, an outdoor arena with a capacity for 1,000 spectators. Open-air concerts also take place in the park. Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones are among the previous performers.
Yarkon Park sits to the north of Tel Aviv. Get here via public buses or catch a train to Ta University station. The park’s far western section connects with Tel Aviv Port. Visit the park’s official website for more information about its attractions and events.
