Discover the Jacek Kuroń Park and mini zoo in Sosnowiec - the perfect place for family relaxation
Jacek Kuroń Park - a space close to nature, history and recreation
The Jacek Kuroń Park, formerly known as the Forest Centre, was established between 1958 and 1965 on an area of around 30 ha of uncultivated forest, marshes and ponds - including the "Pieniążek", "Posadzka I and II", "Zalew Cygański" and "Pond Smug". This transformation was initiated by the social action of the employees of the Kazimierz Juliusz coalmine, with the support of the Golonóg Forestry Commission - as early as 1959, 11.3 ha were donated for adaptation. Since 2011, the park has been named after Jacek Kuroń, and the official naming of the park was approved by a resolution of the City Council on 31 August of that year.
Situated on Anki Kowalska Street (formerly Jasińskiego Street), the park occupies an irregular quadrangle - bordered to the north by the Sulna Forest in Dąbrowa Górnicza, separated from the south by a street, while the Katowice-Kielce railway line runs from the east. Two green trails lead through the park: the PTTK 25th Anniversary Trail and the Via Regia, as well as cycling and rollerblading trails - making it an important link in the region's tourist network.
Infrastructure and diversity
The park provides a variety of walking, cycling and rollerblading paths, leading between the three main ponds - including the "Forest" and the "Smug" - with beautifully preserved banks, numerous benches and bridges for nature watching.
Mini zoo - close contact with nature
At the centre of the park, there is a mini zoo with more than 30 species of animals, including the red kangaroo, emu, fallow deer, Anglo-Nubian goats, arui, peacocks, roe deer and donkeys. The animals often come up to visitors, which is particularly pleasing for children and gives them the opportunity to learn about exotic and native species up close.
Jordan garden
In 2016, a 1.41-hectare Jordan garden - the largest in Poland - was created and divided into age zones. There you will find modern playgrounds, skateboard simulators and fountains. It is a paradise for families with children, who can play safely here and quickly bond with their peers.
Skatepark and amphitheatre
The park has a professional skatepark in the form of a concrete pool, laid out in 2012. It is a favourite place for skateboarding, rollerblading and BMX enthusiasts. Also worth mentioning is the amphitheatre, rebuilt and modernised in 2009 and again in 2019, so that it now hosts concerts and outdoor events - all under the MDK Kazimierz banner.
Catering and leisure
The complex has two permanent bars (serving hot food and ice cream) and seasonal food outlets. There is also a banquet restaurant that hosts weddings, proms and other occasional celebrations.
Brine graduation tower and health benefits
The park also offers a brine graduation tower, which acts as a natural inhaler - particularly beneficial for the respiratory system. This is a unique element that enhances the therapeutic qualities of the site.
Nature and environmental protection
The park has preserved a rich tree stand, which is a continuation of the original forest vegetation. Surrounding the water reservoirs are riparian trees (black alder, bearded birch), while further away are oak-hornbeam forests with hornbeams, oaks (pedunculate and red), lindens (broad-leaved and small-leaved), pines, ash trees, maples and beech trees. Such botanical diversity benefits the local ecosystem, attracting numerous bird species (e.g. wood pigeon) and amphibians.
History and development
- 1958 - the creation of a sports and leisure centre on the marshland began - the main work continued until 1965, when the construction of the amphitheatre began.
- 2009 - First refurbishment of the amphitheatre - upgrading the stage and auditorium.
- 2011-2012 - the park was named after Jacek Kuroń, a skatepark was created, and cycle and roller tracks were laid out.
- 2016 - Jordanian garden opened.
- 2019 - the third phase of modernisation was carried out: the amphitheatre and road surfaces were renovated.
- 2020 - Metropolitan Bike Rental with tandems, children's bikes and cargo bikes was launched.
Annual events and activities
The park is the centre of cultural and sporting life in the region, with events taking place here:
- Festival of Reggae Music, Art Activities and Unusual Sports - since 2007, at the end of August
- Youth City Days - June
- Sosnowiec Cabaret Iwent - at the end of August
- Extreme Battle for Sosnowiec - since 2013, at the beginning of August
This is just part of a packed calendar - events attract fans of music, art, alternative culture and extreme sport.
Why visit Kuronia Park?
- Free admission to all areas
- Excellent communication - buses from Katowice, Sosnowiec, Dąbrowa Górnicza; free, large car park on Anki Kowalska Street
- Universal infrastructure - for families, cyclists, active people, also with prams and inline skaters
- Attractions for everyone - from leisurely strolls and relaxation by the water, to active entertainment (skatepark, graduation tower, trampolines) and outdoor events
- Educational and ecological values - learning about local nature, contact with animals, promotion of a healthy and active lifestyle
Stay at the EuroHOTEL Sosnowiec - comfort right next to the park
If you are planning a full day experience in the Jacek Kuroń Park and want to stay longer, the EuroHOTEL in Sosnowiec is the ideal solution. On offer you will find:
- Comfortably furnished rooms - rest in comfort
- Buffet breakfast - an energetic start to the day
- Access to free Wi-Fi and parking - convenience at every turn
- Helpful service - support for both families and business guests
Booking is possible directly through the hotel's website - a simple process that can turn a holiday into a weekend of relaxation.
