City Center Loop - Playground Edition
Nidelva river view from Elgeseter Bridge. Nidaros Cathedral and parts of Bakklandet in the background. Photo: Tormod Igelø Ellingsen
One of the joys of living in a city that isn’t overly large is the fact that you
can walk round it, not just in it. Plus there is fun for all ages along the
way – join us and see!
The Midtbyrunden trail circumnavigates the city centre, taking you to Nidaros Cathedral, the charming neighbourhood of Bakklandet and the fjord promenade. Between the areas of Ila and Bakklandet the route passes some of the best playgrounds in the city, so here we’ll focus on the most child-friendly part of the trail.
Trondheim Municipality on Parks
Trondheim kommune offers info on parks, playgrounds, and activities, including locations, facilities, and accessibility.
Trondheim municipality on Playgrounds
An overview of playgrounds - all free and open to the public.
At full speed in Ilaparken
Start at Ilaparken and follow the sound of happy children’s voices to the heart of the park. The zip line will put butterflies in your stomach, and new playmates await at the slide, swings and climbing frames. There are benches where you can eat your packed lunch in the sun, and the goals on the football pitch are just waiting for you to shoot. If the heavens open, you can shelter at the pavilion.
Visitors of all ages could spend a whole day here, but the trail continues in the direction of Øya.
Ilaparken offers both relaxing surroundings for a book read and playgrounds for kids. Photo: Trondheim kommune
Setting new records at Øya
After you cross the river by Ilen Church, you come to the climbing ropes, in-ground trampolines and slack line outside Trondheim Spektrum arena. The climbing wall on the western side of the arena will give you a chance to test your arm strength.
From there, it’s a short race to Øya Stadium, an athletics facility where youngsters can try out the long jump and time themselves over the 60 m sprint. Remember: big sporting performances start with a lot of play.
Once you’ve set new records on the tartan track, you can cross the river again.
Øys stadium and recreational area. Image: Google Maps screengrad
A view of the river
On the city side of the bridge, follow the trail in the direction of Nidaros Cathedral and aim for Nye Marinen. This whole area has recently been facelifted, with a playground, exercise park, climbing stones, seating area, natural stone steps and toilets. Here, just below the cathedral, exercise, challenges and the satisfaction of achievement await both young and old.
The final stage crosses the picturesque old town bridge – Gamle Bybro – in the direction of the wooden buildings of Bakklandet. After the bridge, turn right and head towards Gåsaparken. Here, by the banks of the River Nid, there is a small but charming green area with swings, seesaws and benches. And if the sun is shining, it’s the perfect place to take a rest and see if there’s anything left in your packed lunch.
Thanks for joining us!
Writer based in Trondheim and Trondheim.com comtributor.
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