Rio Park Ulaanbaatar: The City's Stunning New Green Oasis

Ulaanbaatar has a beautiful new destination that's transforming urban life in Mongolia's capital. Rio Park (also known as the renovated Children's Park) is a 10.2-hectare sustainable green space that brings nature, recreation, and community together in the heart of the city.

A Historic Park Reimagined

With 58 years of history, the former Children's Park has been completely transformed through a comprehensive renovation project by Rio Tinto Mongolia. This wasn't just a corporate initiative—over 10,000 citizens participated in sharing their ideas on the design, layout, and facilities of the park, making it a true community-driven project.

What Makes Rio Park Special?

Expansive Green Spaces

About 80% of the park consists of green spaces, featuring a total of 40,000 trees, shrubs, and lush grass. This massive green infrastructure provides a vital breathing space for Ulaanbaatar residents and helps combat urban air pollution.

World-Class Facilities

Rio Park offers something for everyone with its diverse amenities:

• Community Facilities: Spaces designed for gatherings, events, and social activities
• Amphitheater: An outdoor performance venue for concerts, cultural events, and community programs
• Children's Playground: Modern, safe play equipment for kids of all ages
• Skatepark: A dedicated space for skateboarding enthusiasts and action sports lovers
• Scenic Pond: A peaceful water feature that enhances the park's natural beauty
• Walking Paths: Well-maintained trails perfect for strolling, jogging, or cycling

Sustainable Design

The park features a rainwater harvesting irrigation system, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability. This innovative approach helps maintain the park's greenery while conserving water resources—an important consideration in Mongolia's climate.

International Recognition

Rio Park has already earned international acclaim. The recently redeveloped city-centre green space met the strict criteria required to achieve the internationally recognised Green Flag Award, marking a significant achievement for Mongolia and demonstrating the park's world-class quality and management standards.

Why Visit Rio Park?

For Families

The extensive playground facilities and safe, open green spaces make Rio Park ideal for family outings. Children can play freely while parents relax in the natural surroundings, all within the city center.

For Fitness Enthusiasts

Whether you're a jogger, skater, or simply enjoy outdoor exercise, the park's facilities and pathways provide excellent opportunities for staying active in a beautiful environment.

For Nature Lovers

In a city where green spaces are precious, Rio Park offers 10.2 hectares of nature to explore. The 40,000 trees and shrubs create a genuine escape from urban life, complete with bird watching opportunities and seasonal flora.

For Event Seekers

The amphitheater hosts various cultural events, concerts, and community programs throughout the year. Check the park's schedule to catch performances and festivals.

For Peaceful Retreats

Sometimes you just need a quiet place to read, meditate, or enjoy fresh air. The park's tranquil pond area and numerous benches provide perfect spots for relaxation.

Community Impact

The park aims to provide a green accessible space for everyone in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, addressing a critical need in a city where more than half of Mongolia's population lives. This green development supports improved quality of life, better health outcomes, and enhanced social cohesion among residents.

Planning Your Visit

Location

Rio Park is centrally located in Ulaanbaatar, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city. Its central position means you can combine your park visit with other downtown attractions.

Best Times to Visit

• Spring (May-June): See the park come alive with fresh greenery and blooming flowers
• Summer (July-August): Enjoy warm weather, outdoor events, and the amphitheater performances
• Fall (September-October): Experience beautiful autumn colors as the trees change
• Winter (November-April): While cold, the park takes on a serene, snow-covered beauty

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Picnic supplies (food and blankets) for a relaxing afternoon
• Sports equipment if you want to use the open spaces
• Camera to capture the beautiful landscapes
• Water bottles to stay hydrated

Admission

The park is open to the public and free to enter, making it an accessible destination for all residents and visitors.

Events and Activities

Throughout the year, Rio Park hosts various events including:

• Outdoor concerts and music festivals
• Cultural celebrations and traditional performances
• Community sports events
• Children's programs and activities
• Seasonal festivals and markets

Check the park's official social media pages or website (parkrio.mn) for the latest event schedules and updates.

A Model for Urban Development

Rio Park represents a new approach to urban development in Mongolia, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can create lasting community benefits. The project shows what's possible when corporations, government, and citizens work together to enhance urban livability.

The park's success serves as a blueprint for future green space development in Ulaanbaatar and other Mongolian cities, proving that sustainable, community-focused projects can thrive in urban environments.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

• Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience
• Bring a picnic to enjoy lunch surrounded by nature
• Check the events calendar before visiting to catch special performances
• Explore different areas of the park—each section has its own character
• Take advantage of the photo opportunities, especially near the pond
• Respect the green spaces and help keep the park clean for everyone

Rio Park is more than just a green space—it's a testament to community collaboration and sustainable urban development. Whether you're a resident or visitor to Ulaanbaatar, this stunning park offers a refreshing escape and a glimpse into the city's greener future.