Planning a trip to Switzerland with kids? Then you’ll love discovering the many family parks in Zurich. This city may be famous for its banks and chocolates, but it also offers plenty of space for families to enjoy nature. In fact, whether your little ones love playgrounds, splash zones, or forest trails, Zurich has it all—often just steps from the city center.
For families visiting or living here, it’s surprisingly easy to find beautiful, safe green spaces. Not only are these parks well-maintained, but they are also incredibly accessible by tram, foot, or even bike. So, instead of worrying about where to take the kids, you can focus on spending quality time together.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the most popular family parks in Zurich that are perfect for relaxing, playing, and enjoying time together outdoors. Let’s dive in!
1. Zürichhorn – Lakeside Leisure at Its Best
Nestled on the eastern side of Lake Zurich, Zürichhorn is a go-to for both locals and tourists. This park is part of the larger Seefeld district, which is famous for its vibrant, artsy vibe. It’s the kind of place where families picnic under shady trees while kids climb colorful play structures.
You’ll also find wide, stroller-friendly paths, plenty of benches, and even swan-watching opportunities along the lake. Plus, there’s Chinagarten Zurich, a traditional Chinese garden that’s beautiful and peaceful—a great bonus for nature-loving parents.
Why it’s great:
- Huge play areas
- Beautiful lake views
- Great for walking, scootering, and cycling
2. Platzspitz Park – Where History Meets Play
Right next to the Swiss National Museum, Platzspitz Park is a lovely, quiet spot bordered by the Sihl and Limmat rivers. Once a royal hunting ground, it’s now a serene family zone. What’s even better? It’s walking distance from Zurich HB, the city’s main train station—super convenient for travelers.
Though more peaceful than playground-packed, Platzspitz is perfect for a relaxing picnic while watching ducks float by. It’s also a fun stop before or after exploring the museum with older kids.
Why it’s great:
- Central location
- Historical atmosphere
- Peaceful river views
3. Josefwiese – Urban Fun with a Local Touch
Located in Zurich West, Josefwiese is where trendy meets family-friendly. This park is super popular with local families, especially on sunny afternoons. It offers lots of open green space, a spacious playground, and even a splash fountain in summer.
Parents will appreciate the nearby cafes and kiosks, while kids burn off steam on the jungle gyms and climbing nets. There’s even a grill zone if you’re feeling BBQ-ready.
Why it’s great:
- Splash fountains
- Urban yet cozy vibe
- Picnic and BBQ areas
4. Sihlcity Park – A Hidden Gem on the Rooftop
Yes, you read that right—Zurich has a rooftop park! Atop the Sihlcity shopping center, there’s a small but mighty green space perfect for quick play breaks while shopping. It’s surprisingly calm, with benches, mini play zones, and panoramic city views.
This one’s best for short stops, especially when you’re already in the area for errands or a cinema visit. And trust us, kids will love the elevator ride up!
Why it’s great:
- Unexpected and unique
- Great for breaks during city errands
- Safe, enclosed space
5. Uetliberg – Nature, Trails, and Epic Views
Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Uetliberg Mountain, Zurich’s very own local peak, is ideal for nature-loving families. You can either hike up (if the kids are up for it) or take the Uetlibergbahn train, which is part of Zurich’s public transport system.
At the top, you’ll find nature trails, panoramic viewpoints, and picnic areas. In winter, it’s also a great sledding spot. Plus, the Planet Trail offers an educational twist that’s great for curious kids.
Why it’s great:
- Scenic family hikes
- Year-round outdoor fun
- Educational trails for kids
6. Käferberg/Waid – A Local Favorite Escape
A bit off the usual tourist path, the Käferberg/Waid forest area is a favorite among Zurich families who crave a natural escape close to home. It’s perfect for walks, nature spotting, and letting kids explore tree-lined trails.
There’s even a panoramic view of the entire city at the Waid lookout, where parents can relax and snap photos while the kids explore nearby fields and forest.
Why it’s great:
- Lesser-known but beautiful
- Peaceful forest walks
- Ideal for outdoor-loving families
Why Zurich is a Family Park Paradise
When it comes to outdoor fun, family parks in Zurich are not only clean and safe, but also full of exciting things to do. In fact, many parks feature fountains, playgrounds, walking paths, and plenty of picnic tables. Even better, most are easily accessible by tram, bus, or foot—making them super convenient for families on the go.
To explore more efficiently, consider using helpful apps like SwitzerlandMobility or Komoot. These tools not only show family-friendly routes, trails, and play spots across the city, but they also highlight bike paths and stroller-accessible walks. As a result, getting around Zurich becomes much easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
Moreover, thanks to Zurich’s efficient and punctual public transport system, families can hop from the lake to the mountains—or from a splash park to a quiet picnic spot—all in a single day. Additionally, most routes offer scenic views, which make the journey just as fun as the destination.
Family Park Tips for Visiting Zurich
Here are a few quick tips to make your Zurich park visits even smoother:
✅ Pack snacks and water. While many parks have kiosks, it’s always good to come prepared—especially with kids.
✅ Bring swimwear in summer. Many parks have fountains or lakeside swimming spots.
✅ Download a map app. Google Maps or SBB Mobile (for trains) will keep your family on track.
✅ Respect nature. Swiss parks are clean for a reason—locals take pride in keeping them that way.
Explore the Joy of Family Parks in Zurich
Whether you have toddlers or teens, Zurich’s parks offer spaces to play, relax, and reconnect with nature. With its mix of lakeside lawns, forest trails, and urban fun zones, this city truly knows how to keep families happy.
So, next time you’re wandering through Zurich, take a detour to one (or more!) of these beautiful family parks in Zurich. You’ll discover not only playgrounds and picnic spots, but also the calm, green heart of a bustling Swiss city.
Don’t forget to pair your park days with fun family stops like the Zurich Zoo, Botanical Garden, or Swiss National Museum—they’re all easy to reach and packed with fun for kids.