Viesturdārzs (Viesturs’ Garden in English) is my favorite park in Riga. I spent my childhood playing in the playground there, I learned to ride a bicycle in this park, I fell in love with tennis here, and whatnot. Oh, the memories…
This park is often called the Song Festival Park because the first Nationwide Song Festival was held in this very place in 1873. The park was significantly improved in 1973 to celebrate the hundred years of the Song Festival and since then it is possible to visit the sculptures of famous Latvian composers besides an artificial pond.
This spot is perfect for taking a relaxing walk since it isn’t loud and crowded, and I enjoy spending a sunny afternoon there. I’ve also found beauty in this park when it rains or snows heavily, so don’t be discouraged from visiting it even if the weather isn’t perfect. And, while you’re there, make sure to see the Triumph Arch or the Gate of Alexander that’s been there since 1936, walk through the linden alley, visit both ponds and feed the ducks with bread, if you have some with you.
