This park has been in the works for over 20 years… And in 2021, Parisians were finally able to enjoy it. Martin Luther King Park, located in the 17th arrondissement, right next to Clichy, is a magnificent place. It features a huge natural pond, beautiful lawns for sunbathing, a variety of sports facilities, playgrounds suitable for all ages, and beautiful tree-lined paths for walking in all seasons. However, let’s be honest, when we talk about parks in Paris, this one doesn’t immediately spring to mind… And that’s a shame, because this green space really has everything to appeal to a wide audience.
Martin Luther King Park: a green space still too little known to Parisians
If we had to choose a park that ticks all the boxes, we would choose this one. A huge green space? Check! A variety of playgrounds for children and adults? Check! A park in the heart of Paris? Check. And yet, despite all these advantages (and many others), no one talks about Martin Luther King Park, which opened five years ago.
©Clément Dorval / City of Paris little-known park Paris
Yet efforts have been made to attract as many people as possible! There is a great skatepark, a pétanque area, and a very pleasant basketball court, as well as playgrounds to entertain and tire out children. Its huge expanses of grass, where deckchairs are sometimes set up, invite you to relax. Here, the key phrase is “take your time.” Certain parts of the park encourage visitors to explore the surroundings by offering very pleasant views. You will notice that the park is made up of small hills ranging from 1 to 4 meters in height, which create a truly unique and relaxing atmosphere.
©Clément Dorval / City of Paris little-known park Paris
Of course, it’s impossible to miss the park’s large pond, which naturally recycles rainwater and thus prevents the surrounding area from becoming too waterlogged. The collected water is not just for decoration: it is very useful for watering the park’s plants in addition to rainwater! Nothing is lost, everything is transformed. It’s easy to imagine the flora and fauna thriving here in peace throughout the year. During your stroll along the water’s edge, you’ll enjoy observing the fruit trees and taking in the striking contrast between nature and the buildings surrounding the park from the ultra-modern belvedere… A place that will transport you to another world and is definitely worth a visit!
📍 Location: 147 rue Cardinet, 75017 Paris
🕒 Opening hours: every day, from 7 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.