Looking for a place to ignite your little one’s imagination and create memories that will last a lifetime? Look no further than Storybook Gardens in London, Ontario! Nestled within the beautiful Springbank Park, this enchanting spot has been a cherished local favorite since 1958. Whether your kids are obsessed with classic fairytales or nursery rhymes come alive in their minds, Storybook Gardens offers a whimsical escape into the world of their favorite stories.
Storybrook Gardens is the perfect day trip for families. My family and I ventured out to this park on a warm, sunny May day and loved every minute of our visit. Perfect for families with kids under 10, the paths, gardens, and exhibits are lovely for people of all ages. Here’s a peek at Storybrook Gardens.
Stepping Through the Pages
Imagine walking through the pages of a giant storybook. That’s the feeling you get as you enter Storybook Gardens. From the moment you arrive through the main gates inside the iconic castle, the park’s magical atmosphere transports you to a land of talking animals, mischievous gnomes, and fantastical creatures.
Colorful displays featuring popular characters like Humpty Dumpty and the Three Little Pigs greet you, setting the stage for a day of exploration and fun.
Enchanting Attractions
Storybook Gardens is full of enchanting attractions that captivate the imagination of visitors young and old. From themed play areas to interactive exhibits, there’s something magical around every corner.
Rides
Tickets for the rides are available at the front gate and inside near the rides. From the giant carousel out front to the Ferris wheel, swings, and spinning cups, there’s a good selection of not-too-scary rides for kids.
Themed Play Areas
One of the highlights of Storybook Gardens is its themed play areas. These play zones are designed to immerse children in their favorite stories. You can climb aboard Captain Hook’s ship, navigate through the maze-like Rapunzel’s tower, or slide down the beanstalk with Jack. Each play area is thoughtfully crafted to provide not only entertainment but also a safe and engaging environment for kids to explore.
Pirate’s Cove
Ahoy, mateys! Pirate’s Cove is a favorite among young adventurers. This swashbuckling section of the park lets kids unleash their inner pirate as they explore a pirate ship, dig for buried treasure, and engage in playful battles with foam swords. It’s a place where imagination runs wild and every child can be a captain of their own ship.
On the Riverbank Splash Pad
Follow the sounds of happy kids and plenty of splashing to the giant splash pad, one of the signature features of Storybrook Gardens. There’s plenty here for kids to do on hot days, and it is well-monitored for safety.
Seasonal Celebrations
Storybook Gardens transforms with the seasons, offering unique experiences year-round. In the summer, the park is a lush, green haven with vibrant flowers and plenty of shade. During this time, the park hosts various events, from live performances to themed days that bring stories to life.
Autumn brings a touch of magic as the leaves change color, providing a picturesque backdrop for a day out. The park’s Halloween events are particularly popular, featuring costume parades, spooky decorations, and trick-or-treating fun.
Winter Wonderland
When the snow starts to fall, Storybook Gardens transforms into a Winter Wonderland. The outdoor skating trail is a must-visit, winding through the park and lit up with twinkling lights. Families can enjoy a skate under the stars, surrounded by beautifully decorated trees and holiday displays. It’s a magical experience that captures the essence of the holiday season.
Events and Activities
Storybook Gardens is not just a place to visit; it’s a destination filled with dynamic events and activities that bring stories to life. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of special events and interactive experiences designed to delight and engage families.
Special Events
Throughout the year, Storybook Gardens hosts a variety of special events. From Easter egg hunts to Halloween trick-or-treating, there’s always something exciting happening. Themed events often include character meet-and-greets, interactive storytelling sessions, and crafts that allow children to take a piece of the magic home with them.
Summer Camps
For those looking for a more immersive experience, Storybook Gardens offers summer camps. These week-long camps provide children with the opportunity to explore the park in depth, participate in themed activities, and make new friends. It’s a fantastic way for kids to spend their summer days, surrounded by the magic of Storybook Gardens.
A Perfect Picnic Spot
No visit to Storybook Gardens is complete without a picnic. The park is dotted with picturesque picnic areas, perfect for a family lunch. Bring your own basket filled with goodies or grab a bite from the on-site concession stands. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal surrounded by enchanting scenery and the sounds of children’s laughter.
Tips for the Perfect Picnic
Here are a few tips to ensure a delightful and stress-free picnic experience.
- Pack Smart: Bring a variety of snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized. Finger foods like sandwiches, fruit, and veggies are easy to eat and don’t require utensils.
- Stay Comfortable: A blanket and some cushions can make your picnic spot extra cozy. Don’t forget sunscreen and hats if you’re visiting in the summer.
- Interactive Fun: Pack a few games or activities to keep the kids entertained. A frisbee, a deck of cards, or even a storybook to read together can add to the fun.
Planning Your Visit
To ensure you make the most of your time at Storybook Gardens, a bit of planning goes a long way. Here’s everything you need to know about the park’s hours, admission, and how to get there, so you can focus on enjoying the magical experience.
Hours and Admission
Storybook Gardens is open year-round, but hours vary with the season. It’s always a good idea to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours and admission prices. Special events and seasonal activities may have different schedules, so plan accordingly.
Insider tip: If you live locally, get a season’s pass and save money on each visit.
Getting There
Located at 1958 Storybook Lane, London, Ontario, the park is easily accessible by car with ample parking available. For those using public transportation, several bus routes service the area, making it convenient for everyone to visit.
Insider tip: the parking lot can fill up fast. Get there early for assured parking, or you’ll have to park alongside the road in Springbank Park.
FAQ
Yes, there are food concessions. When we went, they were very busy and very slow so taking a basket of food from home might be your best choice.
This is a great day out for families with kids under 10. There’s not much to do here for older kids.
With kids playing in the splash pad, you could easily stay all day. An average visit is probably from 3-5 hours. Get a season pass if you live locally and save money.
Final Words
A day at Storybook Gardens is more than just a day at the park. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re reliving your own childhood adventures or creating new ones with your children, Storybook Gardens offers a unique blend of nostalgia and new experiences.
As you leave the park, don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming a familiar nursery rhyme or planning your next visit. After all, in a world where the line between reality and fairy tale blurs, it’s easy to get lost in the magic of Storybook Gardens.