Storybook Gardens

The characters and places from favorite children’s classics and fairy tales come to life at Storybook Gardens in London, Ontario. Kids can step into the action by spending time hanging out with Humpty Dumpty, venturing into the mouth of Monstro the Whale from Pinocchio and paying a visit to the Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe.

This enchanting land is situated in the middle of the 300-acre Springbank Park that sits alongside the Thames River. Even though London is the sixth-largest city in Ontario, the park has a tranquil feel that makes for a fun and relaxing visit. Storybook Gardens is immersed in nature with quiet pathways, shade trees that create areas perfect for picnics and a fairy-tale castle where children can embrace their inner prince or princess.

Riverbank Splash Pad provides a place to cool off, while Adventure Island encourages imaginative play with its climbing structures, where kids can pretend to be on a pirate ship adventure or rock-climbing expedition. 

The city of London has operated the park since its opening in 1958, and over the decades, generations of families have come to spend time in the gardens and take a spin on the classic kiddie rides that are also part of the experience. Kids will love the carousel, Ferris wheel, swings and mechanical elephants, and the whole family can enjoy a ride on the Springbank Express Train. 

The arrival of warm temperatures brings outdoor puppet shows, musicals and the chance to build sandcastles at the Hands in the Sand water play area. The Friday Night Festival held during summer months offers discounted rates on admission, while seasonal special events and theme nights bring guest entertainers, a family dance party, scavenger hunts and a good-night story to cap off a day of play. 1958 Storybook Ln., London, Ontario N6K 4Y6, 519/661-5770, london.ca/storybookgardens