A green oasis in an urban climate
Jacek Kuroń Park is an excellent example of the successful revitalisation of post-industrial and forest-muddy areas, transformed into a space conducive to relaxation, activity and contact with nature. It is a place that combines recreational, educational and socio-cultural values - offering something for everyone, regardless of age and interests.
It is a space where you can:
Walk in the shade of old trees - An extensive network of alleyways cuts through the wooded parts of the park, creating pleasant walking routes for both families and those seeking a solitary moment of respite. Natural shade, birdsong and the scent of the forest help you relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Admire the richness of the flora and fauna - The diversity of vegetation (including oaks, lindens, beeches, alders) and the presence of numerous species of birds and small mammals make the park an attractive place also for nature and photography enthusiasts. Frogs, dragonflies or butterflies can be spotted by the water bodies and among the meadows.
Play in the modern mini zoo and Jordan garden - The mini zoo, with its many tame animals such as fallow deer, kangaroos and peacocks, is real fun for the little ones. Next door, there is a Jordan garden - one of the largest in Poland - with playgrounds, themed zones and safe equipment for children of all ages.
Be active with skateboarding and cycling - A modern skatepark and a network of cycle and roller tracks allow for dynamic recreation. Young and old alike will find a place for sporting activities and training in a natural setting.
Get some fresh air at the brine graduation tower - The graduation tower is a unique place where you can enjoy natural inhalation, which supports the respiratory system and soothes the nerves. The benches around the graduation tower invite you to rest peacefully and recuperate.
Participate in festivals, concerts or extreme competitions - The park is vibrant with numerous outdoor events. From family picnics and musical events in the amphitheatre to extreme sports competitions, there is something for everyone. It is also a place for local integration and meetings between residents.
In addition, the picturesque ponds - "Leśna", "Smug" and "Gypsy" - create a unique microclimate that is conducive to relaxing in nature. Their calm surface reflecting the green of the trees, the presence of bridges, islands and ducks make them ideal places for a moment of reflection or a family picnic. The vicinity of the forest and paths stretching as far as Dąbrowa Górnicza enhance the impression of communing with wild nature - without having to leave the city. It is a real green oasis in the heart of the Silesian agglomeration.
Why spend time outdoors?
Spending time outdoors is one of the simplest and most effective forms of caring for physical, mental and emotional health. In an age of hectic lives, long hours spent in front of screens and omnipresent stress, contact with nature and movement outdoors are invaluable to our wellbeing.
Firstly, health. Being outdoors improves the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Regular walking, cycling, running or even light activity in the park helps to oxygenate the body, improve circulation, strengthen muscles and the immune system. What's more, exposure to natural sunlight promotes the production of vitamin D, essential for strong bones and good immunity.
Secondly, better wellbeing. Being surrounded by greenery, trees, water or flowers has a relaxing effect. It lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, reduces tension and improves mood. Many studies show that even a short walk among nature can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Regular exposure to nature also promotes better sleep quality and increases energy levels throughout the day.
Thirdly, social relations. Time spent outdoors fosters family and social bonds. Walking together, hiking, playing with children in the park or sports activities with friends brings people closer together and strengthens relationships. It is also a chance to get away from technology and be here and now - with loved ones and with yourself.
Fourthly, creativity and concentration. Relaxing in the fresh air has a positive effect on cognitive functions. Contact with nature helps to 'ventilate' the mind, increases the ability to concentrate and supports creative processes. It is a great way to regenerate for those working mentally.
It is worth finding at least a moment every day for a walk, a bike ride or a stay in the park. Even brief contact with nature has many benefits - for body, mind and spirit. It is an investment in health, better well-being and a more balanced life.
Plan your time in the park
Morning - short walk or bike ride, bird and plant observation, visit to the mini zoo
Morning - play in the Jordan garden or at the skatepark, relax by the graduation tower
Afternoon - refreshments in the bistro, a drink with ice cream, a moment of relaxation by the pond
Evening - concert in the amphitheatre or outdoor event (especially at weekends)
We invite you to discover this green pearl of Sosnowiec - the Jacek Kuroń Park - where nature, fun and culture merge into one. An extra night at the EuroHOTEL will make your stay comfortable and sustainable. Book today and start your adventure in the heart of the Silesian agglomeration!