Emancipation Park, Surrey County Travel Guide

4.4 (7705)

A symbol of Jamaican freedom and resilience, Emancipation Park offers a tranquil escape in the heart of New Kingston.

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Emancipation Park

Emancipation Park is a seven-acre oasis in the heart of New Kingston, Jamaica, symbolizing the nation's freedom and resilience. Opened in 2002, the park features lush gardens, a jogging path, and the iconic 'Redemption Song' sculpture, representing the triumph over slavery. It's a place for reflection, recreation, and appreciation of Jamaican history and culture.

A brief summary to Emancipation Park

2636+53W, Oxford Road and, Knutsford Blvd, Kingston, New Kingston, JM
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Monday 5 am-11 pm
Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
Thursday 5 am-11 pm
Friday 5 am-12 am
Saturday 5 am-12 am
Sunday 5 am-12 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Emancipation Park.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a cooler and more peaceful experience.
Take a stroll around the park's perimeter on the jogging path for a light workout.
Take time to appreciate the 'Redemption Song' sculpture and reflect on its powerful message.
Look for the Adinkra symbols incorporated into the park's design, each with its own unique meaning.
Check the park's event calendar for concerts, exhibitions, and other cultural activities.

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Explore Emancipation Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Emancipation Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Emancipation Park is centrally located in New Kingston and easily accessible on foot from nearby hotels, businesses, and landmarks. From the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, walk south along Knutsford Boulevard for approximately 5 minutes. The park will be on your left, at the intersection of Knutsford Boulevard and Oxford Road. There are no entrance fees.
Public Transport

From Half Way Tree, a major transportation hub, you can take a direct bus to New Kingston. Several buses operate on this route, with departures every 20 minutes. The ride takes approximately 3 minutes, and the fare is JMD $1. Ask the driver to let you off at the stop closest to Emancipation Park. From there, it's a short walk to the park's entrance. Alternatively, from Norman Manley International Airport (KIN), you can take bus number 98 to the city center. The bus operates approximately four times an hour and costs JMD 80 per person. From the city center, you can take another bus or taxi to Emancipation Park.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Kingston. A taxi ride from Half Way Tree to Emancipation Park typically costs between JMD 765 - JMD 1071 and takes about 3 minutes. From Norman Manley International Airport (KIN), a taxi to Emancipation Park costs approximately JMD 5000 and takes 25-30 minutes. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Emancipation Park

Emancipation Park, located in the heart of New Kingston, Jamaica, is more than just a green space; it's a symbol of freedom, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Jamaican people. Opened on July 31, 2002, the day before Emancipation Day, the park commemorates the end of slavery in the British Empire and French Caribbean.The park's history is intertwined with the development of Kingston. Following the devastating earthquake of 1692 in Port Royal, the Liguanea Plain in St. Andrew gained importance. Over time, the area evolved from agricultural lands to a racecourse and eventually, the modern business district of New Kingston. The land where Emancipation Park now stands was once part of the Liguanea Club before being gifted to the government and later developed into the park.The park's centerpiece is the 11-foot bronze sculpture, 'Redemption Song', created by Jamaican artist Laura Facey. The sculpture depicts a nude black man and woman gazing towards the sky, symbolizing their triumphant rise from the horrors of slavery. The statue was unveiled in July 2003, marking the park's first anniversary.Emancipation Park also features Adinkra symbols, spiritual symbols from West Africa, as a tribute to the ancestors of Jamaicans who were brought as slaves. These symbols are incorporated into the park's design, including the perimeter fence, entrance walls, benches, and garbage receptacles. The park's landscape includes the Jamaican national tree, Lignum vitae, and a variety of tropical flowers and plants.Today, Emancipation Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, exercise on the jogging path, or simply relax and soak in the serene atmosphere. The park also hosts various events, including concerts, health fairs, and exhibitions. It stands as a testament to Jamaica's rich heritage and the ongoing journey toward freedom and equality.