Queen's Park Savannah is the largest open space in Port of Spain, covering about 260 acres of level ground in the center of the city. A road loops around the park, and the open lawns are used for running, ball games and family picnics. A row of Victorian-style mansions, the Magnificent Seven, lines the edge, and the Grand Stand on the southern side is the heart of Carnival. Street vendors sell doubles, roast corn and snow cones. Come in the early morning or late afternoon, and stay for the sunset over the trees.
Land and history
Queen's Park Savannah covers about 260 acres of level ground in central Port of Spain, which makes it the city's largest open space. In the 19th century the land was sugarcane farmland, and later it was used as pasture for cattle.
Today the southern side, known as the Grand Stand, is the center of Carnival. A road loops around the park, about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) in total, so walking or cycling the loop is the simplest way to see the whole park. Benches sit in the shade along the roadway, and the open interior is used for playing, running and flying kites.
The Magnificent Seven
Along the edge of the Savannah stands a row of Victorian-style mansions known as the Magnificent Seven. Stollmeyer's Castle, named Killarney, was built in 1904 and was the first of the group to go up on the western side of the park. Its Scottish Baronial style sets it apart, and it is reported to have been modeled on Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
Other houses in the group are linked to an Anglican bishop, a Roman Catholic archbishop and Queen's Royal College. Many of them sit along Maraval Road, which makes it possible to see several on one slow walk.
Carnival and events
The Savannah is the main stage for Trinidad's Carnival. Masqueraders cross the Grand Stand in their costumes, and the Calypso Monarch and Carnival King and Queen competitions are held here.
Panorama, the steel pan competition, takes place in the park during Carnival season, and the Flava City food fair is held here as well. Parts of the national Best Village competition finals have also been staged on the grounds, in late August or September.
Food and drink on the Savannah
Vendors along the roadside sell doubles, roast corn, snow cones and corn soup. Fresh coconut water is sold from stalls around the loop, and fresh juices such as pineapple, orange, passionfruit and grapefruit are also available. Pickled chicken feet with culantro sauce and chow is a local snack you may see on offer.
In the evenings, food trucks gather at the southern end of the park. Bring cash for the stalls, since many vendors work from the roadside.
Nearby sights
The Royal Botanic Gardens sit across from the Savannah, and the Emperor Valley Zoo is close by. The National Academy of the Performing Arts, one of the most architecturally distinctive buildings in the country, is also near the park.
The Botanic Gardens and the zoo are good additions to a day spent at the Savannah, especially if you plan to stay for the late afternoon.
FAQ
Is there parking at Queen's Park Savannah?
The park has a parking lot and street parking, both free and paid, plus a wheelchair accessible parking lot. During big events such as Panorama, parking fills up, so park farther away and walk.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon is cooler. Staying until sunset gives you the light over the trees.
Is the park good for children?
Yes. It has a playground, swings, slides, picnic tables and wide open space for running and ball games.
What food can I try there?
Vendors sell doubles, roast corn, snow cones and corn soup. Fresh coconut water is sold around the loop.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
